Kaieteur News
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Friday June 15, 2018
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
MISMANAGEMENT, THEN AND NOW
U
rgent action is needed to improve the country's fiscal management in order to reduce inflation and avoid significant devaluation of our currency in relation to the benchmark U.S dollar. The devaluation of our currency is due to a number of issues, including the continuing tepid and relatively anemic growth in the economy, a huge negative trade balance, lower production, massive increase in imports and excessive borrowing. These are some of the problems that must be solved quickly. It is estimated that for every one billion dollars of goods exported from the country, there is $4.5 billion in imports. Such burgeoning negative balance of trade could lead to a drop in the country's foreign exchange reserves. The classical economic theory and understanding between exchange rate and economic performance is that a country's currency value is determined by its relation to its trading partners, in terms of its production or the lack thereof. In other words, money facilitates the exchange of goods and services in contrast to the previous system of bartering. But money is of no value unless it is not backed by the production of goods and services within a country. This was evident in the United States in 1929 during the Great Depression when the economy crashed. It had deleterious effects on the domestic, economic, social and political situation in the U.S. and around the world. In this period, the value of the U.S. currency took a precipitous slide and became useless due to the nonproductive, depressed economic sector. It was rumoured that people used the money as wallpaper in their homes. This experience gave birth to several economic theories, the most prominent being the “Demand and Supply Side Economics” which influenced President Franklyn Roosevelt's “New Deal” programme and revived the American economy. However, the economic law of supply and demand and its impact on prices remain universal, regardless of the political models of democratic liberalism or totalitarianism (communism). But each country has had its peculiar experiences in its march to achieve economic viability and social harmony, which are the primary objectives of all nations. Guyana is no exception in this regard, but its economic management has not produced the results that the nation has longed for. Rampant corruption and the inequitable distribution of the country's wealth during the last administration have made the rich much richer, the poor far poorer, and brought unprecedented levels of uncertainty. For our youths and for those who have forgotten that period, we owe it to them to revisit it in order to bring greater clarity about what happened. It is not an attempt to lambast the last administration, but to purge its economic and political distortions, omissions, embellishments and dishonesty. The steep stretching of the truth and the misleading of young people about the fiscal mismanagement then, are dangerous, and warrant a strong rebuttal. To now hear all the nonsense being peddled by the opposition about this government, which is in the process of cleaning up its huge mess, is deceptive. What is hidden is the massive corruption, the gigantic flight of capital and the loss of jobs under the last government that amounted to a significant loss of percentage of GDP. Instead of hope and change, the people cringed as life became oppressively difficult. Many wondered whether there was any coherent economic plan. The acute polarization of a large segment of society and the widespread social alienation of the poor was horrendous. It was a rough period. Only a few benefited from the classic mismanagement of the economy then, and sadly, this administration seems to be heading in the same direction.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
Make those concessions public DEAR EDITOR, We note recent comments in the media by Dereck Chin, the owner of Movie Towne where he complains about Guyana Government delays in processing his duty free concessions. I would be grateful to know what concessions and facilities were granted, including any reduced tariffs on electricity. We have requested the same from Go-Invest, who to date has not even acknowledged our request. For the record, the previous Government granted us concessions for the AC units and also INTERNAL
materials and equipment in the setup of the Cinemas. This did not extend to building materials, plumbing, steel, electrical, steel frames, equipment or anything else whatsoever. We are kindly requesting that full disclosure and transparency for any concessions being granted, to this similar business, including any concessionary rates by GPL, brokered by the previous Government. At the end of the day, it would be extremely unfair to allow a foreignbased company to come to Guyana and compete advantageously, against a local
one, especially in this economy, which is still adjusting to the new economic realities. Minister Winston Jordan has repeatedly stated that all these concessions to foreign based companies should NOT be kept a secret. We call for Transparency as outlined by the Honourable Minister. We hope this publication can encourage Go-Invest to be forthcoming with the information being requested. With Regards, Roy Beepat Chairman Giftland Group.
Fasting purifies the soul and heals the world DEAR EDITOR, Eid Mubarak greetings to Guyana and the world; Eid Ul Fitr is the marvelous day of peace, love, goodwill, charity, and harmony. It is the day of celebration in purification and without fanfare, but a celebration that is worthy for the 'faster'. The person who is fasting is now the embodiment of perfection, for, as the prophets of religions did in ancient times, he fasted for an entire month. He, like the prophets, is embedded with a spiritual dynamo as those of yore. Prophet Abraham fasted and got enlightenment and closeness (Taqwa) with Allah (God Almighty), as did Moses who did marvelous miracles with the permission of God. Jesus Christ imbibed the power of healing after
fasting on the Mount and denying Satan. Muhammad derived his spiritual powers to travel to God and speak to him directly, received healing powers and the AlQuran (Revelations from the Creator). Peace and blessings of God be upon them all. The fasting Muslims are like those in power of goodness, closeness with God, and if they ask Allah for permission, they can also imbibe the power of healing humanity of soul and physical troubles. Even the earth and universe can receive divine healing from the Fasting Muslims after the Ramadan, for they drank of the cup of righteousness. The Holy Quran proclaims: Fasting is prescribed for you as it was
prescribed for those before you, that you may achieve Taqwa (Oneness with God, Liberation from ignorance, wisdom and understanding of the mysteries of the majestic universe). While Fasting is a Fard (necessity), one of the Pillars of Islam, it does not say compulsion, instead it says: 'Prescription!' Being the Master Doctor of humanity and the Universe, the Chief Healer, the Creator, He, Allah (God Almighty), as the Chief Doctor, prescribes Fasting because it is good for the body. It helps to regulate the blood flow, cleans the blood of platelets and fats, which are killers to man. It helps the heart by controlling pressure on it and the stomach by eating less and small amounts. It eliminates the build-up of
carcinogens in the lungs and body. It eliminates the buildup of waste in colon and intestines, which accumulated over the year. The urinary tract is cleansed along with the bladder, of sedimentation. The kidneys are in better health. Also the Muslim 'faster' could not quarrel, say vexatious and obnoxious things; could not raise his voice except in proclamation of God's wisdom. He is to continue life with these positives in his heart. The prescription brings with it the giving of the compulsory tax, Zakaat, for the development of the Islamic Community and education with propagation. But voluntary charity is the mark of refinement for the Muslim soul as well. He is (Continued on page 6)
A BELIEVER THAT RODNEY WAS in name but not in sub- public servants and other MURDERED WPA’s stance, rejected the findings workers still can’t earn a livDEAR EDITOR Thirty-eight years ago, Dr Walter Rodney was brutally murdered by the government of the day. Since June 13, 1980 supporters of Rodney and Forbes Burnham have sparred, mostly indirectly, over Burnham’s innocence in the matter. Did he know of the deed? Did he order it? Many Rodney supporters would answer those questions in the affirmative while most Burnham supporters would exonerate the founder leader. Some Burnham supporters who have had the courage to accept responsibility for the deed have charged Rodney with intending to violently overthrow the government and they justify his murder on those grounds. Before Rodney’s murder, there were political murders and since June 1980 there have been other political murders in Guyana. I know many Burnham supporters who have condemned those political murders after 1980 and have rubbished the claims by the offending government— not their government, of course— that the victims were trying to violently overthrow them. The present government, which includes Rodney
of the Commission of Inquiry that found the Burnham government guilty of the offence. How could the founderleader, the god-like visionary of our independence be ever guilty of involvement in such acts, they ask? It is the contradiction of our GuyaneseCaribbean psyche that we are not ready to contemplate and accept. But it is one that we must inevitablyconfront not before long. Not even oil will spare us that historical task. I shall not cease reminding us of that task. So, we remember Rodney today, not to glorify him as some would have us believe— who Jah bless no man curse. His glory lies in his undying contribution to Guyana-Caribbean, African and world civilization which directly enriches the minds of serious worker-thinkers and finds its way in policies that daily free humanity from the shackles of ignorance and unfreedom of all kinds all over the world. Where Walter Rodney walks and dwells he takes an honorable Guyana with him. Give Thanks. We remember Rodney today to remind Guyana that our Guyanese independence is still a long way from the freedom we deserve. We remember Rodney to remember that
ing wage, that sugar workers still cry out for justice, that crime and violence still haunt our streets and our homes, that government still remains the personal property of the governors, that ethnic mistrust still is the rule. We remember Rodney to remind Guyana that political fear is still part of governance; that political spite still walks the halls of governance; that governors still like power and its trappings more than serious policy; that the poor is still powerless, and that peoples power is still suppressed by dictatorship. And above all, we remember Rodney to irritate and disturb the enemies of freedom for all and uplift the angels of hope, resistance and overcoming. For me, freedom can only be attained by the overthrow of bad governance—it was so in Rodney’s time and so it is thirty-eight years after his murder. As Martin Carter wrote back then on Rodney’s murder: “Assassins of conversation/ They bury the voice/ They assassinate, in the beloved Grave of the voice/ never to be silent.” David Hinds Believer that Walter Rodney was murdered by the Government
THE 40-YEAR ODYSSEY DEAR EDITOR: The span of time covering this Oil and Gas episode which began when the late Communist American Lady was President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana December 15, 1997 – Aug 11, 1999. According to present pronouncements, oil shall flow in 2020 thus, 22 years would have passed. Who can explain the irony of a dyed-in-the-wool Communist sitting with an ultra Capitalist Octopus such as EXXONMOBIL and coming up with such ostentation in this diametric scenario? What do they have in common when we remember the McCarthy Anti – Communist era of the 50’s? Can anyone see an invisible silver thread connecting these two antagonists? Who
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remembers the visit of Dr. Cheddi Jagan meeting with President John F. Kennedy and the controversy generated thereby? The foreign-born citizens are prohibited from being elected Presid e n t o f t h e USA. As precedent shows, this prohibition does not apply in Guyana but there is a related corollary discriminating against born Guyanese. Seeing the genesis of the birth of EXXONMOBIL in Guyana, the depth and breadth of this imposition and dispossession for 40 years has to be unprecedented anywhere in the world. We can talk about this for 40 years. The present value of Guyana’s currency is not counting for much now. What
view has anyone of values on both sides in 40 years? In this light, the legacy of the treachery should be seen by all. We are now looking at a 62-year blight on our Nation. This is intolerable and must be dealt with free from the “giveaway” syndrome. John De Barros
IS THE GUYANA CHRONICLE SO DESPERATE? HELLO EDITOR, I read with alarm the report published by the Guyana Chronicle on June 13, 2018, headlined ‘PPP frets after candidate loses out on GECOM post’. The report says: “Back in 2016, Persaud was accused of being corrupt. It was alleged that despite having a public relations officer (PRO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) at the time, Persaud carried out some of that officer’s duties during the last elections. “Sources within the commission had told the Guyana Chronicle that Persaud took charge of all Civic and Voter Education responsibilities despite their falling within the ambit of the PRO…in 2014, Persaud while appointed as DCEO, wrote and signed
documents as the entity’s public relations officer. In documents seen by this publication, Persaud had signed as PRO and DCEO.” Editor, the fact is that Mr. Persaud was GECOM’s Public Relations Officer. He was appointed the Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) on August 12, 2014. A report in the very Guyana Chronicle, dated August 13, 2014, headlined ‘Vishnu Persaud GECOM’s new DCEO/ DCNR’, makes this fact clear. At the time of his appointment, the vacancy of Public Relations Officer had not been filled. He acted in the post until someone was appointed. So obviously, in 2014, there would have been documents released by Mr. Persaud where he either
signed as PRO (ag) and DCEO.Is the Guyana Chronicle so desperate to defend the unilaterally appointed GECOM Chairman, Justice (retired) James Patterson, that it tells blatant lies?Lies will not distort the facts.The fact is that Mr. Persaud was the number-one ranked candidate for the post of DCEO, after an evaluation by a four-person panel (two PNCR and two PPP/C-nominated Commissioners). The fact is that the unilaterally appointed GECOM Chairman in using his casting vote to reject the number-one ranked candidate also rejected the principles of meritocracy and fairness, which should guide the hiring process of any institution, more so GECOM. Regards, Attiya Baksh
Where is the solar farm Movie Towne’s Chin promised UG? DEAR EDITOR, It is with some consternation that one reads that Movie Towne investor, Derek Chin, is complaining about having to wait six weeks for a connection from GPL. After all, he signed an MOU with the University of Guyana to set up a solar farm that would not only power the cinema complex but also the UG campus by December 2017. No need for GPL right? To date, there is no sign of this or any plans for him to build a new hous-
ing complex for students. Beware of the investor with empty promises.Moreover, while he complains about delays of months, the same Chin said in 2011, the entire cinema complex is expected to be completed in under two years, most likely in 2013. That was a full five years ago. Could he give us a reason why he waited so long to start construction? The sad part is that the sale of the land to Chin has in fact cost the government some $1.5B
since NICIL sold part of it to Chin for $187M in 2011 only for them to be successfully sued by the actual owners, Toolsie Persaud Ltd, for $1.7B. This is another example of how crony capitalist deals under the PPP/C are coming back to cost the taxpayer. Earl Hamilton
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Justifying the lease of the Twin Otter DEAR EDITOR, Your front page article in your June 11 edition is written with a lot of inaccuracies and is very subjective. I say that because we were a commercial operator in Guyana for over five years . This sounds like either Gerry Gouveia or Annette is either disgruntled or trying to smear the company. Being a commercial operator in Guyana for so long I am aware of the predatory practices of Roraima Airways and Air Services. I had to use the services of both at some point while doing business in Guyana, so I am speaking from experience. Aurora mining company probably had no choice and found it cheaper to lease its own aircraft under what is known as a “wet lease”, in-
ternationally. The means the company is operating the aircraft for its own purposes, privately, and leasing the aircraft and crew to get it done. That is NOT considered commercial operations anywhere in the world. A similar analogy is just like renting your own bus and hiring a driver to move your own goods to the market instead of hiring a truck or taxi that was overcharging you. This is done all the time in the USA and most other developed countries in the world. I can say that based on my aviation experience and background. I operated a flight school and charter operation in the USA and in Guyana until 2016. Raj Persaud Oxford Aviation Inc.
THE INEQUALITY THAT EXISTS IN GUYANA DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me to extend my sincere condolences to the family of the Beyoncé Ross, the 15 year old champion cyclist. Mr. Editor, I do wish to use this letter to comment on the inequalities in Guyana. I saw in the media that the Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, was admitted to GPHC with a little chest pain. I am sure she was admitted to Intensive Care Unit, which was clearly not medically indicated. I also read that she is scheduled to travel overseas for further medical treatment. I am sure the taxpayers will foot the bill. Compare and contrast that to 15 year old Ms. Ross. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor three months ago and had to suffer in Guyana. I am no neurosurgeon, so I do not know the
Fasting purifies the soul and ... From page 4 encouraged to give to the nonmuslims, and those who just ask, or whom one notices is in need. This is Khairaat (voluntary charity), which is the mark of distinction, of peace and goodwill; the hallmark of universal brotherhood and love. Muslims are to protect and care for all humanity and the entire world according to the Teaching of Quran and our Holy Prophet. But more so, we are encouraged to give food and nourishment to those in need in Islam, even the Eid Sadakat, so the poor Muslims could have a pleasant meal, and to share with the non-Muslims for universal love and goodwill. Our Quran, and our Holy Prophet teach us not only for the Ramadan but for all times; a Muslim cannot go t o bed knowing his neighbour is hungry. This is the explicit instruction for love of humanity; it does not say a fellow Muslim, but his neighbour, anyone in his
community. It means even an animal could be a neighbour, a bird, dog; once it can breathe it is a neighbour. It is no easy task to have to conduct ones daily duties in occupation and business in western society (in Arabia, commerce swi t c h e s t o night), and then fulfill the five d a i l y p r a y e r s a n d more, with the late night prayers called taraweeh (late evening prayers after the fast is broken), and then early morning, day and night recital of t h e Q u r an and the voluntary morning prayers between 2-5am, and again the morning prayers at the breaking of the dawn. This is worship in motion, in physical exercises of the body and mind, with little or no food, and little sleep. In the end, w h e n t h e time comes for the ending of Ramadan, the Muslims cry, feel pain as the great spiritual journey to God and Spiritual
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Enlightenment, has ended. But with the great feelings of uplift as he is now closer to God, a content and humble being worshipping the Lord God, and respecting more the hungry and those in poverty for he volunteered hunger; to taste it, he becomes more spiritually awakened, but he empathises with the needy, those who are hungry, and becomes one who continues to worship, serve, being more charitable. Enjoy this day fellow Muslims. You followed the Prescription of Allah to the letter, and you are now one in God's closen e s s ( Ta q w a ) , a h e a l e r o f mankind and the earth.Happy Eid Mubarak to our entire Guyana! Let us continue to sp read the love, peace, goodwill and harmony amongst the peoples of our great country, and continue to live in dignity and love. HAJI ROSHAN KHAN Chairman/Founder The Electric Mosque: Teachings of Islam
prognosis. What I do know is that if she had any political connection with any of the political parties she would have been flown overseas. What this young lady has done for Guyana is much more than what any of our politicians has done for this country. It is inequalities like this that gets me angry; it is inequalities like this that made me hate Guyana; and it is inequalities like this that make me describe Guyana as a wasteland. I was told that Jagdeo had a little diarrhoea and was immediately flown overseas, a trip paid for by the taxpayers. The public and private death chamber hospitals were not good enough to handle Jagdeo’s faeces. Moses Nagamottoo was also flown overseas, a trip paid for by the taxpayers. Same with Leslie Ramsammy. Same with Granger. And the comedy continues. Ms. Ross was diagnosed brain dead and was placed on life support. In layman terms, she was dead. Why place her on life support? What were they hoping to achieve? Why give the family unnecessary suffering and false hope? They completely missed the boat. They waited three months to act. Ms. Ross had hydrocephalus (fluid around the brain) and likely her brain was forced down into the spine from the increase pressure from the fluid. That’s terminal. Nothing could have been done at that stage. Placing her on life support
was a complete waste of time. The only circumstance that would indicate a patient like that going on life support was if there was an organ donor. Time is needed to harvest the organs. What Ms. Ross needed was to be placed in a hospice and not intensive care. Placing her in intensive care with zero chance of survival was cruel to her and her family. It is this sort of inequality I had experienced as a dirt poor orphan that made me develop such a dislike for Guyana. There were rules for the poor and rules for the rich. I will tell you two experiences I had. I was once part of a Queen’s College WhatsApp group. One of my former schoolmates placed on the forum the case where 106 candidates wrote the driving theory examination and 207 passed. Some of my privileged former QC buddies started to boast that when they were 15 years old, their parents brought home their licences and advised them to drive carefully. No theory test was done. No driving test was done. Compare that with my experiences. The police would harass poor young innocent ghetto youths every day. That’s what I saw. That’s what I experienced. No privileges for us from the police. When I highlighted this inequality, many saw it as me having an issue with rich people. I don’t. I have a problem with inequality. Also in that very group, one of my former school
mates who resides in Canada had what we all believed was racial discrimination. My comment was that as a black man in a predominantly white country, these things happen all the time but it is important to challenge them in an intelligent and dignified way. My former school mates took umbrage to people of his ilk being called black people. They would wish to be characterised as brown people. Ridiculous nonsense. Next time they pass through JFK airport and they are stopped for ‘special treatment’, they should say we are not black, we are brown. Let’s see how far that will get them. Fools. Mohandas Gandhi tried similar tactics when he was in South Africa. He said he is not black, he is brown. They should find out what was the outcome of his argument. Inequalities and racial tension will continue to destroy Guyana with this sort of third world mentality. Guyana has a far way to go in terms of inequality . The experiences of the rich are different from the experiences of the poor. I feel for Ms. Ross’ parents and brothers. I sympathise with them. It would be interesting to get their opinions on Guyana. I am quite sure they will have similar opinions to mine. They will see Guyana as a wasteland that only the rich and politically affiliated enjoy. Regards Dr. Mark Devonish MBBS MSc MRCP(UK)
SELECT THE BEST DEAR EDITOR, The Windies team selected for the Global T20 Tournament in Canada in a few days is an opportunity to groom future Windies stars. At least that’s what Courtney Browne, Chairman of the selectors, would have us believe.After all, it sounds
wonderful from a public relations perspective. Unfortunately, that’s all that it is. How can you select future stars and not include any or all – Kirst Kallicharan, Bhaskar Yadram, or Amir Jangoo? All three showcased their outstanding talent recently and in the past. Their exclusion is entirely in keeping with the selection process in Windies cricket for decades, however. If Browne and company are sincere in moving West Indies cricket forward, the
best players must and should always be selected. Instead, Browne and his cohorts continue to hijack West Indies cricket by a random hit and miss selection process where a certain bizarre criterion is followed. Please give each and every deserving player the same opportunity to represent the Windies that you are giving to others. It is really the only decent thing to do. Thank you. Tony Boodhoo Ontario, Canada.
GuyOil forces employees to sign non- disclosure agreement By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell
T
he Guyana Oil Com pany (GuyOil) yes terday made its employees sign non-disclosure agreements. GuyOil had a staff meeting at the National Cultural Centre where several announcements were made. At that forum, workers attached to the State-owned company were told that it is mandatory to sign a non-disclosure agreement. This instruction comes just 10 days after Kaieteur News published an article highlighting that the company created two new positions and ranked one of the positions second in the company. The company then filled that position with Shundell Brotherson who was a sitting member of the Board. Kaieteur News quoted immediate employees of GuyOil stating that Brotherson’s qualifications are not in keeping with what was required. Also, employees shared with this newspaper a document from an independent firm that told GuyOil that the hiring of Brotherson would raise “ethical issues” being that she was a sitting member of the Board. Also, of the six persons shortlisted by that firm, Brotherson ranked second to last. The firm, that was paid to shortlist the candidates for the position, also noted that others who applied were more qualified for the job. Further, Kaieteur News understands that GuyOil only turned to that firm after another private firm presented a shortlist that did not include Brotherson. To get this position,
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Brotherson had to be interviewed and approved by her colleagues on the Board. The position of Corporate Services Manager attracts an over $530,000 basic salary per month; cell phone, vehicle and other allowances are not included in that sum. Further, employees note that five persons are currently operating in positions for which they are not qualified, “this is the case while qualified persons are being stifled. Some of these people do not even have a diploma.” This year, GuyOil fired its Marketing and Sales Manager Eric Whaul. Finance Manager Uma Joseph – Daniels was instructed to resign. Also, within the last year, at least five senior managers parted ties with the company. There were about three acting CEO’s. The employees who spoke to Kaieteur News on the grounds of anonymity said, “Make no mistake, GuyOil is still financially sound. But if we continue along this trajectory, the current successes will quickly disappear.” The non-disclosure document that employees signed made it clear that information about employment should not be leaked. Below is an extract from the document. “FOR GOOD CONSIDERATION, and in consideration of being employed by The Guyana Oil Company (GUYOIL), the undersigned employee hereby agrees and acknowledges: 1. That during the course of my employ there may be disclosed to me certain trade secrets of the Company; said trade secrets consisting but not necessarily limited to:
(a) Technical information: Methods, processes, formulae, compositions, systems, techniques, inventions, machines, computer programs and research projects. (b) Business information: Customer lists, pricing data, sources of supply, financial data and marketing, production, or merchandising systems or plans. 2. I agree that I shall not during, or at any time after the termination of my employment with the Company, use for myself or others, or disclose or divulge to others including future employees, any trade secrets, confidential information including personnel/personal employee data/information, or any other proprietary data of the Company in violation of this agreement. 3. That upon the termination of my employment from the Company: (a) I shall return to the Company all documents and property of the Company, including but not necessarily limited to: drawings, blueprints, reports, manuals, correspondence, customer lists, computer programs, and all other materials and all copies thereof relating in any way to the Company’s business, or in any way obtained by me during the course of employ. I further agree that I shall not retain copies, notes or abstracts of the foregoing. (b) The Company may notify any future or prospective employer or third party of the existence of this agreement, and shall be entitled to full injunctive relief for any breach. (c) This agreement shall be binding upon me and my personal representatives and successors in interest, and shall inure to the benefit of the Company, its successors and assigns.”
Career criminal found dead in abandoned house in N/A
P
olice are investigating the cause of death of a known bandit whose badly decomposed body was found in an abandoned house at Savannah Park K Housing Scheme in New Amsterdam, Berbice. The discovery was made around midday on Wednesday. The man, Leroy Hopkinson, was last seen alive on Saturday. The body was found lying face down in the unfurnished living room of a one-flat building where he had moved in some months ago. According to residents they were bothered by a strong stench in the area. They first thought it was that of an animal. On Wednesday morning, the stench became unbearable, and as such neighbours decided to make checks and noticed that the stench was emanating from the abandoned house. Upon checking they made the discovery of the badly decomposed body of the man. A report was made at the Central Police Station and ranks visited the scene. Due to the advanced state of decomposition, the body was not stored at any funeral parlour or the Hospital Mortuary. It was placed in a box and taken to the Stanleytown Cemetery, where a Post Mortem Examination is expected to be conducted shortly. According to the police, Hopkinson was a specialist in break and enter and larceny offences. During July 2015 at Main and Pope Streets, New Amsterdam, Hopkinson and others, armed with guns, robbed Nazmoon Ali called “Data” of $380,000 in cash, $150,000 worth in cell phone cards and one gold chain valued at
Leroy Hopkinson $100,000. They were also charged with robbing Feroze Sammy Ali of one 9mm. semiautomatic pistol, 17 live rounds. During 2014 whilst employed as a garbage collector at the Mayor and Town Council, Hopkinson robbed his colleague Barbara Ramdeo of $37,000 which represented a ‘box hand’ the woman had received from other employees for the week. The woman had just collected the money and was on her way home when she was accosted by the accused in a lonely area.
Her screams attracted persons in the vicinity who responded to her plea for help and saw the accused fleeing. He was pursued and in an attempt to make good his escape, he jumped into a trench. He was retrieved from the trench and given a sound thrashing until he was saved by the police. The money was found in his pocket.
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Grove bandits linked to other armed robberies Two of the three bandits who were nabbed Wednesday in a Grove, East Bank Demerara supermarket have criminal records which go back at least four years. Police have identified the suspects as Ryan Bannister, 27, of Herstelling, East Bank Demerara; Roy Smith, 33, of Herstelling Sea dam, East Bank Demerara and Jerrold Da Silva, 45, of Coverden, East Bank Demerara.
They are due to appear in court today. Bannister and Da Silva were among four men who were arrested in June, 2015, following two separate robberies on the West Coast of Demerara. It was alleged that two men invaded the home of 54year-old Wazim Khan of Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara. They allegedly held him at gunpoint before
- one was wounded in Lusignan Prison riot escaping with a mobile phone and video camera. They reportedly then held up Rasheed Ramesh of Hague Backdam at gunpoint and robbed him of a pedal cycle. However, police, with the aid of residents, captured Bannister and DaSilva. Police recovered an
The suspects after being apprehended unlicenced revolver and the stolen bicycle. Bannister was out on bail in connection with a June 2016 armed robbery at Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara. The robbery was committed by three men who, while armed with a handgun and cutlasses, invaded a home and tied up a woman and her two daughters. The suspects escaped with cash and jewellery. Bannister was among several Lusignan Prison inmates who were wounded in
August 2017, during an attempt on the life of a prisoner accused of being an informant. At around 04.00 hrs on Wednesday last, Bannister, Smith, and Da Silva allegedly broke into the Number One Supermarket at Lot 18 Grove Public Road, after tying up the on-duty guard. They then placed him in a bathroom at the back of the building before proceeding to the top of the three-storey premises, via the back steps. However, the 53-year-old guard managed to untie his
bonds and alert residents, who summoned ranks from the Grove Police Station. On arriving, the ranks realised that the intruders were still inside. They called for backup and more ranks arrived and surrounded the building. After a 45-minute standoff, the bandits surrendered and were detained. Police said that a .38 revolver with six live matching rounds as well as a quantity of phone cards and a sum of cash were recovered from the suspects.
Alleged wife-beating cop to be slapped with six charges Sticking to its promise of a zero tolerance response to domestic violence, the Guyana Police Force is preparing to throw the book at a lance corporal accused of wife battery. The rank is scheduled to appear in court today on six charges related to the alleged beating of his spouse and his sister-in law, whom he allegedly struck with a spade. Kaieteur News understands that the man is to be charged with wounding; as-
sault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm; damage to property, two threatening language charges and riotous behaviour in public. The rank remains under close arrest at the Tactical Services Unit (TSU). Kaieteur News was told that the assault occurred some days ago at the policeman’s East Coast Demerara home. Sources said that he first assaulted his spouse, then struck his sister-in-law with a spade when
she intervened. The matter was reported at the Turkeyen Police Station. Both women allegedly produced medical reports. Kaieteur News understands that the woman had filed previous complaints against her husband. He was reportedly always warned, but was never arrested. The allegations come at a time when the Force has been working to educate its ranks about responding to incidents of domestic violence.
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Friday June 15, 2018
‘People’s power, no dictator’ - the battle cry of Walter Rodney One of the ironies of history is how often those who study history fall victim to that very history. Walter Rodney, who died on June 13, 1980, understood dictatorship better than most. Yet, he fell victim to a dictatorship. Rodney had christened Forbes Burnham as a dictator. He caricatured Burnham as King Kong to illustrate the towering and beastly nature of the Burnham dictatorship. In one of his speeches which was titled “People’s power, no dictator”, Rodney defined a dictator as someone who elevates himself above all other citizens, and often makes claims to be closer to God than mere mortals. As a historian, Rodney noted that it was the practice in the past for emperors, kings and nobles to easily become dictators by sourcing their despotic acts to either royal power and authority or sacred origin. Burnham and other modern dictators had no such claims. Therefore the
modern day dictators employed the cult of personality to prove that they were superior beings. Rodney noted that Idi Amin considered himself a physical and intellectual giant. Amin even once challenged the great Muhammad Ali to a fight. Eric Gairy, a Caribbean dictator, dabbled in the occult and harboured illusions of being an expert in science. Burnham created his own cult of personality. His loyalists spread the myth that he was a superb orator, before Eusi Kwayana exposed his mimicry of Churchillian pauses. Burnham’s picture adorned the covers of exercise books which were distributed free to school children. He was obsessed with pomp and pageantry and he even dressed himself, quite ridiculously, in a General’s uniform, even though his military skills could hardly command a boys’ scout. The second characteristic of a dictator, according to Rodney, was that he was accountable and responsible
to no one. The dictator sees himself as all-powerful, holding in his palm the existence of people. It is for this reason, Rodney argued, that civil rights are threatened under dictatorship, because nothing is given as a right but only as a favour of the supreme ruler. The third feature of dictatorship, according to Rodney, was arbitrary rule. The dictator is bound only by his interpretation of things; he makes his own rules and supersedes the rule of law with arbitrary decisions. The fourth characteristic of a dictator is that they tend generally to surround themselves with mediocrity, opportunists, lackeys, bootlickers and stooges. Burnham had many of these around him who, if he kicked them in the butt, would thank him for the compliment. He treated women, in the latter days of his rule, with contempt. One of the reasons why a major African organization broke with him was over the sexual molestation in his
“It turns my stomach to hear Trotman quote scriptures and praise ExxonMobil as a saviour”
- Jagdeo By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell Former President Bharrat Jagdeo cannot stand to hear government ministers, particularly Raphael Trotman, sing praises to oil giant, ExxonMobil. It turns his stomach. At least this is what he told the press yesterday. Jagdeo was at the time responding to a question posed by Kaieteur News. Jagdeo was notably absent from recent oil and gas fora. In fact, this Tuesday saw the official launch of Liza Phase One Development and ExxonMobil held a cocktail reception at Cara Lodge. Jagdeo did not attend. It was after he was asked whether he refused to attend the event to make a statement or if it were a case where he was not invited, Jagdeo revealed that it brings him great physical discomfort to have to listen to certain ministers speak in the manner they do. Jagdeo said, “I cannot handle the platitude and the small talk sometimes.” “I do not want to disparage activities…but I cannot listen to Trotman quote the scriptures. With all the illegalities he has presided over, he still quotes the scriptures
Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo extensively. It turns my stomach to have to go through that sort of thing.” Jagdeo went on, “I am glad I did not have to be there and listen to Trotman praise Exxon like our saviour.” The politician said that it would be misguiding for Guyanese to look at any external company as a saviour. He was adamant, “We have to be our own saviour. The people of this country, we are our own saviour, but we can also destroy our country. We have a common future.” Jagdeo said that people and companies who venture to Guyana in search of our natural resources should be the least to be regarded as
saviour. He said, “We welcome them but they have a motive to make money. That is not bad but we have to determine where our country is going and I am not in favour of treating anybody who comes here as our saviour and let’s go down on our knees and be beholden to them simply because they spent a little money in our economy. Our ancestors fought hard to come out of slavery and indentureship and we became independent…I cringe, literally, when I see people, who are supposed to represent us, say these things. It makes the others laugh at us. There is no end to the sycophancy that goes on.”
government to which he turned a blind eye. The fifth characteristic of dictatorship, according to Rodney, was its employment of the art of manipulation. According to Rodney, there was nothing which was seen as outside of the reach of Burnham. This is why, argued Rodney, dictators tend to confuse the public treasury with their own private bank books. Dictators, he noted also, are prone to spite vendetta and the politics of grudge.Finally, he noted that dictators fall under the illusion of being efficient,
when in fact their rule stifles initiative and creativity. In the name of efficiency, they try to control everything and everyone. The dictator tries to dominate all political space by suppressing criticism and opposition. Rodney’s expose of dictatorship provides the present generation with signs by which they can judge dictatorial tendencies of political leaders. Dictators present themselves as supermen, they cultivate a cult of personality, are accountable to no one, are prone to unilateral decisions
and actions, surround themselves with ‘yes’ men, are masters of manipulation and delude themselves and their subjects that things are better than they seem. Rodney fell victim to the Burnham dictatorship, a dictatorship which he understood so well. Tomorrow’s column will examine Rodney’s assessment of the Burnham dictatorship.
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Kaieteur News
Friday June 15, 2018
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Mr. Parkinson told me he is removing the sign; oh really! By now you would know that I was there on the seawall when the roundabout was being constructed. I am on the seawall each morning with my dog and we both saw the roundabout being laid down. One day, I wanted to meet the engineer in charge to voice my doubts, because as I watched the structure going up, I didn’t believe it would substantially change the shape of the traffic. I was directed to the engineer from the Ministry of Public Works (oops, sorry again, Public Infrastructure) who is responsible for the execution of the project. With dog in hand, I met him. Our first conversation told me the engineer had a neat sense of humour. He introduced himself as Sherod Parkinson and smilingly said, “Not Sherod Duncan.” I don’t know what he meant by that. I can only assume it was a Freudian thing in relation to the Chronicle fiasco with David Hinds and
Lincoln Lewis, where Duncan figuratively exposed himself. In fact, I was told when Duncan did expose himself over that imbroglio, the Town Clerk, Royston King was perambulating the precincts of City Hall shouting; “I am vindicated! I am vindicated!” I am not a fan of King, but I would say in the fight between him and Duncan, he did come out looking better in terms of what he, King, believes in. The least said of Duncan, the better, so let’s return to Sherod Parkinson. For what transpired at our first meeting, see my column of Friday, April 27, 2018, “Was the seawall roundabout necessary?” Yesterday morning, I was at the seawall as usual with my canine friend next to me when this car drove up. The driver said, “Hello Mr. Kissoon.” I replied, and he asked; “you don’t remember me.” I didn’t and he identified himself as Sherod Parkinson. We talked about
the nature of the roundabout. I once again voiced my belief that the traffic madness will continue right at that site. Mr. Parkinson said if drivers manoeuvre the roundabout carefully, and with respect for safe driving, I will see the value of the roundabout. Then he uttered these words, “but people drive recklessly in this country”. I retorted with slightly raised decibels, “you think it is only drivers that are reckless in this country, man this entire country has broken down”. I was about to shock him, I knew I would see a certain expression on his face. I said, “there are more reckless magistrates in Guyana than minibus drivers.” It was as if Parkinson saw a funny episode of “Sanford and Son.” He just burst out with laughter and I let him know that I was serious with my statement. I suggested that I would give him evidence of this breakdown close to home;
where he works – the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. I pointed to a three-year-old sign directly at the junction of Camp Road and Young Street that instructs drivers not to cross over Camp Road to continue west on Young Street, but make a detour south into Camp Street because of road repairs ahead. Young Street was repaired. That sign is old and has now become misleading. Mr. Parkinson, quietly blurted out, “I know the sign, it was put there by the police.” I replied, “no, no, Mr. Parkinson; I asked the police to remove it and they said that was the job of the Ministry that put it there.” Parkinson said goodbye to me and my dog with the following words, “I
am going to remove that sign now.” Sherod Parkinson is going to get a rude awakening. That ancient, misleading sign is going to stay there and here is why. Parkinson is going to walk into the Ministry and inform his superiors of his intended action. These are the words that will greet him; “you bother with Freddie Kissoon and the things he writes every day; you got work to do, not remove some sign Kissoon tell you about.” And Parkinson will back down and the sign will stay there until “Noah builds another ark.” And why is Parkinson going to hear those words? Certainly not because those who spoke with him hate
Frederick Kissoon Freddie Kissoon. The words to Parkinson have nothing to do with Freddie Kissoon. The reason why the sign is going to stay there is because rational thinking left Guyana a long time ago. If you know Sherod Parkinson, ask him what I told him would happen to him if he goes into any commercial bank in Guyana to do business. Guyana broke down even before Parkinson was born.
DEM BOYS SEH
De Waterfalls paper want find some politicians Today is Eid. Dem Muslim brothers was fasting fuh more than a month. Last night was de big night. All who stick wid de teachings got every right to feel proud and happy. Dat is why dem boys understand when dem Muslims seh dis is dem Christmas. All dem political party and trade union does find time to write. Dem does show off dem writing skills. All of dem does send greetings. De greetings dem does read de same way: To my Muslim brothers and sisters. When is Easter dem does write: To my Christian brothers and sisters. When is Deepavali, de greetings does begin: To my Hindu
brothers and sisters. Is years now dem boys reading de same thing, suh fuh now dem boys decide to ban de message. Dem seh if de political parties and dem trade unions want to appeal fuh support, dem can pay fuh an advertisement. Already, dem political party owe dem newspapers a lot of money fuh ads wha dem tek out and wouldn’t pay for. Dat was since elections. One newspaper printing a big notice dat instructing people if dem see Soulja Bai, Donald and Ram Jattan, fuh send dem to de Waterfalls paper advertising department. Money outstanding. Dem boys seh dat before de elections all of dem promise to pay. Is like when a man love a
woman. He does promise she de moon and de stars but as soon as he get wha he deh after, she cork duck. She can’t collect nutten. Wha got de Waterfalls paper calling fuh de money is because de company pay Statia already and dem want back dem money. Statia don’t give credit. And dem boys plan to keep asking just like how Jagdeo keep asking de Government to trade. Was a trade offer fuh de High Court mek Jagdeo refuse to agree to de people who Soulja Bai pick. And is another trade in GECOM mek some people mekking all dis noise. Talk half and direct all dem party leaders to de Accounts Department.
Friday June 15, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Eccles man charged with shooting, robbing wash bay owner A twenty-three-year-old resident of Eccles, East Bank Demerara, who allegedly shot and robbed a wash bay owner, was yesterday remanded to prison by a City Magistrate. Jermaine Josiah, of Lot 127 CC Eccles Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The first charge alleged that on June 10, at Lombard Street, he discharged a firearm at Leroy Robinson, with intent to maim, disfigure, disable or cause grievous bodily harm. It was further alleged that Josiah, at the same location, had in his possession a .38 revolver, without being a licenced firearm holder. He was not required to plead to the two indictable charges after they were read to him by the Magistrate. It was further alleged that on the same day in question, while being in company with another individual and armed with a gun, he robbed Leroy Robinson of $27,000 cash and a cellular phone. Josiah denied this allegation after it was read to him. According to reports, the alleged victim was comfortably resting inside of his wash bay in the company of his wife when he was suddenly pounced on by Josiah. Reports also indicated that Josiah relieved the man of his phone and the cash mentioned in the charge, and although there was no resistance, the defendant shot the victim once in his left knee before escaping. The police were alerted and prompt action by a rank on motorcycle patrol resulted in the apprehension of the suspect.
Jermaine Josiah Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield objected to bail being granted to the defendant. The Magistrate after listening to the prosecutor’s submission remanded the defendant. Josiah was instructed to make his next court appearance on July 6.
Friday June 15, 2018
Dr. Arif Bulkan elected to UN Human Rights Committee Guyanese Dr. Christopher Arif Bulkan was yesterday elected to serve on the United Nations Human Rights Committee for a term of four years from 2019 – 2022. A Ministry of Foreign Affairs Press Release confirmed that Dr. Bulkan, nominated by the Government of Guyana, was elected along with the candidates of Tunisia, France, Slovenia, Greece, Japan, Uganda, Albania and Chile in the elections held during the 36th session of the meeting of States Parties to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Dr. Bulkan’s election represents the first time that a national of Guyana will serve on the Human Rights Committee. The Human Rights Committee is a body of eighteen independent experts of high moral character and recognized competence in the field of human rights that monitors implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights by its State parties. The Committee examines the reports submitted by all State
Dr. Christopher Arif Bulkan parties and issues recommendations to address concerns in the reports of the State party. Dr. Bulkan was elected in his personal capacity, and was described as “wellsuited to discharge the responsibilities of the Human Rights Committee, given his academic background and strong record of work and achievements in relation to the promotion of human rights within Guyana, the Caribbean and beyond”. He holds a Master of Law from University College London
(1997) and a Bachelors of Law from the University of West Indies (1998). He obtained a PhD in Law from the Osgoode Hall Law School, York University, in Toronto, Canada in May 2008. Dr. Bulkan co-founded the University of West Indies Rights Advocacy Project (URAP), in 2009. U-RAP promotes Human Rights and Social Justice in the Caribbean by undertaking and participating in strategic litigation, socio-legal research and legal education. Dr. Bulkan is positive that his election is a meaningful portent of the global community’s commitment to engaging the Caribbean in the work of the Human Rights Committee through the promotion of universal human rights norms and standards. He also aspires to use his tenure on the Committee to engender greater investment by countries of the region in the aims and values of the Covenant. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended its congratulations to Dr. Bulkan on his election as well as best wishes for a successful tenure as a member of the Human Rights Committee.
Friday June 15, 2018
Kaieteur News
Shooting incident with GRA officers…
Trio granted bail for breaching Customs Act
Ravindra Ramdeo The three suspects involved in the high-drama Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) anti-smuggling operation last week which ended in gunfire, and two officers being injured by shotgun pellets, appeared in court yesterday and were all able to secure bail. Thirty-seven year-old Ravindra Ramdeo, a minibus driver of Section ‘D’ Nonpareil, East Coast Demerara, Stephon Motielal, 25, a fisherman of 30 Beehive, East Coast Demerara and Trevor Motielal, 19, also a fisherman, of 30 Beehive, East Coast Demerara, stood before Magistrate Peter Hugh at the Vigilance Court. The men were represented by attorney-at-law Stanley Moore, who made their bail application. One other individual who was expected to appear in court yesterday was not there, as the police have since been unable to arrest him. Although the operation and press which surrounded the arrest of the men focused on the bullets they reportedly exchanged with officers of the GRA, it was actions contrary to the Customs Act for which the men were charged. The issue of the shooting will be handled by the police and that file is ex-
Trevor Motielal
Stephon Motielal pected to be sent for legal advice. It was the GRA which led the investigations into the breach of Customs Act, and it is the GRA which would be leading its evidence against the men. The men were charged for knowingly dealing and concealing uncustomed goods in an attempt to defraud the Guyana Revenue Authority. Ramdeo was placed on $200,000 bail, while the other two accused were placed on $400,000 bail each. The men were ordered to lodge their passports and also make checks with the station Sergeant as required. They will return to court on June 27.
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Kaieteur News
CARICOM and Cuba to strengthen relations in key areas of cooperation (CMC) The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the government of Cuba have both pledged to continue to strengthen relations in matters related to trade and the arts. This was the outcome of talks between CARICOM’s Assistant Secretary General, Human and Social Development Dr. Douglas Slater, and Cuba’s Vice Minister Rogelio Sierra Diaz, when they met at the CARICOM Secretariat on Wednesday. The issues related to a Disabilities Project, the extension of Art programmes at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Jamaica, and trade. In the discussions on the Disabilities Project, Slater, who spoke on behalf of CARICOM Secretary General Irwin LaRocque, noted that a tri-lateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), among the Government of Guyana, the Government of Cuba and CARICOM had already been signed. He explained that there was a decision to implement the Project in phases and outlined that a Centre has been constructed by the Government of Guyana and a team from Cuba is already in Guyana working on the Project. He said when the initial phase was completed in Guyana and there was a clear way forward, the Project would be extended to the
other CARICOM Member States. In response, Diaz said firm steps had been taken and there was a lot to be thankful for. He said it was now important to acquire the equipment needed. In relation to the phase of the Project that would extend it to the other CARICOM Member States, he said that the CARICOM SecretaryGeneral and staff would play a key role in achieving the goals of that phase. Both parties agreed that there were still some details that needed to be refined between CARICOM and Guyana. The Cuban Vice-Minister also gave the assurance that Cuba would provide support, knowledge and training, but emphasized that the project belonged to CARICOM. Turning to the matter of the extension of programmes in the School of Art at the Edna Manley School in Jamaica, the Cuban Ambassador said the Government of Jamaica had been contacted and the areas in which Cuba could provide assistance were identified. He explained that it was being proposed that there might be some additional infrastructural requirements for the project to move forward and various options to address this challenge were being explored. Slater expressed an interest in further engagement on the matter and also gave
an assurance that the CARICOM Secretariat would engage with the Edna Manley School to explore the available options. Assistant SecretaryGeneral, Trade and Economic Integration, Joseph Cox who was also present, spoke about a trade and economic partnership agreement that had been regionally applied in 12 Member States and highlighted that Haiti had now expressed an interest in joining the agreement. We have commenced our engagements with Haiti in this regard and we will have further engagements with Cuba regarding their inclusion and that should happen in the very near future”, Cox said. In relation to a Joint Commission in which the second protocol was signed in November 2017, he advised that Member States needed to accelerate their efforts to satisfy the legal requirements to be party to the Commission. Under the agreement, more than 300 Caribbean products would have fees removed for export to Cuba. The Cuban Vice-Minister said he understood that there were legal protocols that would have to be addressed, but implored CARICOM not to allow them to create further delays. The goal of the protocol is to improve trade relations between CARICOM and Cuba.
Former Magistrate files appeal in High Court after convicted on traffic offence One day after attorney at law and former Magistrate Chandra Sohan was found guilty of a traffic offence an appeal has been filed in the High Court. Sohan, who was facing a number of charges, appeared before Magistrate Renita Singh in the Albion Magistrate’s Court. He was charged with dangerous driving, driving under the influence of alcohol, failing to render assistance to the injured person to the nearest medical facility, and failing to stop after an accident. According to documents filed in the High Court, Sohan, through his attorneys, led by Mr. Mursalene Bacchus, is challenging the decision by Magistrate Singh to find him guilty. The lawyers are contending that the decision by the
magistrate is inconsistent, in that there were no grounds to show that Sohan was involved in any accident with the individual, Dale Roach, and that he failed to stop after an accident. Those named in the appeal are Magistrate Singh and Police Lance Corporal Nagessar The charged stemmed from an accident on August 4, 2017. While the other charges were dismissed, Sohan was found guilty on the charge of failing to transport the injured person to a nearby medical facility. He was fined $35,000. According to the charge, on August 4, 2017 on the Williamsburg Corentyne Public Road, Sohan drove motor car PJJ 6060 in a dangerous manner. Reports are that after hitting the individual, Dale
Roach, a vagrant known for roaming the streets, the attorney drove off, thus failing to render assistance to the injured man. The man was subsequently picked up and rushed to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital. A breathalyzer test that was carried out on Sohan reportedly showed results that his blood alcohol level was above the legal limit. The other charges were reportedly dismissed against Sohan after the victim refused to offer evidence. The parties reportedly came to a settlement. As it relates to driving under the influence, the court upheld a High Court ruling, based on arguments presented by Bacchus and the other lawyers that the devices being used by the Police to conduct breathalyzer tests for alcohol consumption must be calibrated every six months. The court found that the device used to test Sohan back in August 2017 was not calibrated within six months prior to its use.
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Kaieteur News
Natural Gas explosion rips Diamond backyard - Home owner was drilling well A natural gas explosion last evening at lot 1200 Section A Block X, Diamond, on the East Bank of Demerara, sent shock waves through the community, and many residents of 6th Avenue were in fear after repeated boomin g sounds reverberated from the premises Soownauth Gorakh, the home owner, who was reportedly having a well drilled in his backyard, was nowhere to be seen, when
this publication arrived at the scene. Members of the Guyana Fire Service, Diamond Department were present, and were looking over to ensure the safety of nearby residents, since there was little they could do to contain the substances that were spewing from a large hole in the ground. The substances that were coming from the hole, reached tens of feet into the air — the yard in question
was four feet under slush, a shed in the yard fell down after buckling under the pressure of the clay that had fallen back from above. The house in the yard and everything else was covered with mud; the concrete fence on the eastern section collapsed under the pressure of the accumulated slush that rapidly built up. Houses all around were covered in the substance, and a number of residents had gathered outside, after
The slush-filled scene after last night’s natural gas explosion in Sixth Avenue (Travis Chase Photo)
they heard the loud thunderous sounds. Mr Gorakh, who neighbours say has a water business in the Diamond area, had hired a contractor to drill a well in his yard - most likely in the hope of creating an independent source from the
Guyana Water Inc. The plan obviously did not work out the way Mr Gorakh would have hoped, since the damage witnessed at the scene could be estimated in the millions. A number of residents could be heard complain-
ing, since they were worried what the subsequent c o nsequences could be. After the vibrations were felt, all the surrounding neighbours had vacated their houses, since this was a phenomenon many had never witnessed in their lifetime.
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Kaieteur News
Pompeo says North Korea sanctions to remain until complete denuclearization SEOUL/BEIJING (Reuters) - Tough sanctions will remain on North Korea until its complete denuclearization, the U.S. secretary of state said yesterday, apparently contradicting the North’s view that the process agreed at this week’s summit would be phased and reciprocal. U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un issued a joint statement after their meeting in Singapore this week that reaffirmed the North’s commitment to “work toward complete denuclearization of the Korean peninsula”, while Trump “committed to provide security guarantees”. Trump later told a news conference he would end joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises. “President Trump has been incredibly clear about the sequencing of denuclearization and relief from the sanctions,” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters after meeting South Korea’s president and Japan’s foreign minister in Seoul. “We are going to get com-
plete denuclearization; only then will there be relief from the sanctions,” he said. North Korean state media reported on Wednesday that Kim and Trump had recognized the principle of “stepby-step and simultaneous action” to achieve peace and denuclearization on the Korean peninsula. The summit statement provided no details on when North Korea would give up its nuclear weapons program or how the dismantling might be verified. Skeptics of how much the meeting achieved pointed to the North Korean leadership’s long-held view that nuclear weapons are a bulwark against what it fears are U.S. plans to overthrow it and unite the Korean peninsula. However, South Korean President Moon Jae-in said the world, through the summit, had escaped the threat of war, echoing Trump’s upbeat assessment of his meeting with Kim. “What’s most important was that the people of the world, including those in the United States, Japan and Ko-
reans, have all been able to escape the threat of war, nuclear weapons and missiles,” Moon told Pompeo. Pompeo insisted North Korea was committed to giving up its nuclear arsenal but said it would “be a process, not an easy one”. Kim understood getting rid of his nuclear arsenal needed to be done quickly and there would only be relief from stringent U.N. sanctions on North Korea after its “complete denuclearization”, Pompeo said. Moon later said South Korea would be flexible when it comes to military pressure on North Korea if it is sincere about denuclearization. Also yesterday, North and South Korea held their first military talks in more than a decade. The talks followed on from an inter-Korean summit in April at which Moon and Kim agreed to defuse tension and cease “hostile acts”. Speaking later in the day in Beijing, Pompeo said China, Japan and South Korea all acknowledged a corner had been turned on the Korean peninsula issue, but that all three had also acknowl-
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo attends a joint news conference with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (not pictured) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, yesterday. REUTERS/Jason Lee edged sanctions remain in place until denuclearization is complete. “China has reaffirmed its commitment to honoring the U.N. Security Council resolutions. Those have mechanisms for relief contained in them, and we agreed that at the appropriate time that those would be considered,” Pompeo said, standing next to the Chinese government’s top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi. “But we have made very clear that the sanctions and the economic relief that North Korea will receive will only
happen after the full denuclearization, the complete denuclearization of North Korea.” Wang said China had consistently supported the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula but that it was impossible to solve the issue overnight. “At the same time, we believe North Korea’s reasonable security concerns should be resolved.” Chinese President Xi Jinping told Pompeo that he hoped the United States and North Korea could keep making unremitting efforts for a
political resolution, and that China was willing to keep playing a constructive role in this process, a foreign ministry statement said. ‘EVERYBODY MUCH SAFER’ The United States has long insisted on complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization by North Korea. But the summit statement reference to North Korea committing to work toward the complete denuclearization of the peninsula has used been by North Korea in the past to include a U.S. nuclear umbrella in the region, and echoes promises it has failed to keep. “They made real commitments to denuclearize. Each of them. And President Trump made a commitment that he would provide security assurances that were commensurate with that,” Pompeo said in Beijing. “Those are firm commitments that the two leaders made and an understanding of the program is a piece of what will ultimately lead to our capacity to verify that full and complete denuclearization has actually taken place.” Trump returned to the United States on Wednesday and took to Twitter to hail the meeting, the first between a sitting U.S. president and a North Korean leader, as a major win for American security. “Everybody can now feel much safer than the day I took office,” Trump tweeted. “There is no longer a nuclear (Continued on page 26)
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Kaieteur News
CIOG Eid Message 2018
“It is our duty to build on the progress we made in Ramadan” Beloved Brothers and Sisters, As salamu alaikum wa rahamtullah. Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak! We praise Allah (SWT) and we thank Him for granting us the favour of witnessing the completion of another month of fasting. May Allah accept our prayers, our fasts and seeking His pleasure in this most sacred of month. May He improve us in our sincerity and works and grant us His pleasure. Aameen. Ramadan came and went, we must move forward with renewed spiritual strength and determination, drawing as much as we can from the many lessons learnt during our fast. In addition to our fast we met at iftar and for taraweh, we seek to help the poor, and by this we demonstrated care and concern, fostering a spirit of community. It is that spirit of community that I would like to focus on as we enter the month of Shawwal. Community building is worship. In Ramadan we are galvanized around extra acts of ibadah and by the mode of generosity engendered by the month itself. Our egos are imprisoned by hunger and thirst and our days
are harmonized by the fast. We come together, the poor, the rich, the strong, the weak, despite our diverse circumstances, and we help each other with patience and love through each day of fasting. Ramadan teaches us that nothing can bring people together in a more potent manner than worship of Allah, The Most High. It is our duty to build on the progress we made in Ramadan throughout the year so that each Ramadan finds us stronger and closer to Allah as individuals and as a community. In this regard, I would like to suggest three simple steps we can take to help us achieve this. The first two suggestions are intended to strengthen us as individuals while the final point has to do with making a meaningful contribution to the welfare of the community. Firstly, we should reaffirm to ourselves the importance of prayer. The strength of our community and our homes can be measured easily by the number of us who observe the five daily prayers. We see the great progress that can be made when we come together as a community around the fast. That
progress can continue if we strive to come together around the prayer five times per day because salah or namaz is the spiritual sustenance of the believers. We should avoid all excuses and delays and observe our prayers, a small act to receive countless benefits and blessings. Secondly, we need to bring our Masjids to life. The Masjid is the house of Allah and the meeting place of His true slaves. We should sacrifice some of our time to visit our Masjids. Even if we cannot attend the Masjid frequently we should do so consistently. We should be eager to contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of Allah’s houses without looking for rewards in the form of position or influence. When we attend our Masjids let us busy ourselves with worship and devotion and seek out every opportunity to show generosity and hospitality to others who visit. This will bring the light that comes with Allah’s pleasure into our hearts and make us spiritually stronger. Thirdly, we should be involved in the work of the CIOG. I offer this final suggestion with-
out reservation or apology as I am convinced that the days of shying away from “organizations” should come to an end if we are truly to move forward. We should recognize that dreams of community building will remain dreams without leadership and organization. The CIOG, with its emphasis on the Masjid and Madrasa and on maintaining the communities and practices that have kept Islam alive in this nation, is uniquely positioned to play a vital role in bringing about true community development. Our vision is broad; our reach is wide and encompasses not only the Muslim community but our entire nation. To realize our vision, we need the input and support from brothers and sisters of all backgrounds and talents who are dedicated to Allah and who recognize the importance of moving forward as an organized community. I am confident that if we take these steps seriously as individuals with patience, persistence and sacrifice that we will be able to grow spiritually and materially and more importantly that we will be well on our way to earning the Supreme Pleasure of Allah, Most High. May Allah accept our prayers and fasts of Ramadan and may He grant us every success and blessing in this world and the next. Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak Eid Mubarak! Was Salaam Al-Hajj Shahabudeen Ahmad President
Pompeo says North Korea sanctions to... From page 16 threat from North Korea.”Democratic critics in the United States said the agreement was short on detail and the Republican president had made too many concessions to Kim, whose country is under U.N. sanctions for its nuclear and weapons programs and is widely condemned for human rights abuses. Pompeo said Trump’s comments about the reduced threat from North Korea were made “with eyes wide open”. “It could be the case that our effort won’t ... work but we are determined to set the conditions so that we can right this failure of decades and reset the conditions for North Korea’s participation in the community of nations,” Pompeo said after a trilateral meeting with South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono. MAINTAIN READINESS Japan has reacted to Trump’s plan to cancel military exercises with South Korea with concern, saying the drills are vital for East Asian security. Two North Korean missiles flew over Japan last year as North Korea made rapid advances in developing a missile capable of striking the U.S. mainland with a nuclear warhead. Tokyo is working on arranging a meeting between Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Kim, with one possibility being an Abe visit to Pyongyang around August, the Yomiuri newspaper reported. A Japanese government source familiar with the
matter told Reuters officials aimed to discuss a summit with North Korean officials at a regional security conference in Mongolia on Thursday and Friday. Kang said South Korea and the United States shared the same goals and approach to achieving denuclearization. “The issue of South Korea-U.S. joint exercises is one that should be discussed,” Kang said. “But the issues of the alliance should be dealt with under the premise we maintain a joint ironclad defense posture.” The U.S. intelligence assessment of the nuclear and other military threat posed by North Korea to U.S. and allied forces remained unchanged despite Trump’s and Moon’s assertions about the North Korean nuclear threat being over, a senior U.S. official responsible for studying the North Korean military said. U.S. officials said it was unclear what types of training involving U.S. and South Korean troops might cross into Trump’s now forbidden zone of “war games”. But big, joint U.S.South Korean exercises appeared off-limits under the new guidance. “Make no mistake, we are going to maintain the readiness of our forces in South Korea,” said one U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity. The official acknowledged, however, it was still not certain how that was going to happen.
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Trump ready to impose tariffs on about $50 billion in Chinese goods: official WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Trump has made up his mind to impose “pretty significant” tariffs on Chinese goods, an administration official said yesterday, as Beijing warned that it was ready to respond if Washington chose to ratchet up trade tensions. Trump is due to unveil revisions to his initial tariff list targeting $50 billion of Chinese goods today. The list will contain 800 product categories, down from 1,300 previously, according to another administration official and an industry source familiar with the list. Trump no longer believes that Beijing’s influence over North Korea is a compelling reason to ease up on trade talks now that his administration has opened up a direct line of communication with the nuclear-armed country, the first administration official said. U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin argued against imposing the tariffs at a White House meeting yesterday but he was not expected to prevail, the official said. The Chinese government’s top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, said his country was prepared to respond if Trump went ahead with the tariffs. Speaking to reporters in Beijing, with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at his side, Wang said there were two choices when it came to the trade issue. “The first choice is cooperation and mutual benefit. The other choice is confrontation and mutual loss. China chooses the first,” Wang said. “We hope the U.S. side can also make the same wise choice. Of course, we have also made preparations to respond to the second kind of choice.” The move toward imposing U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods follows negotiations between U.S. and Chinese officials centered on increased purchases by Beijing of American farm and energy commodities and cutting the U.S. trade deficit with China. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross this month met Chinese officials in Beijing and brought back a Chinese proposal to buy around $70 billion worth of additional commodities and manufactured goods. But that offer has not been accepted by Trump, people familiar with the matter said. Wang said the two countries had agreed to use “constructive means” to handle disagreements. Pompeo said the U.S. deficit with China was still too high, but that they had good talks. “I stressed how important it is for President Trump to rectify that situation so that trade becomes more balanced, more reciprocal and
more fair, with the opportunity to have American workers be treated fairly,” he said. Pompeo met with Chinese President Xi Jinping later in the evening, and wished Xi a happy birthday for today. Xi told Pompeo he hoped that the United States could “cautiously and appropriately” handle sensitive issues to avoid “major disturbances” to Sino-U.S. ties, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement. MOVE COULD COME TODAY The International Monetary Fund warned that Trump’s new tariffs threaten to undermine the global trading system, prompt retaliation by other countries and damage the U.S. economy. It remains unclear when Trump would activate the tariffs, if he decides to do so. Several industry lobbyists told Reuters they expected the move to come as early as today, with publication of a Federal Register notice, or it could be put off until next week. If Washington adopts tariffs, Beijing is expected to hit back with its own duties on U.S. imports, including soybeans, cars, chemicals and planes, according to a list it released in early April. Under the 1974 trade law that Trump invoked to pursue a tariff investigation into China’s intellectual property practices, he could delay the activation by 30 days. He couldn’t also delay the tariffs by another 180 days if the U.S. Trade Representative’s office finds negotiations with China are yielding progress. A USTR spokeswoman could not immediately be reached for comment.
FILE PHOTO: Containers are seen at the Yangshan Deep Water Port in Shanghai, China April 24, 2018. REUTERS/Aly Song/File Photo In an interview aired on Wednesday, Trump told Fox News he was “very strongly clamping down on trade” with China. Asked how strong, Trump said: “Well, I think very strongly. I mean you’ll see over the next couple of weeks. They understand what we are doing.” Trump did not specifically mention the tariffs and added that he had “a very good relationship with President Xi (Jinping) of China.” The administration’s trade hawks, including U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and White House
trade and manufacturing adviser Peter Navarro, have advocated a tougher approach to address U.S. allegations that China has misappropriated American intellectual
property through joint venture requirements, statebacked acquisitions of U.S. technology firms and outright theft. Amid the rising trade tension, China’s Commerce
Ministry spokesman Gao Feng said Chinese exporters have been front-loading their shipments due to changes in the international trade environment.
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In the face of multibillion-dollar oil wealth...
Guyana must improve its productivity, otherwise it will not transform - Ramson If the Government of Guyana fails to significantly raise the country’s average level of productivity, then the nation would not be able to experience “transformational” growth. This is regardless of the billions of dollars in oil money to come its way in the future. Making this salient point last evening at Moray House was Attorney-at-Law and Oil and Gas Academic, Charles Ramson. He was one of the three presenters on the topic, “Oil and the Economy: Themes and Concerns.” At the well attended event, Ramson articulated that there are only two proven methods to increase productivity. He opined that if pursued aggressively, it will lead to Guyana’s transformational development. He cited these methods to be urbanisation and industrialisation. Speaking to the former, Ramson said that this involves the mass movement of people to a concentrated urban area – basically people
living in cities. Ramson proffered that there is no country in the world that could climb to prosperity - at least, as defined in terms of being a ‘high-income society’ - unless it is urbanised. On this premise, Ramson made reference to the three richest countries in the world in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita: Qatar, Luxemburg and Singapore. Ramson noted that the percentages of urbanized population for the countries are 99 percent, 90 percent and 100 percent respectively. The lawyer then referenced the poorest countries in Africa: Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi. The urbanization rates for these countries are 40 percent, 43 percent and 12 percent respectively. Ramson then noted that the governments of these African nations made the mistake of failing to augment their urbanization rates.
Based on their GDP figures, the lawyer concluded that the African states are now suffering the consequences of their actions. Furthermore, Ramson said that Qatar, Luxemburg and Singapore are able to climb to the top of the leaderboard because of their unwavering efforts in the area of industrialisation. He added that three of the world’s richest countries are highly industrialised or offer highly specialised skills. On this note, Ramson said that Guyana needs to increase its efforts at industrialization. He then referenced the fact that Dubai created a free zone and shipping port. He said the country today, benefits immensely from those two projects. Ramson also noted that Dubai has the largest free zone in the world and it accounts for US$80 billion of non-oil foreign trade. He emphasised that, “Guyana needs to do something like this or even bigger and better than this.”
Self-styled Bishop to stand trial for rape of church member Joseph Persaud, a self-styled Bishop of a La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara church, was yesterday committed to stand trial in the High Court for rape, following the conclusion of a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) conducted by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Yesterday, the court ruled that there was sufficient evidence against Persaud for him to stand trial before a judge and jury at the Supreme Court. The matter was prosecuted by Police Prosecutor Richard Harris, whose witnesses were able to provide ample evidence throughout the PI. It is alleged that during the month of October 2017, Persaud invited a 22-year-old woman for ‘counselling’ at his Diamond, East Bank Demerara residence, where he allegedly raped her. It was also reported that Persaud and the woman had previously shared a three-year relationship, which reportedly ended. Reports also indicated that the victim ended the relationship with Persaud after his wife found out, but he refused to leave her alone. He allegedly called and stalked her. However, the victim subsequently met Persaud at his home, where he is alleged to have forcefully had sexual intercourse with
Charged: Joseph Persaud her. The victim had claimed that Persaud forced himself on her when his wife was away. Persaud is currently out on $350,000 bail pending the determination of the matter in the High Court.
Attorney-at-Law Charles Ramson delivering his presentation last evening
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ICT development must harmonize with Guyana’s culture
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Alec Ross, former Advisor to Hillary Clinton. As Guyana works with Estonia to develop a digital roadmap, a former advisor to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has warned against ignoring local stakeholders in shaping the vision. Alec Ross, an American technology policy expert who was Senior Advisor for Innovation to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, was a panelist at the recent l y h e l d eighth annual Caribbean Civil Society Dialogue at the Marriott Hotel, Georgetown. “Please don’t just try to copy other places; don’t try to turn your community into Miami or California or some other place,” Ross
advised. I n r e s p o n s e t o questions from the audience about the use of technology to preserve indigenous communities, Ross stated that technology can be a tool to strengthen these communities. “By using drone technology to ensure that there isn’t illegal development taking place. We can use these technologies in a way that harmonizes with local culture,” Ross noted. He stated that the key is for local stakeholders to have their own vision, and to define their own vision, and then use technology as a tool to execute the vision. According to Ross, if the goal in indigenous communities is to figure out how people can live in harmony with their land and not see degradation, then technology can be a very powerful tool for that. “But it has to all flow from local stakeholders,” Ross noted. VACANCY Minister of Public TeleFor Porters. Apply in person communications, Catherine at Alabama Trading, 65 Robb Hughes recently disclosed that Guyana plans to estabStreet, Bourda. lish a digital roadmap by Jos-el Educational Institute engaging Estonia, which is needs trained & experienced c o n s i d e r e d ‘ o n e o f t h e teachers for Nursery, Primary, most advanced digital soSecondary departments. Call: cieties in the world’. 226-7868/226-7794 While addressing the forum, Minister Hughes CJ’s Brokerage Services- s h a r e d t h a t G u y a n a i s Licensed Customs House m o v i n g t o w a r d s a 2 1 s t Broker, send application to c e n t u r y Government, cassandrakj@hotmail.com or where more services can be call #644-3628 provided online. “As a Government I Cook for interior location, applicants must be know we are not supposed to be interested and we are experienced. Call: 618-2020 not interested in maintainExperienced salesgirls with ing the development staCXC qualifications & 2 yrs tus quo, but we are interin real experience. Apply @ ested Christine’s Variety, Lombard transformation…but this country will not transform on St. Contact: 227-8529 the strength of incremental Data Entry/ Accounts clerk growth and that is why our Tel# 616-5595. Email: discussion is on exponential Sales@tradelinc.com growth,” Hughes stated.
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New court action ensues over Parika squatters Mora Neighbourhood Democratic Council, (NDC) to take appropriate action on their behalf. However, the lawyer said that the High Court’s determination was not in favour of his clients. The then Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang had ruled that among other things, it is not the function of the Court to dictate to the overseer how to exercise her power, in relation to removing structures from along the reserve. Sobers said that since that ruling, no further legal action was taken. However, he noted a new court action will soon ensue since the squatting has worsened. “We now have squatters attempting to sell the land along the reserve which is clearly illegal,” the attorney added. He said that he is currently in discussions with clients to take the matter to the
courts again. In 2014, Sobers represented some fifteen persons from the Parika Façade community. Among them was Khrishnawattie Sebalak, who along with her husband, Ricardo Sebalak, are the title holders of a parcel of land at Parika Façade. According to court documents, the couple had built their matrimonial home and are residing at Parika Façade which is under the Administrative jurisdiction of the Mora/Parika Neighbourhood Democratic Council (N.D.C). However, Sebalak explained that several persons had erected structures along the said reserve, directly in front of their property effectively obstructing, blocking,
US$470,000 to support mental health in aftermath of natural disasters
Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday dismissed a matter against a woman who was charged with damaging another woman’s windshield during an altercation. It is alleged that Odessa Newton, on February 4 last, at South Ruimveldt Park, unlawfully and maliciously damaged the rear windshield of a car belonging to Natasha Albert. The cost of the damage was estimated at $136,800. Newton had denied the allegation and was placed
A new court action is set to emerge from the decadeold fight between residents of Parika Façade and squatters on plots of land located along a State reserve of the East Bank Essequibo community. Speaking to Kaieteur News yesterday, Attorney -atlaw Leslie Sobers explained that in the past the residents of Parika Façade, whom he represents, have been unsuccessful in their legal pursuit to have the Regional administration intervene and remove squatters living on the government reserve. Sobers further informed this publication that the issue is one which caused his clients much discomfiture since not only are they squatters on the reserve land, but their houses are constructed in such a manner that it is obstructing free access to their properties. The lawyer noted that the unease is also due to the fact that in some cases the
Attorney-at-law, Leslie Sobers squatters have placed latrines (toilets) right in front of the residences of legitimate homeowners. Sobers noted that after complaints to the Regional authorities proved futile, his clients had moved to the High Court in 2014, in an attempt to compel the overseer of
PAHO’s Sub-regional Programme Coordinator for the Caribbean, Jesse Schutt Aine (left), and Vice-President (Operations), CDB, Monica La Bennett, signing the agreement. Citizens of countries prone to natural disasters will benefit from a US$470,000 programme aimed at offering mental health support after those natural disasters. The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) signed the agreement on Wednesday, to enhance capacity for mental health and psychosocial support in disaster management in the Caribbean. CDB’s Vice-President (Operations), Monica La Bennett said that despite the high vulnerability of the Region to these types of events, the Caribbean has approached recovery and rehabilitation efforts by focusing on infrastructure and physical mitigation plans only. “While ‘building back
better’ is indeed necessary and critical, there is also a need to prepare populations to better cope with natural hazards by focusing on mental and psychosocial well-being,” La Bennett said. She said strengthening social and individual resilience should always be a key component of any response to disasters. PAHO’s Sub-regional Programme Coordinator for the Caribbean, Jessie SchuttAine said the project is being launched during the 2018 hurricane season. According to her, the experiences and lessons learnt by the PAHO Health Emergencies team and key stakeholders from last year’s hurricanes Irma and Maria will be incorporated in the project implementation. “It is imperative that we
support our Member States’ preparedness and response efforts. Mental health and psychosocial support need to be a key part of this process.” According to the CDB, the project is aimed at building capacity for mental health and psychosocial support within the health sector through regional and in-country training within the sector, and agencies outside the sector and the wider community. PAHO’s sub-regional programme coordination office in Barbados will be responsible for the overall management and coordination of the project. It will be implemented over an 18-month period on a regional scale and in five of CDB’s Borrowing Member Countries, some of which were affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.
disturbing and hindering the ingress and egress into and from the said properties and the only access to Parika Façade Access Road. Sebalak told the Court that their property is blocked by two structures. She said that they had reported the matter to the N.D.C , which sent notices to the persons who have erected the structures along the reserve calling upon them to remove the illegal structures - but to no avail. “Despite those notices, the said persons have failed to remove the said structures and continue to have them on the reserve,” the applicant complained. Sebalak said too that she
and her husband together with other neighbours had filed a Writ against the persons who had erected the structures, claiming damages in excess of $1M for wrongfully obstructing their way and an injunction to remove the structures. Yet, the persons have not removed the structures. She deposed that she called upon the Overseer and the Chairman of the N.D.C to remove the structures which are denying them their right of access to the public road. But, the N.D.C has done nothing in that regard. She expressed fears that, unless compelled to do so, the Overseer of the said N.D.C will continue to not remove the offending structures.
Property damage charge dismissed against woman on $20,000 bail. According to information, on the day in question Newton and Albert had a misunderstanding which resulted in an exchange of blows and the windscreen being damaged. On Monday when the matter was called in Magistrate Latchman’s courtroom, the victim told the court that she no longer wished to proceed with the matter, hence it was dismissed due to no evidence being offered.
Odessa Newton
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Gabriel, Roach defy Chandimal... From page 40 saw Sri Lanka through the remainder of the first hour. The left-handed Perera faced 55 balls and struck five fours while Mendis counted eight sweetly-timed fours in an 83ball knock. However, Roach struck a key blow in the final hour before lunch when he squared up Perera and had him caught chest-high by Holder at third slip. Mendis then combined with Chandimal in the most productive stand of the innings, adding 67 for the fourth wicket to see Sri Lanka flourish from their lunch time position of 79 for three. Unbeaten on 26 at lunch, the right-handed Mendis appeared set for another halfcentury before falling just
short of the hour mark, when he top-edged a pull and was caught by wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich running around to mid-wicket. Roshen Silva failed again, lasting only 23 balls for his six before edging Gabriel to third slip where Holder took his third catch of the match. Left to rebuild yet against at tea, Sri Lanka found solace in the resolute Chandimal who faced 186 balls and struck 10 fours and a six. Resuming from the final break on 53, the righthander took responsibility for the innings especially after losing wicketkeeperbatsman Niroshan Dickwella (16) in the seventh over after the resumption, well caught at gully by a diving Shai Hope off the
inspired Gabriel. The partnership of 31 was one of two small ones anchored by Chandimal, as he also added 31 for the ninth wiket with Kasun Rajitha (4), to eke runs out from the tail. Chandimal moved into the 80s with a pulled boundary off Roach before entering the 90s in style with a reverse sweep for four off leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo. He brought up his hundred – his second in the Caribbean and third as skipper – deep in the session with an edged four off pacer Miguel Cummins. Gabriel grabbed his fifth wicket when he trapped Suranga Lakmal lbw for 10 missing a flick while Roach picked up three of the last five wickets to tumble.
Friday June 15, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today you should have a lot of vitality, Aries. Recently, you may have decided to take more matters into your own hands. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Your generosity and altruism will be put to the test over the next few days, Taurus. You'll probably help the underprivileged. After all, you've always felt concerned about humanitarian projects GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today's aspects will influence you to interact naturally with your circle of friendsi. You're tired of hiding your feelings. You want to act in the way your instincts guide you. CANCER(June21–July22) You're defining new strategies concerning your private life. You could be feeling like a completely different person today. You're no longer afraid of society, and you enjoy meeting people. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Unfortunately, today's planetary energy will place you in a rather uncomfortable situation, Leo. You'll be the one having to smooth things over with your group of friends. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Even though the times are favorable for relaxation, you won't be able to fully enjoy this period. You'll instead try to adjust your agenda so you can lead a more balanced life. The planetary aspects in play will incite you to change your attitude toward work.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Today's celestial configuration will be favorable to changes in your relationships. Your professional and private lives will be influenced by how well you deal with these relationships. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You've felt the need to create over the past several days. This attitude is certainly due to the planetary positions, but it could also underlie your desire to change your professional and private lives. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) When you feel that your friends are trying to change your everyday life, you shouldn't try to resist it so stubbornly, Sagittarius. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Over the last few weeks you've been working hard so you don't have to worry about your finances, Capricorn. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Today you're about to put your sense of humor to the test, Aquarius. You'll likely confront a few unexpected situations. Even if you're used to finding exciting things to do in an ordinary world PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) To d a y y o u ' l l q u e s t i o n yourself about your private life, Pisces. Indeed, you have to change your behavior. You're used to making decisions just for yourself.
Showdown Tiger shoots eight-over 78 between... for worst score at a U.S. Open From page 35 north of Toronto. Other schedule highlights include Australian captain Steve Smith making his league debut in the opener with Toronto and squaring off against his countryman David Warner and Winnipeg Hawks on July 2. Canada Day long weekend will provide fans an opportunity to see all of the league’s marquee players with six matches over three days. The full schedule is attached and at www.gt20.ca/match-schedule/. ”The schedule reveal is another symbolic step towards bringing the excitement and spectacle of pro Twenty20 cricket to Canada, and making cricket and Canadian sport history,” said Gurmeet Singh, Chairman, Global T20 Canada. “With the calibre of talent coming to Canada, fans will see top international stars in every match from the opener through to the final.” Six franchise teams will vie for the championship – Toronto Nationals, Vancouver Knights, Edmonton Royals, Montreal Tigers, Winnipeg Hawks and Cricket West Indies Representative Team, comprised entirely of players from the Caribbean. The schedule includes matches spread across two rounds and playoffs. Matches in the first round, to be played from June 28 to July 8, will be in a round-robin format with each team playing every other team once, for a total of 15 matches. Through the first two rounds, teams will earn two points for a win and zero points for a loss. Only the top four teams advance to the playoffs. The schedule has two matches on weekend days and holidays, with start times of 11 a.m. EST and 4 p.m. EST. Weekdays will have single matches with a 4 p.m. EST start time. Three off days are built into the schedule on July 3, 9 and 13. ”The schedule provides many opportunities for fans from all over to see many of cricket’s stars, and plan their day around Global T20 Canada,” said Jason Harper, Tournament D i r e c t o r, G l o b a l T 2 0 Canada. “Creating a strong fan experience is paramount and will help build a strong foundation for the league going forward.” Information on tickets (seating, pricing and purchasing), broadcast partners and the broadcast schedule will be announced later this week.
Southhampton, N.Y. (Reuters) - Tiger Woods carded his worst score at a U.S. Open yesterday after an eight-over-par 78 in the first round at Shinnecock Hills left him nine strokes off the lead. In tough, windy conditions Woods got off to a horrible start with a triple-bogey seven at the first hole and later added a four-putt double at the par-four 13th. His previous worst round at a U.S. Open was a 77 in the third round at Oakland Hills in 1996. The 42-year-old will now struggle to make the cut and has a mountain to climb if he is to end his decade-long major drought, stretching back to the 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines. “I didn’t putt well today. I drove it pretty darn good for most of the day, just never took advantage of the opportunities,” said Woods.”It’s tough out there, but you shouldn’t make two doubles and a triple. My game plan was not to make any oth-
ers (bogey or worse) and I made three of them.” After finding the fairway with a nice drive at the parfour first, Woods hit a knockdown shot into the wind but misjudged it slightly, his ball bounding over the crowned green and down the slope beyond. He was left with an extremely tough pitch and failed to get the ball up onto the green. It took him two further attempts to reach the putting surface. While a bogey at the second left him reeling at four-over he did not panic. ”All I had to do after that start was shoot even par over the next 16 holes and I’d be just fine,” he said. Woods managed to go even par through the next 10 holes but undid that good work by four-putting from 40 feet at the 13th. ”I was worried about running the (first) putt by, left it short, blocked the next one, then blocked it again,” he said.
Friday June 15, 2018
Iker Casillas and Russian supermodel present World Cup on pitch in stylish Louis Vuitton trophy case
Iker Casillas and Natalia Vodianova present the World Cup on the Luzhniki Stadium pitch.(Getty Images) Mail Online - The coveted World Cup was presented in front of the fans at the Luzhniki Stadium by Iker Casillas and a Russian supermodel ahead of the opening ceremony. Casillas and Natalia Vodianova paraded the trophy in a stylish Louis Vuitton case prior to kick-off in the opening game between hosts Russia and Saudi Arabia. Former Spain and Real Madrid captain Casillas, who won the World Cup in 2010, was seen holding aloft the trophy in front of the excited
fans yesterday afternoon. Casillas showcased the trophy to all sides of the ground before making his way off the pitch in time for the pre-World Cup entertainment. French luxury brand Louis Vuitton offered their services to produce the bespoke piece for the coveted trophy, along with teaming up with tournament sponsors Adidas to create a match ball ‘collection trunk.’ The case features laserengraved monogram titanium and the brand’s globally recognised print.
The official trophy case is also set to be presented at the final match of the tournament on July 15. Louis Vuitton is a popular selection among football’s big names, with the likes of World Cup pin-up star Neymar often seen both wearing the brand’s clothing and attending fashion shows detailing the latest collections. After Casillas’ appearance on the pitch, Robbie Williams entertained the crowd by singing a hit of his classics during the colourful opening ceremony.
Gilkes pours in 39 as LTI remain unbeaten after three games.... From page 37 Mackenzie High in feature play, two hours later. In another fine display of his scoring prowess Gilkes netted 39 points to total 102 in the tournament so far and has an average of 34 points per game while teammate Daniel Lee provided supported with 25 to take his tally to 57; Dillon Pellew contributed 12. For C h r i s t i a n b u rg / Wi s m a r, Ezra Thomas netted 12 points. Mackenzie High romped to a 56-30 win over New Silvercity Secondary, having been ahead 31-7 at half time. Again their best scorer was Leon Benjamin with 25 points and has an overall total of 73 so far at an average of 24 per game. Ya n n i c k Ta p p i n r e mained a player to watch with 19 points for a tally of 58 at an average of 19 per
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Jamal Gilkes game; Shamar Henry chipped in with 9. Kobe Tappin continued his good form for New Silvercity with 17 points in the game. Game three on Wednesday resulted in Wisburg gaining a 40-29 win over Harmony Secondary in the third game, as they led at half time 23-13. Jonathan Copeland continued to be Wisburg’s leading scorer
with 21 points while Omar Green was the top scorer for Harmony with 9. In games played on Tu esday, LTI defeated Mackenzie High 67-51; Gilkes had a game high 21 points, Daniel Lee 17, Raynaldo Patoir 16 and Dillon Pellew 11. Leon Benjamin also netted 21 points in the game and Yannick Tappin contributed 17 for Mackenzie High. also on the day, New Silvercity trounced Harmony 43-24 led by Kobe Tappin with the game high 18; for Harmony Secondary, Delroy Belle netted 14. In the third game, Wisburg were 55-37 victor’s over Christianburg/Wismar Secondary. Jonathan Copeland led the winners with 18 points and Keyon Davidson scored 17. For C h r i s t i a n b u r g / Wi s m a r, Tremaine Browne tipped in 11 points.
Everest host Central All-Stars in pre Father’s Day showdown The Everest Cricket Club ground will come alive tomorrow when Everest Masters take on Central Sports of Trinidad and Tobago in a friendly 30-over game. Both teams have included a number of experienced players and a highly competitive match is anticipated. Additionally, Everest Cricket Club (ECC) has planned a special bar-be-que lunch for visitors and promises musical entertainment to add to the festive atmosphere on the eve of Father’s Day. The visitors will be lead by Karrel Bissoon and he will have support from Kieron Chattergoon, Shannon Pollard and Joedee Gabriel while ECC Masters will depend on Saheed Mohamed, Imtiaz Sadik, Ramesh Narine and Basil Persaud to push for another victory in what has been an outstanding season so far. The first ball is at 12:30hrs and all trophies for the match are being sponsored by Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall, Bourda Market. Everest Masters: Rajesh Singh (Capt a i n ) , S a h a d e o H a r d a i o w, S a h e e d Mohamed, Hemraj Garbarran, Basil Persaud, Ramesh Narine, Rabindranauth Seeram, Rohan Sarjoo, Surendra Hiralall, Imtiaz Sadik, Rakesh Gangaram, Ronald Jaisingh, Rahaman Khan, Ron Morris and Satyendra Khemraj. Central All-Stars: Karrel Bissoon (Captain), Riaz Ali, Deepak Chanoo, Kieron Chattergoon,
Basil Persaud Govin Doorgha, Dillan Sital, Rickie Ramkissoon, Shannon Pollard, Ravi Mahase, Ryan Jaipaul, Joedee Gabriel, Peter Francis and Marvin Edwards.
Inaugural Global T20 Canada
Showdown between Windies stars Sammy, Gayle kick off 22-fixture schedule Toronto, Canada – A matchup featuring West Indies stars and teammates Daren Sammy, Chris Gayle and Andre Russell will open the inaugural edition of Global T20 Canada as part of the
schedule released Tuesday for the first professional Twenty20 cricket league in North America. Sammy’s Toronto Nationals will face Vancouver Knights with Chris Gayle and
Andre Russell on June 28 in the first match of the 22-fixture schedule that will ultimately crown a champion on July 15 at Maple Leaf Cricket Club in King City, Ontario, just (Continued on page 34)
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Friday June 15, 2018
Kaieteur News
Russia off to dream start as Cheryshev helps fire them to 5-0 victory over shoddy Saudis Mail Online - High up in the Luzhniki Stadium, FIFA president Gianni Infantino was exactly where he loves to be: in among the money. On one side, sat Saudi royalty; on the other, President Vladimir Putin. As the third Russian goal went in, Infantino gave his robed friend a little shrug of commiseration. That’s football, it seemed to say. And indeed it is. So all’s well that ends well, for FIFA and Russia, for now. They played quite probably the poorest team in the tournament to open it, won by the biggest winning margin in the history of World Cup opening matches, and kept the feel good factor that always envelopes World Cups at the start going for another five days at least. Mohamed Salah, and Egypt, may provide a truer test of this aging Russian defence in St Petersburg on Tuesday but, until then, the hosts can imagine they are quite the team. This outstripped the most emphatic opening game victory - Brazil 4-0 Mexico in 1950 - although much of that was to do with the weakness of the opposition. Saudi Arabia even fell for the oldest trick in football’s book - the big lump upfront, slung on late to hold the ball up and get on one put into the mixer, which he duly did,
roughly a minute after arriving. Artem Dzyuba was the lump in question; a colourful sort, well known in these parts for mocking Unai Emery when he was manager of Spartak Moscow, and later falling out with Russian coach Stanislav Cherchesov. Emery ended up at Arsenal, Dzyuba on loan at Arsenal Tula, so it’s fairly obvious who got the last laugh there. Still, he was wildly popular on Wednesday, getting the goal that ended any fanciful thoughts of a Saudi revival. There was a neat exchange of passing between Mario Fernandes - beautiful Russian name, as the Pub Landlord might say - Roman Zobnin and most crucially Aleksandr Golovin who whipped the ball in for Dzyuba to meet with a neat header into the corner. In injury time, the two that rewrote the record books. Denis Cheryshev got his second of the night, highlighting the gulf in class. He strolled into the area, unguarded, noone in his path, before clipping a lovely shot into the far corner. With almost the last kick of the match, Golovin - arguably Russia’s best player on the night - went one better than Brazil. This was a curling freekick out of the reach of goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf, who by then looked like he
Gazinsky wheels away in celebration in what was a joyous occasion for the 28-year-old and his country. regretted even putting in for his Russian visa. In fact, it could have been more. The result flattered Saudi Arabia, really. They offered little, were terribly sloppy and overly intricate at the back, and a better team might even have won by a greater margin. Maybe someone will. That’s the problem with first games. This looks a quite brilliant result for a Russian
Over Three Million in prizes up for grab in Emancipation Horse Race Meet The Kennard Memorial Turf Club at Bush Lot, Corentyne will be hosting an Emancipation Horse Race Meet on Sunday, July 29th under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority with over 3 Million in cash prizes up for grabs. The meet will feature seven races with finishers from first to fourth being rewarded. The E1 and Lower category will be the feature race over a distance of seven furlongs with a top purse of
$600,000. Second place in the race will receive $300,000, third $150,000 and fourth $75,000. Entry into the race is set at $73,000. The H1 and Lower class race will carry a first prize of $300,000 while the winner of the Guyana Bred three-years and older contest will enjoy a top purse of $250,000 while the winner of the two-year Guyana Bred event will receive $200,000. The J3, L Open and L-Non winners which will all be contested over a distance of five
furlongs will attract first place prizes of $160,000, $140,000 and $120,000, respectively. Entries for the Emancipation Meet will close one week prior to the showdown on July 22nd. No late entries will be permitted and interested persons can contact Ivan Dipnarine (331 0316), Justice Cecil Kennard (623 7609 or 225 4818), Fazal Habibulla (657 7010), Dennis Deroop (640 6396) or Campton Sancho on 602 1567.
team low on confidence, but par against the Saudis could turn out to be two more. It is hard to see how they can shore the defence up with Salah, Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani to come. Salah might score five on his own. The acronym for Saudi Arabia is KSA, the K standing for ‘Kingdom’. To be frank, Russia would have got a better game out of KFC. This was as easy as a World Cup opener can get for a host nation which, considering the state of Russian international football right now, is probably just as well. Russia last won a match at a World Cup finals more than 16 years ago – June 5, 2002, against Tunisia in Kobe. Many were fearing that run would continue, after a winless run of seven matches coming into this competition. The inevitable toll of two years of friendlies cannot be wholly to blame. Russia have injuries, a creaking defence, good players spurned and youth not trusted by coach Stanislav Cherchesov. Fortunately, even these weaknesses could not trump one inescapable truth: Saudi Arabia are useless. Four years ago, a series of controversial decisions helped hosts Brazil overcome Croatia. In this World Cup, conspiracy theorists will have to trace their steps back to the day the draw was made. Pulling out Saudi Arabia as opening day opponents is the biggest favour FIFA could have done the hosts.
Uruguay and Saudi Arabia are the other teams in Group A and both nations boast individuals that could cause even the strongest defensive lines all manner of problems. Not Saudi Arabia. They were nimble, occasionally, lively on the break – but mostly weak and overwhelmed by either the occasion or a home team that knew it had to win to stand a chance of getting to the last 16. Putin gave his speech, the crowd roared its approval. He went on a bit long. They lost interest. But it was a reminder that there is more than political prestige riding on this tournament. Russia do not want to be embarrassed as hosts, out at the group stage like South Africa in 2010. Nothing can be guaranteed with their hardest games ahead, but Saudi Arabia were never going curdle the positivity on day one. Russia scored from their first attack of the game, and did not look back. It is a recent tradition that the scorer of the World Cup’s first goal never adds to his tally and that may be the case for Iury Gazinsky, too. He is a defensive midfield player by trade, a toiler with FC Krasnodar and considered rather fortunate to be in the squad. Most had him down as making up the numbers, but no more. When a Yury Zhirkov corner was cleared, Aleksandr Golovin recycled the ball with a deep cross and Gazinsky met it with a header, steering the ball past goalkeeper Abdullah Al-Mayouf.
There was, potentially, and infringement as Gazinsky jumped with his marker but replays suggested a loss of footing, rather than a push. Saudi Arabia were weak where Russia were aggressive; Gazinsky was simply more determined to get to the ball. The second was another defensive catastrophe. Russia broke, given far too much space again, and the ball eventually found its way to the feet of substitute, Denis Cheryshev. Once of Real Madrid, now with Villarreal, he is one of the more skilled Russian forwards, but was given considerable help. Saudi Arabia’s centrehalfs Omar Hasawi and Osama Hasawi share a name but little else, including a sense of timing. With one turn inside, Cheryshev left them both scooting past the ball and slipping on their backsides. Faced with a clear shot at goal he found the roof of the net. Just two minutes before halftime and Saudi Arabia were done. So, too, sadly is the World Cup of one of Russia’s better players, Alan Dzagoev. He looked to have pulled a hamstring chasing in support of a break and was swiftly withdrawn for Cheryshev. It proved fortuitous on the day but, long term, is deeply unhelpful. Dzagoev is undoubtedly one of Russia’s best players and if the injury is a bad as it first looked will play no further part in the tournament. They certainly don’t have too many like him to spare.
Friday June 15, 2018
Twelve matches on tomorrow as ExxonMobil Football Tourney continues
Action between Brickdam Secondary (on the ball) and Campbellville during last week’s play. The ExxonMobil Under-14 Boys’ and Girls’ football tournament continues tomorrow at the Ministry of Education (MOE) School ground on CARIFESTA Avenue with 12 matches from 11:30hrs. An astonishing 42 goals were scored on the opening day, last Saturday, after being delayed by one week due to the inclement weather and the scorching sun seemingly fuelled the budding talents who displayed prom6/16/2018 11:30 hrs 11:30 hrs 12:20 hrs 12:20 hrs 13:10 hrs 13:10 hrs 14:00 hrs 14:00 hrs 14:50 hrs 14:50 hrs 15:40 hrs 15:40 hrs
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ising signs with parents and teachers all giving support. Weather permitting, day two of the boys’ competition is expected to be action packed tomorrow. Meanwhile, the girls’ teams and their coaches are undergoing training by the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Technical Department before their competition kicks off next month. Please see tomorrow’s full fixtures below.
Round 2 Ministry of Education Ground Match # North Ruimveldt Multi vs Vergenoegen Secondary 13 Charlestown Secondary vs Uitvlugt Secondary 14 Tucville vs Friendship Secondary 15 East Ruimveldt vs Buxton Youth Development16 New Campbellville vs St John’s 17 Dolphin Secondary vs Queens Town Secondary 18 Marian Academy vs Ann’s Grove 19 Bishops’ High School vs South Ruimveldt Secondary20 Carmel Secondary School vs School of the Nations 21 Tutorial vs St. George’s Secondary 22 Chase Academic Foundation vs Brickdam Secondary 23 Kingston vs Annandale Secondary 24
LABA/YBG/ Powerade Regional U-19 C/ship
Gilkes pours in 39 as LTI remain unbeaten after three games
Exciting El Dorado Annual Golf Tourney on tomorrow at LGC Exciting golfing is expected this weekend as the 6th Annual El Dorado Golf Tournament gets underway from 12:30hrs at the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) tomorrow. El Dorado Rum, a brand of Demerara Distilleries Ltd, DDL, began sponsoring tournaments distinctly under the El Dorado Brand from 2011. DDL had been sponsoring golf tournaments for some twenty (20) years to date. Current El Dorado Rum B r a n d M a n a g e r, M a r i a Munro, at a brief press conference on Monday 4th June 2018, noted that DDL and EL Dorado over the years have been supportive of many Sports in Guyana, and the Company commits to continue in this vein as they see Sports as a healthy form of development and entertainment. The pre Father’s Day event is expected to draw all of the country’s top golfers and enthusiasm is electric as golfers eagerly look forward to contest keenly in this grand El Dorado tournament. All kinds of positive innovations are on board this year. El Dorado will give free sampling of Gin and 15-year old Rum, as well as they will host a Happy Hour from 5-6 p.m. with 15-year old drink specials. Also, part of this year’s sponsorship award will go towards insurance for female golfers, particularly targeting young players (especially females) in developing a passion for the Sport. In addition in a raffle for players and the public, El Dorado will give away hampers. A free ticket can be obtained from El Dorado, DDL Stores, any Lusignan Golf Club member or at the Food Town Restaurant in Enmore for your chance to win one of several hampers of DDL
LGC President, Aleem Hussain, receives sponsorship cheque from El Dorado Brand Manger, Maria Munro. products.An e-ticket can also be obtained from the Lusignan Golf Club facebook page, or from any Club Member with a whatsapp contact, is adequate to give you the coupon which after you fill out, you place in a box for the raffle. Contestants from the Miss World Guyana 2018 competition will be on hand to join in the celebrations as they return to the scene where their Sports & Fitness segment was held. Recently opened Food Town restaurant in Enmore will also be providing free samples of food and pastries during the Happy Hour celebration. The tournament is drawing some of Guyana’s finest, as both the reigning Guyana Open Male and Female champions, Av i n a s h P e r s a u d a n d Christine Sukhram, respec-
tively, have registered to participate in this prestigious tournament. Previous year’s winners include: 2012 - Carlos Adams 66, Kishan Bacchus 68, Brian Hackett 68; 2013 – Troy Cadogan 66, Christine Sukhram 70, Brian Hackett 71, Gavin Todd 71; July 5, 2014 - Mohanlall Dinanauth 69, Dr Philbert London 69, Joaan Deo 71; May 23, 2015 – Parmanand ‘Max’ Persaud 61, Patanjalee ‘Pur’ Persaud 64, Kishan Bacchus 66, and Troy Cadogan 66. The El Dorado girls and Marketing team will be on hand. For those who wish to view the Super Saturday Russia 2018 action, the good news is the large screen television at the Club will be set up for this event. For more information, visit lusignangolf on Facebook or call 592-2205660.
FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 Fixtures
Daniel Lee
Leon Benjamin
Yannick Tappin
Jamal Gilkes’ performance ensured that Linden Technical Institute (LTI) remained the only side from three games when they overwhelmed Christianburg Wismar Secondary 107-24 on Wednesday afternoon last
while Mackenzie High and Wisburg Secondary scored their second win in three matches when the Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s Youth Guyana Basketball/Powerade Regional Under 19 champion-
ship continued at the Mackenzie Sports Club, Hard Court. Today, LTI will take on New Silvercity Secondary from 14:00hrs with Harmony Secondary opposing (Continued on page 35)
Friday, June 15 Teams Egypt vs. Uruguay Morocco vs. Iran Portugal vs. Spain Saturday, June 16 France vs. Australia Argentina vs. Iceland Peru vs. Denmark Croatia vs. Nigeria Sunday, June 17 Costa Rica vs. Serbia Germany vs. Mexico Brazil vs. Switzerland
Time 08:0hrs 11:00hrs 14:00hrs
Venue Yekaterinburg Saint Petersburg Sochi
06:00hrs 10:00hrs 12:00hrs 15:00hrs
Kazan Moscow Saransk Kaliningrad
08:00hrs 11:00hrs 14:00hrs
Samara Fox Moscow Rostov
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Friday June 15, 2018
Kaieteur News
YBG/NSBF Regionals’
Kirani James to compete at Finals to be contested Aliann Pompey Invitational next week at CASH - Troy Doris confirms for first showing in Guyana The third edition of Guyana’s premier track and field meet, the Aliann Pompey Invitational, will be graced with the presence of Kirani James, Grenada’s 400 metres Olympic and World Champion, after the 25-year-old confirmed his participation. Set for the Leonora Track and Field Centre on June 30, the Aliann Pompey Invitational will also see Guyana’s 2018 Commonwealth Games triple-jump gold medallist Troy Doris, competing for the first time at home. “This is all round a great thing. To have an Olympic and World champion competing at the event while he’s still in his prime is a testament to where we want to take this competition,” said Pompey. According to the 2002 Commonwealth Games 400 metres gold medallist, James’ opening run after a year off is in the top 10 times in the world, while stating “I am a huge Kirani fan and I know that Guyana will be an amazing audience for the ‘Jaguar’. I know he’s interested in seeing some of Guyana so I’m hoping our Ministry of Tourism can show him a few of the many reasons Guyana should be a destination.” James, at the JN Racers Grand Prix on June 9 in Jamaica, clocked an impressive 44.35 seconds to win the 400 metres in his first race in over a year after recovering from Graves’ disease (an immune system disorder that results in the overproduction of thyroid hormones). The Grenadian’s time of 44.35 seconds is the eighthbest time in the world this year. James’ personal best in the 400 metres is 43.74 seconds, set in 2014. James had always been regarded as one of the Caribbean’s best talent over the 400 metres, though he has competed over the 200 meters with considerable amount of success, racing to a personal best of
The semifinals and finals in all divisions of Youth Basketball Guyana’s (YBG) National Schools’ Basketball Festival have been scheduled for next Friday and Saturday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH). Due to the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Women’s championship which will run from June 17-22 in Suriname, Guyana’s team comprises of the core of both teams fea-
Kirani James
turing in the NSBF female final. According to Coordinator of the School Festival, Wayne Bowman, the female Under19 final will only be played once both teams; Marian Academy and President’s College are available to play. See points standing in the various divisions below after four months of competitive play.
Georgetown extended Regionals’ Boys’ Under-19 Group (A) Won Lost Total Points Marian Academy 4 0 8 President’s College 3 1 6 St Roses High School 2 2 6 Bishops’ High School 1 3 5 Government Technical Institute 0 4 4 Group (B) Plaisance Secondary 4 0 8 Chase Academy 2 2 6 Tutorial High 2 2 6 School of the Nations 1 3 5 The Business School 0 4 3 Semi Finals 1. Marian Academy vs Chase Academy 2. Plaisance Secondary vs Presidents College Georgetown extended Regionals’ Girls’ Under-19 President’s College 3 0 6 Marian Academy 3 1 7 St Roses High School 2 1 5 Tutorial High 2 2 6 Bladen Hall 1 3 5 School of the Nations 0 4 4 20.41 seconds in 2011. Also known as the ‘Jaguar’, James had won gold in the 400 metres at the 2012 Olympic Games in London – Grenada’s first and only medal at the Olympics. However, four years later in Brazil, the Grenadian (43.76 seconds) crossed the line second, relinquishing his Olympic title to South African Wayde van Niekerk who won 400 metres gold and also setting a new world record in the distance, a time of 43.03 seconds; erasing American Michael Johnson’s 43.18 seconds which he clocked in 1999. Meanwhile, Doris, who has been representing since 2015, will face Cuban Jordan Diaz, touted by many in his country, as the next World triple jump champion. Quite a technician, Diaz is the World U-18 Champion and junior World record holder at 17.32 metres.Joining Diaz will be last year’s champion from Suriname Miguel Van Assen
who holds his country’s national record in the event, as well as the CARIFTA and South American title. Van Assen’s personal best is 16.94 metres. The Surinamese is also the 2014 Summer Youth Olympic Games champion. The triple jump at this year’s Aliann Pompey Invitational, could steal the show, since also confirming his participation is The Bahamas’ Leevan Sands. Sands won bronze at the 2008 Olympic Games, as well as bronze at the World Championship and Commonwealth Games. He’s a Pan Am Games silver medallist and multiple times gold medallist at the CARIFTA Games. The Aliann Pompey Invitational the only event of its kind in Guyana where athletes from across the Caribbean, Central and North America, converge on Leonora for what has been the best showing of track and field in Guyana.
Troy Doris
Georgetown extended Regionals’ Boys’ Under-16 Group (A) Won Lost Marian Academy 4 0 President’s College 3 1 St Roses High School 2 2 Bishops’ High School 2 2 Queens College 1 3 Tutorial High 0 4 Group (B) St Joseph High 4 0 Chase Academy 3 1 Plaisance Secondary 2 2 North Georgetown 2 1 Brickdam Secondary 0 4 Christ Church 0 3 Semi Finals 1. Marian Academy vs Chase Academy 2. St Joseph vs President’s College Georgetown extended Regionals’ Boys’ Under-14 Marian Academy 4 1 Chase Academy 3 2 President’s College 3 2 Bishops’ High School 2 3 St Roses High School 1 4 YBG Cluster 1 4 Semi Finals 1. Marian Academy vs Bishops 2. Chase Academy vs President’s College
Rank 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
1 2 3 4 5 6
Total Points 8 7 6 6 5 4
Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6
8 7 6 5 4 3
1 2 3 4 5 6
9 8 8 7 6 6
1 2 3 4 5 6
Faye Joseph organises big Father’s Day Domino Competition President of the Guyana National Domino Federation (GNDF), Faye Joseph, has organised a Father’s Day competition which will be staged at her residence, 1223 Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt. According to Organising Secretary of the GNDF, Mark ‘Jumbie’ Wiltshire, the tournament, which will be held on Sunday, is open to all interested teams and entrance fee is $10,000 per team.Joseph, who has been at the helm of both the GNDF and the Georgetown Domino Association (GDA) for a number of years, has been instrumental in moving the
sport from a favourite pastime to one where it can be considered one of the busiest sports in the country.Wiltshire added that in addition to the entrance fee, the President has consented to add a further $80,000 to the total prize monies which will be awarded to the winning teams. Among the teams anticipated to participate are: Gold is Money, All Seasons, Mix Up, Spartans, Rage, Providence, Gangster, C7, C6, Thunder, Phantom, R&R, Turning Point, Masters, Gold Star, Angels and OPKO. Starting time is 14:30hrs and food and drinks will be on sale throughout the day.
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Friday June 15, 2018
World Cup kicks off with dazzling display in Moscow
T
he World Cup kicked off in truly lavish fashion as host nation Russia put on a star-studded display at the opening ceremony to officially commence the start of the global showpiece. The tournament kicked off in earnest with Russia hammering Saudi Arabia 50 at the Luzhniki Stadium, with the hosts impressing in front of their home fans. Thousands of revellers packed inside the sold-out stadium to witness the dazzling opening ceremony, with all the bells and whistles which have become synonymous with similar events of World Cups’ past. Representing the UK at the event was pop sensation
Williams, who performed three songs as part of the opening ceremony for the 2018 World Cup - with his controversial single ‘Party Like a Russian’ not included on the set-list. The decision to book the former Take That member to sing at the opening ceremony met with surprise when it was announced by FIFA on Monday. The plans for the opening ceremony at the Luzhniki Stadium had been a closely-guarded secret. Williams - described by FIFA as a ‘global music icon’ - performed at certain points throughout the scheduled 15-minute pretournament build-up. The 44-year-old opened with his 1998 single ‘Let Me Entertain You’ at the
An entertainer balances on top of an inflatable football and juggles a further three as fire blazes behind him. start of proceedings after spending time on stage with
former Brazil striker Ronaldo. Russian harpist
Alexander Boldachev then took centre-stage, with a large ‘fire bird’ entering the pitch carrying operatic performer Aida Garifullina. She performed a duet of Williams’ smash-hit ‘Angels’ with the Stoke-born s i n g e r, w h o a l s o brought the ceremony to a close with the hit’. Form er Spain captain Iker Casillas lifted the World Cup in 2010 and brought the
trophy out ahead of the ceremony, with the 32 flags representing the competing nations unfurled during the performance of ‘Angels’. Around 800 people were involved in the onstage activities, which were held closer to kick-off than in recent finals. Williams said opening the event to 80,000 fans and many millions all over the world was a boyhood dream. (MailOnline)
FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Russian president Vladimir Putin react to Saudi Arabian crown prince Mohammad bin Salman after Russia open the scoring.
This Russian fan went to extraordinary lengths to show his patriotism with the body paint.
It was then just a case of holding his stomach and waving at the Luzhniki Stadium crowd.
This photogenic Russian fan was only too happy to fly the flag as the World Cup started.
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Kaieteur News
Friday June 15, 2018
Gabriel, Roach defy Chandimal hundred to give Windies control
Dinesh Chandimal cuts the ball off the back foot ©CWI Media/Randy Brooks
Gros Islet, St Lucia, CMC – Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel defied captain Dinesh Chandimal’s 11th Test hundred to hurt Sri Lanka with his third fivewicket haul in Tests, as West Indies dominated the opening day of the second Test here yesterday. Chandimal struck a polished, unbeaten 119 as Sri Lanka, opting to bat first at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground, folded late in the day for 253 in their first
innings. First Test centurymaker Kusal Mendis hit 45 and opener Kusal Perera, 32, but the visitors lost their last five wickets for 96 runs in the final session to slump from 157 for five at the tea break. Gabriel was outstanding with five for 59 to lead the Windies attack while newball partner Kemar Roach finished with four for 49, in the process going past 150 Test wickets in his 100th first class match. In the two overs available before the close,
the Windies reached two without loss. Sri Lanka’s batsmen never came to grips with a purposeful Windies attack, and struggled throughout each session to construct meaningful partnerships. Following a delayed start because of rain, Sri Lanka quickly found themselves tottering on 15 for two inside the first half-hour, with Gabriel knocking over debutant Mahela Udawatte and Dhananjaya de Dilva
Shannon Gabriel
cheaply. Left-hander Udawatte perished without scoring when he edged to captain Jason Holder at second slip in the second over of the morning. Four overs later, de Silva played on to a quick one from the Trinidadian paceman for 12, leaving Sri Lanka in a spot of bother. Perera and Mendis came together in a 44-run third wicket stand which consolidated the innings and (Continued on page 32)
Friday June 15, 2018
Kaieteur News
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World Cup kicks off with dazzling display in Moscow P. 39
Robbie Williams
Natalia Vodianova
The opening ceremony of the 2018 World Cup was a short but very sweet ten-minute spectacle. (REUTERS)
Russia off to dream start as Cheryshev helps fire them to 5-0 victory over shoddy Saudis P. 36 After Cheryshev’s stunner, 22 year-old Golovin got in on the act in injury time with this free-kick.
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