Monday July 16, 2018
Using the oil revenue DEAR EDITOR, Having reviewed Tuesday’s presentation, Rystad’s analyst showed that with an oil price of $70 per barrel, annual revenues from offshore activity could reach $20 billion shortly after 2030. Based on my interpretations of the breakdown of revenues, it looks like a vast majority of those numbers come from free cash flow and government profit oil. These are very impressive figures especially in the context of the current size of our economy and this new fortune can be the catalyst for exponential growth and transformation at unprecedented levels.
But the big question remains. How does Guyana utilize these earnings? How would these profits be best allocated to ensure maximized benefit on a sustained basis? Do we build new schools, hospitals, airports, roads and bridges? Do we seek to enhance existing service and production sectors? Do we focus on developing new/ non-traditional sectors? While opinions on this may vary, a common point of reference has always been the Dubai Model. Why? Dubai has successfully utilized the profits from its oil to fund a service-based economy to a level that has earned global respect.
Admittedly conditions between Guyana and this Arab country may not be identical, but irrespective of geographic, hemispheric, economic or populationrelated differences, diversification remains the best tool to remain relevant in a constantly changing global economy. While emphasis needs to be placed on improving infrastructure and social services, the focus should be on identification of new sectors, which can be fueled (no pun intended) by revenues earned from Oil and Gas. Regards, Andrew McBean
Ethnic discrimination is pervasive DEAR EDITOR, I am glad that David Hinds tackles the issue where he alleges that Indo-Guyanese dominance has taken over Cricket in a recent letter under the caption: “There is a campaign to de-racialize cricket,” simply because such an allegation stimulates much needed discussions which can be of educational value. But, disturbingly, Mr Hinds’s allegation is rapidly falling apart in the face of credible rebuttals - including from the PPP/C and from Mr Anand Sanasie, an official from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB). But remotely, if his claim stands substantiated then it is destructive and it should never be tolerated in a multiethnic society. Guyana belongs to every Guyanese, not just to one racial / ethnic group. And every citizen deserves a fair chance irrespective of race / ethnicity. Unfortunately, ignorance largely prevents Guyanese from engaging in fair practices. For humanitarian reasons and for the good of our country, I will capitalize on this opportunity to shine the light on how a blind eye is largely turned to the glaring Afro - Guyanese dominance which is pervasive, shortsighted and destructive. Afro-Guyanese dominance is now a systemic problem under the APNU/PNC/AFC
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regime and this is encouraged because Afro-Guyanese are largely backers of President Granger. An examination of the Public Service reveals that under the PPP/C roughly 70% of Afro-Guyanese people were represented. Today, this number has dramatically increased under the Granger regime. Further, a simple inspection across the length and breadth of Guyana and from top to bottom in places including - at City Hall, at GECOM, at the Bertram Collins College of The Public Service, and elsewhere reveal widespread dominance of Afro-Guyanese which compromises the welfare of Indo-Guyanese and others. Further, conflicts and racial rifts arising from such ethnic dominance is unavoidable. One such conflict was played out before this country at our Jubilee celebrations when organizers who were largely Afro-Guyanese were accused of failing to provide accommodations for the PPP/ C who represents a huge political base of mainly IndoGuyanese. And such common sense analysis underscores the reality in Guyana. Racial /
ethnic dominance undeniably stifles progress and anchors us into poverty. And President Granger’s silence is a powerful endorsement. Also, the Afro-Guyanese dominance jeopardizes the livelihood of Indo- Guyanese. Indo-Guyanese are forced into unemployment everywhere. Thousands of Indo-Guyanese have lost their jobs to Afro-Guyanese and are unable to regain employment in this country. Unfortunately, marginalized Indo-Guyanese, including the young and the talented among them are now forced to operate bodegas, selling plantain chips, potato balls, sugar cakes and pickles for their livelihoods and even under this harsh situation Indo-Guyanese are taken advantage by their fellow citizens. Editor, Indo-Guyanese are disproportionately profiled, robbed and killed daily in their homes and on the streets for their sweat. This is the glaring disrespect and unfortunate reality facing Indo-Guyanese in this country. And the world needs to know this. Undoubtedly, such harsh and depressing conditions Continued on page 6
Sidelining talent for political expediency DEAR SIR, I consider myself a patriot and a dedicated Guyanese, where national development is of paramount importance. The people that knows me personally, would tell you despite the knee jerks here and there by this young government, I have blanket support for them. I will be a stupid young professional to ask this government to fast track certain areas of development, whereas some can definitely be improved. Guyanese should remember we inherited a situation where there were literally a nonNATIONALIST mentality in a self-centered government that saw individual wealth as the ultimate, public infrastructure and heritage was on the back burner. The World Bank had a stunning rebuke for Guyana a few years ago, where it was stated that every US$100 spent in Guyana US$20 is siphoned off. I now come to the essence of my letter and putting “ horses for courses” . Bharrat Jagdeo and by extension the PPP, has been very vocal in and out of parliament in reference to the issue of oil in general, be it Guyana’s share in revenue, local content, you name it. At his press conferences you will hear he would have done better than the current administration. Mr. Editor I beg to differ. The opposition has literally embarrassed themselves with the parliamentarians that were identified to grill EXXON Mobil. Here is where selfishness and shortsightedness prevailed over national interest. It is common knowledge that Odinga Lumumba is an Natural Scientist/ Engineer and is duly qualified, but not Neeendkumar or Pauline Campbell-Sukhai. Here is where astute leadership comes in and the best persons for the job are recommended. Let’s look at some possibilities in the line of fairness. Mohabir Anil Nandlall is touted as one of Guyana’s ‘BEST’ legal minds around at the moment and a possible presidential candidate. Ideally, he should have been an automatic choice. Then comes Charles Ramson Jnr. Because he is ambitious, he should be sidelined? My university colleague and friend Nigel Dharamlall who has a BSc in Agriculture and BA in Economics is another young
bright mind in parliament that would have made better sense. He served as PS in more than one Ministry, Marketing Manager GRDB, Fisheries and Hydromet Departments Ministry of Agriculture. Why a man with such vast experience is sitting on the sidelines? It is now clear as crystal that there is no shortage of talent, but they are being stymied by the sole custodian of the PPP. This tells me clearly that political expedience overrides the best interest of the country. The question is now asked, why would we want to elect a leader whose EGO overrides the reality on the ground? Erwin (DESERT FOX) Rommel, arguably the greatest strategist and Field Marshall once said, ‘“You should never let good opportunities to pass you by because of trifles”. Nazi Germany was more important to him than himself, only to be forced to commit suicide because FUHRER Hitler thought he was a potent threat. This brings into focus another government critic that Bharrat Jagdeo literally disemboweled a few years ago at the National Cultural Centre— Christopher Lallbachan Ram. It was no secret that Chris was pursuing his Masters at Reading in Oil and Gas. He criticizes even the current administration. This is a man that has the capacity to pull the guts out of the Exxon Mobil team But no; if he represents us he will score political points. Now we will see every effort to divert from the embarrassment this caused us and the common language used is ‘’Granger had his people stacked on the panel and you know they don’t like the PPP”. I am no racist, but in Guyana as long as a representative from any of the two ethnic groups appears on a panel they are automatically linked to a party because of their ethnicity. Guess EXXON Mobil team consisted of some so they would have debunked everything the chosen few asked them, despite it was pure trash. As a concerned citizen, this is a situation that needs to be noted by our current government too, though I doubt President Granger would make such a colossal blunder. We should learn from the mistakes of others. Sincerely yours, R.R. Shepherd
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Parliament and Press Conferences are Vital for Democracy DEAR EDITOR, “Democracy must be built through open societies that share information. When there is information, there is enlightenment. When there is debate, there are solutions. When there is no accountability, there is abuse, corruption, subjugation and indignation. Parliament is entrusted to be the ‘watchdog ‘ of our democracy and hold the executive accountable. But it is the executive that decides when the parliament should meet to exercise oversight of its functioning. Does such a manner in allowing the executive in convening parliament affect it to perform effectively? The issue of who has the power to convene parliament is significant because it is closely related to the recent trend of declining numbers of sittings days. With the current political climate the delay of summoning parliament is under much criticism because APNU/AFC coalition government is afraid of scrutiny. As the highest representative body parliament is the forum for debates and deliberation. The PPP as the opposition is mandated to criticise the policies, plans, bills and laws which in accordance to the PPP are against the common people’s welfare and if any scam is found reveal it out in front of the nation. The slim majority of one is the major factor why parliament is not functioning regularly and as such it is estimated that parliament of Guyana meets about 20 days per year (subjected for correction) which is unacceptable by the Guyanese electorates.
Only recently the government increased the parliamentary stipend with the intention that there would be an increase of work by parliamentarians. Unfortunately there was a deliberate decline on the number of sittings, because of the government side parliamentarians’ unavailability. President David Granger who was a messiah of scrutiny and transparency before the 2015 elections now remains silently on the efficient functioning of the parliament of Guyana. President Granger himself has refused to engage the media at press conferences but with strict security measures talks to journalists at sidelines of his ceremonial duties. This action can be considered disrespectful and as journalists whenever we see racism, discrimination, corruption, public lies, dictatorship and human rights violations you have to take a stand because your responsibility as journalists is to confront those who are abusing power. We have seen overtime that countries that have the best economic growth are those that have good governance and good governance comes from freedom of communication. The big question is why parliament is used as executive tools deliberately to avoid scrutiny? The APNU/AFC Coalition government since 2011 has been failing Guyana with the parliamentary majority and it continues to use the parliamentary majority to impose more hardships on the Guyanese people and fail miserably to achieve the” good life “promised. Zamal Hussain
What prompts a discontinuation of charges in the face of compensation? DEAR EDITOR, Please allow an ardent and avowed fan of KN the space in your excellent paper to seek an answer to this question. This from an untrained legal mind but nonetheless with a genuine need to know. From time to time I’ve read where persons or perpetrators of an offence against another offers to pay compensation and as a result have the charge(s) against them
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dropped. This question was prompted by the story in the Sunday Edition of KN detailing a young man charged with attempted murder for dealing another a good drubbing with a piece of wood against his head, and had the charges dropped after he offered compensation to the victim. My confusion, a crime/ offence was committed; of
Ethnic discrimination is... Frm page 5 force Indo-Guyanese into suicide and alcoholism. Editor, I feel the pain of the poor and voiceless to which as a member of society, I must at least take action by thrusting their voice into the news in hopes of bringing attention to their plight. Sadly, President Granger knows full well of the inhumanity which exists but he turns a blind eye. How can our president endorse such inhumanity by doing virtually nothing? Where is his heart? And today, the Afro-Guyanese people are undeniably the dominant minority in our multi-ethnic Guyana because President Granger encourages and harbours this problem for political edge. Convincingly, variables, including discrimination, racism, election rigging, nepotism, cronyism and corruption - also play major roles in driving ethnic / racial dominance. Racial / ethnic domination of any kind can only be described as unintelligent, uneducated, shortsighted, destructive, immoral, racist, heartless and unacceptable. Racial dominance should never be tolerated. And I would also like to learn more about the cricket board saga since I am an advocate for diversity. Diversity is our strength. We must engage it to move Guyana and its people forward. This is the intelligent thing to do. But then again, ignorance interferes with our ability to appreciate the benefits of diversity. And no doubt education is needed to eliminate ethnic / racial dominance in Guyana. Sincerely, Annie Baliram
this there is no doubt. The Law was violated. Should that in itself not be a separate issue from compensation? Can anyone with the discretionary funds commit a crime against the person and compensate themselves out from under the resultant charges? Are these arrangements supervised by the court prior to the charge(s) being dropped? And if not who is to say the perpetrators will honour their commitment? Finally, if the latter scenario becomes a reality are the charges reinstituted? These are all questions swirling around my head since to my untrained legal mind a crime was committed; a law was violated. Shouldn’t that be addressed? Now if the victim refuses to testify against the perpetrator, I can see the prosecution not having a case but on the surface these compensation matters seem to be driven by paying ones way out of a difficult situation. The young man during his court appearance was so violent the report states, it took five officers to calm him after he cuffed his sister in the face. Does anyone believe he will compensate the victim after the fact? Help I need clarity! Respectfully, Claudeston Massiah
Recognising Chris Ram’s Achievements DEAR EDITOR, In a letter which appeared in KN on July 10, Dr. Mark Devonish extended his congratulations to Chartered Accountant/Attorney-atLaw Christopher Ram on the completion of his Master’s Degree in the fields of oil and gas from Reading University in the UK. I would like to concur with the sentiments expressed by Dr. Devonish as I consider Chris Ram an extraordinary person who apart from being a successful chartered accountant for most of his life, obtained at an advanced age considered by many of us, an Attorney-at-law degree from the University of the West Indies and now a higher degree in the fields of oil and gas from an accredited UK University. Chris Ram has in the past presented many objective and challenging discourses on varied issues affecting the wellbeing of Guyana and its people. I hope that with his newly acquired knowledge he will be able to suggest social and economic reforms for Guyana in meaningful ways as to how the wealth from recently discovered oil/ gas off Guyana’s coast could be equitably obtained from the developers for fair distribution to all Guyanese while in the process exposing those elites who have and are
gearing themselves to receive unearned income and privilege from development of the industry. I have no doubt, also, that he was able to acquire expertise as to how policies and innovations could be applied to utilize the windfall from the industry to encourage employment and job creation thereby getting Guyanese out of their feelings of worthlessness. The daily news of murders, suicides and robberies in the country clearly bear this out. In his letter, Dr. Devonish claimed that Nottingham University is the only institution in the UK with a hospital housing its medical school on campus. He is probably unaware of University College Hospital with its medical school on the Gower Street complex of the University of London. This University also has other hospitals with medical schools on their campuses. The qualifications for consultants and experts are generally laid down by a c o u n t r y ’s l i c e n s i n g authority and professional bodies. In the UK, a medical doctor has to have a first degree (MBBS) followed by professional certification (MRCP/FRCS, etc.) in a specialized field conferred by the Medical Board/Profession before becoming a consultant or is permitted to carry-out
certain medical procedures. Board certification generally requires four years plus of residency (training) in a Medical Board approved hospital and passing of the relevant professional examinations. Other professions have their own requirements for consultants. The requirements for being an expert are determined by education, training and work experience in narrow fields of specialization. Experts are usually designated based on their experiences and where applicable satisfying local professional requirements. In Guyana, the medical schools have no accreditation and engineers do not need a license to practice. Hence the many cases of malpractices in Guyana by practitioners in varied professions. Finally, I have never met Dr. Devonish but I have read his many letters on various topics in KN and other local papers. I was intrigued by his accomplishments and would like to learn more about his achievements and the help (if any) he received on his way up the ladder, as I happen to share many of his early life experiences and would like to know more about the opportunities which were available to him and which he successfully utilized. Yours truly, Charles Sohan
PRESIDENTIAL EXCUSE HOLDS NO WATER
DEAR EDITOR, The statement issued by the Ministry of the Presidency on the media availability of the President is pure poppy-cock! Granger had made it clear that he does not like the media and has made many remarks indicative of his dislike for the media. Running for office is one thing when you want the media to spread your word, but when that office is attained then the media becomes scary and have to be kept at bay. We have seen that in full display. My other comments are: 1. “The David Granger led administration since its assumption to office has been nothing but transparent and accountable to the citizens….” Totally and completely false as neither transparency nor accountability were evident. Remember that arising out
of complaints that ministers were unreachable, the party made arrangements for ministers to spend each week a few hours at party headquarters to meet with constituents. That was a one off deal. From that ordered interaction, Granger kept himself aloof! and did not make himself available. 1. “I am asking the media to be tolerant”. So how long is this ‘tolerance request to last?’ Seems to be interminable as a lot of time has passed. 2. “I have had a really difficult period of public engagements and overseas travel,” What? Is there no official charged with the duties to schedule the president’s availability and itinerary? This is the most ridiculous excuse preferred! Makes school kids’ excuses more mature. 3. “… reiterated the President’s commitment to
engaging the members of the media, whom he holds in high esteem…” This is a joke and a big one at that. The media can well remember the scolding they got in the past. The President is known to fear the media because he has made comments and has done acts that raised serious implications, so he simply cowered and kept to himself… check-check the GECOM, Chief Justice, and the over 80s age barrier! In my opinion, the President lacks the skills of public speaking in that he is not glib, seems to have vocal problems and does not sound certain of what he is saying. Definitely not a dynamic speaker. The result? Best to stay away from the media! Carl Veecock 35 Eastwood Crescent Markham, Ontario Canada
Monday July 16, 2018
Region 3 procurement process riddled with corruption - PM Rep. Following numerous complaints from contractors, the Prime Minister’s Representative for Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Harrynarine Deokinanan, has called for sweeping changes to the procurement process in the region. As reported by Kaieteur News, an office set up by Regional Executive Officer (REO) for Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Denis Jaikaran, is said to be selecting which bids get evaluated at the regional tender board. Millions of dollars is said to be lost to the current regional system because it lacks the necessary checks and balances to safeguard the process. Deokinanan is a member of the regional tender board and indicated that several contractors have complained that the process is unfair. “As it stands now, the procurement system is riddled with corruption. I know this because of the information I have received as the Prime Minister ’s representative,” Deokinanan explained. According to contractors, they are being asked to submit their bids in the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCS) through a Local Government Office set up by Jaikarran. “Over 15 contractors have complained to my office of being sidelined. Several of the contractors have entered tenders by submitting them through the regional office and not to in a closed box. These bids are then taken up to tender board for consideration. This should not be and makes the system very unfair,” Deokinanan told Kaieteur News. The tender board meets on Thursdays and comprises Jaikaran as chairperson, Deokinanan, Leroy Levans, Nazeer Ahmad and P. Nelson. Deokinanan explained that all contracts should be advertised at the NDC offices through the region. He stated that all tenders should be placed in a sealed box and a receipt from the local government office should be given to every contractor who submits a bid. He stated that the tender box should be opened at the tender board meeting and all members of the board must sign all the tenders being evaluated. Deokinanan also noted that there is need for changes at the evaluation committee. “If we can adhere to these recommendations, we will have a better procurement system in Region 3. One that can stand up to scrutiny,” Deokinanan noted. Under the current system, the bids for
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Prime Minister’s Representative for Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Harrynarine Deokinanan projects in the NDCs are received by hand through the office, which has been set up by Jaikarran. In the case of the capital works, the bids placed in the tender box are opened in the presence of the bidders and tender board members. In the case of the NDCs, the bids are taken to the tender board for evaluation and decision. Reports indicate that in one such instance in June when the board evaluated bids for the supply and delivery of 75 tons of first grade crusher run in Wakenaam. According to information, the board evaluated three bids, namely MVR Construction for $1.837M; A.J Persaud Construction $1.875M; and R.P. Construction $1.837M. The board awarded the bid to MVR Construction. Kaieteur News was told that there were three additional bids submitted to Jaikarran’s Office, which were not evaluated by the tender board. All of these bids were lower than the one awarded. These were from Farouk Azad, $1.7M; K. Kusial General Contractor, $1.4M and Forever Construction, $1.4M. When contacted about the information, Jaikarran said he was not aware that such practices occurred. When told that a contractor had visited the office to complain, the REO stated that any complaint must be made in writing.
Natural Resource Fund can be further protected from abuse with Fiscal Responsibility legislation - IMF Before the end of the year, the Government of Guyana is expected to bring draft legislation before the National Assembly to pave the way for the establishment of a Natural Resource Fund. The Fund is expected to act as a savings account for Guyana’s oil wealth. There will also be rules in place to govern how the government withdraws money from the account. While this is well and good, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) wants the government to also put in place, a Fiscal Responsibility Legislation. It made this quite clear in a statement it issued last Friday. A Fiscal Responsibility Legislation imposes greater accountability and transparency over the public finances of a country. It forces an administration to return to Parliament to explain - and gain permission for - any spending in excess of Budget estimates. It also imposes strict penalties for breach of legislation. In its missive, the IMF said, “The rules-based fiscal framework for managing oil wealth should be transparent and consistent with the re-
source fund deposit/withdrawal rules. It should provide the basis for determining the allocation of annual oil revenue for stabilization and domestic capital expenditure, as well as intergenerational savings. The consistency between the fund deposit/withdrawal rules and a fiscal rule could be reinforced by a Fiscal Responsibility Legislation.” OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS Based on an examination of the draft legislation for the Natural Resource Fund, the IMF has passed on to the government, a few recommendations, which can go a long way in reporting and auditing more efficient. In its report, the IMF noted that there is a reporting requirement of an annual report with the audited financial accounts submitted to Parliament. In addition, quarterly reports and financial statements will be submitted to Parliament within the year. IMF said that all these reports are required to be posted on the Ministry of Finance website. IMF noted, however that Section 37 of the draft leg-
islation covers only quarterly reports. The IMF pointed out that annual financial statements are not mentioned. Furthermore, the IMF said that while one could assume that a fourth quarter report would be an annual report, it is not clear in the Bill. Also, in general, the Fund said that quarterly reports would be less comprehensive. Additionally, the financial organization stated that Section 40 of the draft Bill requires the Ministry of Finance to submit an annual report, which is very detailed. The Fund notes, however, that it is not clear who is responsible to prepare it. IMF said that all reporting to the Parliament should be prepared by Treasury officials with inputs from Bank of (Continued on page 12)
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Rystad Energy part of Exxon’s lobbying machine By Kiana Wilburg Former Petroleum Advisor to the Government, Dr. Jan Mangal, is not surprised by the glowing reports of Rystad Energy, a Norwegian research company, which predicts that Guyana will get massive returns from its oil deal with ExxonMobil. That’s because Dr. Mangal says that Rystad Energy is part of ExxonMobil’s lobbying machine. In his Facebook page, Dr. Mangal said, “I had discussions with Wood Mackenzie (A UK Company that also foresees massive oil wealth for Guyana) and Rystad in Houston regarding possible support for a country like Guyana to challenge a company like Exxon. After a couple months of discussion with Wood Mackenzie, they called me and were very apologetic.” He added, “They could not continue to talk with me. Their executives were worried their interaction with me would annoy Exxon, and most of their revenue comes from oil companies (including Exxon). So Guyanese, please always apply the rule of ‘follow the money’ when assessing the information being pro-
vided to you (i.e. check if your source could be biased, and remember money is one of the strongest drivers for bias).” Dr. Mangal pointed out, too, that Rystad and Wood Mackenzie are competitors for Exxon’s business; hence, they will compete to please ExxonMobil. “But Rystad is the newer and smaller of the two, the upstart, thus it will be more aggressive in its actions to please Exxon, that is, to curry favour with Exxon. That is why Rystad is prepared to produce drivel like this.” LOPSIDED ANALYSIS It was on Sunday that Kaieteur News exposed how Rystad Energy’s pronouncement on Guyana’s future oil wealth from the Stabroek Block was not informed by an analysis of the GuyanaExxonMobil Production Sharing Agreement (PSA). That contract notes that Guyana will benefit from a two percent royalty and a 50/50 split of profit oil. But Guyana’s share of the profit oil can be lessened by several factors when one considers the terms of the contract as well as the loopholes available for abuse by the oil company. Rystad’s Senior Analyst, Sonya Boodoo, said that the
company did not look at the contract for its assessment of the government take. The official confirmed that the entity’s deductions were based on “bits and pieces of information in the public domain”. Kaieteur News then asked Boodhoo to explain how an analysis of Guyana’s oil future with ExxonMobil can be done when all the variables that can affect the government’s take (especially those listed in the contract) have not been considered. Boodhoo simply said, “We compare contracts based on government’s take and project profitability.” Boodhoo was also asked to comment on the fact that while her company paints a glowing report of Guyana’s take from the Stabroek block, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deemed the contract to be generous to the investor. Boodoo said, “Basically, I think what we looked at was facts, and I am quite confident that what we say stands. If we look at all the offshore regimes, generally, the government’s take is 80 percent and Guyana’s is 59 percent. This is quite low, but we have to consider that Guyana is a frontier region and the average for frontier regions is 45-70 per-
- Dr. Mangal cent and Guyana falls in the average of the frontier regions. I don’t think it is too favourable to the government or to the investor. I think it is quite average.” She added, “Had the regime been more favourable towards the government, you might not have had people coming in to invest.” While the Rystad Energy Group is optimistic about Guyana’s take in the Exxon Agreement, the IMF, which
has existed for 72 years, has been way more cautious in its statements. In a report it submitted to the government last year, the IMF said that the oil deal Guyana has with ExxonMobil is fraught with opportunities for abuse. It said that these very loopholes could result in a significant dent in the revenue Guyana is supposed to get from the oil find by the operator. Given its findings, the IMF recommended that Guyana hasten moves to revise the current framework of its PSA.
Oil and Gas Consultant, Dr. Jan Mangal
Govt.’s restraint towards borrowing against oil revenue commendable - IMF The political opposition has been warning for some time that the government would be tempted to borrow against the nation’s future oil wealth. But the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in a statement last week assured that the Coalition Administration has resisted this appeal of this option. In fact, the IMF said that Government’s prudence and restraint towards borrowing in anticipation of future oil revenue is commendable. It was only a few months ago, that Finance Minister, Winston Jordan reminded the citizenry of the Government’s position when it comes to borrowing against future oil revenues. Jordan stated that the Government is actually uneasy about borrowing in that regard. The Finance Minister said that while this is tempting, as it would provide important re-
…calls for short-term financing needs to be carefully managed
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan sources to finance many critical pipeline projects, “we have to be wary of the volatility of the oil market and our capacity to utilize such resources in a transparent and accountable manner.” Jordan said that the Government will “continue to assess the situation and weigh carefully our options before any decision, in this regard, is made.”
As it relates to other matters of borrowing, the IMF cautioned that short-term financing needs should be managed carefully. The Fund said that the Government should rely as much as possible on Multilateral Development Banks, including its nonconcessional financing operations. The IMF said that developing the domestic capital markets would provide a more stable source of financing and help meet the needs of domestic long-term institutional investors. The international body said that private external borrowing should continue to be avoided, and Central Bank financing should not be used at all. In addition to this, the Fund said that it welcomed the authorities’ intention to close the overdraft balances at the Central Bank in the near-term. It commented too, that saving the one-off gains from the tax amnesty would reduce financing needs, and also help preserve external buffers.
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POWER TENDS TO CORRUPT It is Lord Action who is attributed to the statement, “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. This corruption refers not just to unlawful enrichment but also the corruption of morals and one’s behaviour. But before we rush to condemn those who hold power and whose behaviour is characterised by arrogance, haughtiness, disrespect to others and bearing false witness against, let us ask ourselves to what extent we contribute to these character traits in those who hold or possess power? How many of us show too much respect to those with power? How much of us refuse to acknowledge their wrongs and incompetence? How many of us refuse to comment on the fact that many of them do not have the moral groundings to exercise authority over others? How many of them are square pegs in round holes? Power indeed tends to corrupt. Power brings with it influence, prestige and perquisites. Many of us want such status and therefore we tend to look up to those in power when in fact, we should be holding them, because of their position, to higher and more regular forms of public scrutiny. How many of us do not contribute to those in positions of authority feeling that they are demigods? How many of us do not make them feel that they are superior beings
and that they have earned the entitlements of their office when we know that many of them are pretenders who Lady Luck and opportunism has smiled upon? How many of us for selfish reasons feel privileged being around those with power because it makes us look good in front of our friends? How many of us would behave differently if the shoe were on the other foot and we ourselves had the power? How many of us would not want to be in their position so that we too can trample on the rights of others? Power can be intoxicating. Do you know what it does to someone’s psyche to have a position of power, which entitles you to a fancy house, a chauffeur, an expensive vehicle and all the other lawful pre-requisites, which come with a powerful office? How many of us do not enjoy being around persons of authority? There are persons in Guyana who like to be in the company of persons with power because it makes them feel themselves to be part of a circle of influence. It is ego-boosting to be around those who have influence and authority. There is no doubt that it also makes things easier. Persons with power can pull
strings and assist. They can grant favours and this is why they often have such selfish followers. Persons with power can issue an order for someone to jump and when that person asks how high, it can corrupt the mind because suddenly life is different. Persons who never had power and suddenly experience what it can do, experience a ‘high’ that makes them believe that they are beyond the ordinary. With one phone call, they can cause someone’s freedom to be snatched. They c a n destroy people’s lives with one decision. When you have power, you enjoy privileges, which you never c o n t e m p l a t e d . Yo u a r e
treated special, invited to important functions where you wine and dine. All of this can have an effect on your thinking and, consequently on your behaviour. Persons with power in our society virtually do not have to spend any m o n e y. Whatever they want, they can click their fingers and someone will willingly provide in the hope of obtaining a favour later on. It is not as if those with power are not humble. It is just that they have no need any longer to be humbled. Every statement they make, however ignorant, is treated as a containing prophetic wisdom, every stale joke is laughed at; everything you do is
justified. Lackeys and boot-lickers are always around to do their bidding. When we therefore seek persons in authority behaving arrogantly, we should ask ourselves to what extent we encourage such behaviour. You will be surprised by the answer. In most cases, we are the responsible for the very behaviour, which we are quick to condemn. Stop stooping to those in power! Stop buying free drinks for them and showering them with gifts!
Stop inviting them to parties!! Stop laughing at their dry jokes! Stop praising their poor taste in clothing! Stop justifying their abhorrent behaviour and indecent public conduct! Stop excusing t h e i r p o o r choice of company! In other words, stop putting them on a pedestal and you see how quickly they will become humble.
Monday July 16, 2018
PAGE 11
Kaieteur News
ExxonMobil’s Country Manager lies to Parliamentary Committee
ExxonMobil Country Manager, Rod Henson
Govt. MP, Jermaine Figueira
Govt. MP, Audwin Rutherford
By Abena RockcliffeCampbell
appeared twice. Names of individuals also appeared on the list. In fact, even Bourda Market made the list. APNU Parlimentarian Audwin Rutherford had asked, “How many of these companies are actually owned by Guyanese. Because we know that some of these are foreign companies registered here.” Henson had responded: “Those are not foreign companies that are registered here. Those are all Guyanese owned companies, again, some small, many large but…what we are submitting is a list of all the Guyanese companies we worked with. That’s what we did.” However, checks at the
Deeds Registry have proven that the information Henson provided was not accurate. While some of the companies on the list are indeed owned by Guyanese, a few are foreign owned, which have branches registered here. This means companies that existed before their operation in Guyana. And, some of the companies are those indigenous to Guyana but were set up by foreigners. For instance, Assuria Life (Gy) Inc. is registered as a local company but its owners are Surinamese. JSL International Guyana Inc. is registered as a local company but it is owned by
All of the companies on the “list” are owned by Guyanese. This is what ExxonMobil’s Country Manager, Rod Henson recently declared when he appeared before the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Natural Resources. But, is this true? A few weeks ago, ExxonMobil released a list of 228 companies that it conducted business with. The list was released as proof of the companies’ local content efforts. The list quickly became controversial as names of companies
Trinidadians. Also Eldorado Offshore is listed as a local company but is also owned by Trinidadians. This company is a subsidiary of Ramps Logistics, which is one of ExxonMobil’s main contractors. While Rutherford’s contention was about the companies being wholly local, his colleague MP, Jermaine Figueira wanted to focus on Exxon’s approach to Local Content. “We have our own definition of local content.” That is what officials of ExxonMobil have been saying when confronted about its
local content efforts in Guyana. The company stuck to this story even after it was pointed out that its global stance for local content is different. When he appeared before the Committee, Henson maintained this position after he was faced with a barrage of questions. He said, “Well, we have our own definition of Local Content.” But that sort of response did not sit well with Figueira, a Government MP. He thinks that ExxonMobil has no place defining local content or deciding what form local content will take.
Figueira said: “I believe the local content, which ExxonMobil will be implementing should be guided by a framework that is heavily influenced by the government.” “Your local content strategy should be of an indigenous nature to the Guyanese population. It should reflect the desire of the masses after they are properly informed.” Figueira stressed, “I really do not believe that you should lead the way in respect to local content, it has to be the other way around, Guyanese should have a greater say.”
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Monday July 16, 2018
Kaieteur News
Desperate single mothers risk lives, freedom to smuggle cocaine
While more single mothers are finding creative ways to smuggle cocaine past the watchful eyes of Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and police ranks who are stationed at the Cheddi Jagan and Eugene F. Correira International Airports, they are being caught and prosecuted. Some of the techniques include swallowing, inserting in the privates and in some cases attempting to post it in hammocks and in handbags. A couple even tried attempting to smuggle the drug through the VIP lounge at the airport. For the swallowers, they would be taken to the hospital where x-rays would confirm that they are strange objects in their bodies and pelvic area, for those who insert the drug in them. While most cocaine traffickers plead guilty on their first court appearances, some deny narcotics trafficking charges brought against them. They would usually be remanded to prison by a Magistrate. However, their lawyers would secure bail for them at the High Court. In a most recent case, a teenager was sentenced to three years imprisonment and fined $1.4 M, after she was nabbed the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, EBD with a quantity of cocaine. Nineteen-year-old Anesha Hardy, of 235 South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, appeared to be calm when she made an appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. She admitted to the charge, which read that on July 6, last at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, she had in her possession 702 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor,
Jailed Robhina Basdeoram
Jailed Nickela Singh
Jailed Tiffani Collison
Jailed Natasha Blair
Jailed Anesha Hardy
Konyo Sandiford, stated that on July 6, last, the teen was an outgoing passenger on BW 526 at CJIA destined to JFK New York. The teen was intercepted by a female CANU officer who told her that she had information that she had ingested a quantity of cocaine pellets. She was then cautioned and she denied the allegation. She was then arrested and escorted to a City Hospital where an x-ray was conducted. The examination revealed foreign objects in her stomach and she was then admitted as a patient at the institution. Between the period July 6 and July 9, last, the teenager excreted 119 cocaine filled pellets weighing 702 grams. She also gave several oral, written and caution statements outlining her suppliers and how she ingested the cocaine pellets. The prosecutor told the court that the teenager was taken advantage of by two persons who are seasoned cocaine suppliers. CANU is now looking for the two individuals who are the main suspects in the investigation. The men who are wanted for questioning are Kelvien Sauers, also known as John. His last known address was 327 Fourth Street Success,
East Coast Demerara and Mark Sauers also known as Marcus of Lot 1 Ogle East Coast Demerara and Second Street Liliendaal, Georgetown. Just two weeks ago, a single mother of two was nabbed while attempting to smuggle a quantity of cocaine through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, (CJIA) Timehri. Natasha Blair, 37, was arraigned before a Magistrate and pleaded guilty to trafficking 532 grams of cocaine. In turn, she was sentenced to serve three years in prison. She had cried throughout her court appearance and admitted to ingesting and inserting a quantity of pellets filled with the drug. Before being sentencing she stated, “I’m very sorry for what I did and I’m sorry for putting my children and family through this. I did it to provide for my children.” At the time, she was busted by CANU ranks, Blair was an outgoing passenger destined for JFK, New York, to where she was travelling with her 11-month old baby. It was reported that when Blair checked in her luggage at Caribbean Airline counter, a CANU rank acting on information, approached her and informed her of his suspicion that she had ingested and inserted narcotics.
Blair was cautioned and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where an x-ray was conducted on her. It revealed foreign objects in her stomach and pelvic area. The prosecutor told the court that the woman was admitted at the institution and between July 2 and July 4; she excreted 32 pellets. It was disclosed that the pellets found in the woman’s stomach weighed 322 grams, while the pellets in her pelvic area weighed 210 grams. Blair while in custody made several oral statements. CANU is now searching for the father of the woman’s child, Sherwin Stoby, also known as ‘Kong’. Also making an appearance in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court was a desperate mother who took the rap for her teen daughter. Kavita Persaud, 40, of 55 Annandale, East Coast Demerara appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, one week after her 19-year-old daughter was caught with six pounds of cocaine in her handbag at the CJIA. Persaud pleaded guilty to the charge, which alleged that on February 14 last, at CJIA, she trafficked 2.660 kilograms of cocaine. When asked by the Magistrate if she had anything to say, the woman said that she is a single mother of three and she was in desperate need for a place to stay. She claimed that she and her children were homeless. The woman added, “I am very sorry for what I did. I don’t know what I was thinking. I did it for my children, because I’m poor.” It was reported that the teen was intercepted at the airport with the drug. It was her mother who had accompanied her there. The two were then arrested and they gave oral and written statements outlining their knowledge about the cocaine. They also gave the supplier’s name. The woman had also told ranks that the supplier had
made her daughter traffic cocaine to the US a month prior to her arrest. Singh is presently serving a four year and six month jail term for the offence. She was also ordered to pay a fine of $7.1M. Also on the list of cocaine smugglers is a 42-year-old Andrea Winfield, of Lot 12 Prince William Street, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara. She was sentenced to three years in jail and fined $3.8M after being found guilty by a City Magistrate. On December 16, last, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, she had 2.548 kilograms of cocaine in her possession for trafficking. The woman, who cried throughout the court proceeding, told the court that she was sorry for what she did. According to information, Winfield was an outgoing passenger at the airport when Customs officers had asked her for the Canadian address she was visiting. She was unable to provide that information. The officers then became suspicious and proceeded to check her luggage. They found the cocaine and she was arrested. A young mother who attempted to post four hammocks that were soaked in cocaine, to the United States via an international courier service, was not spared jail time by the Chief Magistrate. Twenty six-year-old Tiffini Collison of F 21 Samaan Street, Guyhoc Park, was found guilty of trafficking 6.742 kilograms of cocaine. She used her mother’s name to effect the transaction. According to CANU, the seizure of the hammocks occurred at the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Ogle, East Coast Demerara. Collison was jailed for four years and fined $18.2M. In another case, a Soesdyke woman took the rap for her brother and was sentenced to four years imprisonment after she admitted to having 11 pounds of cocaine in her possession.
Nickela Craig Singh, of Lot 237 Meereten Street, Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and pleaded guilty to the charge. On January 22, last, she trafficked 5.196 kilograms of cocaine. The woman in her explanation to the court stated, “On the day in question, the ranks asked me if I had drugs and I said yes. I told them a friend gave me the drugs to keep. At the time, I was confused and I started calling my sibling’s name.” After the woman’s explanation, the Chief Magistrate asked her if she is still confused. The woman responded, “I am not confused anymore. The cocaine was found in my house so I am taking ownership for it. A friend gave me it to keep.” Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman last year jailed a woman for 60 months and fined her $ 57 M after she and her spouse were found guilty of attempting to smuggle 21.36 kg of cocaine through the VIP Lounge at the airport. Robhina Basdeoram and her spouse were convicted for having a total 21.36 kg of cocaine in their possession for the purpose of trafficking on January 30, 2015. They were jailed for 60 months each. They were also ordered to pay fines of over $20M respectively. Reports are that the couple was scheduled to depart from CJIA for Toronto, Canada via a Fly Jamaica flight. The discovery of the drug was made at the scanning point. It was there that a police rank from the Narcotics Branch spotted some ‘bricks’ that were concealed in their luggage. The cocaine was found in all four pieces of luggage that was being carried by the two. Enveloped parcels containing cocaine were found stitched neatly into two laptop bags.
Natural Resource Fund can be... (From page 7) Guyana. The international organization also stated that the NRF is a part of central government and as such, it is essentially an extra budgetary fund that should be consolidated in central government reports. It said that even if there is a separate report, it needs to be submit-
ted together with budgetary central government reports to the Parliament. As it relates to accountability and oversight, the Fund said that there are provisions for both internal and external audit of the Natural Resource Fund. It noted, however, that it may be preferable for the Gov-
ernment of Guyana to have both the Bank of Guyana and the Ministry of Finance internal auditors have oversight responsibility. Regarding the external audit, the Fund said that the Ministry of Finance would be a logical body to select an external auditor.
Monday July 16, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Regardless of school, represent the uniform you are wearing! – Minister Norton - Minister Norton meets Region Seven’s top NGSA performers
‘Girl Power’ confab for Linden adolescents - Lawrence encourages better lifestyle choices among youths
Minister Norton with some of the students. Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton presented gifts to some of CuyuniMazaruni, Region Seven’s top performers at this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) examination. The presentations were made during a recent visit to Bartica. The Social Cohesion Minister who accompanied by the Chief Education Officer, Marcel Hutson and Director of Sport, Christopher Jones met with four of the students, along with their parents and teachers. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the other students were unable to be there. The students who were honoured are Kenneth Edwards, who gained a placement at St Roses High with 505 marks; Dante Adams at Three Miles Secondary School with 493 and also at Three Miles Secondary are Sholanna Seeram and Mark Benjamin with 484 and 478 marks respectively. Minister Norton congratulated those who played a role in the students’ success and reminded the students to always be cognisant of the alma mater they represent. “Teachers, parents and students, you did well. Regardless of whether it’s St Roses, St Stanislaus, Bishops or Queen’s, it’s what you
do in the school, that is the important thing. I want you to represent the uniform that you’re wearing.” The Minister told the students that they now have an opportunity to grow and develop. He also encouraged the parents to continue to play a meaningful role in the lives of their children. Minister Norton also noted that educational and infrastructural standards must be the same across the country. “The policy of this government is to have an equal playing field. We could have only achieved those results because of the policies implemented.” He made a call for more youth involvement in sports. “It is not all work and no play, we want rounded Guyanese! We want right now that you must be able to tell me about tomorrow’s game in the world cup. So, I’m saying this to the parents, it’s not all work and no play.” The Director of Sport, Christopher Jones tangibly echoed this view by donating sporting equipment to the schools of Region Seven. The Minister and team also met with head teachers and teachers to discuss ways of moving forward.
More than 100 girls from several communities across the Upper DemeraraUpper Berbice Region were part of a ‘Girl Power” conference. This event was held at the Egbert Benjamin Exhibition and Conference Centre in Mackenzie, Linden on Saturday. ‘For the Children Sake’ Foundation, a NonGovernment Organisation (NGO) in Linden collaborated with Ministry of Public Health’s Adolescent Health Department to host the conference. The feature address was delivered the Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, who first broke the ice with a lighthearted and motivating game that saw the girls defining each letter of the word G.I.R.L.S. Among the many descriptions were, Ggood, gorgeous, genuine, I-intelligent, idealistic, inspirational, R-respectful, reliable, royal, L-loyal, loving, leader, S-smart, special, sensitive, sophisticated. Minister Lawrence expressed the view that this exercise was the first step in fulfilling the theme under which the event was hosted which is, ‘Empower, Encourage, Inspire’. As she interacted with the adolescents, Minister Lawrence identified with the young girls as someone who has faced this particular stage of growth and development. “…You are not in a hopeless situation. You can be somebody, you can fashion your life in a positive and powerful way by embracing programmes such as this one organised by the ‘For the Children Sake Foundation’ so that you can be better informed.” On this note, she emphasised that every
girl, every woman must seek the opportunity to access and receive information that will enhance her personal development. “When you have information, you have knowledge. It allows you to make the right choices… that is why information is so important. Girls, in order for you to be empowered, educating yourselves is the key. You must move along the continuum from lack of knowledge to the point where you acquire the requisite skills and knowledge.” For further emphasis, the Minister painted a realistic picture of the impact bad choices could have on their lives at this crucial point of development. She explained the consequences of unsafe sex, unhealthy diets which proceeds to several Non-Communicable Diseases and the abuse of alcohol and other conventional substances and its effect on the human body. “Once you have the relevant facts about your body, your health, your environment and the social issues prevalent in your community and the society at large then you have a toolbox that will enable you to make better and even healthier lifestyle choices and move ahead to reach your full potential,” Minister Lawrence told the girls. According to the Executive Director of “For the Children Sake’ Foundation”, Vernon Todd, the event serves as another step in the journey to ensuring girls are well equipped to overcome the existing challenges in society. Todd is also hopeful that with initiatives such as these, the community, regional and national leaders are challenged to do more to helping girls to understand and be confident of their roles in society.
Some of the participants
Telecommunications official warns…
Beware of losing ability of face-to-face communication in ITC age
Bernadette Lewis, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU)
Secretary-General of the C a r i b b e a n Telecommunications Union (CTU), Bernadette Lewis has warned about the pitfalls of becoming disconnected in this era when Guyana is forging ahead with expansion in information, communication technology (ICTs). Speaking at the ICT Roadshow which concluded on Saturday, Lewis noted that while many laud the benefits of ICT, she cautioned that safeguards must be put in place. “I want to just put this word of caution that we also
need to look at the potentially negative societal dividends, and provisions must be put in place to protect persons, their intellectual, digital and physical possessions and also their privacy,” Lewis noted. The CTU SG also shared that due care must be exercised to ensure that in this era of heightened connectively ‘we do not become disconnected and isolated from our fellow men and Caribbean neighbours.’ She cautioned that ICTs should be used responsibly and productively to improve life, country and region.
According to Lewis, in this age of communication, ‘we must not lose our ability to communicate face-to-face with our children, our colleagues, our peers and our neighbours’. “In this new global world enabled by ICTs, we must not lose our cultural identity, our individuality, our humanity or even worst, that in this technology age we lose our souls,” Lewis stated. The Roadshow wrapped up on Saturday with an eagriculture forum at the Nand Persaud Complex in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). During the Roadshow,
there was a robotics presentation by STEM Guyana at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, showcasing the new technologies available in Guyana. Young people were given the opportunity to interact with experts from the CTU, the I n t e r n a t i o n a l Telecommunications Union (ITU) and other local ICT clubs. Minister of Public Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s , Catherine Hughes, expressed satisfaction with the participation at the Continued on page 22
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Monday July 16, 2018
Kaieteur News
Beware of losing ability of... FOR RENT
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From page 21 Roadshow, especially at the e-agriculture forums. Most participants, she noted, left the workshops with a renewed sense on how to refocus the traditional agriculture sector into new avenues of earning revenue and expanding family agricultural ventures. “How we can really take agricultural production to another level, to give it its rightful place in a world that is geared towards technology,” the Minister alluded. Minister Hughes said the e-agriculture forum also provided fresh perspectives on how Government, in partnership with the business community and civil society can take agriculture to a new level by incorporating ICTs.
Monday July 16, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Monday July 16, 2018
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Kaieteur News
On eve of Russia summit, USA President calls European Union ‘a foe’ HELSINKI (Reuters) - On the eve of his meeting with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump rattled allies once more by labelling the European Union a “foe” with regard to trade. In a pre-summit interview with CBS News’ “Face the Nation” programme aired yesterday, Trump lumped in the EU with China and Russia as U.S. economic adversaries. “I think the European Union is a foe, what they do to us in trade,” he said. Trump and Putin will meet today in Helsinki for their first stand-alone meeting since Trump t o o k o f f i c e i n January 2017. Trump arrived in Helsinki yesterday evening after spending the day playing golf at his private club in Scotland. The Helsinki summit, which comes at one of the most crucial junctures for the West since the 1991 fall of the Soviet Union, has alarmed some NATO allies who fear Putin might seek a grand deal that would undermine the U.S.-led transatlantic alliance. D u r i n g l a s t w e e k ’s NATO summit in Brussels, Trump repeatedly criticized other member countries for failing to spend more on defence, and openly questioned the alliance’s purpose. In recent months, he has also been highly critical of the EU in trade terms, arguing that its policies make it difficult for U.S. exporters. After Trump labelled the EU a “foe,” Donald Tusk, president of the European
Donald Trump (left) and Vladimir Putin Council, responded on Twitter, using one of Trump’s favourite stock phrases. “America and the EU are best friends,” Tusk wrote. “Whoever says we are foes is spreading fake news.” Trump and his aides have been working through the weekend to soften expectations for tangible results from the Russia meeting. “I go in with low expectations,” Trump told CBS. John Bolton, Trump’s national security adviser, said in an interview with ABC’s “This Week” that the United States would not be looking for “deliverables” and that the meeting would be “unstructured,” beginning with a one-on-one session between the two leaders. The U.S. Ambassador to Russia, Jon Huntsman, told
NBC’S “Meet the Press” that the meeting was “an attempt to see if we can defuse and take some of the drama, and quite frankly some of the danger, out of the relationship right now.” A probe over allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 U . S . p r e s i d e n t i a l election has clouded Trump’s presidency. Trump has denied any collusion with the Russians by his campaign and Russia denies it meddled. For Trump, the formal meeting with Putin is an opportunity to develop a closer working relationship with the Russian president. They have met twice before on the sidelines of international summits. L a s t N o v e m b e r, i n Vietnam, they agreed to maintain open military channels of
communications between their forces in Syria. Trump has baffled his own advisers at times with his unabashed desire for strong ties with Putin, White House sources have said. Most U.S. officials see Putin as an unsavoury character on the world stage. U.S. officials have said they hope to make progress during the talks persuading Russia to use its influence to get Iranian forces out of Syria, as part of a wider campaign to rein in Iran’s influence in the Middle East. They also expect Trump t o b r i n g u p R u s s i a ’s incursion into Ukraine and the allegations of Russian meddling in the election. Other issues include the potential for nuclear arms talks and North Korea’s nuclear challenge, given
that U.S. officials have said Russia had worked in the past to help Pyongyang circumvent international sanctions. Huntsman on Sunday said that it was “highly unlikely” the United States would recognise Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, but would not rule it out. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas has warned Trump against making any unilateral deals with Russia that come with a cost for the United States’ Western allies. The meeting comes just days after 12 Russian intelligence officers were charged by a U.S. federal grand jury for hacking the Democrats ahead of the 2016 election, the most detailed U.S. accusation yet that Moscow meddled in the election to help Trump. When asked by CBS if he would ask Putin to
extradite the Russians to the United States, Trump said he might. Russia’s constitution forbids the extradition of its own citizens. “I hadn’t thought of that,” Trump said. “But certainly, I’ll be asking about it.” The top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, Mark Warner, said he was worried about Trump being alone in the room with Putin, without his nationalsecurity aides. “We know that Trump doesn’t do a lot of prep work for these meetings. He kind of goes in and wings it,” Warner said on NBC’s “Meet the Press. “I really would feel much better if there were other Americans in the room.” The president has repeatedly said the investigation into Russian election meddling is a “rigged witch hunt” that makes it hard for him to do substantive deals with Moscow.
Rowley on mission to recover corruption money Trinidad Express - Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley says his Government is on a mission to recover money that was corruptly obtained as he disclosed the bank account of a person in East Port of Spain containing 18 million taxpayers’ dollars has been frozen.” High and low, we are recovering monies stolen from you. You know, somewhere in East Port of Spain, some individual calls himself a contractor, an accountant, he have $18 million of your money in his personal bank account.
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In storm-hit Barbuda, China fills void left by Western ‘neglect’
A newly reroofed home is seen. (Photos: AFP) CODRINGTON, Antigua and Barbuda (AFP) — Steel drums carry a jubilant rendition of “Guantanamera” over the ruins of Barbuda’s capital Codrington, as dignitaries and residents mark the latest bit of progress in the island’s gruelling struggle to recover from Hurricane Irma. The event celebrated a Chinese-funded programme to replace roofs ripped from more than 300 homes by the powerful storm that damaged or destroyed nearly every building on the tiny island when it roared through on September 6 last year. The project has enabled hundreds of families to return home from sister island Antigua as Barbuda continues the daunting process of rebuilding the 62 square mile (160 square kilometre) isle, where a scant five per cent of homes escaped damage. But it has also burnished the image of China at a time when some in the region, including the tiny archipelago’s prime minister, complain that US and European aid have fallen short. The US$2 million repair project marks a “new model of assistance” from the Chinese government, said Ambassador Wang Xianmin. The challenge of rebuilding after Irma has been enormous: an estimated 60 per cent of Barbudans were left homeless; the island’s electrical system was devastated; potable water was scarce. While the Chinese contribution was a relative drop in the ocean compared to the estimated US$220 million needed, locals say they at least followed through, while other promises of aid have proved frustratingly elusive. Bit by bit, life has edged closer to normal.
As families start returning, the island’s children inject a buzz into the air. A primary school still awaits repairs, medical services have yet to be fully restored, and debris still lines the streets — a painful reminder of the low-lying island’s continued vulnerability as peak hurricane season approaches. For years, China has been expanding its presence in the Caribbean, providing loans, donations or investment to build roads, port facilities, government buildings and even stadiums. Last month, Antigua and Barbuda became the first country in the eastern Caribbean to sign a memorandum of agreement to work with China’s ambitious “Belt and Road Initiative,” establishing closer trade and diplomatic ties. Beijing is “filling the void” left by the US, Browne said. “They treat us with benign neglect,” the prime minister said of American officials. “I guarantee the US did not give us US$100,000 after Irma.” A fact sheet provided by USAID said the United States had provided US$800,000 for “interventions in Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica” as part of US$21.6 million spent on regional hurricane recovery. It did not provide a breakdown for Barbuda. Other pledges of help, said Browne, included five million euros (US$5.8 million) from Europe and three million pounds (US$4 million) from Britain. “We have not been able to avail ourselves of those funds, and it’s not for lack of trying,” he said. “Venezuela, despite its problems, gave us US$3 million, and Cuba, one of the poorest countries, gave us rice and sugar and sent a vessel here.”
“Prepare for more austerity” – IMF BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - CMC – Barbadians have been warned to brace for more austerity. This warning from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) follows a ten day visit to the island during which officials met with various stake holders. In a release last week, the Washington based financial institution said the next phase of adjustment would focus on reducing expenditures “by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of public services, reducing Government transfers to state-owned enterprises, by reviewing user fees, exploring options for mergers, and providing stronger oversight”. According to the IMF, the BD$1.2 billion (One Barbados dollar=US$0.50 cents) package of austere measures announced by Prime Minister Mia Mottley in her budget last month, were not enough. The IMF team, led by Bert van Selm, however, praised the adjustment programme, describing it as a good first step. The team also said progress was being made on Government’s debt restructuring efforts with domestic and external creditors.
In addition, the team also advised that “continuing open dialogue and sharing information will remain important in concluding an orderly debt restructuring process”. At the conclusion of the July 2- 12 visit, which came at the request of the Mottley administration, the IMF team reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Government on the road to economic recovery. “The Barbadian authorities, in close consultation with their social partners, are taking effective steps to address current economic vulnerabilities. The IMF stands ready to partner with Barbados to restore macroeconomic stability in order to secure strong, durable and inclusive growth in the years ahead. “Significant progress has been made during this IMF staff visit on the plan that could underpin financial support from the IMF. On its return to Washington the team will continue to analyze the Government’s comprehensive reform programme. We will remain closely engaged with the authorities in the coming weeks,” the release stated.
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MotoGP: Marc Marquez wins German Pacquiao, the Philippines hero Grand Prix to extend championship lead still king of the ring at 39
Marc Marquez won at German Grand Prix for the ninth consecutive occasion. (Getty images) BBC Sport - Honda’s Marc Marquez cruised to his ninth consecutive German Grand Prix victory to extend his MotoGP lead. The Spaniard has now won in the top category at Sachsenring for the past six years and three times in the smaller classes before that. Seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi finished second with his
Yamaha team-mate Maverick Vinales third. Marquez, 25, leads the championship by 46 points from Italian Rossi with nine of 19 races in 2018 completed. Result 1. Marc Marquez (Spa/ Honda) 41mins 5.019 secs 2. Valentino Rossi (Ita/ Yamaha) +2.196secs 3. Maverick Vinales (Spa/
Yamaha) +2.776secs 4. Danilo Petrucci (Ita/ Ducati) +3.376secs 5. Alvaro Bautista(Spa/ Ducati +5.183 secs 6. Jorge Lorenzo (Spa/ Ducati) +5.780secs 7. Andrea Dovizioso (Ita/ Ducati) +7.941secs 8. Dani Pedrosa (Spa/ Honda) +12.711secs 9. Johann Zarco (Fra/ Yamaha) +14.428secs 10. Bradley Smith (GB/Red Bull/KTM) +21.474secs Championship standings 1. Marc Marquez (Spa/ Honda) 165 points 2. Valentino Rossi (Ita/ Yamaha) 119 3. Maverick Vinales (Spa/ Yamaha) 109 4. Andrea Dovizioso (Ita/ Ducati) 88 5. Johann Zarco (Fra/ Yamaha Tech3) 88 6. Jorge Lorenzo (Spa/ Ducati) 85 7. Danilo Petrucci (Ita/ Ducati Pramac) 84 8. Cal Crutchlow (GB/LCR Honda) 79 9. Andrea Iannone (Ita/ Suzuki) 75 10. Jack Miller (Aus/ Ducati Pramac) 57
CWI B go down to Vancouver Knights in final
TORONTO, Canada, CMC – West Indies B faltered at the final hurdle, going down to the Vancouver Knights in the final of the Global T20 Canada yesterday. A top-order collapse orchestrated by Jamaican fast-bowler Sheldon Cottrell saw the Windies B being dismissed for 145 in 17.4 overs. Saad Bin Zafar and Rassie van der Dussen then combined for an unbeaten 126-run fourth wicket partnership as the Knights eased to 148-3 with 15 balls to spare. The West Indies batting never fired, with Cottrell accounting for the wickets of openers Shamar Springer (10) and Justin Greaves for 16, to leave them 30-2. The wickets of Brandon King (3), Sherfane Rutherford (14) and Nicholas Pooran (8), followed soon after as the Windies fell into further trouble at 53-5. A fighting 41 by Fabian Allen helped to add some respectability to the final total and give the Windies a fighting chance. His quickfire knock came off just 23 balls and contained three boundaries and three sixes. Cottrell ended with 429 from 3.4 overs, Fawad Ahmed copped 3-24 and Zafar
Sheldon Cottrell grabbed four wickets to help limit the West Indies B. chipped in with 2-26. West Indies B fared much better early on with the ball, with fast bowler Derval Green grabbing two quick wickets, including the key wicket of Chris Gayle for just two to leave the Knights stuttering on 21-3. However, from there it was one-way traffic as Zafar and Dussen completely seized the
initiative. Zafar finished unbeaten on 79 and Dussen ended on 44 not out, as the pair added 126 runs in 14 overs. Zafar was especially brutal, facing just 48 balls and striking eight boundaries and three sixes, while Dussen was more reserved in his 41-ball knock, inclusive of three boundaries.
Manny Pacquiao (left) has successfully parlayed his boxing fame into a political career. (AFP Photo/Mohd RASFAN) AFP Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao, who won back the welterweight world title in stunning fashion yesterday, is idolised by tens of millions in the povertyafflicted Philippines after rising from the streets to the pinnacle of boxing. Known to his countrymen in the Asian archipelago as “The National Fist”, Pacquiao knocked out Argentine Lucas Matthysse in Kuala Lumpur to be crowned World Boxing Association welterweight champion at the age of 39. To most of the 105 million Filipino population, the winner of an unparalleled eight world championships in different weight divisions is a beloved national symbol and living proof that success is possible with hard work even if you are dirt-poor. Pacquiao, 39, declared a net worth of 2.946 billion pesos ($56.2 million) in 2017 and placed 20th in Forbes’ list last year of the highest-paid athletes of all time with total earnings of $510 million. He has successfully parlayed his boxing fame into a political career, getting elected to the House of Representatives and then, in 2016, to the Senate, a highprofile, national position which is often used as a stepping-stone to the presidency. He admits to having considered running for president someday and many Filipinos are urging him on. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was ringside at the Axiata Arena yesterday to see his old friend triumph and has even mentioned “Pac-Man” as a possible successor.
Pacquiao has also served as a celebrity endorser for products ranging from appliances to pizza and cars, hosted TV shows, starred in movies and had an improbable stint as a professional basketball player and coach. He launched his own professional basketball league in 2017 and last month founded his own cryptocurrency, the “PAC Token”. Known for his generosity and common touch, he has given away huge amounts to friends, supporters and to the poor. He is known for accommodating his fans, letting them watch his training sessions. The 1.66-metre (5ft 5.5in) southpaw began his professional ring career as a teenager, and in 23 years has compiled a 60-7-2 win-lossdraw record with 39 knockouts. In the ring he is a volume power puncher who uses lightning footwork to create angles with which to deliver flurries, the likes of which have felled Oscar de la Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera. - Doughnuts to glory The son of a deadbeat father, Pacquiao dropped out of high school at 14, sold doughnuts on the roadside and became a grocery stacker to help his mother support two younger siblings. He became a pro boxer at 17. The sport brought him fame, power, influence and wealth, and with it the vices: booze, gambling, cockfighting and romantic links to beautiful film stars that at one point nearly
wrecked his marriage. But in 2012 he found religion and he sold his shares in a Manila casino, nightclub and bar, giving away the proceeds to employees. He also gave away his 1,000-plus fighting cocks to friends. He often cites God as the source of his success, peppering his speech with biblical references. But Pacquiao has also suffered some setbacks in and out of the ring, leading some supporters to suggest that he should hang up his gloves. He hadn’t knocked out an opponent since 2009 but silenced all his critics with a seven-round destruction of champion Matthysse yesterday. Before that his star had seemed to be fading: he lost on points in his muchanticipated 2015 superfight with American Floyd Mayweather as the two best “pound-for-pound” fighters of their generation squared off. Then a year ago, in a shocking upset, Pacquiao lost his World Boxing Organization welterweight belt to the lightly-regarded Australian Jeff Horn in Brisbane in 2017. Pacquiao also stirred international anger when he compared homosexuals to animals in an interview in 2016, later citing the Bible in his defence. Sportswear giant Nike cut its ties with Pacquiao as a result. He has also been an avid supporter of Duterte whose brutal anti-drug campaign has left thousands dead and which has been widely condemned by human rights groups.
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France lift second World Cup after classic final MOSCOW (Reuters) France won the World Cup for the second time in spectacular style yesterday as a 4-2 victory over Croatia in one of the most entertaining and action-packed finals for decades ended the battling outsiders’ dreams of a first title. After an early own goal by Mario Mandzukic France’s big guns delivered on the biggest stage of all as Antoine Griezmann - with a penalty awarded after a VAR review - Paul Pogba and teenage tyro Kylian Mbappe hit the target. Ivan Perisic and Mandzukic replied for Croatia, who ended beaten but unbowed after making much of the running in their first appearance in the final. It was the highest-scoring decider since England beat West Germany 4-2 after extratime in 1966 and the most goals in normal time since Brazil defeated Sweden 5-2 60 years ago. There were as many goals in 90 action-packed Moscow minutes as in the last four finals combined, and three of those went to extra time. The game featured the first final own goal and the first VAR-decided spot-kick — one Croatia were furious about and which was arguably the turning-point of the game. But the only statistic France really care about is that the result makes them world champions for the second time following their triumph on home soil in 1998. Having lost the 2006 final on penalties to Italy, it also meant there was no repeat of two years ago when they were beaten in the European
Pogba has been quietly effective for France at this World Cup and the Manchester United midfielder got in on the scoring act. (AP) Championship final by Portugal in Paris. Didier Deschamps, captain of the 1998 France side, became the third man to lift the World Cup as player and coach after Brazil’s Mario Zagallo and Germany’s Franz Beckenbauer. “This is not about me, it’s about everyone around me and the players,” Deschamps said having been carried shoulder-high by them during a post-match downpour. “It’s a young team who are on the top of the world. Some are champions at the age of 19, but my greatest source of pride is they had the right state of mind. “Today we did not do everything right but have those mental and
psychological qualities which were decisive - and we did score four goals. “It hurt so much to lose the Euro two years ago, but it made us learn too and we worked so hard for 55 days here. Maybe if we were Euro champions we would not have been world champions today.” OWN GOAL Croatia started full of energy but went behind in the 18th minute when a Griezmann free kick skidded in off the head of Mandzukic, who scored the extra-time winner against England in the semi-final. It was the fourth successive knockout game in which Croatia conceded first but again they found a way back as Perisic, who got the
Holder wants better pitches to suit Windies’ fast bowlers KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Despite trouncing Bangladesh 2-0 in their just completed Test series, West Indies captain Jason Holder is calling for better pitches to be prepared in the Caribbean. He raised the concern during a press conference following the regional side’s 166run victory over the visitors in the final Test at Sabina Park. Holder told reporters he’d like to see more consistent pitches which better suit fast bowlers. “It dried out. After the first day it was very, very moist, but it dried out and there was still variable bounce which for me I don’t really want to be seeing in Test cricket. I just feel as though we need to do a little bit more in terms of our pitches to have consistent carry throughout the entire game as opposed to balls keeping low and some balls popping. “I was a little disappointed in the way it turned out, but at the end of the day it was still good to see that the boys adjusted well
on the surface and we got ourselves out of a tough spot after losing the toss…,” Holder said. While he conceded that fast bowlers still managed to take wickets on the surface, Holder said the pitch was not as helpful as it could have been. He said the Sabina Park pitch was usually known for its pace and bounce. “…I just felt there should have been a little bit more in the surface here. We went in with four fast bowlers and up front we thought it would have been a bit more helpful for the faster bowlers. “Albeit the seamers still got the wickets, but in terms of the carry and the consistent pace and bounce we’ve come to expect here at Sabina Park, it probably wasn’t the way we expected,” Holder said. The West Indies captain’s call for better pitches comes on the heels of a similar request by former West Indies wicketkeeper Jeffrey Dujon, following the three-Test series against Sri Lanka which ended in a 1-1 tie.
equalizer against England, smashed in a low shot 10 minutes later. Then came the moment which will keep the VAR debate at the top of the sport’s
agenda. Perisic flapped an arm at a corner and after Argentine referee Nestor Pitana conducted a protracted VAR review he awarded the 28th penalty of the tournament, another record. Ignoring Croatian protests, Griezmann stroked the ball home in the 38th minute for his fourth goal of Russia 2018. That made it the highestscoring first half since 1974, when West Germany led the Netherlands 2-1 - also the final score - but this time there was much more to come. Croatia were on top again after the break but France went 3-1 up on the hour as Mbappe and Griezmann combined to set up Pogba on the edge of the box. The midfielder’s right-foot shot was blocked but he coolly curved the rebound in with his left. Six minutes later Lucas Hernandez tore down the left to set up Mbappe to drill home a low shot as the 19-year-old young player of the tournament claimed his fourth goal in Russia and
became the first teenager to score in a final since Pele in 1958. After three successive extra-time knockout games the chances of Croatia coming back again looked impossible but they were thrown a lifeline by Lloris, who tried to dribble round Mandzukic only for the striker to block the ball and send it into the unguarded net. Croatia, beaten by the French in the 1998 semifinals in their first World Cup appearance, continued to press but their energy was sapped and France held out. Croatia’s shirtless fans saluted their players as torrential rain lashed down on the presentation ceremony and coach Zlatko Dalic had few regrets. “We are sad but proud at the same time,” he said. “We played well but the penalty knocked the wind out of us and after that it was very difficult. We have been dignified in our victories and we must be in defeat as well.”
Letter to the Sports Editor
Tribute in memory of the late Oliver Hinckson DEAR SIR, “March or Die, Death before Dishonour”! The once famous battle cry, albeit that was inculcated as the “motto for the now defunct Thomas United, under the “astute” leadership of former President, Oliver Hinckson. “O.H” as he was fondly called within the football fraternity passed away on 20.06.18 peacefully. Editor, it would be remiss of me not to mention that: “Not at the time of his, untimely death was football in Georgetown, deprived of Oliver’s administrative capabilities and leadership. But rather since around the year 2000, when he along with former FIFA Referee, Gerald Laurie was suspended for: Resorting to the Courts of Law, locally in challenging a GFF ruling”. However, once again remonstratively and reiteratively with the annals of local football, still within the “stone age” it’s a great pity that the accolade “O.H” truly deserves for his previous contribution to the sport that is seemingly emerging, out of a “Jurassic style of administration”. A two times former 1st Vice President, Georgetown Football Association, followed the Presidency, thereafter. Within Hinckson’s tenure as a GFA administrator, he was adjudged: “best Administrator GFF/FIFA FUTURO Administrators’ Course”. In both instances the late O.H. was a Vice President, under the presidency of: Wi n s t o n C a l l e n d e r ( d e c e a s e d ) a n d Maurice John. I the undersigned was the Hon. Secretary, and also when O.H was the President. Additionally, winning the GFA Division 1 League, during Hinckson’s tenure as TU FC’s President was one of the most defining moments for the club, during his stewardship.
While it cannot be overlooked of his organizational qualities, whereby a visit by Suriname’s Robin Hood F.C, for a friendly three match series against local clubs, the PNDC inter-club, K.O. Competition, was also played over a two years period. However, despite the few shortcomings administratively, Oliver at the end of the day was still a “keen listener” to solutions for the sport’s betterment. O.H. saw football as a “vehicle for upliftment and betterment, of underprivileged youths”. Finally, with Thomas United, before it folded, at the time was the second oldest club in Georgetown. A club that produced numerous national players, along with captains in the past Ken Gibbs and Earl O’Neil readily come to mind. Dion Barnwell, another former TUFC player, at one time had the record of: “The youngest male national player at the senior Level, to score an international goal for Guyana. Keith Goppie (TUFC) along with Andre Trotz of Y.S. M. Beacon (then) were the first two Guyanese to play semiprofessionally in Trinidad. Dion Inniss, also from TUFC, represented the nation at the youth level, and is now a GFF Committee member, previously an accredited FIFA Assistant referee. To his sorrowing family members, relatives, ex-military colleagues, former members TUFC, GFA and friends my deepest sympathy, upon the passing of the late Oliver Hinckson , an Officer and a gentleman, a competent Administrator, whose love for football was compounded by dedication and bankrolling the underprivileged. May his Soul, Rest In Peace! Respectfully yours, Lester Sealey
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GFF Elite League Season III Ruthless Djokovic outplays Anderson to end title drought GDF and Fruta Conquerors LONDON (Reuters) Novak Djokovic proved conclusively he remains one of the biggest beasts in men’s tennis by outplaying South African giant Kevin Anderson to claim a fourth Wimbledon title yesterday. The 31-year-old put two years of turmoil behind him to beat a battle-weary Anderson 6-2 6-2 7-6(3) on a sweltering Center Court and add a 13th Grand Slam trophy to his bulging cabinet. It was clear what it meant to the Serb as he ended a twoyear Grand Slam title drought by getting his hands back on the trophy he also raised in 2011, 2014 and 2015. “I had any moments of doubt and didn’t know if I could compete,” Djokovic, who retired in the quarterfinal last year with an elbow injury that required surgery this year, said on court. “It’s my first Grand Slam final in a couple of years and this is the best place to come back. It’s very, very special.” Even more so because his young son Stefan watched as he was handed the trophy — although he was not old enough to be allowed to sit through the two hour 19 minute final. “I was visualizing, imagining this moment of him coming to the stands, cherishing this moment with my wife and me and everyone. It’s hard to describe,” Djokovic said. A first Wimbledon men’s final in the professional era featuring two players aged 30 or over was no classic. The last drops of drama had been used up in the two longest men’s semi-finals ever played at the All England Club. But Djokovic did not care about that. Having dropped to his lowest ranking since 2006 and without a title of any description this year — the world number 21 entered Wimbledon in the unusual position of being an outsider. CAUGHT FIRE But his game caught fire throughout a sun-drenched fortnight and against Rafael Nadal in an epic semi-final completed on Saturday he looked like the player who has spent 223 weeks of his brilliant career as world number one. In truth, he never had to scale those heights against the 32-year-old Anderson who for two sets looked to be suffering the effects of having spent 21 hours on court just to reach his first Wimbledon final. Anderson stunned Roger Federer in the quarter-finals,
win on Sunday night
Serbia’s Novak Djokovic reacts during the men’s singles final against South Africa’s Kevin Anderson. (Reuters Andrew Couldridge) saving a match point to win in five sets, then beat John Isner 26-24 in the fifth set in a semi-final serve-a-thon which, at six hours 36 minutes, was the second longest tennis match of all time. His elbow needed treatment, his legs, which he described as like jelly after the Isner epic, would not move properly and his thinking was fuzzy as errors flowed. Djokovic, who made only one unforced error in the first set, picked over the carcass with relish. The ruthless Serb broke in the first game and twice more in a 29-minute first set and although Anderson offered more resistance in the second set the outcome was the same as Djokovic pulled the 6ft 8ins eighth seed from corner to corner. The faint-hearted probably wanted Anderson to be put out of his misery. But he is made of sterner stuff as he showed by coming back from a similar deficit to stop Federer. Firing himself up after
virtually every point he threatened an unlikely comeback and had two set points when Djokovic served at 4-5 and three more at 5-6. “He was the better player in the third set, without a doubt,” Djokovic said. Suddenly Djokovic, who spent two hours and 21 minutes on Saturday playing the remaining two sets of a brutal, two-day, five-setter against Nadal, looked weary. His survival instincts got him out of trouble, though, and he pulled away in the tiebreak, clinching victory on his second match point when Anderson netted a return. Anderson’s dream of becoming the first South African to win Wimbledon may have turned to dust, but he will be rewarded with a career-high top-five ranking and the respect of everyone who witnessed his incredible feats of endurance. “I don’t feel as fresh as I did at the start of the week,” he said. “But I’d have given another 21 hours to get to play in the final here so it really meant a lot to me.”
Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates with the trophy after winning the men’s singles final against South Africa’s Kevin Anderson. (REUTERS/Andrew Couldridge)
Goalscorers Ryan Hackett and Eon Alleyne pose for a photo following Fruta Conquerors 3-0 victory over Ann’s Grove yesterday afternoon. Story and photos by Calvin Chapman For the second successive match, Milerock Football Club have surrendered a second half lead to eventually lose in the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Elite League season III at the National Track and Field Center (NTFC), Leonora. On Friday, after being 3-1 up to Victoria Kings in the second half, they somehow managed to lose 5-3. And, the script was similar last night during match two of the scheduled triple header at the NTFC where two late goals from Delroy Fraser in the 85th minute and Trevis Henry during stoppage time, cancelled out Milerock’s Keon Sears’ 51st minute goal to gift defending champions Guyana Defence Force Football Club (GDF FC) a remarkable come from behind triumph. Not long after going ahead, Milerock morphed into a defensive mode and simply began clearing every remotely dangerous loose ball in their half and if they had kept more possession, the Linden based outfit could’ve had a better result. After the match, Claude Williams, coach of Milerock, explained that, “Basically we are now jelling. We have some new players that came in during this transfer period and we are working to have everyone click together. It is disappointing to have lost twice in a row after being in such comfortable positions but we just have to keep working.”
Captain of GDF FC, Delwin Fraser, thanked God for the victory while pointing to his team’s ‘never give up’ mentality, “We know that a football game has 90 minutes so we kept fighting.” Earlier yesterday in the opening match, Fruta Conqueror’s skipper and star striker Eon Alleyne continued his good goal scoring form when he netted two goals to help his team to a 3-0 victory over Ann’s Grove FC in the opening match of the night. Alleyne’s goals came during both halves of the game, the first in the 22nd minute which was good enough to see Conquerors lead 1-0 up until the 77th minute when Ryan
Hackett doubled the Tucville based club’s tally with a 25yard screamer. Alleyne’s second goal came in stoppage time (90+3). Ann’s Grove’s Colin Europe caused some trouble for the Conqueror’s defence with his pace and power but the eventual winners that had ‘Golden Jag’ Jeremy Garrett in their back line, negotiated the treat well. With the win, Fruta Conquerors are now leading the points tally with 27, although playing one game more than second place Western Tigers who have 25 points. The result of final game between Buxton and Den Amstel will be featured in a subsequent article.
Milerock’s Colric Beckles challenges for an air ball with GDF’s Delroy Fraser (foreground).
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Kerber stuns Williams Pussy Riot claims responsibility after fans invade pitch during World Cup final to win Wimbledon title
Angelique Kerber claimed her first Wimbledon title after getting past Serena Williams. LONDON (Reuters) - Angelique Kerber ripped up the script when she stunned Serena Williams 6-3 6-3 to win her first Wimbledon title Saturday. The 11th seed took advantage of an error-strewn performance by the seven-times champion to become the first German woman to win the title since Steffi Graf in 1996. American great Williams, playing in only her fourth tournament since becoming a mother last September, had been looking to match Margaret Court’s record 24 Grand Slam titles. She was also seeking to become the first mother to win Wimbledon since Australian Evonne Goolagong in 1980. The 36-year-old, unbeaten at the All England Club since 2014, had begun to look unstoppable during the fortnight and had dropped only one set in reaching her 10th Wimbledon final. She had not faced anyone with the pedigree of the German though and was outmaneuvered in the first set as Kerber’s dogged defense forced too many errors. Williams dropped serve three times in the opening set and although she tried to fire herself up in the second she played a loose game at 2-3 and Kerber broke with a running pass. Serving for the match, Kerber looked nervous as Williams got it back to 30-30 but she claimed victory when Williams netted, tumbling to the dusty baseline in relief before being warmly embraced by her opponent. Her win, revenge for a 2016 defeat in the final by Williams, snapped the American’s 20-match winning run at Wimbledon.
Stewards apprehend a pitch invader. (Reuters Maxim Shemetov) Yahoo Sport - The World Cup final between France and Croatia was briefly halted in the second half after four fans ran onto the pitch during play. According to a report from Associated Press, the Russian feminist protest punk group Pussy Riot claimed responsibility for the pitch
invasion. The outspoken anti-Putin group, which was formed in 2011, previously gained notoriety for staging a performance inside Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Savior in 2012. In a statement on its Twitter feed, the group tied
the action to the anniversary of the death of Russian poet Dmitriy Prigov and made a list of demands that included the release of political prisoners, stopping illegal arrests at rallies, and to “allow political competition in the country.” The pitch invaders were dressed as policemen, which
Guyana and Jamaica clash in crucial fourth...
Kcaysha Medas-King is NY... From page 33 championship concluded yesterday at the Ichan Stadium, Kcaysha Medas-King placed 2nd in the 100m in a personal best (pb) 13.12 , first in the 200m in a pb of 26.73 and again winning the 400m in a time of 1:01 sec. The young and talented Kcaysha after achieving the feat said that hard work really pays off. Kcaysha said, “Last year when my dad/coach said to me I am going to take you out for the rest of the season I felt like the whole world was crushing down on me.” She further said, “I could have never understand why he would do such a thing but he told me be humble trust his judgment and heal properly then come back next year.” The young Medas-King went onto say, “That one year flew by so fast, is like I missed nothing.” The next meet for Kcaysha is the Hershey’s National Junior Olympic Championship in North Carolina Greensboro where she will come up against the best in the country (USA) for the bragging rights to see who the best in the country is. Andy Medas-King her coach and father said, “With 10 days away from the biggest and largest track meet in the USA, all we are catering for is to make it to the finals I will have to talk to her and hear what it is she would like to achieve then adjust the training accordingly. From the tender age of six Kcaysha have shown the ability to be consistent and have won many awards and championship making her one of New York City’s top athletes.”
the band’s statement also makes reference to. The pitch invaders were quickly tackled and hauled off by stewards. But not before one of them had this “highfive” moment with French star Kylian Mbappe. France went on to win the match 4-2 to secure its second World Cup title.
Guyana Skipper Sachin Singh makes a point to Coach Orin Bailey.
From page 32 fast bowlers a bit more especially Swami since teams are being given bonus points. Jamaica made over 200 in their loss to Barbados, however it may very well be a battle between their batsmen and the Guyanese bowlers. Teams - Guyana; Sachin Singh (Capt.), Andre Seepersaud, Nigel Deodat, Dwain Dick, Sheldon Charles, Silvan Williams, Leon Swamy, Navindra Persaud, Yeudistir Persaud, Badesh Parsotam, Hrithik Singh, Gevon Shultz, Seon Glasgow and Niran Bissu. Orin Bailey is coach and Nazeer Mohamed manager. Jamaica;Daniel Beckford, Brandon English, Oneil Roberts, Nicholas Lewin, Lenox Simpson, Razaq Williams, Romaine Bennett, Joseph Simpson, Chevonnie Grant, Andel Gordon, Jemario Wint, Akeel Hanchard, Romaine Jacob and Rajiv Redhi. Dave Bernard Jr is Coach.