Kaieteur News

Monday June 03, 2013

Kaieteur News

Triumph blaze leaves seven homeless The remains of the house after the fire on Saturday night.

Fire struck with devastating consequences on Saturday night, leaving seven members of a Triumph, East Coast Demerara family homeless. The blaze, which started around 19:15 hours completely destroyed the two flat building located at 30 Surat Drive, Triumph. Kaieteur News understands that a male occupant of the house suffered burns about his body when he tried to salvage some items from the burning building. Fortunately the three children who were in the house with him at the time of the fire made it to safety before the house was quickly engulfed in flames. The occupants are convinced that the fire was electrical in origin because it occurred seconds after power was restored to the community. Neighbours, including worshippers at the next door Triumph Assembly of God church, heard a loud sound

just after the electricity returned before seeing fire coming from inside the property. “There were two blackouts, and when the lights came on the second time, the church people hear the big ‘boom!’ by the time they came outside, the top flat was

already on fire,” a neigbour told this newspaper. When Kaieteur News arrived on the scene, a female occupant of the house was being consoled by relatives and was too distraught to speak. Onel Profitt, who resides elsewhere, told this

LBI labourer killed in mysterious road accident Traffic police are trying to determine the real circumstances that led to the death of 56 year old Teril Changa, called 'Mack', following another road accident on the East Coast of Demerara on Saturday night. Changa, of Kersaint Park (LBI ), who was employed as a labourer by a manufacturing company, was killed on the spot while crossing La Bonne Intention (LBI) Public Road around 22:00 hours. Police detained the driver of a car, after the man admitted running over the lifeless body of the elderly labourer, which was lying in the middle of the roadway. But there are suggestions that Changa was struck down by another driver who sped away, leaving him lying on the road. His elder brother, Errol Changa, told this newspaper that he had seen Changa a few hours before he got the tragic news of the death.

Teril Changa called 'Mack' He explained that while he does not know the real circumstances that led to his brother's demise, he was told that Changa was the victim of a hit and run accident. According to Errol Changa, his sibling, who was an alcoholic with no children, had left his aunt's home around 19:00 hours.

“Apparently he was not drunk when he left his aunt's home but I don't know what transpired on the road. It was a cousin of mine who lives at the front that call me and said that Mack get knock down,” Errol Changa said. He stated that when he went to the public road Changa was “lying there, already dead.” He questioned the report given to the police by another motorist who claimed that he had witnessed the accident. “A guy claimed that it was a Raum (that struck down Changa) and he say he drive off behind the car but he did not pick up the number plate. But somebody say that it showing like it was a woman driver,” Errol Changa told this newspaper. Kaieteur News understands that except for a damaged licence plate, the car in custody shows little sign that is was involved in an accident. Investigations are continuing.

newspaper that her sister, who lived in the house, left to go and plait her hair, leaving the three children and their uncle at home. She said that she received a call from another relative who informed her that the house was on fire. But when they arrived at the house it was almost destroyed. She explained that the fire started in the upper flat of the house although she could not say exactly where. “When they (relatives) came they saw the wire sparking,” she added. According to Profitt, her brother was lucky not to have suffered a worse fate than minor burns to his back. “After he brought the kids out, he went back in and then like something fell on him,” she said. Kaieteur News understands that the owner of the house who resides overseas only purchased it three years ago. “We only collected the transport for the house the other day,” Onel Profitt explained. Residents were critical of the Guyana Fire Service, who they said arrived at the scene without adequate water. The firefighters were forced to seek an alternative source of water which presented some challenge, since the nearby trench is weed infested. Meanwhile, although the nearby church suffered some amount of damage as a result of the fire it did not prevent worshippers from partaking in their Sunday service.

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Did police blunder investigation into colleague’s alleged suicide? Relatives of Police Corporal Clarence Giles are contending that an investigation into his alleged suicide last February was sloppily conducted. Giles, 57, is said to have been found hanging on February 23 in the bedroom of his Lot 72 South Haslington, East Coast Demerara home. The corpse was reportedly found by one of Giles’ sons, who had slept with him in the house after his wife allegedly left the previous night in the midst of a heated domestic argument. His wife, Shondell Giles, a police sergeant attached to the Cove and John Police Station, had said that she and her husband were having domestic problems stemming from him constantly accusing her of having extra marital affairs. A post mortem and police had ruled that their colleague had committed suicide. However, Giles’ close relatives have repeatedly expressed the view that he was the victim of foul play. So convinced were the relatives, and dissatisfied with the police investigation, that they contacted an attorney to press for further investigations. The dead policeman’s wife had told Kaieteur News that on the night of Friday, February 22, she arrived home from work and her husband was not at home. She contacted him on his cellular phone and he told her that he was drinking with some friends. Mrs. Giles said when he eventually arrived she gave him his dinner but he refused to eat right away. “He sit down and say, man, he de drinking with some friends and somebody tell he dat I deh with some bus man from Ann’s Grove and he gon call de man,” Giles said that when her husband continued to argue with her she left the house and went across to her mother’s a few steps away in the same yard. She claimed that the couple’s two children also became afraid and followed her. Later Friday night

Corporal Giles allegedly called his children back over to sleep with him at home and they obeyed. It was claimed that he also begged his wife to return to the house but she refused, since her husband had threatened her life. The wife alleged that the following day, their elder son came over to her and told her, “I raising up dad hand and like he lie down in deh dead.” She said that she did not go over to her house but instead went to the Cove and John Police Station where she reported what she had heard. The couple’s nine year old son had told members of the media that when he awoke yesterday morning he saw his father hanging and he was “stiff”. But relatives remained convinced that Giles was killed and the suicide scene was staged. Relatives yesterday outlined their suspicions to this newspaper. One relative who spoke to Kaieteur News explained that Giles had called his mother on February 22 sometime around 21:00hrs. During the time the call was made, Giles was heard arguing with a male whom he identified. Corporal Giles reportedly told his mother that the man was threatening to kill him. According to relatives, Corporal Giles was advised to leave the home and come to Georgetown. Later in the evening another relative allegedly received a call from Giles. Kaieteur News was told that the relative spoke to Giles up until midnight and that was the last time anyone heard from him. Relatives suggest that these series of calls leave questions about the actual time of death. Relative s alleged that on February 23, sometime around 07:30 hrs, Giles’ wife called one of his sisters. The sister was allegedly told that she should catch a taxi and come to the Cove and John Police Station. The woman was questioned by the relative as to why she should travel to the station. The wife allegedly told (continued on page 19)

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Kaieteur News

KAIETEUR NEWS Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: ADAM HARRIS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

Editorial

China’s Challenge Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to the Caribbean might be the first as President but he has been here before as a Vice-President in 2009 and 2011 and knows the region fairly well. While most commentators have focused on the economic and commercial aspects of his visit, there are the larger, geopolitical issues, especially China’s relationship with the US that must also be factored in. On his way to the US during one of his trips, he passed through Mexico as he will again do this time. Addressing overseas Chinese there, he let his hair down and was uncharacteristically blunt in alluding to the US interventionist proclivities that have long troubled the region: “”There are some foreigners who had eaten their fill and had nothing better to do, pointing their fingers at our affairs. China does not, first, export revolution; second, export poverty and hunger; or third, cause unnecessary trouble for you. What else is there to say?” At that time he had already been identified as the preferred candidate for the Presidency. It is noteworthy that the man who is now President of China was speaking in the country most literally in the US “backyard” and it appears that China is making a conscious effort to develop linkages across the world that are based on more positive variables than the ones he criticized. After taking office in March, President Xi made his first visit to Russia and three to resource rich African countries - Tanzania, South Africa and Congo-Brazzaville. It is a sign of the times that China, the home of Mao and his “little red book”, once the bible of third world revolutionaries, should boast that it does not export “revolution”. The Chinese President’s scheduling of his second official tour directly into the US backyard cannot be coincidental. While Mexico is very important economically to China - it is their second largest trading partner in Latin America and two way trade has risen10% to US$36.7 billion - the Asian behemoth is very conscious of the troubled relations between the two countries based on the refusal of the US to change its strategy on its “war on drugs”. The visit to Costa Rica is also very pertinent in this regard. It is the first, and so far only, country in Central America to switch (in 2007) diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. The two countries concluded a free trade agreement in 2010 and business has since boomed, with two-way trade up 30.5% in 2012 to $6.2 billion. The Chinese might be hoping Costa Rica will have a demonstrator effect on the rest of the region. When Xi Jinping was VP he made this point explicitly to ECLAC in 2008. China exports to Latin America reached $121.7 billion last year, while its imports bounded to $119.8 billion. The country Xi Jinping heads is poised to replace the US as the largest economy in the world based on purchasing power parity, by 2016. The tools of modern Chinese diplomacy are simple: massive grants and loans for development projects and strict observance of the UN rule on “non-interference” in the affairs of other states. These positions, in stark contradistinction to the “conditionalities” of the westerncontrolled IMF/World Bank, has earned China much credit in those countries that believe they should be allowed to evolve their own path to prosperity. In 2011 when another Chinese VP Hui visited Trinidad for a China-Caribbean economic and trade forum, he announced his country would provide up to $1 billion in soft loans to Caribbean countries to help bolster its economic relationship with the region. It was to take advantage of that offer that the CJIA expansion plan was evidently proffered the Guyanese government. This visit by President Xi Jinping, might have been prompted by the US waning interest in T&T’s natural gas because of its own shale exploitation, but it is quite likely that he will offer other concrete development initiatives to those countries that only received “moral” support during US VP Joe Biden’s recent visit.

Monday June 03, 2013

Letters... Where your views make the news

PURE ETHNIC PARTIES MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO EXIST DEAR EDITOR, A news item in your newspaper reported a big meeting between PNC’s leaders and U.S. Ambassador Brent Hardt and his team of US Govt.’s Agency heads. A press release stated the US government will spend $G300 million on various so-called democracy projects. The release ended with this statement: “… the new project could make a valuable contribution for advancing the evolution of a truly democratic culture in Guyana”. Really? What is the problem with our democratic culture? Is it not excessively high levels of ethnic voting for ethnic parties? And, if there is a majority ethnic group, wouldn’t that group’s ethnic party always win? And, the out-of-power group will always remain seething and unsatisfied? This has been our political culture over the last 60 years. So how does Ambassador Hardt’s so-called democracy project hope to supplant this entrenched culture of ethnic voting and help it evolve into a truly democratic culture?

The release stated the funds will be spent on “strengthening the National Assembly; provide legislative drafting assistance for the Opposition; ensure the effective functioning of the Opposition Leader ’s office”, etc. The average Guyanese citizens will ask: How do these things help to bring an end to excessively high levels of ethnic voting and an end to the existence of ethnic parties? The Ambassador ’s central idea and program, as outlined in the press release, will do absolutely nothing about changing the political culture of ethnic voting for ethnic parties, but will certainly do one thing (at least hope to) – replace the Indian government by an Afro-ethnic one. As it turned out, the change in 1992 replaced the African-party with an Indian-party govt.; and now the Ambassador hopes to reverse the order. This means no substantive changes to the backward ethnic politics we practice there and no evolution to a genuine multiracial democracy.

The Ambassador must be cognizant of the essential elements of Guyana’s politics over the last 60 years. First, we had two ethnic parties led by Founder-leaders-for-life, who always would appoint a deputy from the alternative ethnic group; second, after they both died, the central committees of both parties made sure their dead leaders were succeeded by another of the same ethnicity so as to preserve the pure ethnic image of the party. This effectively thwarts cross-racial voting, and as it turns out it is the death knell of genuine democracy. Guyana could not possibly evolve into a genuine multiracial democracy if ethnic parties continue to exist. PNC has continued to be an African party. There has been absolutely no change in the way the party is perceived since the death of its ethnic leader 25 years ago. What should Ambassador Hardt’s priority be if the U.S. government wants to change the ethnic politics of Guyana, and help it evolve into a genuine democracy, a

democracy where the baton of power changes every two or three election cycles, as is the standard in all true functioning democracies? Develop a stick and carrot approach or program to force both ethnic parties to transform themselves into genuine multiracial parties. Pure ethnic parties must not be allowed to exist. End their window-dressing policies. Placing an Indian guy, Rupert Roopnarine as deputy of PNC or an African guy, Sam Hinds as deputy of the Indian-party government fools no one in Guyana. Progressive Guyanese citizens have long caught on to this sinister and backward practice – are ready to move forward and rise above ethnic politics, save and except for the ethnic parties which continue to frighten them into voting racially/ethnically. Ambassador Hardt’s proposed expenditure of $G300 million is a whole lot of money thrown on duck’s back, and would achieve nothing in terms of helping Guyana evolve into a genuine multiracial democracy. Mike Persaud

Magistrates should not be burdened with the task of having to manually record testimony DEAR EDITOR, After spending the entire morning of Friday, May 31, 2013 in the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court to offer some testimony in a personal matter before the Court, I observed a particularly troubling practice related solely to the procedural management of evidentiary recordation that I wish to briefly highlight and expound upon. Before so doing, I wish to make clear that this criticism is not directed toward any particular individual or group thereof connected to that Court, but rather, is specially intended to militate in furtherance of improving the administration and hence, the quality of justice for all of our Guyanese brothers and sisters. Courts and the Magistrates who regulate and administer such should at all times seek to judiciously resolve legal disputes in a timely and prompt manner, keenly emphasizing the promotion of efficiency and expediency to all subordinate court officials, thereby allowing for a more rapid and smooth flow of a Court’s caseload. I have not brilliantly invented this concept; this is a straightforward,

commonsensical public policy that anyone casually familiar with the legal process ought to know. Magistrates should not, contrary to what I observed, be burdened with the task of having to manually record testimony and other evidentiary offerings by handwriting such, as it undoubtedly interrupts, impedes and may even dispel with the free-flowing nature that is inherently associated with the ability to convey ideas, perceptions and sensations by a testifying witness or an attorney presenting his/her case. How can a witness effectively recount and express the facts to which their testimony relates if the Magistrate needs 25 seconds to record each 15 words spoken? How can an attorney zealously represent her client, including the invoking of emotion often required to do so within the parameters of the law, if she is forced to pause and/or repeat herself constantly to the Magistrate? While a single or even a few instances of this practice may not be a cause for concern, the most troubling aspect here is felt on an aggregate basis—imagine how many more cases could have been heard and resolved

if a Magistrate did not have to handwrite the testimony of 100 witnesses. What about 1000 witnesses? It is no wonder why our Courts’ dockets are overflowing with matters that have gone unresolved for several years. Aside from this, there are also justifiable concerns regarding the accuracy, “ p r e s e r v a b i l i t y, ” “interpretability” and reproducibility of a Magistrate’s handwritten record of testimony and other evidentiary offerings. Did the Magistrate mishear or otherwise err? Have the contents of the record been confirmed by an independent court official? What happens to lost or damaged records? Is the Magistrate’s handwriting legible enough to be read by most? How effective will the review of cases be in the event of an appeal? The point is that there are a multitude of legitimate questions that can be raised with regards to handwritten records. Magistrates already have enough on their proverbial plates in having to play the gatekeeping role of preserving and maintaining order, civility, and peace as well as having to remain impartial and unbiased in

rendering their judgments and findings of fact and law. To be fair, it must be noted that our honourable Magistrates are making sincere, good-faith efforts to effectively fulfill their judicial functions and obligations. However, there are some wrinkles in the procedural management process which must be neatly ironed out so as to improve the overall efficiency and expediency in the administration of justice. With all that is already expected of Magistrates to dispense justice, it is unfair, even illogical, to have them assume the tedious, painstaking task of evidentiary recordation— this is a function better suited for court reporters, transcriptionists, and stenographers, who traditionally serve the role of recording and memorializing testimony, arguments offered and words uttered by the Magistrate. As such, we must begin to carefully carve a new role in our judiciary in the area of court reporting so as to alleviate the many responsibilities of our Magistrates, which will ultimately serve the best interests of our nation’s administration of justice, Continued on page 6

Monday June 03, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Letters... Where your views make the news... Letters... Where your views make the news

The Caribbean Press appears to have a dilemma when addressing contemporary writing D EAR EDITOR, I wish to add my two cents to the Caribbean Press discussion. What qualifies me to comment on this matter? Writing and publishing are forever present in my thoughts, however hard I try to rid the urges. For the past 30 years I made a living primarily as a Technical Writer/Systems Analyst in corporate America, holding positions of head of internal publications at times. Creative writing was what interested me but switched to technical writing to avoid starvation. In 1980 I set up Carib House as a publishing outlet for Caribbean writers, and I successfully self-published my own book of poems, “The New Caribbean Man.” End of introduction. $100,000 U.S. a year is a nice round figure: easy to remember, easy to repeat, sweet sounding, and it rolls off the tongue with a smooth finesse. $104, 524.89 would have had more credibility with me. Maybe it is because I

have written fraud manuals for credit card companies, and a $100,000 charge would trigger an immediate stop. Whereas, the latter figure, though randomly and facetiously quoted, would have indicated to me that someone sat and gave the matter long and hard thought, speculated on what will be produced and i n w h a t q u a n t i t y, a n d estimated the cost involved. Evidently, no such preplanning was done for the Caribbean Press. As someone who served as project manager and saw products and services originated from wishful thinking through fruition, I find this hard to believe. Is it that there is money to burn in Guyana? After taking care of the safe products – publishing the non-controversial classics — the Caribbean Press appears to have a dilemma when addressing contemporary writing. It seems that all the contemporary writing in Guyana does not add up to

$100,000. What is worse, this kind of disequilibrium can only increase with each passing year. The worse thing the Caribbean Press could do is publish junk just to use up the money. And since the paper, colour, printing, binding, and layout is of such a high standard – so high that it has to be done not only outside of Guyana but outside of the Caribbean – then the substance has to match this form. The Press is doing the right thing by moving cautiously on selecting contemporary matter, as finally its worth and how it is perceived will rest on what it puts into print. The evident helmsman for the Caribbean Press is an accomplished academic and a celebrated artist in his own right. The qualities associated

with those accomplishments run counter to those that are required to run the Caribbean Press. What we need is someone with business acumen and entrepreneurial savvy. I refer to people like the late Peter D’aguiar, Chris Ram, Yesu Persaud. They do not have to know anything about publishing. Were people of that ilk at the helm, we would have had a Business Plan, Policy Statement, Feasibility Study, Projected Expenses and Income, Goals and Objectives, Marketing Strategy, etc., to say nothing of such mundane taken-forgranted stuff like a phone number, address, and contact

information. There would still be an editorial board for expertise in who and what to publish. The business head would take care of the day-to-day management and operations. And mind you, the helmsman would still have an indispensable role in the nature of a Te c h n i c a l A d v i s o r, Aesthetic Consultant, O v e r a l l Vi s i o n a r y, a n d Board Chairman. The final thing I want to say is not to solicit and rely on voluntary service. This is yet another way to make beggars out of artists who are already starving. If the printers can be paid

handsomely, why not the other artisans, who help move the product along to that final round? For professionalism, you have to pay. It is the only way to get things done correctly and properly. Come to think of it, a $100,000 is not a bad number. B y t h e w a y, i n t h e discussion on this matter, I believe needless aspersions have been cast on the writings of Ruel Johnson. I do not know and have never met the guy, but the letters he has written are, in my opinion, gems of erudition at its finest. P. D. Sharma Los Angeles, CA

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Kaieteur News

Monday June 03, 2013

Letters... Where your views make the news

No positive step has been taken to eradicate this cancer in our society DEAR EDITOR, I read with great interest the article that appeared in your newspaper on June 2, 2013 and I totally agree with the comments made by the author Gabriel Lall, and he should be commended for his excellent work. I have been making the same observation time and time again, but nothing significantly is being done by the government and to a lesser extent by the opposition forces to deal with the racial issue which is the root of most of the problems in the country. Instead of the government putting machinery in place with competent and unbias personnel to tackle the problem in race relation, they seem to focus on placing incompetent party supporters in their positions. I agree with the

comments made by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphal Trotman that “our colonial predecessors effectively manipulated and used the issue of race and competition and rivalry to divide the Government. However, while we are not guilty of starting this rivalry, we are certainly to be condemned for continuing it” So true, the PNC during its 28 years in administration has failed to address the burning problem and the PPPC in its 22 years is not doing better - maybe totally ignoring the issue. Perhaps from time to time comments have been made by leaders on both sides of the political divide about the conflict, but no positive step has been taken to eradicate this cancer in our society.

The country has recently celebrated its 47th anniversary of independence from colonial rule, but it seems as if we are still unable to solve our problems. What a shame. The government should take the lead in this regard; inviting t h e opposition, the Council of Churches, all other religious organizations, the Chamber of Commerce, the trade unions, and other organizations to address the burning issue. It might surprise some readers, the problem has spilled over in other Caribbean countries where a large number of Guyanese live. I was asked a few years ago in one of the islands to intervene in a racial rivalry. It was very embarrassing, but it was solved to a certain extent. Oscar Ramjeet

Chinese Companies corrupting Guyana’s Forestry Sector DEAR EDITOR, As a former staff of the Guyana Forestry Commission I believe an investigation should be done to look at the preferential treatment being given to Chinese companies in Guyana, but in particular to those operating in the forestry sector. The reason I say this is because of the following: - This Government has started to revoke concessions from companies who have not commenced operations. They have done this for a company called Garner Forest

Industries among others. But yet, they have not done so for a Chinese owned company that has received a concession over five years now but done nothing with it. - Currently another Chinese company is buying up forest concessions through Joint Ventures. This is clearly illegal but the fact that the company can present this in public as reported in several newspaper means there is some official sanction. This particular company has no respect for Guyana’s laws; they

Magistrates should.... From page 4 through expediency and efficiency. I understand that Guyana is a developing nation with limited monetary and human resources, however to fully and truly modernize Guyana’s administration of justice; substantial efforts must be undertaken to catch-up to the modern world, whose continual advances in technology have set the standard for the expedient and efficient resolution of judicial proceedings. Cheddi B. Jagan II, Esq.

have started building roads, clearing forests, mining materials etc. without the permission of key agencies who are supposed to regulate these operations. The only agency who has stood up to them has been the GGMC who issued several cease orders. Not a word has been forthcoming from the EPA, and the GFC, instead of playing its regulatory role, issues a statement in support of the company’s investment. Something is clearly wrong here. - There is yet another Chinese company that has started operations without the necessary approvals from GFC, EPA or other Agencies. Mr. Editor, I bring this to your attention because it seems like there are separate rules for Chinese companies operating in Guyana. We saw the situation with Marriott where Guyanese taxpayers are funding this building but Guyanese are not allowed to work on the project. Mr. Editor, it is being reported that these Chinese companies have paid off high officials of Government and they are saying they can’t be touched. Maybe this is the reason why none of the agencies, apart from GGMC is taking a stand against these companies. I am pleading with your newspaper to highlight this letter and for there to be an urgent investigation into what is happening in the forest sector with these Chinese companies. Former Staff of GFC

Monday June 03, 2013

Kaieteur News

Egypt parliament ruled illegal, but to stay on CAIRO (Reuters) - Egypt’s top court ruled yesterday that parliament’s Muslim Brotherhood-led upper house was illegal but could stay on until elections, dealing the Islamists a moral blow but letting them keep their grip on lawmaking for now. The decision resolves an area of legal uncertainty hanging over a political transition repeatedly upset by the courts. The ruling by the Supreme Constitutional Court upheld the upper house’s right, as set out in a new constitution, to legislate in the absence of a lower house. That chamber was dissolved last June following a similar legal challenge. Dates for new elections have yet to be set. The upper house, elected as a consultative assembly on a 7 percent turnout, has angered the opposition by broaching areas of controversy since it assumed legislative powers in December. These include a new civil society law criticized by human rights groups and the West as a threat to democratic freedoms, and proposals for judicial reform that are fuelling tensions between judges and Islamists who see the judiciary as hostile. Analysts said yesterday’s ruling seemed likely to irritate both sides in Egypt’s political conflict: the Islamists would be angry that the chamber’s

Mohammed Mursi legitimacy had been rejected, and the opposition would be annoyed that the house wasn’t not dissolved. “If the Shura Council still has legislative authority, then this is a moral blow but not a legal one,” said Nathan Brown, a George Washington University professor and expert on Egypt. The case against the upper house of parliament, brought by an independent member of parliament, follows a similar challenge that led to the dissolution of the Brotherhood-led lower house last year on the grounds of defects in the election law. The Supreme Constitutional Court cited election law flaws as the reason for finding the upper house to be illegal. But it said

implementation of the ruling should wait given the legislative role given to the chamber by the new constitution. “The Shura Council is continuing to play its complete legislative role until the institutions of the state are completed and legislative power passes to the new parliament,” the presidency said in a statement. Mohamed ElBaradei, a leading opponent of the Brotherhood, assailed the court ruling as “an expected result of a low-level understanding and political thuggery that has toppled the concept of legitimacy and the rule of law”. Court rulings, many of them against the Brotherhood’s interests, have repeatedly turned the transition on its head. The court also ruled as unconstitutional a provision used by President Mohamed Mursi to declare a state of emergency in three Suez Canal cities during violent protests earlier this year. Last week, the Supreme Constitutional Court struck down parts of a revised parliamentary election law, casting doubt over the date of polls originally called by Mursi for February. The Islamists believe the judiciary is stacked with Mubarak-era appointees dedicated to undoing its gains at the ballot box.

‘Cash for access’ scandal hits Britain’s parliament LONDON (Reuters) Three members of Britain’s upper house of parliament were suspended from their parties yesterday after media sting operations caught them apparently offering to use their influence for personal gain. The undercover investigations have thrust the issue of lobbying into the limelight and had already forced a member of the lower house of parliament, Patrick Mercer, to resign from the ruling Conservative Party and seek legal advice. The three House of Lords peers caught out by a Sunday Times sting operation are John Cunningham and Brian Mackenzie of the main opposition Labour Party and John Laird of the Ulster Unionist Party. All three denied breaking the chamber’s rules but their parties took swift action

against them. “Lord Cunningham and Lord Mackenzie of Framwellgate have been suspended from the Labour Party pending further investigation,” the party said in a statement. Mike Nesbitt, leader of the Ulster Unionists, said in a statement he had called Laird after reviewing the media coverage and as a result of that call Laird had resigned from the party pending an investigation. The trio were covertly filmed offering to ask parliamentary questions, lobby ministers and host events in prestigious House of Lords premises in exchange for payment by what they were told were lobbyists acting for companies. The scandal will renew pressure on Prime Minister David Cameron to introduce a statutory register of

lobbyists, as promised in 2010 in the coalition agreement between his Conservatives and their junior partners, the Liberal Democrats. Cameron warned more than three years ago that lobbying was “the next big scandal waiting to happen” but critics, including some Liberal Democrats, accuse him of dragging his feet. Sunday Times reporters approached Cunningham, a former minister under then Prime Minister Tony Blair in the 1990s, pretending to represent a South Korean solar energy company. “Are you suggesting 10,000 pounds a month? Make that ... 12,000 pounds a month. I think we could do a deal on that,” he was quoted as saying by the newspaper during a discussion about his fees for what was described as consultancy work.

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Kaieteur News

Monday June 03, 2013

Monday June 03, 2013

The I Paid A Bribe website is going to become more popular than the Voice of the People Show when it was chaired by C. N. Sharma. While the majority of the population still does not have access to the Internet, there have been a surprisingly fair number of persons who have shared their experiences about having to pay a bribe. The problems with Internet access is going to change within a year when the rates for Internet falls dramatically with the introduction of the government’s fiber optic cable. When this happens, the I Paid a Bribe website is going to have far more hits than it can handle. And with this will come even more reports of the extortion of bribes. There are many who were skeptical about the purpose of a website which allows you to share your experience of either having to pay a bribe, being approached for a bribe or not paying a bribe. Some people asked what good will such sharing of information be if the guilty could not be identified. Many also questioned the usefulness of this service and what benefit it would bring if all that is allowed was for people to share their experience.

Kaieteur News

As it turns out the website is providing a more than useful function . F o r o n e , i t empowers citizens to come forward and admit that they paid a bribe. There is no shame involved. Nor is there any penalty to be paid. The person who has had to grease public authorities and officials does not have to fear identification. His or her identity remains secretive and therefore there is no fear of being victimized. This empowerment will in the long term allow for more persons to resist having to pay bribes and to have greater confidence to come forward and expose those who demand bribes. The authorities now have a great deal of information about what citizens have to endure at the hands of public officials. Some of the stories related so far are chilling. Based on the reports made so far, most of the bribes were allegedly paid to the police. In fact in excess of eight million dollars has allegedly exchanged hands in the just over sixty cases reported so far. If you extrapolate this number over a larger set of reports, it gives you an idea of the volume of bribes that are paid each year in Guyana

and which are agencies in which the parties who receive these bribes work. What this extrapolation will demonstrate is that bribes paid by ordinary citizens are a multi- billion dollar industry each year. Thus, while a great deal of hype is made- and justifiably so- about the big bribes believed to be paid by contractors to public officials, collectively those big bribes are surpassed by the aggregate of bribes paid by ordinary citizens to those who are supposed to be providing routine public services. As expected, so far leading the race by a wide margin is the Guyana Police Force. In fact the I Paid a Bribe website is dominated by allegations of bribes paid to the police. Many months ago when this column noted that the Guyana Police Force was perceived as the most corrupt institution in the country, there was a strong reaction. In fact, corrupt ranks were told to immediately surrender their badges since corrupt behavior would not be tolerated. It is not clear just how many ranks have surrendered their badges but judging from the reports of the I Paid a Bribe website, there remains serious concerns about the operations, particularly of

those in the traffic department. This brings us to usefulness of the website to the government. Apart from identifying the horrifying experiences that the public has to endure at the hands of public agencies, it gives to public administrators an idea of where they need to concentrate their efforts and possibly what steps need to be taken.

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But does the government really need this analysis to determine where action needs to be directed? It has long been public knowledge that in certain government departments, corruption is rife. But now that the government is gaining a greater insight into the gravity of the problem, it is left to be seen what action will be taken.

Or whether like the once popular Voice of the People Show, the I Paid a Bribe will be left to become a mere way of allowing the public to let off steam.

Thief struck by taxi after snatching nurse’s cell phone A fleeing thief ended up badly bruised and in handcuffs at around 21:00 hrs on Saturday night when he ran into the path of a taxi, shortly after snatching a woman’s mobile phone on Mandela Avenue. Kaieteur News understands that the victim, a 23-year-old nurse, had just left the National Gymnasium with her boyfriend, following a hockey match, when the thief struck. According to reports, the two friends were sitting in a car observing the heavy

traffic on Mandela Avenue, when a teen snatched the nurse’s Blackberry phone. The thief was about to flee to the western side of Mandela Avenue when he ran into the path of a taxi. Fortunately, he only

sustained minor injuries. The hapless would-be robber was treated at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation before being handcuffed and detained by police. The Blackberry was smashed to pieces.

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Kaieteur News

Monday June 03, 2013

Monday June 03, 2013

My wife sent me an article about this 80-year-old Japanese man who just climbed Mount Everest and his rival, an 81-year-old Nepalese, who held the record for being the oldest man to do so when he was 76 and was determined to take back his record. What is wrong with these people, including my wife? Why couldn’t the two old men do like Fred Astaire who married a 37-year-old jockey, Robyn Smith, when he was 81. People say she took him for a ride but he could have danced all night. She was saddled with him for another few years but he died with a song on his lips and a smile on his face. Barbara McClintock at 81 won the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 1983 for her revolutionary

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work in genetics. She developed theories to explain the suppression and expression of genetic information from one generation of corn plants to the next- a truly “amaizeing” feat for an old timer. Finally, Yuichiro Miura, the 80-year-old Japanese record breaker for whom this was his third climb to the summit, said, “I think three times is enough. At this point I could not think of anything but rest.” He took an age to realize that. After Edmund Hillary reached the top of Everest on May 29, 1953, and was starting his descent he said to his friend George Low, “Well George, we’ve knocked the bastard off.” When he became “Sir” Edmund, Hillary is reputed to have said, “Once a king always a king but once a knight is enough.”

That is almost like the story about the taciturn President Calvin Coolidge. One day the President and Mrs. Coolidge were visiting a government farm. Soon after their arrival they were taken off on separate tours. When Mrs. Coolidge passed the chicken pens she paused to ask the man in charge if the rooster copulated more than once each day. “Dozens of times,” was the reply. “Please tell that to the President,” Mrs. Coolidge requested. When the President passed the pens and was told about the roosters, he asked, “Same hen every time?” The man replied, “Oh no, Mr. President, a different one each time.” The President nodded slowly, then said, “Tell that to Mrs. Coolidge.” I am going to assume that the reason my wife sent me the story has

CDC conducts preliminary natural disaster exercise

Exercise participants at work The Civil Defence Commission, in their continuous efforts to mitigate the effects of natural disasters that threaten Guyana, last week conducted the preliminary aspect of their natural disaster exercise, Exercise Connectivity 2013. The exercise, attended by several government agencies including the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Red Cross Society (GRCS), was designed to test the various mediums of communication across the ten administrative regions of Guyana. During the

exercise, contact was made with the various administrative regions via telephone, the internet, radio and fax in order to test the capacity, capability and functionality of the various mediums. The Exercise Connectivity, funded by the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), comes in the light of certain aspects of the country’s Information Communication Technology (ICT) being rendered unserviceable during specific stages of hazard impact. Also, as a result of the National

Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) being relocated to Timehri, East Bank Demerara at Base Camp Stephenson, there was a need to have the exercise carried out. As an extension, other exercises will be held in upcoming August and October which are designed to test Guyana’s level of preparedness and response capabilities to various disasters. In addition, they seek to allow for evaluations and adjustments to be made to the existing disaster risk management plans, policies, procedures and protocols.

nothing to do with climbing Everest or any other natural promontory but has to do with my Nepalese descent and the fact that Miura’s rival climber from Nepal, Bahadur Sherchan just packed it in. The weather got so bad that they almost had to send out the Sherchan-rescue teams for him. Maybe they should do that for all the rest of us who are heading into our twilight years. Some of my colleagues say, “Age is just a number” but it is a big number and as you start feeling the agony of the feet and all the other aches and pains, you realize that it is doing an even bigger number on you. Despite this some people still manage to reach triple digits. The jazz pianist and composer Eubie Blake performed until his death at one-hundred. A heavy smoker and drinker all his life, when he reached his century, Blake said, “If I’d known I was going to live this long, I’d have taken better care of myself.” I would love to live a long and productive life but I remember interviewing Ma Pampo of Dominica just before she died in 2003 at the reputed age of 128. I asked her, “Ma Pampo, what about me, what should I do to live as long as you?” She started laughing hysterically and pointing at my emerging chubbiness. No words were necessary but the truth was that her generation worked their guts out. Another of the centenarians, a fisherman, used to row at least twice a day from Portsmouth in Dominica to and from Rouseau, a trip which takes almost an hour by car. Right now, when I cut the grass in the yard for one day I have to rest for almost a week. I envy car manufacturer Henry Ford

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who was able to do a handstand at the age of seventy-five, and cosmetics queen Elizabeth Arden who could do a head-stand at the same age. Now when I wake in the morning it is increasingly difficult to do a foot- or any other kind of stand. When he was a year younger than me, Jack LaLanne, the fitness king, swam a mile in the ocean off the Florida coast pulling ten boats with seventy-seven people in them. I wish I had known him when my engine conked out in the Gulf of Paria. I figure that people who are into strenuous activities as they get older should learn from Kurt Wallenda’s story. He did not know when to stop. When he was seventytwo years old he walked a tightrope from the top floors of two Miami hotels. But then, the same year, he tried the same thing again and died. The good news for people like me comes from the painter Titian. When in his seventies, despite all the

acclaim he had already received for his art, Titian said, “I think I am beginning to learn something about painting.” I feel the same way about writing – I sometimes can see it finally coming together for me and even then, in reading back anything I have written, I invariably find errors and better ways to express my thoughts. I figure that I will go on and on like the Energizer Bunny or like the painter Henry Matisse. When he was in his eighties and could no longer sit up to paint, he attached a brush to a long stick and painted while lying in bed. I like that. When I can no longer use a laptop, I will use a bed-top and, by that time, climbing Everest would be for other people. Climbing out of bed will be enough for me. *Tony Deyal was last seen saying that a wise man once told him that three things happen to you when you get old. First your memory goes (and that’s all he remembers).

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JP implicated in bogus car sale -victims seek audience with President Ramotar A West Bank Demerara couple says they were almost cheated out of the ownership of their newly purchased car, and are accusing a Justice of the Peace with political connections of being involved in the scam. Kaieteur News was told yesterday that the court however saw it fit that the vehicle be returned to the couple, but an eight month delay in accessing the car has left them behind schedule in paying their installments for the vehicle. Babita Ramnarine, of 876 Belle West Housing Scheme Number Two Canal, West Bank Demerara, said that her husband, Sewchand Dhunmmum, decided in August 2012 to purchase a car -HC 1339- for his birthday. But she alleged that the vehicle was hijacked and individuals attempted to prove with false documents, that it was sold. Ramnarine told Kaieteur News that the vehicle is being used as a taxi, since her husband was left physically impaired after a violent attack by bandits some time ago. Kaieteur News was told that in September 2012, the couple, along with their daughter, visited a private hospital. Her husband entered the building to visit a relative while the mother and daughter sat in the vehicle’s back seat talking. The woman alleged that during this time, a man entered the car and started it with the key which was still in the ignition. Despite their cries to be let out of the vehicle, Ramnarine said the carjacker drove up the East Bank of Demerara, eventually letting them out just before reaching the

Demerara Harbour Bridge. She said a man gave them a ride back to hospital where her husband, already in a state of panic was searching frantically for the vehicle. The police were informed and statements were given, she said. After searching for almost nine days, they were informed that a Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara resident had the missing car parked in his yard. But it wasn’t until a trip to the police station and threats to be tossed in jail were made, that the man’s wife finally told police that the vehicle was at another relative’s home where it was subsequently found. Ramnarine alleged that three days after the vehicle was returned, her husband received a call from the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) at Eve Leary. They were then allegedly ordered to bring in the car and report to a named officer. While there, she said an allegation was made that their vehicle had been sold to the same Golden Grove resident who had hidden the vehicle. She said the officer then asked for the car’s registration. She claimed that the rank took the document into another room and she is unsure what was done with it. She however pointed out that herself and husband strongly refuted the car sale claim but was later asked to return to the OPR office the next day. When the meeting was called, she said the Golden Grove resident produced a bogus Agreement of Sale. Ms. Ramnarine alleged that the signature of a Justice of the Peace (JP) was on the document, as well as forged

signatures of herself and husband. Ramnarine said that for eight months the car was parked at Police Headquarters until the matter finally reached the court where the man was charged for hijacking. The court, however, ruled that the vehicle belonged to the couple and permission was granted for the vehicle to be released into their custody. Ramnarine said she however obtained a copy of the bogus agreement of sale (which was shown to Kaieteur News along with other documentation) and confronted the JP who is believed to have drawn up the false document. She said that the JP proclaimed ignorance of the forgery, and called the Golden Grove resident to a meeting. Ramnarine added that before “cussing out the resident,” the JP indicated that the Agreement of Sale documents came with signatures already affixed. The JP however allegedly told Ms. Ramnarine to return to the OPR office the following day, where she said, he promised pay the arrears. But she alleged that this was not done. Instead, she alleged that police officers demanded that she sign a prepared document which stated that the matter would not be made public and that no money was owed to her or her husband. Ramnarine said she refused to sign the document and is now looking for justice. She is requesting an audience with President Donald Ramotar and wants those involved to be sanctioned for putting her and her family through the inconvenience.

Monday June 03, 2013

Education Minister declares zero tolerance on school violence “We are not going to be tolerating any abuse of our teachers,” said Minister of Education Priya Manickchand as she addressed a gathering of media operatives at the first in a series of monthly press conferences. The forum, which was venued at the National Centre for Resource Development (NCERD), saw the Minister highlighting a number of developments within the Ministry and responding to questions. Violence in the school system was one such question directed to the Minister who, while not divulging too many details, disclosed that addressing such issues is high on her Ministry’s agenda. However she noted that at a follow up forum efforts will be made to offer more information on the plans to combat violence. “We hope to be able to give you our whole menu of measures. It is not just going to be violence perpetuated against teachers but we are looking at a whole menu of things including what we do with parents who abuse teachers in their capacities as teachers on school premises and so on.” According to Manickchand, the Ministry is also hoping to have in place a guideline of how to deal with students involved in violence even as moves are made to identify the various grades of abusive or delinquent behaviour exhibited by students. “So we are going to announce that to the nation in a more holistic way,” asserted the Minister as she assured that there is no way that the Ministry will be

UNICEF Representative, Dr. Suleiman Braimoh

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand

allowing the abuse of its teachers. And there is available support for the Government to address the issue of violence in the school system. Speaking to this publication during an exclusive interview, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) of Guyana and Suriname Representative, Dr Suleiman Braimoh, said that the body is keen on directing support to Government to address issues of violence as it relates to children and their existence. He concurred that the incidence of violence, particularly among youths in the school system, has taken on unprecedented proportions, and there is an urgent need for this state of affairs to be addressed. However, he cautioned that the situation of gang violence for instance in schools is certainly not one that exists in isolation. According to him it is part of

a whole context of violence in general which encompasses domestic violence, violence in the streets and other types of prevailing forms of violence in the society. UNICEF, according to him, operates with the interest of children in mind moreover, “we are carrying out assessments to really develop stronger understanding of the whole issue to be able to support the Government.” He disclosed that UNICEF has been working with the Ministry of Education even as he noted that “it is not just an education thing; we are working with the Ministry of Human Services too.” He explained that what has been happening in recent times “is that we are developing stronger and better understanding of the social origin or the whole social complex surrounding the origin of violence and based on that we are designing programmes to support the Government’s efforts.”

COFONA streamlines... From page 14 GDF Association will be present. Several renowned persons have indicated their intention of attending. They include historian Alvin Thomas, as well as Dr. Vibert Cambridge, who will be writing a book about the history of music in Guyana. He will showcase the significance of music from New Amsterdam. Dr. Ewart Thomas from Stanford University will also

host a series of discussions on education, anger management, domestic violence and substance abuse. He also revealed that there will be a medical outreach programme and a Day of Community Service involving the visiting foreigners and residents of New Amsterdam. Additionally, 250 youths of New Amsterdam will be selected to participate in a massive tree- planting exercise in various wards in the town. This exercise will precede July 28 and will last beyond the August 10 end-date of activities.

The planners have sought the involvement of the Ministry of Sports, Youth & Culture, Region 6 Administration, N/A Mayor & Town Council and the Ministry of Education. The theme chosen for this year's mega activities is: “From Resistance through Emancipation toward Empowerment.” COFONA is a collaborative network initiative comprising individuals, associations and agencies for the overall educational and socioeconomic growth and development of New Amsterdam. It was formed in 2010.

Monday June 03, 2013

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Monday June 03, 2013

GPF, Community Policing Group meeting…

Sophia residents call for proactive approach from police Rape, murder, banditry and fear of crime in the Sophia Community were raised by residents at a recent meeting with members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the National Community Policing Group Saturday last. Of the 1,500 invitations shared out to residents of Section ‘B’ Field Sophia, South Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara approximately 55 persons turned out to the Pattensen Community Centre to brainstorm solutions pertaining to the escalating occurrence of crime in that community. The meeting which was held under the theme “Community involvement for community safety and security was chaired by the GPF and executives of the National Community Policing Group. The meeting was a result of the South Sophia vigilantestyle killing of 40-year-old Nigel Roy Lowe who was on May 09 beaten to death after being tied to a utility pole and left to die. A heap of wood was packed over the man’s body. In attendance were Assistant Police Superintendent Julius Wright, Chairman of the National Community Policing Association, Omesh Satyanand, Liaison Officer in the Ministry of HomeAffairs, Leon Rampersaud and other ranks of the Sophia Police Station along with Policing Group members. Residents of the Sophia district noted that there is now a need to fingerprint youths in the area and create a profile based on their activities and actions if there is ever going to be proper investigations by the police, since on many occasions when finger prints are gathered from a crime scene there are not any comparisons to work with based on the investigations. It was also underscored that there is a need for more meetings between the residents, community policing groups and the police in order to better establish a proper crime fighting strategy. Residents declared that although there is need for a stronger police presence in the area both in the day and night, there is also need for justice for all those persons who

National Chairman of the Community Policing Group, Omesh Satyanand highlights issues faced by the policing and community policing groups to residents of Sophia. worked hard during the day to ensure a decent lifestyle which is stymied by daily prowlers who invade homes indiscriminately and steal millions collectively within the community. “Imagine the bandits want to kill you for your own things when you try to protect what you own, and if they are killed in defense of protecting your property then is another whole story you have to face,” another resident in the area said when asked of the crime situation. Another burning issue was the lack of proper response by the police to distress calls made by residents of the community, especially in confrontation with dangerous criminals. “We need the police to be more aggressive in their investigation; they got to be proactive instead of reactive. Imagine when some police show up they take a statement from you if they feel like and when they feel like, they harass you and do not even understand the rights of a citizen. When carry out their investigations, they only telling you about what they can do and they don’t even know citizens rights even when you are telling them what rights you have,” one senior citizen in the Sophia community noted.

On the other extreme, the senior citizen noted that the youngsters have a lack of respect for authority and their seniors which will contribute to the escalation of crimes. “When you walk through these places you could see many of them on the corner during working and school hours. There is no excuse about jobs, if someone wants to earn money they can find something to do other than crime! But the attitude of laziness and behavior is clear when talking to many of the youths.” Another resident noted that the many loiterers are only watching the movements of residents in and out of their homes and waiting for the opportunity to use their energies in a n e g a t i v e manner to commit crimes instead of being positively occupied. “I wake up every hour on the hour to check around the place and the house, and if I see anything suspicious I would report it…That is how I have to live my life now,” one man explained. In the meeting it was also underscored that there is need for parents to take responsibility for their children’s choices and actions since on a random visit to the prisons it would be pointed out by most inmates that the reason for them being behind bars was the excuse of “lack of proper supervision by the parents and not being properly guided.” National Chairman of the Community Policing Group, Omesh Satyanand emphasized that a more responsible approach is needed to develop a better relationship between communities, police and the policing groups when sharing information and to ensure a proper understanding of the role of the community. “The Guyana Police Force has a very good training

programme for all its ranks, while community policing members are exposed to the

different types of training in respective areas. But yet there are members who do not

follow protocol which causes a break down in the system.” Satyanand noted. Adding that today’s policing now includes bringing the youths and women on board, he said there is need for a positive influence for this grouping so they can also assist in the fight against crime. Chairman of the South Turkeyen Community Policing Group, Narine Kublall noted that there is a need for increased neighbourhood policing and community police patrolling in Sophia district as there have been numerous cases of banditry. He revealed that the organisation is working towards having its own vehicle to increase nightly patrols. Assistant Superintendent Wright also mentioned that there is a need for the police and the community to work hand in hand since without the assistance of the public many crimes go unsolved.

Comprehensive Report on state of disability for year end Though challenged by limited financial and human resources, the National Commission on Disability is aiming to have in place by this year end, a comprehensive report on the state of disability in Guyana. At least this is according to Executive Secretary of the Commission, Ms. Beverly Pile. During a recent interview with this publication, Ms. Pile disclosed that the report will be based on the findings of an in-depth survey which is already in the initial stages. Attempts, according to Pile, are being made to ascertain not only how many persons are living with disabilities but the specific types as well as the respective needs of such persons. “The vision or intent is to make sure that when we are speaking about persons with disabilities or when we have any sort of activity we don’t just talk off of our heads but we have actual facts and figures.” Based on the country census of 2002, there are 50,000 persons living with disabilities but Pile noted that “I am quite sure that has significantly increased...right now the Commission has to capture what we have in reality.” Once completed, the report, which is expected to guide the way forward for the Commission, will be officially launched. But even as the Commission ambitiously eyes the completion of the report, its work is tremendously hampered by the lack of financial and by extension

Ms. Beverly Pile, Executive Secretary of the National Disability Commission. human resources, Pile disclosed. Although the Disability entity is the recipient of an annual subvention from the Ministry of Health, the finances, she said, are not nearly sufficient to undertake all of the Commission’s outlined plans. This, she revealed, includes sensitisation efforts across the country. The sensitisation undertaking is mainly to raise awareness about the Disability Act of 2010. However, currently such moves have been confined to Georgetown something that simply cannot be allowed since according to Pile, “we are a national Commission so we need to get out there and sensitise persons in the Regions as well.” Nevertheless, the Executive Secretary assured that “we are trying all that is

absolutely possible to make sure that the nation understands the issue of disability in Guyana.” Already, efforts have been directed to the health sector with sensitisation sessions being held with nurses of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the St Joseph Mercy Hospital. Similar sessions have also been had with representatives of Labour Unions and another is slated to be held this month as well as another with officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The intent of the latter session is to sensitise members of the Police Force about the rights of persons with disability, Pile said. But although the sensitisation efforts have not been as extensive as the Commission would have liked there have been heartening results forthcoming, according to Pile. She observed that through the awareness moves the society has become relatively “disability friendly” as more persons are acting in a supportive manner. “They are definitely having an ear or eye out for them (persons with disabilities) at all times,” stressed Pile, as she noted that this state of affairs has even served “to encourage other persons with disability to come out of the closet. We are now seeing more of them on the streets going around and doing business.” Moreover, Pile is quite satisfied that, although slow, progress is being made in the area of addressing disability concerns in Guyana.

Monday June 03, 2013

Kaieteur News

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Did police blunder investigation into colleague’s ... From page 3 the sister that the couple’s two children were “waking up” their father who was lying down and he wasn’t moving. The wife continued to tell the man’s sister that she had not entered the house, but travelled to the Cove and John Police Station to get the police. Immediately the relative started to question the woman as to why she hadn’t entered the house, but chose to go to the station. “ What did she go to the station and tell the police….’my husband isn’t waking up?’ Clearly, that doesn’t make sense,” a relative stated. During the same telephone call, the wife also allegedly admitted that a close relative of hers and Giles had a heated argument on Friday night. That entire conversation between the wife and Giles’s sister was recorded via an answering machine. After hanging up the phone from

Giles’s wife, the sister said she called another sibling. While the two were chatting, a senior police rank from the Cove and John Station reportedly called the first sister and informed her of Giles’ death. The female police rank also allegedly said that Giles had committed suicide the night before. Giles’s relative said they attempted to question the policewoman but the rank hung up the telephone. Relatives immediately hurried to the Corporal Giles’ Haslington home instead of going to the station. They said that upon arriving at the man’s house, there was a sense of confusion, as neighbours, police officers and relatives of the man’s wife were combing through the “crime scene”. “There was no indication that police had anything under control”. One officer who was at the scene, told relatives that the body was in

Giles and his wife on Valentine’s night 2013

the bedroom. From the message which was received, relatives went into the room looking on the bed for someone who was lying down, only to be confronted by the sight of a man “hanging behind a door naked”, one relative said. The sight took relatives by surprise, some of whom collapsed.

Monday June 03, 2013 ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You will do well in social settings, and new and interesting individuals may spark a romantic curiosity. Your fight for those less fortunate is not likely to end in sweet victory. You will have excellent ideas for changing or renovating your home. TAURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) Use your inventiveness to find solutions. Overindulgence could lead to problems with digestion. Escapist tendencies may lead to overindulgence. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Try not to take others for granted. Tempers could get out of hand today. You are best to work at home, clearing up overdue projects. Dream a little today. CANCER (June 22-July 22) Do not sign contracts or get involved in any uncertain financial deals. Conflicts over joint finances are likely. You may find travel to be most rewarding. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Do what you can to help them but don't neglect your own family. Work quietly behind the scenes for best results. Spend time getting to know each other. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Involvement in fitness clubs will be conducive to engaging romantic connections. Try not to get backed into corners. Rethink your motives and make the necessary changes to yourself.

LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) New interests are preoccupying your time. They didn't fully understand what was expected. Erratic behavior may confuse others, and mood swings may result in isolation. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Get involved in physical activities that will stimulate you. You will be extremely sensual; take precautions and don't take any risks. A day at the beach may satisfy the whole family. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 Dec. 21) Consider applying for a job in another part of the world. Deal with the needs of children and get into groups that deal with self awareness. Get help to finish a project if you need it. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.Jan. 20) Do not overspend on entertainment. Travel will be exciting. Try to deal with the problems of those less fortunate; however, don't allow them to make unreasonable demands. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Go out with friends and avoid the situation on the home front. You may feel a need to make changes to your legal documents. However, you must not neglect your family. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Opportunities to meet new lovers will come through pleasure trips or social events. Unexpected bills will leave you a little short.

According to family members, they observed none of the known indications which are usually present during a “hanging”. “There was no stool under the feet, his tongue was not protruding.” While at the house the same policewoman who had called Giles’ sister told relatives that they were needed at the Cove and John Station. “We went to the station but after consulting with our lawyer we were told that we should not have gone to the station because he (Giles) was not living with any one of us, but with his wife. The post mortem report, which was given to relatives, had the cause of death as asphyxiation along with compression injuries to the neck.” After the post mortem relatives felt that their concerns were being swept aside. They then contacted Attorney Basil Williams, who drafted a letter which was to be sent to the Commissioner of Police. They claimed that the immediate response was that Giles was suicidal. From what was said the lawyer was asked about an incident which happened on January 27, 2013. On this date his wife again called to say that he had ingested poison. “Relatives had rushed to the house to take him to hospital. When we arrived at the house the wife was in the kitchen washing dishes instead of attending to her husband who had supposedly ingested poison.” When they arrived at the hospital the doctor upon checking him told relatives along with his wife and

another sister that they found no trace of poison in his system, but that he was heavily intoxicated. He was never admitted to the hospital. A few days after the funeral service relatives again went back to the Cove and John station to give statements about the incident. Three sisters along with Giles’ mother all gave statements. Relatives also handed over to the police the telephone recording of the conversation that the wife had with Giles’ on February 23. Ranks who heard the tape were instructed that the man with whom Giles had the

confrontation the night before be questioned. Investigators later informed relatives that the man had gone into the interior and could not be located. “We are of the belief that Giles was killed and it is a cover up. There are too many missing holes with the investigation. We would like the hierarchy of the police to get the phone records of all of the parties involved and you see the vast irregularities with this case,” one relative said. “None of the statements given by the police officers are adding up. Everyone has a different story to give. “

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Monday June 03, 2013

Kamla to visit China in November Barbados Nation - Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar announced Saturday that she will visit the People’s Republic of China in November on an invitation from Chinese President Xi Jinping. She will also establish a diplomatic mission in Beijing at that time. Speaking at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s during a joint media conference, PersadBissessar also announced a number of developmental plans for the country in the areas of health, energy, maritime and infrastructure development, through a partnership with the Chinese government, as both countries deepen political and diplomatic ties.

Xi accompanied by his wife, First Lady Madame Peng Liyuan and senior government officials, arrived in Trinidad and Tobago on Friday for a series of discussions with the People’s Partnership Government and CARICOM leaders. Citing it as an historic visit, Persad-Bissessar pointed to this country’s 200-year strong direct relationship with China with the onset of the first Chinese indentured labourers, which later progressed to official diplomatic relations in 1974, a point also stressed by the visiting Chinese President. “I am pleased to report that we will be establishing our first embassy in China this year,” she said, adding that her Government

was also considering the establishment of a Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Institute, which will be attached to the Diplomatic Mission in Beijing. This centre would promote Trinidad and Tobago’s creative industries through cultural exchanges, training seminars and cultural exhibitions in China and could also feature highly in Trinidad and Tobago’s public diplomacy initiatives in Asia,” the Prime Minister said. Discussions also looked at the possibility of China and Trinidad and Tobago cohosting an annual Caribbean Music Festival in Beijing, which could become an signature event for promoting Asian/Caribbean cultural exchanges.

Cuba says Venezuela’s spat with Colombia could hurt peace talks HAVANA (Reuters) Cuba expressed support on Saturday for its ally Venezuela in a row with Colombia, which Havana suggested could hurt peace talks it has been hosting to end Colombia’s long war with leftist rebels. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez declared in a statement Cuba’s “unv a r y i n g p o s i t i o n o f solidarity with Venezuela and of recognition of the legitimate government of President Nicolas Maduro.” Henrique Capriles, who was narrowly defeated by M a d u r o i n Ve n e z u e l a ’s April election met with Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos in Bogota on Tuesday, provoking an angry

Bruno Rodriguez accusation by Maduro that Santos was plotting against him. Capriles visited Colombia as part of a planned tour through Latin American

countries to make his case that Maduro’s election victory was fraudulent. In response, Maduro withdrew Venezuela’s envoy to the peace talks being held in Havana to end half a century of conflict between the Colombian government and the Marxist-led FARC, or Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia. Rodriguez accused Capriles of working with power groups in the United States to destabilize Venezuela. “These actions and any direct or indirect help hurt the unity of Latin America and the Caribbean, diminish independence and hurt the efforts of Venezuela and other states in favor of peace,” he said.

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Kaieteur News

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Monday June 03, 2013

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Kaieteur News

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Monday June 03, 2013

State media vs Opposition media insinuation damaging to fraternity - local reporters (From page 23)

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Reporters with the workshop facilitators (seated) at last Saturday’s closing ceremony.

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By Zena Henry The general notion expressed by local reporters who recently participated in a multi-agency sponsored media improvement workshop is that the state media versus opposition media insinuation has to some extent infiltrated the purpose of the fraternity. In very frank and open discourse with international scholars Dr. Yusuf Kalyango and Mr. Andrew Alexander, reporters registered their concerns pertaining to the country’s political climate and its impact on the media environment. They were generally concerned with the dissemination of news, the constraints in gathering that news amidst the state media versus opposition media perception and their prospects of upward mobility given their “alleged political affiliations.” The media workers were attending a three-day workshop held at Moray House, Camp and Quamina Streets. This was held to edify journalists on “Democracy, Journalism, and Responsibility: Expectations for an Informed

Society.” The training seminar was facilitated by two professors from the Institute for International Journalism, E.W. Scripps School of Journalism Ohio USA. The state media / opposition media comparison, reporters said, is generally associated with the type of news that is carried and by the angle a media house takes on a story. They posited that if a story’s angle shines a bad light on one party, then it is assumed that the fraternity is in favour of the other party. It is especially expressed when media houses willfully omit certain things that may occur at a political function. This they said compromises the integrity of the suppose-tobe independent, balanced and fair entity. It is however believed that a former President generated the state media/ opposition media branding which filtered through almost as an ideology. Reporters complained about being branded by their own colleagues and being fingered for reportedly carrying one

sided stories. But even more disturbing, they highlighted the branding by political officials who would openly describe a reporter as an opposition or state mouthpiece. A freelance reporter who has worked with various media houses; print and television added that reporters find difficulty in leaving one media house and seeking employment at another if it is suspected that they worked for the ‘opposing side’. Although all reporters did not agree on that, it was acknowledged that there is some division between media persons and to some extent, this division is growing. It was further revealed by the same reporter that he had started his own news programme and when he did not agree to sell the increasingly popular programme to a politician, the show stopped receiving sponsorship from the private entities that first provided funding. He charged that this division sets the wrong understanding for reporters,

Sophia mom appeals for help to rebuild after fire Candacie Peters and her children shortly after the fire.

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Candacie Peters, the young North Sophia mother who lost her home in a mystery fire a week ago, is appealing to the public to help her rebuild. Ms. Peters’ home, which was still under construction, was razed while the single parent was selling in the Stabroek

Market area. The fire broke out while the woman’s four children were sleeping inside. All the family’s belongings were also destroyed, including recentlypurchased school items. Persons wishing to assist Ms. Peters can reach her on telephone number: 592-670-6079.

especially those inexperienced journalists who can easily fall prey to this false notion. Other reporters chipped in that in some cases media owners and editors disseminate information in a certain angle, or they structure the data in such a way that it is not the true reflection of the issue. They questioned how they could perform the seemingly impossible task of getting an editor who has a particular agenda to carry balanced and fair broadcasting. It was thus suggested that reporters should remind their employers of the risk of bad reporting; that is loss of integrity, transparency and ultimately public support which is the first stage of an entity maintaining its indispensability. Reporters were urged to remain resilient and to remember their function as press operatives, as facilitators were very receptive to the dilemma, and indicated that a reporter’s job is not to take sides. Mr. Anderson, who specializes in print media, repeatedly emphasized the four fundamentals of being a reporter; that is to be independent, accurate, fair and ethical. He also stressed that reporting must confirm with the ethics of journalism and posited that the guidelines of good reporting must be embedded in every story that is told. Dr. Kalyango sparked creativity among persons in the broadcasting media; specifically television and internet. He taught that there are various ways to illustrate the news and to be balanced at the same time, based on the angles and the parties involved in the story. Broadcast reporters saw how to present a negative story – which in this field is usually told with pictures- in a positive light, thus not making it too depressing. In this same vein, reporters were taught to present political news using various angles so not to denigrate one side.

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Kaieteur News

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Monday June 03, 2013

GAPF Intermediate Championships

Natoya Robinson is Best Overall; DeNobrega & Ramlochand top their category By Franklin Wilson Twenty-one year-old Notoya Robinson of Fitness Revolution Gym located on the East Coast of Demerara proved to all and sundry that her performance at this year Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) Novices Championships was by no means a fluke. The physically powerful athlete competing in the 84+kg category (female Junior), carted off the overall Best Female Lifter trophy with a total of 402kg apart from her category at the GAPF Intermediate Championships which were held yesterday at the George Walcott Lecture Theatre, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus. Witnessed by a large, lively and appreciative crowd, the GAPF scored highly for well coordinated and smooth flowing championships at one of the best venues to date. The professional manner in which the day flowed was matched by the performances of the athletes especially on the distaff side. Robinson, along with the three other females, Steffie DeNobrega, Chittra Ramlochand and Shenella Austin are a breath of fresh air and a major boost for the sport. The multi talented 19-year-old DeNobrega of Buddies Gym, who is well known for her exploits in the swimming pool and the lightest lifter on the day, was the lone competitor like Robinson in her category - 52kg (Female Junior) – with a total of 225kg. Facing off in the 72kg Class were Fitness Revolution Gym mates Ramlochand and Austin with the former totaling 312kg to take the first place trophy ahead of Austin whose total was 240kg. Robinson’s best squat was 165kg, bench press 62.5 and dead lift 175kg; her total Wilks Points was 325.62. Ramlochand’s achieved a best squat of 137.5kg, bench press 52.5 and dead lift 122.5; total Wilks Points 322.75. DeNobrega put away a best squat of 97.5kg, bench press 37.5, dead lift 90kg; total Wilks Points 302. Austin who showed wonderful resolve after failing her first two squats made it count on her third attempt, achieving 97.5kg. She then recorded a best bench press of 40kg followed by a dead lift of 102.5; total Wilks 245.75.

Steffie DeNobrega squats 97.5kg.

Chittra Ramlochand dead Lift’s 125.5kg.

Hardat Tarson is Overall Best Lifter; Ramlall, Perry, Jeffrey & Ally stand out

Adrian Ramlall executes a 162.5 deadlift

Donnell Perry is perfect squatting 207.5kg

Marino Jeffrey’s best squat of 242.5kg.

Roshan Ally powers up 260kg, his best squat

By Franklin Wilson Hardat Tarson of Hardcore Gym stood out as the best Overall Lifter when the curtains came down on the 2013 edition of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) Intermediate Championships yesterday at the George Walcott Lecture Theater, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus. Tarson’s category (74kg Male Open) started out with three competitors but by the end of the squats it was a straight showdown between himself {Tarson} and Paul Cheddie of Kingsrow Barbel Club as a result of Fitness Revolution’s Deonarine Name Adrian Ramlall Donnell Perry Leon Rupertie Terry Dornalles Hardat Tarson Paul Cheddie Marino Jeffrey Roshan Ally Mustapha Rohoman

Dutt’s inability to make good on any of his three squat attempts. After the three lifts, Tarson tallied 615kg; his Wilks Points totaled 448 delivering for him the top spot in his category and overall. Cheddie’s overall was 482.5kg with 362 Wilks Points. Adrian Ramlall was all alone in the 59kg class with a total of 355kg and 316 Wilks Points. Donnell Perry, who won the Guyana Amateur Body Building & Fitness Federation (GABBFF) Novice Championships last year (2012), made a mark in the strong man arena with a top

Wt. Class 59kg 66kg 66kg 66kg 74kg 74kg 93kg 120kg 120kg

Squat 115kg 207.5 175kg 125kg 242.5 175kg 242.5 260kg 227.5

place finish in the 66kg division. The Fitness Revolution Gym member shrugged off challenges from Kingsrow Barbel Clubs Leon Rupertie and his {Perry} gym mate Terry Dornalles to power to the top of the category, tallying 525kg (419 Wilks Points). Also standing alone was Marino Jeffrey of Powerhouse Gym in the 93kg class; he recorded a total of 645kg (416 Wilks Points). Jeffrey also won the Open category at Novice this year, maintaining his winning ways. Hardcore Gym’s Roshan Ally out-powered Mustapha

Bench Press 77.5kg 110kg 105kg 60kg 132.5kg 105kg 167.5 125kg 120kg

Dead Lift 162.5 207.5 192.5 150kg 240kg 202.5 235kg 240kg 240kg

Rohoman in the 120kg category, ending with a 625kg total (372 Wilks Points) to Rohoman’s 587.5kg and 338.46 Wilks Points. GAPF President Peter Green in an invited comment stated that he was very pleased with the turn out and the level of commitment shown by the athletes which augurs well for the future of the sport in Guyana. Green also stated that he was elated to have so many female athletes coming out and believes that this is the beginning of great things for females in the sport. He is encouraging gyms to encourage more females to come on board.

Total 355kg 525kg 472kg 335kg 615kg 482.5 645kg 625kg 587.5

Wilks Pts 316 419 399.36 266 448 362 416 372 338.72

Monday June 03, 2013

Kaieteur News

Wilbur Hope Football club launched

Page 27

Sparta is Mackeson ‘Keep Your Five Alive’ football boss - Edge underdogs Festival City with regulation goal

Some of the members of the Hope Football club strike a pose before a game. A new football club has hit the playing fields in Berbice. The Hope Football Club (HFC) has been launched. The club, which has been formed in memory of the late national football player Wilbur “Hopey” Hope (19672001) was established in October 2012, and is officially a part of the Berbice Football Association (BFA). Hope, a former resident of Tucber Park, New Amsterdam suffered from an Acute Heart condition and died in 2001 at the age of 33. During his days he participated in numerous sporting activities including Football, both hard and softball Cricket, Athletics, Basketball, Table Tennis and Volleyball and went on to represent Guyana in Football and Athletics. On September 17, 2012, U.S Army Soldier, Kevin Leroy Henry, a former N.A.M.S student and New Amsterdam resident realized his dream of honoring his former mentor and friend, Wilbur Hope, by launching the inaugural Hope Memorial Football Tournament (HMFT). The five-day tournament was keenly contested among the secondary schools within the New Amsterdam/ Canje school district. Henry, also a multitalented athlete, was very satisfied with the way the tournament was conducted. However, realizing the need for more than just an annual football tournament, Mr. Henry set about the task of making a bigger impact on football in the town of his birth by launching the football club. The HFC is so far one part of his effort.

The HFC consists of three teams at different age groups; under-13, under -17, and under – 20. Apart from engaging in competitive football, the HFC will contribute to the development of youth through various programmes such as annual training camps, academic, social and community initiatives. An executive body was also put in place with Mr. Kevin Henry as the president, Mark Adams vice president, Petra Forde secretary and Jeanesse Gray treasurer with Simone Bollers a committee member. Michael Khan will serve as the manager and Colin Bowry the head coach. There are over 25 members in the club so far. Back home on holiday, Henry stated that he and Hope were good friends and since Hope’s demise he always wanted to do something in memory of his one-time pal and is making full use of the opportunity now. At the launching ceremony which was held at the All Saints Scots Church ground on Saturday the respective schools were introduced to the sponsor. The Hope Football club for the moment has its headquarters at 57 Tucber Park, New Amsterdam, Berbice Guyana. A father of two, Hope subsequently migrated and continued in the same vein overseas until he succumbed to his illness. His relatives have so far handed over a pavilion which was constructed in the Tucber Park ball field in memory of his 10th death anniversary to the people of the Tucber Park Community. (Samuel Whyte)

Somwaru heads list of local umpires for WICUA Convention President of the Guyana Cricket Umpires Council (GCUC) Dhieranidranauth Somwaru heads a list of local umpires that will be attending the West Indies Cricket Umpires Council (WICUA) convention which starts on June 28 in Trinidad and Tobago. In an invited comment

Somwaru told Kaieteur Sport that it is a pleasure to attend the convention where they will also observe the 50th anniversary of the WICUA. He said that so far 13 members have confirmed their participation and for the first time Guyana will be represented by such a large contingent.

GDF is champion gym but... From page 28 retire in the 3rd round and was duly crowned the middleweight Elite champion while the light/heavyweight bout between Desmond Amsterdam (GDF) and Colin Martin (Rep) ended in favour of the soldier on points. The night started on a blistering note but ended on a low one when Abdel Moses (GDF) failed to turn up for the heavyweight bout against his gym mate, Osworth Dash thus conceding a walkover.

Among the umpires that have confirmed their participation so far are Somwaru, Zabeer Zakier, Eddie Nicholls, Arleigh Rutherford, Matthew Kissoon, Drepaul George, Hortence Isaacs, Delvin Austin, Asif Japal, Safil Khan, Clement Brusche and Dawchand Nagassar. Among the items listed on the agenda for the convention are elections of office bearers, umpires fees, playing conditions and issues affecting umpires in the Caribbean. Interested persons who are willing to assist the GCUC in this venture can contact Bro Nicholls on 680-9581 or Zakier on 696-3811.

Without goal-scoring duo, Dennis Edwards and Devon Millington, who were both unavailable for the final, Sparta Boss became the official bosses of the Mackeson ‘Keep Your Five Alive’ Futsal football tournament, capping a dominant performance. Sparta Boss returned from a semifinal defeat to edge West Front Road 1-0 and take the top prize of $300,000 and Championship trophy when the curtains came down on the tournament Saturday night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall tarmac last Saturday night. After West Front Road defeated Festival City 3-2 on penalty kicks, Sparta Boss suffered their first defeat of the tournament against Festival City, going down 2-3 via the penalty route, setting up a must-win final match against West Front Road. Sparta Boss needed a win within regulation time to overturn their fortunes and give them the best aggregate in the tri-partite playoffs. Fans

packed every square inch of the venue, even swarming a back staircase of the venue to witness an enthralling contest. Stern defence from Sparta Bosses Jerome Weekes Hubert Pedro of West Front Road ensured that the first half ended nil-all. But as destiny would have it, Sheldon Shepherd received a through-ball from Jerome Richardson and loosed a magnificent shot that evaded the West Front Road keeper. The goal sparked loud celebrations, especially from the North East-based supporters that backed Sparta Boss throughout a tournament they truly dominated. The Pedro siblings and Nathan Nagaloo tried desperately to find an equalizer, but Sparta Boss’s defence stood up to the onslaught for the impressive win without their two major players. After some confusion as it relates to who won the tournament based on how the teams finished,

Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Referees Coordinator, Lawrence ‘Sparrow’ Griffith called the three captains and tournament coordinator, Kevin Adonis and declared Sparta Boss the winner as they were the only team to score in regulation time. Festival City was declared second because they did not concede any goal. In the first game of the night, following the exhibition matchup between ‘the best from the East and the best from West’, which the latter won 3-1 via penalties, West Front Road and Festival City had played to a nil-all draw to introduce a night of pulsating Futsal action. Tiger Bay defeated Wolves of Sophia 2-0 in another exhibition match before a capacity crowd at the venue was thoroughly entertained. Festival City, the real surprise and underdogs throughout the tournament, pocketed $150,000 a trophy and a set of uniforms. (Edison Jefford)

Top Volleyball player invited to play in Trinidad It has been a long time that Guyana’s Volleyball players have not being invited to participate in tournaments overseas on an individual basis. However, national power hitter Quacy Matheson has managed to break the jinx. The Guyana Volleyball Federation granted him permission to take part in the Caribbean Volleyball League Tournament which is being played i n T r i n i d a d a n d Tobago and was scheduled to begin last Wednesday May, 29 and end yesterday Sunday June 2. Matheson left Guyana on the Friday, May 24 and is expected to return today. The Tournament, which was endorsed by the FIVB (the World Body) and got the blessings of all affiliated bodies in the region, saw participation of teams and players from all the major clubs in the Region. Mr. Matheson received an invitation to be a part of the tournament as a guest player with the Toco Youth Volleyball Team, a registered Trinidad and Tobago side. The Guyana Volleyball Federation is proud of the selection of Matheson, a member of the Guyana Sugar Corporation and would like to

thank his coach and mentor, former national captain Levi Nedd for his development and outstanding achievement so far. According to a release for the GVF- Quacy Matheson is a member of the Port Mourant Training Centre team (PMTC) which is affiliated to the Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) and his talent was noted during the GVF’s International Club tournament held late last year that featured teams from Brazil, Suriname, Trinidad and Guyana. A recent visit to Trinidad by the PMTC again showcased Quacy’s talent

and hence the invitation. The release noted, “Matheson’s participation is a great breakthrough for Guyanese players and the GVF plans to host another International Club tournament later in the year.” Matheson was recently honoured by the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association (BCCDA) as one of the top up and coming sports personality in Berbice and for his outstanding contribution towards the development of sports in the county especially Volleyball.

England draw with Brazil in Rio England came close to leaving Brazil’s iconic Maracana home with an unlikely victory - only to be denied a repeat of their win here 29 years ago by Paulinho’s late equaliser. Goalkeeper Joe Hart produced a magnificent display to single-handedly keep Brazil at bay in a torrid first half when their latest young superstar Neymar tormented a poor England. Brazil looked on course for victory when Fred put them ahead after the break but substitute Alex OxladeChamberlain enjoyed a golden moment he will treasure forever when he powered home a fine equaliser. And the fanatical Rio crowd feared the modern-day Brazil were going to suffer a similar fate when Wayne Rooney’s deflected 25-yard shot gave Roy Hodgson’s side the lead with 11 minutes left. Paulinho cut short England’s hopes of ending their season with a landmark, if undeserved, win with a fine volley.

Page 28

Kaieteur News

Monday June 03, 2013

GBA Intermediate Boxing Championships

GCSL\Digimax tourney

GDF is champion gym but Rose Hall Town Jammers claim best boxer prize

Marks slams century as Farm XI beat Mahaica by 34 runs

By Michael Benjamin The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) amassed 14 points, the most by any other gym, and was duly declared champion gym when the curtains were drawn on the National Intermediate Boxing Championships at the Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis Boxing Gym, Independence Boulevard, Saturday evening last. The Republican Boxing Gym (REP) finished in 2nd place after scoring 5 points, while the Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) and the Rose Hall Jammers (RHJ) both ended at the bottom of the table with 2 points apiece. Jnr/ flyweight boxer, Tyron Lashley restored some pride for the RHJ when he forced the referee to halt his bout against Anthony Scipio (GDF) after Scipio’s groin protector repeatedly became dislodged. This was an infringement of the rule and Scipio suffered the consequences. Lashley went on to clinch the best boxer’s award. Doneka Lyle (GDF), created the biggest upset when she knocked out the more seasoned, Akeisha Arokium (RHJ) in just 59secs of their bantamweight fight. Lyle was all business as she attacked from the first bell, forcing Arokium backwards. The GDF representative refused to relent and after an especially vicious assault the referee decided to institute the mandatory eight count. Arokium re-entered the fray but was met by an aggressive Lyle and after several clobbers to Arokium’s head, the referee decided that he had seen enough and waved the bout off. The night’s proceeding got underway with an action packed encounter between Jamie Kellman (YA) and Quincy Wright (Essq). Both boxers were pint sized but delivered stiff leathers that belied their sizes. They pounded away at each other in the first stanza and when the bell sounded there was really nothing to separate them. The furious exchanges continued into the second round but Kellman surged ahead when scored with a roundhouse punch and forced the referee to institute a mandatory 8 count on his opponent. Unperturbed, Wright entered the final round with blazing fists; he connected with several salvoes that backed up his opponent to the ropes where Wright unleashed a vicious two fisted assault up the bell. This late assault wiped out the memories of the 8 count and the judges ruled that

Wright had done enough to earn the 2-1 verdict. Teo Bumbury (FYF) started his 65-69lbs encounter against Orwane Harris at a fast clip, flicking several jabs and followed up with right crosses. The pattern continued into the second stanza but by then Harris began to get a rhythm. By the 3rd round he was in full flow, landing several crunching blows. One of them connected flush to Bumbury’s jaw and he tumbled to the ground for the mandatory 8 count. That impacted on the scorecards and Bumbury went on to lose the fight by a close 2-1 verdict. Another Bumbury, this time, Shemar (FYF), entered the ring against Squalie Wright (Essq) and the two engaged in a delightful slugfest. Bumbury then lashed out with a vicious right hook that forced the referee to institute the mandatory 8 count over Wright. However, the affected boxer reentered the fray and matched his opponent’s blows to take the second round and set up an interesting final round. Both pugilists, though obviously tired, refused to relent and the crowd was treated to a slugfest as first one, then the other boxer seized the advantage. When the bell sounded, both pugilists were engaged in a vicious centre ring exchange. It was indeed a pity that one had to lose. In the end it was Wright who carted off the honours. Odeny Moore continued his winning ways for the Essequibo Boxing Gym after

scoring a points decision over his gym mate, Dishon Allicock in the 90-94lbs division. Moore took quite a while to get going, allowing Allicock to pile up his points. Moore eventually got his rhythm and regained control of the bout from halfway of the second and controlled all of the third round, to clinch the verdict. Elijah Insanally (HE) needed just 48secs to convince Anthony Camacho (YA) that he was the better boxer. A vicious wallop followed by several more and it was all over and Insanally was crowned the 95-99lbs champion. Shaka Moore (Essq) was also in winning mode, earning a points decision over Stephon Green (HE) in the 105-109lbs division, while Green’s gym mate, Travis Hubbard, made amends by taking a points decision over Quincy Boyce (GDF) in the 118-125lbs class. GDF bantamweight representative, Wincel Thomas, continued his winning ways with a lopsided victory over Stefon Nedd moments before Kevin Tinga-Lee (GDF) outpointed his gym mate, Jamal Mona in the lightweight category. Kelon King (FYF) was crowned the jnr/welterweight champion after he had outboxed GDF representative, Aquincy Harvey, while Linden Daniels (GDF) outpointed his gym mate, Kevon Fordyce to claim the welterweight elite title. Republican, Kevon Rodney, then forced his gym mate, William Hendricks to Continued on page 27

Try as he might, Shemar Bumbury could not evade Orwayne Harris’ straight right and the latter boxer went on to win.

Part of the action in the game between Mahaica Super Star and Better Hope Warriors yesterday.

By Zaheer Mohamed Lennox Marks stroked a fine century as Farm XI defeated Mahaica Super Star by 34 runs when action in the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL)\Digimax competition commenced yesterday at Everest Cricket Club ground. Playing in the Open category, Marks hit three fours and thirteen sixes and got support from Andrew Singh 34 (2x4, 3x6) as Farm XI posted 155-3 off their allotted 12 overs, batting first. L. Latchman took 2-22. Mahaica Superstars in reply were bowled out for 121 in 11.5 overs. M. Bob made 25 as Sheldon Perch grabbed 3-19, Ravindra Sarabjeet 3-12 and Patrick Khan 2-33. In other action, Better Hope Warriors got the better of Farm XI by 5 wickets. Farm XI took first strike and were skittled for 108 in 11.4 overs. Rajesh Reddy led with 41,

while Patrick Khan and Rawle Reid made 15 each. Nasir Khan claimed 3-16 and Feroze Khan 3-26. Better Hope Warriors responded with 1115 in 10 overs. Ravi Singh top scored with 30 while Chris Deonarine made 28 and Sunil Seeraj 17. Andrew Singh, Patrick Khan and Reyaz Haniff had 1 wicket apiece. Mahaica Super Star overcame Better Hope Warriors by 4 runs. Mahaica scored 113-9 in 12 overs after batting first. Quincy Holder 24 and Jagdesh Persaud 18 were their main run scorers as Nasir Khan picked up 3-20, Feroze Khan and W. Narine took 2 each. Better Hope in their turn at the crease managed 109 before they were bowled out in 12 overs. R. Rooplall stroked 35 and Sunil Seeraj 20; Colin Gordon bagged 4-19 for the winners. In the Over 35 division, Park Rangers beat Mahaica by 8 wickets. Mahaica batted first

and fell for 83 in 19 overs. Tony Singh was their best bowler with 4-8 while Mark Fung took 2-8. Park Rangers had little trouble in reaching their target. Richard Persaud stroked 39 and Danny Mohanram chipped in with 18 not out as they won the game in 12 overs finishing on 88-2. Meanwhile, the Banks DIH\Cloud Nine 8 over softball cricket competition is schedule to start on June 19 at the Banks DIH ground. This competition will see the first place team taking home $240,000 and the runner up $100,000; the beat batsman and bowler will receive $5,000 each. Matches will be played on 21st, 26th, 28thwhile the final will take place on June 29, and action starts at 18:00hrs each day. Entrance fee is $30,000. Interested teams can contact Samuel Kingston on 6149536.

Patrick April Inter School U-17 Memorial football to start today in Berbice The top schools in the New Amsterdam/ Canje catchment area will once again take to the football field when play in the Inaugural Patrick “Patto” April Inter School U17 Knockout football competition kicks off today with two matches at the Scott’s Church Ground, Princess Elizabeth Road, New Amsterdam. The competition, which is organised by the Hearts of Oak Master Football Club, will see eight schools participating in the 60 minutes encounters. The schools down to compete are - New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NAMS), New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary School (NAMS), Berbice High School (BHS), Berbice Educational Institute (BEI), Vryman’s Erven Secondary School (VESS), Tutorial Academy Secondary School (CSS) and Canje Secondary School (CSS) and School of the Nations (SON). The one week competition will see eight matches being played over four days. In the matches scheduled for today, CSS take on SON in the first game, while BHS will match skills with NATI in what is expected to be a close encounter.

Tomorrow’s games will see VESS coming up against BEI, while NAMS and TASS will collide in the second game. Wednesday is semifinal day with the winners of today’s matches meeting in the first match, while Tuesday victors will take centre stage in the second encounter. Thursday will see the teams clashing in the finals and the third place play off. Starting time on all the days is 14:30 hrs. The presentation ceremony will take place immediately after the completion of the final. The top three teams will be presented with trophies and other accolades, while there will also be prizes for the top individual performers including the most valuable player, best goalkeeper, best defender, the best midfielder and best striker. Patrick April or “Patto” as he was known, was a popular football player and butcher in Berbice and Guyana who went on to represent Berbice on a number of occasions at various levels of the game. He once formed a potent combination with the famous Humphrey and Alphonso siblings that dominated the football arena. Coordinator of the tourney is Neil “Grizzly” Humphrey. (Samuel Whyte)