Kaieteur News

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Wednesday June 19, 2019

Kaieteur News

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

EDITORIAL

Unspoken, untouched truths Guyana can find neither footing nor vocals. Its citizens have voice at high volume for everything: name it, and that’s it. One screeching, soothing, overpowering, counterattacking, desecrating, energising crescendo after another of consensus (intragroup), conflict (intergroup), and nothing but distrust, antagonisms, and irreconcilable differences in between. The sounds will now restart at fever pitch following the oracular pronouncements of the CCJ. Select a topic: corruption or governance or tenders or policing or who did steal then versus who is stealing now; and loudest of all in the days to come, who won by the hand of the CCJ. It is a soaring space flight into the bowels of bickering, lots of muck, lots of sleaze to hurl at each other. There is much over which to bicker, renew animosities, walk away smug and resolute in selfsatisfaction, while leaving matters just as unaddressed, untapped, and unsolved. In this world inhabited by usually loud, traditionally raucous Guyanese peoples, there is an eerie silence on one particular issue. A silence that pierces in its enormity, haunts with its shadows and specters, and shackles hands and feet and minds. Mouths, usually the first responders, join the ranks of the first prisoners. Thus, silence is the first conspirator. Nobody wants to talk about it, has anything to say about it, desires to go anywhere near it. It is the conspiracy of silence, by a population stumbling along to get along; by leaders first nurturing and then spearheading the senselessness that relates to race in this country. One more time to drive home the point: RACE. For Guyanese politics fosters racial exclusivity and racial exclusion. Aside from deceptive platitudes, inclusion is neither internalised nor prioritised. Race relations. Race fairness. Race equity. Race justice. Race presence and race representation. Silence has stood the tests of time. Silence has outlived founding fathers and will outlast lost children. Silence surpasses all. Unsurprisingly, the Pandora’s box and Dante’s Circle that is the race maze and race hell of Guyana flourishes, and fails decade after decade, devouring each succeeding generation. There are no answers because there are no questions. There are no solutions due to there being no concerns. There is no progress since there is neither drive nor urgency nor inspired ideal towards a less bitter Guyana, and a more trusting one; towards a less contradictory Guyana, and a more understanding one; towards a less angry, hating Guyana, and a more tolerating, appreciating one. Indians and Africans are not contemplating returning via ships back to their ancestral lands. Both ponder and proceed on planes to the kingdom of plenty. But, when all the leaves that have drifted in the far winds are added up, there are still the many aborning and multiplying left behind. They perpetuate the old myths; relive the legends and ghost stories spoken in hushed, gravelly voices choked with memory and emotion around the tribal campfires of home and heart, and which stoke the divisions that condemn to the purgatories lived. The race conundrum that bedevils Guyana will not mysteriously, magically fix itself. Healing and reconciling and growing as a society, as a nation undivided, will not come about through individual, political, and racial distancing and disowning. This national shame will not power its way on its own to the tribunals of hard conversation, harder bargaining, and the hardest degrees of deciding that are the imperatives of any authentic narratives. Narratives that must pierce the hitherto impenetrable veils of silence that shroud this country in fear, in ugliness, in hostility, and in the damnation of first indifference, then ineptitude, and last the multitude of insecurities. The CCJ substituted as Guyana’s voice and conscience. On their own, Guyanese must find their voice and break their self-endangering silence on race.

The CCJ’s decision is Solomonic DEAR EDITOR, The first thing that I will say about the CCJ’s decision is that it is Solomonic, profound, and makes me want to stand straight and remove hat in recognition of the kind of wisdom revealed that is unknown in this country. The critical may look upon this and see a nondecision. I see otherwise. In one fell swoop, the CCJ reached down and first knotted together and then pushed the two competing political behemoths into a single, narrow cage, and with the invitation to sort this thing out one way or another at arm’s length and eyeball to eyeball. Instead of giving the baby to one group, there is now opportunity and mandate to share in dividing it and coming with less than half of nothing; or making tough decisions without appealing to the sympathies of strangers. No more of this handing over of a list by one and rejecting by the other. Put heads together and come up with six. Find six men or

women. But that is only the first screen, the short list that has to be agreed upon jointly and beforehand. I detect an open-ended liberty as to time relative to this judicial guidance. By this, I mean that to arrive at a single name could be a lengthy parsing exercise of submitting and rejecting, and then starting over again and again. And that torturous dissection has to be repeated until six names acceptable to the president are delivered. In effect, this means both sides/people are hashing this out in a continuous process that could take months. As a practical matter, it is likely that both parties will name leadership representatives, with plenipotentiary powers. Reminds me of the parallel when the PPP had Dr. Luncheon (I wish him the best) and others negotiating with Lance Carberry et al from the then PNC and the hiccups and stops and starts that surrounded that process. They will hem and haw, winnow and whittle, until they

arrive at a final six. The president, through his people, gets to bite the selection apple a second time, since he then decides on the one who will be chair. Some of those six names would have to have some trace of government ownership, as part of the screening for six, and selection of six. It may not be the best analogy, but I am thinking of jury selection involving prosecutor and defence counsel, with a judge as referee in arriving at a final cohort of twelve. That has the limitation and sanity of peremptory challenges. That cannot apply for this chair selection. I have not heard of anything about a referee in this potential chair list. I do not think that such granularity would be becoming of the CCJ. I say this even as I note that the lawyers from both sides have been called for a chat next Monday. I think that the learned justices of the CCJ have dabbled with this as far as they wish to take it: the ingredients have been

delivered; it is up to Guyanese leaders to concoct a palatable meal out of those. Guyanese have to cook it (sure to be found questionable); Guyanese have to taste it (sure to be found sour); and Guyanese have to live with it (sure to be found bitter later). For when that final fateful name is decided by His Excellency, the Guyanese voter still have an expired list with which to deal, and the usual elections exercisesthorny, controversial, and problematic in result-with which to cohabit. There could be greater comfort in some degree of fairness. Yet there still remain all the regular troubles that now customarily accompany winning and losing. When all is said and done, this country is still at the same place, with the usual racial and social migraines cum root canals to handle. Still comes right back to me and you, black and brown, and all the rest. Sincerely, GHK Lall

TIGI is pushing the agenda of transparency, accountability and anti-corruption DEAR EDITOR, Mr. Donald Singh’s letter captioned “It should be clear to the public that TIGI is now pushing an agenda” was published on June 16, 2019. Mr. Singh indicates in the letter that the agenda is “political and legal advocacy”. There is nothing striking about this assertion except for the insinuation that this is new and except possibly for some other undertone that I might have overlooked. Though I cannot vouch for fully understanding what Mr. Singh means by “political and legal advocacy” it is clear that he believes that we are doing something other than what we should be doing. In his words, we should be “simply calling for greater transparency”. Let me confirm that TIGI is and has been pushing an agenda of transparency, accountability and anti-corruption and everything associated therewith. Accountability is sometimes more challenging to understand. It is that function whereby we call things as they are and push for redress where applicable. I summarise it (somewhat unsatisfactorily) as ensuring that the rules are followed, that relevant sanctions are applied for infringements and that appropriate adjustments are made when there are

violations. It is by upholding accountability and ending impunity that we will make the greatest inroads in the fight against corruption and poor governance and it matters not which entities or personalities are involved. Our columns on the oil contract(s) address the issues based on the evidence, which we provided for the reader’s assessment. We naturally anticipated that which Mr. Singh advances as the most basic counterargument that will be made. The rhetorical question of why we have not moved to the courts is pertinent but let it suffice to

know that this is due thus far to issues external to the merits of the case. Mr. Singh is wrong in suggesting that TIGI should be “simply calling for greater transparency”. This is inconsistent with our watchdog status and on the basis of this misconception, it is appropriate to set aside his insinuation that we are veering away from what we should be doing. Addressing the issues in the oil contract(s) fits squarely into what we should be doing as an organisation. TIGI’s functions encompass raising public awareness about important

matters. The columns on the oil contract(s) and indeed all of our columns and statements on the topics we have addressed over time are as much about public education, awareness, and advocating for improvements as promoting transparency, accountability and anticorruption. We have advocated for, for example, political financing legislation and I have said publicly that I will not vote for any party that either does not support or does not want to implement such legislation. We have supported prosecution of former and current ministers Continued on page 6

Will Mexico be the next Venezuela? DEAR EDITOR, Mexico elected Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on July 1, 2018 and he took office on December 1, 2018. He won by a landslide victory. Additionally, he won majorities in the Senate and Chambers of deputies. He is a socialist and promised to fight corruption, lessen inequality and help the poor. Under the proposed new law to cut the highest government salaries and raise the lowest ones, no bureaucrat can earn more than the president. And since Mr. Lopez Obrador has set his salary at about $5,350 per month, less than half of his predecessor, Enrique Pena Nieto’s salary, that meant sharp cuts in the wages of more than 30,000 public officials. The law also slashed the pensions of the last five presidents. “We can’t have a rich government and poor people,” Mr. Lopez Obrador said. He sold Mexico’ s presidential planes and flies economy class. He plans to nationalise

Mexico’s oil. Companies such as BP, Sunuco, Exxon, Chevron and Arco are negatively affected by his nationalistic policies. When the cooperation of Europe and United States lose business (money), US and European governments strike back. Just look at the response to Venezuela’s nationalisation of oil. It cost their cooperation billions of US dollars. The government of US and Europe responded with economic sanctions. The humanitarian concerns seem to be a cover for their anger over their lost of revenue in Venezuela. Will they do a similar tactic to Mexico? Pay attention to the threat of tariff by the US President on Mexican goods. He is painting a narrative. The Caribbean and Guyana needs to prepare for an assault on Mexico by US and Europe. Will Mexico be the next Venezuela? Yours truly, Brian E. Plummer

Wednesday June 19, 2019

Honour the CCJ’s Rulings DEAR EDITOR, The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has finally rendered its long awaited ruling on the two critical constitutional matters pertaining to Guyana: The no confidence motion was validly passed and elections must be held within ninety days; and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman was improperly appointed. The court asked the lawyers for the two contending parties (really President David Granger and the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo) to meet and suggest a solution on a way forward and return to court on Monday June 24 with their recommendations. If the two opposing sides can’t agree, then the court said it is prepared to impose a solution on appointing a GECOM Chair. The CCJ rulings should be honoured. Since the No Confidence motion was validly passed, then the ninety days rule must kick in. The parliament must be considered to be dissolved as of today and the President must announce a date for elections latest by September 24 (the date the court issues final declaration on its judgment if not September 18). The government acts as caretakers until the results of the next elections. There can be no new business transactions. Since the appointment of James Patterson as Chair of GECOM was flawed and illegal,

then he must do the honourable thing (as a former Judge would do) and resign. Failing to do so, the President must revoke his appointment. The CCJ mandates there must be consultation between the President and Opposition Leader (OL) on an appointee or a list of prospective nominees from which the President appoints one as Chair. The Opposition Leader (OL) and the President should meet immediately (consultation as required by the constitution) on resolving this issue. The OL should submit a list of six names. Since there was consultation before on the last two lists (12 names) submitted by Jagdeo, the OL can choose six names from those lists for the President to appoint one as Chair. Patterson was not among the nominees on any list. He must therefore go. His failure to leave will be seen as defying the court and a moral defeat for those who brought the case against his flawed appointment. Besides those legal and moral points, very few Guyanese have confidence in Patterson to supervise free and fair elections. His replacement must be done urgently by the time the CCJ reconvenes on Monday. Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram

Genuine concern for Guyana’s future could have prevented this omission DEAR EDITOR, In a letter to the Editor 15th May 2017, I expressed serious concerns following (then) Minister of Natural Resources Hon. Raphael Trotman’s statement on the Production Sharing Agreement with ExxonMobil, “ExxonMobil is allowed to recover expenditure as part of the contract, this is easily understood. What is not clear is exactly what expenditure. Is it the expenditure to the point of discovery? Do we have a figure of how much it cost ExxonMobil to discover the Liza field well and is that the amount to be recovered by ExxonMobil or is it that we will have to repay all of ExxonMobil’s subsequent costs as they continue to explore?” (https:// www.stabroeknews.com/ 2017/opinion/letters/05/15/ expenditure-exactly-willexxonmobil-recovering/) That was over two years ago, answers were never provided, for no doubt they

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were dismissed as ‘nonexpert’, sadly the government is now asking the International Monetary Fund the same questions; the Concluding Statement of the 2019 International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Mission to Guyana states, “authorities have indicated their concerns that the absence of a ring-fencing arrangement in the Stabroek Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) could potentially affect the projected flow of government oil revenues.” The harsh truth is that this omission from the PSA could not be made if the persons negotiating on the behalf of the Guyanese people applied logic, commonsense, if you will and genuine concern for the future well being that oil revenues could provide. The Advisor on Petroleum to the President, Jan Mangal, now claims to have been absent from negotiations. No special

knowledge of ‘oil and gas’ was required, just honest care. We may never know if the negotiations were so poorly done due to negligence, corruption, deficient logic or basic stupidity; what I do know, is that no administration that cares so little for the future well being of its people, should ever be elected again. The Guyanese people are not incapable of logical thought and we know the clichéd ‘fool me once’ applies in spades. Respectfully, Robin Singh

Someone or some persons have something to hide at City Hall DEAR EDITOR, In cities around the world, local government is serious business, but here in Georgetown it is more akin to Comedy Central with innumerable humorous stories emanating out of that old fairytale like castle, which we call City Hall. What has been going on at City Hall since Independence and which continues to go on reminds one of the old ‘Carry On’ series of British comedy motion pictures where the humour was just ridiculous. I think we must have broken another record for being the first city from around the globe to have its Mayor’s office so easily broken into and important documents simply carted off under the noses of the City Police Department. Of course the smallest child would realize that this is a special thief or thieves and no ordinary criminal who was hardly interested in the valuable items contained in the Mayor ’s Office but whose interest it was reported was to retrieve files that contained information about the Commission of Inquiry that was undertaken upon the request of the Local Government Commission which contains damning, incriminating and felonious information and details regarding some major players at City Hall. A question to be asked is why? When almost every little cake shop in town has security cameras to enhance their safety and security, why does City Hall have none? Financial constraints are a

non-issue as this equipment has become very inexpensive, so then was this defect deliberate? Surely, this is another first for capital cities internationally. But the bigger question to be asked is where was the City Constabulary? This is where the headquarters of the City Constabulary is located, not an outpost, not a police station and not a municipal location where a rank is posted to protect the property, but the control centre, the head office, the nerve centre of the City Police. Where their armory is, where their lock ups are located, where their duty officers are, and a thief or thieves casually saunters into City Hall compound, breaks into the Mayor’s Office, takes whatever he or she wishes, and saunters back out undetected? Unbelievable! I hope this serves as a wake-up call to the Mayor, as to the nest of vipers that he is operating within. The deceitfulness, treachery and savagery that surround him are incredible. How did this thief or thieves know of the existence of these files in the Mayor’s Office, how did they know where in the Mayor’s Office to find it? How did they know of the most vulnerable area to break in through? If the Mayor is serious about advancing his agenda and if he is serious about improving the living and working conditions within our garden city, then he must do two things, first he needs to remove all those who closely surround him presently, who come from the

old guard and whom he inherited from his predecessors, and replace them with persons who would be honest and loyal to him and second he needs to turn all those who were fingered in wrongdoings in the COI and their matters over to the police for investigating. As they say here in Guyana, ‘Cow deh a pasture, he nah remember seh dog and butcher deh till he see am’. Finally, I would like to suggest that he changes from the current statutory and routine audit that the Audit Office of Guyana is currently unsuccessfully trying to undertake and summon a number of private audit companies in and order a full forensic audit be undertaken of the Council’s books. Someone or some persons have something to hide at City Hall and it seems as though they are willing to stop at nothing to achieve this. Additionally, the ghosts of the old ‘King’ and ‘Queen’ of City Hall seem to be still very much there and haunting City Hall with an invisible hand. Sincerely, Roseanne Rodgers

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Wednesday June 19, 2019

IF THERE IS GENUINE CARE FOR UG AND THE NATION, DO WHAT WILL BENEFIT THEM DEAR EDITOR, Allow me to begin this letter by expressing my gratitude to Prof. Ivelaw Griffith for offering to serve and serving the University of Guyana as Vice-Chancellor for the past three years. On Sunday last, Fathers’ Day, my attention was directed by a friend to an article by Mr. Pat Dyal regarding the choice of Prof. Ivelaw Griffith to withdraw his request for renewal of contract as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana (UG). The title of the article, ‘A Sad Time for UG’, and the fact that it was published as a column related to consumer concerns more than caught my attention. The author’s name was familiar from a conversation I had not long before which I shall refer to shortly. I have been a member of faculty at the University of Guyana for over 19 years. Thirteen of those years was spent in one administrative position or another, and I have served on the University Council for much of the past five years. These facts are relevant to establish that I am very familiar with the University, its ViceChancellors over those years and especially with the full term of Prof. Griffith. To the disappointment of many of my colleagues, I chose to be publicly silent on the matter of the renewal of Prof. Griffith’s contract because I was dealing with the matter

where I felt it properly ought to have been dealt with; at the Council. That position was very difficult to maintain as the public opinion was being skilfully manipulated in favour of Prof. Griffith. It was especially painful to observe Prof. Griffith’s disrespect for the Council by publicly displaying that he was in possession of information from the Council that he ought not to have. That move was a slap in the face of those on the Council who would have provided him that information. I was so incensed by that publication that I notified the Council of my preparedness to make public a number of documents from the Council that would reveal the truth about what was occurring at within the Council in relation to Prof. Griffith’s tenure and renewal of contract. My public silence is now being broken because that article by Mr. Dyal together with the posts of Prof. Griffith and his friends on social media could continue to do injury to the University in the public by deceptively manipulating public perception. I will not make information from the Council public. It is my hope that an audit of its decisions over the past four years in particular will be conducted by the appropriate authorities and that will tell the full story. While I could write about my personal experiences and observations of Prof. Griffith

as Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Administrative Head of the University), I will not do so at this time because there is no reason to publicly berate his tenure at the UG now that he poses no serious direct threat to the University. Mr. Dyal has indicated that Prof. Griffith has promised to speak to why he chose to withdraw his request. I look forward to seeing that account. I do not know precisely why he withdrew, but I do consider it a wise choice for the sake of his image. If, however, this injury to the University continues, and in particular if there is any publication to deceive the public on this matter, I do promise to not simply speak to the facts but to provide the documented evidence.

It is important for the public to understand that no element of the University has moved for any reason to get rid of an all-round great ViceChancellor. The public must understand that this was and is not about the University community being antidiaspora or about a prophet being without honour in his own home. This was and is not about the UG staff being made to work like never before and being too lazy or about a simple cash of work cultures. This was and is not about opposition to institutional change or about anyone planting seeds but not being there to reap the fruits. If the public is genuinely interested in having an understanding of what happened at the UG, they could begin by searching the

internet to find articles and blogs related to Prof. Griffith’s appointments as Provost at Radford University and President at Fort Valley State University. The public must understand that in March 2019, there was what could be described as a move to silence three members of the Council in relation to Prof. Griffith’s request for renewal of contract – I was one. That move eventually succeeded to exclude only one person. Some days prior to the June 7, 2019 meeting of the Council, I was informed that Mr. Pat Dyal had called that excluded person to request that they vote in support of Prof. Griffith’s renewal of contract. When informed that the person was removed from Council, Mr. Dyal is reported to have promised

that he will speak to a named powerful member of Council to ensure that the person was put back on Council [if they were going to support Prof. Griffith]. Editor, I have exercised great restraint even when questioned by some of my oldest and dearest friends about what exactly transpired in relation to Prof. Griffith and the UG. I will not be so restrained if there is a continued public campaign elevating the interests of Prof. Griffith over that of so great and important a national institution as the University of Guyana. If there is genuine care for the UG and the nation of Guyana, then we must do what will benefit them. Sincerely, C. R. Bernard Senior Lecturer

No one is holding UG lecturers accountable DEAR EDITOR, I read in the newspaper of Monday 6/17/2019 University of Guyana’s Public Relations Officer, Ms. Paulette Paul, saying the Diaspora and Entrepreneurship Conference has been postponed. I doubt the conference will ever come off or there will be one like that again. If this were to happen, the new Vice Chancellor would have to continue this vision of Professor Ivelaw Griffith. It seems as though UG has gone from one step forward to three steps backward. I would not be surprised if more planned programmes will fall apart. You see Editor, the university unions have done such an excellent job discrediting the university, reputable individuals and organisations will sprint away like Usain Bolt. Who will want to be caught in the squall when their time and resources can be directed where welcomed and appreciated. I anticipate grants will dry up, private investments will dry up, donors’ scholarship will dry up, and the diaspora will become less interested in giving and sharing. In addition to the lecturers saying the university is without toilet paper and flushing toilet will be without what it most needs. Confidence in the university attracting investments from nongovernmental organisations. Philanthropists will disappear. No one in his or her right mind would want to

associate with that team on the campus. The lecturers, as usual, won’t care. Why must they care? They got away for years without marking papers on time, with no Certificate of Recognition, with no Collective Labour Agreement and without holding elections in their unions. It has become their modus operandi and I doubt they will allow anyone to disrupt their rules. UG sounds like a wildwest scene without a Marshal. Who wins the brawl is always right. No one is holding the lecturers accountable. They like holding the University Council and management accountable and not themselves. I guess they will say “why not?” They will continue to get away with poor performance and be paid while the students and university continue to suffer. Editor, I am not saying there is no problem with the management of the Council and the Vice Chancellorship. It would have been more helpful had the government and university gone about fixing the problems in a dignified and mature manner. Students are looking on and learning. This is not the best lesson for them. I wait to hear who will be the new Vice Chancellor. I am not afraid to say, based on information of what Professor Griffith was doing for the university. I regret he did not want to renew his contract. I still hope he would reconsider. If he does not, the new vice chancellor better be forewarned that orderliness and progress are despised.

He would be coming into the lion’s den. If he does not toe the line, he will be the next meal. The unions have swarmed the house of management. They have taken over management. Only their opinions matter and what they say goes. The University Council seems powerless and overridden by the unions who have one vote on the Council. Rationality has fled or the other council members have grown tired and insipid with the lecturers’ drag down brawls. The lecturers kicked up a hailstorm during the time of Vice Chancellor Opadeyi. They called for him to go. He left at the end of his contract. They did the same for Vice Chancellor Griffith. If the next vice chancellor is not handpicked and approved by them his fate may be worse. This is

bullyism. The Council allows it. The Government allows it. The Opposition allows it. The private sector allows it. The TUC and FITUG seem powerless to stop it or are in solidarity with the bullyism. It seems, with the exception of a few, everybody else allows the bullyism. Like others, I have no confidence the interim threeman management team would be able to succeed. I would like to be shown where this has ever worked. Students are in for some rough times. My advice to them is to band their bellies or look somewhere else for a good tertiary education. Good people will be left with little choice but to leave. Good people will refuse to come back. This sad country named Guyana will continue to stagger from bow to stern. Yours faithfully, Dev Permaul

TIGI is pushing the agenda... From page 4 of government embroiled in accusations of misconduct in public office and have in recent times called for investigations and appropriate action to be taken against those who violate the laws of Guyana in executing their public duties. I personally raised a court case (with the support of the TIGI’s directors) on depositing the signing bonus from ExxonMobil into the Consolidated Fund. We have therefore been engaging in both political and legal advocacy and this nullifies any perceived novelty in Mr. Singh’s assertion that TIGI’s columns veer into political or legal advocacy. If someone is motivated by our columns to take the illegalities that we identify in the contract(s) to court or to initiate any other actions to seek rectification, this would be an achievement in our advocacy and it would be much better than TIGI taking the matter to court itself. There should be no mystery about and no mistaking our intention in relation to the columns on the oil contract(s). We are saying that something is wrong and that it needs to be rectified. Troy Thomas, Ph.D. President, TIGI

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GECOM Chairman appointment process flawed – CCJ rules The unilateral process undertaken to appoint Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) was flawed, the Caribbean Court of Justice, (CCJ) said in a ruling yesterday. Delivering the Court’s summary findings via Audio/Video link, CCJ President, Justice Adrian Saunders said that in making a determination, the Regional Appellate Court had to consider ‘the proper meaning’ of Article 161(2) of Guyana’s Constitution.” That Article sets out the requirements for a person to be eligible for the appointment as GECOM’s Chairman. The Article also sets out the general process for selecting the Chairman. Further to determine, the meaning of the Constitutional Provision, Justice Saunders noted that the Court had reviewed the drafting history of Article 161(2). The CCJ President reasoned that while the Court found the decision of President David Granger to unilaterally appoint Justice Patterson was justified on several bases, the reasons proffered by the Attorney General Basil Williams and his legal team, lacked merit. NO MERIT The Judge noted that in an attempt to defend his decision, the President had alluded to the discretional powers in Article 161 (2) granted to him. Saunders pointed out that specific reference had been made to

the Presidential immunity under found in Article 182 (1) which empowered the President to act in his own deliberate judgment, when exercising such discretion. The CCJ Judge said that after rejecting three lists of potential candidates for the position, the President decided that it would not serve the public interest to further delay the appointment of a Chairman. “The President sought to rely on the provisions as well as the July 2017 ruling of the High Court in Gaskin against the Attorney General. The case had been decided after the second list given by the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo was rejected by the President.” Saunders said that these were among the reasons put forward by the Attorney General and his team. The Judge noted nonetheless that the CCJ considered the submissions and objections of the Attorney General, and found that his objections had no merit and were rightly overruled by the court below. He said too that it was decided that the propriety of the Chairman’s appointment was a matter, which could be inquired into by the Court given its inherent jurisdiction relating to the interpretation of the Constitution. “The Court also held that it is its role to authoritatively settle matters of what the constitution means and whether certain actions taken by the constitutional actor is within or outside his or her Constitutional

remit.” As such, the CCJ President reasoned that as in the challenge filed by Opposition Member of Parliament, Zulfikar Mustapha over the President’s appointment of Justice Patterson, “when citizens raise a legitimate question about an appointment that may not be within the rights of the Constitution, the Court should not deny such persons a hearing.” “Democracy and the rule of law are nourished by the posing of such questions and the Court‘s answers to them,” Saunders asserted. PROPER MEANING Exploring the given circumstances, Justice Saunders said the Court found the essence of the case lay in the “proper meaning,” of Article 161 (2). The Judge held that to look at this meaning, the Court had to take into consideration the drafting history of the Constitutional provision. Saunders also held that the historical evolution of reforms to the constitution for GECOM moved towards inclusion and consensual discourse as opposed to unilateralism and arbitrariness that characterised the process for Justice Patterson. Delving into its history, Justice Saunders noted the unilateral appointments date back to the 1980 Constitution, when the Elections Commission Chairman was appointed by the President in his own deliberate judgment from among persons who fulfilled certain

Unilaterally appointed: GECOM Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson defined eligibility criteria. He noted however that, “the provision was modified in 1995 by Act 15 of 1995 which amended Article 161 (2) and carved out a role in the appointment process for the Leader of the Opposition.” “This modified role of the leader of the Opposition had been proposed by the Carter Centre which in 1990 had been invited by then President Desmond Hoyte to observe the upcoming elections. This proposal known as the Carter Formula provided for the submissions by the opposition parties of the list of the names of six persons from among which the then President, Desmond Hoyte, would select a Chairman. The Carter Formula was

eventually incorporated into the 1999 Act, which led to amendment of the Constitution. This amendment however came to an end by virtue of a clause limiting its operating to a specified date, and so unilateral appointment under the 1980 constitution was revived. [But] In 1999, the Constitution reform commission recommended that among other things, the appointment of the Chairman of the Elections Commission would be a consensual process. The recommendation was adapted by the National Assembly and incorporated in the Amendment Act (2) of 2002.” The Court noted therefore that the evolution of Article 161 (2) had been characterized by a significant shift from exclusivity and unilateralism on the part of the President to inclusion and consensuality involving the Opposition Leader,” Saunders said PROCESS FLAWED Meanwhile, in the summary ruling, the Court noted that Article 161 (2) the paragraph sets out in very specific terms that the issue of the eligibility of candidates for the position of Chairman of GECOM. “The Leader of the Opposition is required to submit to the President the names of six persons who satisfied the eligibility criteria and the President is obliged to appoint one of the six nominees as the Chairman.” The court found while it was clear what was meant by meaningful Continued on page 27

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The President missed the point We live in a funny country. Too funny to be true. No wonder the world has been laughing at us. No wonder the Caribbean has found bemusing, the numerous challenges to the no confidence motion (NCM) of last December. The shenanigans continue. The President would have us believe that there are as many as 200,000 incorrect entries on the voters’ list. This would be just under one in every two persons who voted in the May 2015 election which brought him to power. The President cannot be serious about those numbers

which he quoted in his reaction to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruling yesterday. Where did he conjure up that number from? If the list is so outdated and corrupt, the results of the 2018 local government elections should be vitiated. But the PNCR, the lead party in the ruling Coalition Government, made no complaints about the list used in those elections. It accepted the results of those elections, which it lost handsomely. The President is badly misinformed about how the names of persons who recently turned 18 get onto the preliminary list of

electors. A person turning 18 does not need to register via house-to-house registration or even a cycle of continuous registration to get on the list. Once you are 14 years of age, you are entitled to be registered. So, most persons between 14 and 18 years would have been registered over the past four years. And when their 18th birthday arrives, their names would be added to the list of electors. This idea therefore that there are thousands of persons who turned 18 years recently, and are thus entitled to vote, but not registered, is a figment of the President’s imagination or he is grossly

DEM BOYS SEH

Dis is confusion season De KFC fight fuh de Prime Minister wuk. Moses get challenge and lose. Ram Jattan want de wuk but dem boys seh he got to be either a pandit, a fortune teller or a good obeah man. He sure de coalition going back in power. Of course, nuff people think so but things like dat you don’t put you head pon a block. But is he party dat cause all de problem. He pick Charranrass, de same Charranrass mek dem got to hold elections sooner. Dem boys seh Charranrass do one good thing wid he vote. He expose de poor qualities of de Attorney General. Dat man mek four Ministers resign; he mek Guyana a fool when he go to de Caribbean court claiming dat 33 is not really bigger than 32. He suh weak dat he couldn’t even win de chairmanship of he own party. But is de KFC. Moses, who part de Red Sea, tell reporters dat he party can mek more demands of Hap New. He couldn’t even mek no demand fuh stay on as Prime Minister when elections come again. But is Jagdeo who dem boys watching.

He had nutten to talk bout till de CCJ hand down de ruling yesterday. People did forget bout de ruling. Is only Jagdeo was waiting because he can now call pon people to protest and to picket. He don’t join dem but he does collect de money to buy food and pay dem. After all, travelling, picketing and protesting is hard wuk. As soon as de CCJ talk, Jagdeo seh Soulja Bai got to hold elections in three months. He got to find a new GECOM Chairman; Soulja Bai want house-to-house registration and de people want money. If all two of dem big politicians insist on wha dem want is big problems in dis country. Dem boys seh dem know bout problems and dat is de last thing dem want to see again. But power is a crazy thing; it does mek people run mad and carry odda people wid dem. But one thing is certain. Is a good thing Jagdeo join de CCJ. He get de ruling on de no confidence motion. But he cuss de same CCJ when it rule dat he can’t get a third term. Talk half and brace fuh more confusion.

misinformed. There is no need for houseto-house registration to sanitise the voters’ list. And it can hardly be a situation where more than 200,000 names need to be taken off the list. This is impossible and an exaggeration. But there are enough suckers out there to believe this sort of propaganda which is being peddled by the government. The government is clinging desperately to any excuse to try to find a way to delay the elections, and it is unfortunate that the nation has to be told that as many as 200,000 incorrect entries are on the voters’ list The government is in ‘Lala land’. It has failed to grasp the concerns, which it needs to address immediately and before next week. These concerns have nothing to do with the voters’ list and the readiness of GECOM to hold elections. The legality of the government is the issue in question. The CCJ has ruled that

Articles 106(6) and 106 (7) were trigged by the passage of the no confidence motion (NCM) which was passed last December. This means elections are to be held within three months of the passage of the NCM unless the National Assembly provides otherwise. The reason why the CCJ has not provided consequential orders as yet is because it is allowing for that political process to allow for a possible extension of the three-month period to legitimise the life of the government. In other words, the CCJ was suggesting that the parties meet to see if an agreement was possible to extend that three months (which have long expired). Without that extension (however it is to be done), the government remains de facto. What we have in Guyana now is a constitutional crisis. And instead of the President speaking to how he proposes to resolve this crisis, he has made ill-advised comments

about house-to-house registration and an outdated and corrupt voters’ list. The President is missing the issue. He has also failed to grasp that since the process of appointing the Chair of GECOM was flawed, there is need for this process to be rectified. And the CCJ has provided some guidance on this issue. The President failed to address how he proposes to do this. Instead of dealing with these issues, the President goes off on a digression about being advised about elections in November, an alleged flawed list, and the need to ensure credible elections. We have not come to that stage as yet. There are issues to be resolved before next week. The President’s illadvised statement of yesterday may have closed off any possibility of those issues being resolved.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday June 19, 2019

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

The CCJ finally killed off the Bollers syndrome I offer below a lengthy extract from my October 25, 2018 column. This column laid out an argument for upturning the Court of Appeal decision in relation to the unilateral appointment of GECOM Chairman by President Granger. Here is what I wrote; “There is a huge amount of pronouncements by those three judges that must stir the curiosity of an intellectual mind. I honestly feel those observations will be deeply reflected upon as the CCJ arrives at its decision. Here are some of those

words by the three judges. I have already looked at what Justice Rishi Persaud said in my last Friday column but for emphasis I will repeat it here. The Justice reasons that to force the president to choose from the list; “…that could possibly lend itself to politicking, abuse by one … such an interpretation may also attempt to elevate the Leader of the Opposition to a position over and above the norms associated with his authority.” I don’t understand this point and maybe it is because I am not trained in

law. But I would like to think that when the constitution was amended to give the Leader of the Opposition a role in the selecting of the chairman, the framers wanted to dilute some of the powers of the president and they did just that with Article 161 with the way the GECOM chairman must be appointed and Article 127, which empowers the Opposition leader, in that his/her consent is needed for the confirmation of the Chancellor of the Judiciary. Justice Barnes noted that the president had a right to

act unilaterally in the absence of consensus and after a period of eight months. But could it be argued that failure of consensus and length of time to choose the chairman were not the fault of the Opposition Leader. Could it be argued that a president, in secretly harbouring his/her desire to have his/her own pick, could aggravate a charged atmosphere to as to bring about consensual failure due to a prolongation of time. At all times in reflecting on this court case, one must remember that the President

rejected 18 names. Now here are some absorbing comments from the judges on the names supplied. I quote from the Chronicle of October 19, 2018, “Another of the judges even went as far as saying that the Opposition leader could not have expected the Head of State to choose from a list where “one or two or three persons, as the case may be, are not acceptable to him.” But here are the words of the Chancellor; “In that manner, if one person or two persons on a list is found to be unacceptable, the whole list need not be rejected. If more than half is found to be unacceptable, well this necessarily narrows the choice and therefore can be reasonably rejected. Conversely, if half or more of the list is found to be not unacceptable, the list is good. Therefore, as argued by Mr. Nandlall, there is no perfect list of six.” Justice Barnes noted, “I find that to have submitted a list, three sets of names, and simultaneously ask the President, in submitting those names, to choose a chairman, in my mind that could not have been contemplated as achieving consensus… so, I read not unacceptable to the President as requiring the Leader of the Opposition to engage in a separate process of determining acceptability and then after the engagement process is undertaken, then to have

Frederick Kissoon gathered one list of six names and to have submitted that as the final list to the choice of a Chairman of the Elections Commission,” The question here is does the constitution obligate the Opposition Leader to do so. I guess we have to wait to hear from the CCJ”. I ended that column with the words, “I guess we have to wait to hear from the CCJ.” Well we heard from the CCJ yesterday. I am still at a loss to understand why our Court of Appeal couldn’t discern what the CCJ did. That is, since the constitution embodied a formula called the Carter-Price blueprint for selecting a chairman, the days of the president arrogating to himself who he wants as GECOM chairman were gone. The Carter-Price formula virtually killed off the Bollers syndrome. This was in the days when President Burnham chose who he wanted to be chairman, and he picked retired judge, Harold Bollers. To me, the Court of Appeal erred badly in not seeing that the Bollers syndrome can remain in disguise if the president can decide who he wants to chair GECOM.

Fisherman who killed friend gets 13 years for manslaughter An East Coast Demerara fisherman who was committed to stand trial in the Berbice High Court, for murder, yesterday pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter and was sentenced to 13 years in prison. Elton Lilly, 49, of Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Justice Jo Ann Barlow. He was on trial for the unlawful killing of 53-year-old Lakeram Singh called ‘Dafat’ or ‘David’ of Lot 13 Fyrish Village, Corentyne, Berbice. The incident occurred on Sunday 26th October 2014. The two men were friends and were imbibing when Singh was stabbed to death following an altercation, which developed between them. Reports were that the men knew each other and were drinking at a shop not too far from the Fish Port Complex at No. 66 Village, Corentyne when an argument ensued. Singh subsequently armed himself with a cutlass and chopped Lilly on his hand. Lilly in turn grabbed a knife and stabbed Singh about his body. The man was stabbed to his face, head and back. Singh collapsed and was picked up and rushed to the Skeldon hospital where he succumbed while receiving medical attention. Lilly had escaped from the scene but was arrested. A post mortem examination that was performed on Singh’s body concluded that he died from shock and haemorrhage due to stab wounds. Mandel Moore presented the State’s Case. Stateappointed Attorney Sasha Roberts of the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic represented Lilly. When the matter was called yesterday, the accused indicated that he wanted to take a certain course of action – pleading guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter, which was agreed to by the State. He also expressed remorse for his actions.

Wednesday June 19, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Wednesday June 19, 2019

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Elections can and must be held within 3 months – Opposition Leader Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is adamant that elections can be held within three months, despite claims by the Guyana Elections Commission that the earliest possible date would be some time in November. During a press briefing at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition Leader yesterday, Jagdeo related that he is pleased with the rulings of the Caribbean Court of Justice

(CCJ). The court ruled yesterday that the NoConfidence motion of December 21, 2018 was validly passed, and that the appointment by President David Granger of Justice (ret’d) James Patterson as the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) was flawed and unconstitutional. “What we are happy about is that the Caribbean

Court of Justice has just disclosed a victory for Constitutional rule in Guyana.” Jagdeo said. However, he added that there is no room for “triumphalist gloating by the People’s Progressive Party”. The move now by the PPP is to kick into campaign mode, he said, and that starts today. He said that the ruling now means that there will be a “sprint” toward elections. “Today the final Court

has spoken and we will be intolerant about anything that has nothing to do with holding Elections.” The Opposition Leader was asked whether the threemonth timeline he gave would be sufficient for the cleansing of the Official List of Electors (OLE) and the appointment of a new chairman for GECOM. He said that it would be sufficient, but did not explain how that would play out, explaining that he wants to wait on the Consequential Orders from the CCJ to direct Government and Opposition on a principled way forward. Those orders are slated to be made by the CCJ on Monday, June 24, 2019. Multiple commissioners at GECOM had informed this publication that the qualifying date for the OLE is October 31, 2019. This means that General and Regional Elections can’t be held before November. But Jagdeo firmly opposes this view. Even with the timeline Jagdeo gave yesterday, he said that it does not mean that government should have a pass. “The count can’t start from today. The count must start from when the NoConfidence Motion was validly passed, which was the 21st of December; the three

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo months from that date, and that ended in March of this year.” Jagdeo said. At this juncture, Jagdeo said that the PPP hopes the staff of GECOM and the commissioners abide by the ruling and hold early elections. He recalled a statement earlier yesterday by the President, which included mention of a November date for elections, and advocacy for House-to-House Registration. President Granger called the list corrupted, and said that it may have as much as 200,000 incorrect entries. The President also said that persons who have

recently turned 18 years old are not on the list. Jagdeo said that this is false, and that persons registered from the age of 14 during the last continuous registration process of July 2018 are on the list. He further said that the November timeline is not acceptable, and that the President is “divorced from the reality of Constitutional rule”; an indication that the President is using these contentions as excuses to “hang on to office”. He added that the President’s discretion to freely declare a date for elections is diminished when a vote of No Confidence is passed, since the Constitution gives a threemonth timeline in this case, adding that the President has to follow the law. The Opposition Leader called on the international community to take a strong position on respect for democracy, now that the final court has ruled. He also commented on several other consequences of the motion; the legality of Government’s actions after March 21, 2019, i.e. the three month deadline for elections, after the passing of the motion. Continued on page 30

Wednesday June 19, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Sexual harassment allegations…

CJIA sends senior manager on leave; withdraws security pass for alleged victim The management of Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) last evening announced that a senior manager accused of sexual misconduct has gone on leave amid a police investigation. According to the airport, the official has proceeded on leave to make way for an ongoing probe of a complaint of sexual misconduct made by an employee of an airport concessionaire. The airport said that its management also withdrew the airport security credentials of the woman who made the complaint. “The action today followed the opening of a police investigation based on a report filed this week by the concessionaire staff. The alleged incident took place almost one year ago and was previously investigated by airport management. At the time, there was no evidence found for further action to be taken.” CJIA said that it remains committed to ensuring a safe working environment for all employees and all persons who work at and use the airport. “In light of the recent incident, steps are being taken to strengthen the existing protocols.” The woman, who works at a duty free concession at the airport, had claimed in July last year, that she was kissed twice and held without her consent while she visited the man’s office to seek assistance with an issue (to help remove the wheel clamps on her employer’s vehicle). The vehicle had been left in the airport’s parking lot.

She claimed she knew the senior official and had a respectful relationship with him. However, on the day in question, while she was preparing to leave his airport office, he allegedly left his desk and kissed her suddenly. She said that she was left in a shocked state, she attempted to leave, but he allegedly blocked the door and kissed her a second time, a little longer this time. She left the office and threw up several times that day. According to the woman, she complained the next day to CJIA’s Chief Executive Officer, Ramesh Ghir, who promised to get to the bottom of it. She gave a statement. It was not until recently, after asking, that the airport sent her a ‘WhatsApp message’ saying that the matter was addressed. The woman said she was not sure what that meant. After the story broke in Kaieteur News over the weekend, the woman went to the police on Monday, at the Timehri station, and filed an official complaint. Police officials over the weekend said that the airport erred badly by not calling in the police to investigate a criminal allegation. Yesterday, the woman reportedly turned up for work and her security credentials were taken a w a y. T h a t m e a n t s h e could not work within the secured area where the duty free concessions are. Police investigators later took her to the office area at CJIA where the alleged incident took place.

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Kaieteur News

Questions remain over scholarship payments to Minister’s children Government’s recent explanations of how millions of dollars made it into the bank accounts of children of Minister Simona Broomes is not being bought by the Opposition. Last week, government’s spokesman, Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, disclosed that the money, almost $20M, as reported by the Opposition, is proceeds

of scholarships that the children benefitted from. There were no other explanations. Former Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Juan Edghill, pointing out that the matter was first raised in the public’s domain by the Opposition, has a number of questions that he says would have definitely been asked in the National Assembly if it was functioning in the normal

situation. The transfers to the accounts of the children took place between 2018 and this year. A number of persons from the Department of Public Service were reportedly sacked recently for allegedly leaking the information. President David Granger has appointed Lance Carberry to head a Board of Inquiry and submit a report

by the end of this week. “The minister must tell the nation when and under what circumstances and what criteria were used to award these scholarships.” He explained that the Government of Guyana through bilateral arrangements has managed to enter scholarship arrangements with Mexico, Russia, India and other places. “The government would advertise these scholarships and then there are some criteria between the Departments of Public Service. After receiving applications, the people would decide the best suited person to send on these scholarships. So the Government must say…Minister Harmon must tell the nation what were the criteria used to determine these scholarships to the children of Minister Broomes.” According to the former minister, the second thing Harmon must explain is the actual cost of the scholarships. He pointed out that the Opposition had found out during the national budget estimate considerations a few years ago that three ministers,

Minister Simona Broomes

Opposition MP, Juan Edghill

including Nicolette Henry and Annette Ferguson, had benefitted from scholarships. “…all three of them, while being engaged in government were also on scholarship. So the issue here is not whether a child is bright and I would wanted to say this clearly if Minister Broomes and any other ministers’ children is deserving the scholarship…it is not an attack on anybody’s children.” Edghill insisted, rather, that the issue is one of what is the process. “The Minister of Public Service and now Minister of Housing and Minister of Education… all three of them

are beneficiaries of government’s scholarships while in office. The question was how did they get these scholarships? Did they compete with other top people of the country or did they get it just because of political consideration?” Edghill pointed out that it was Minister Broomes who had disclosed that she had relinquished her rights in mining, worth millions, to her daughter. He said that one can assume that the proceeds of the mining rights, thanks to an agreement with a major mining company, would have been significant to Broomes’ daughter. “So what is the Continued on page 29

Wednesday June 19, 2019

Kaieteur News

T&T Govt. to renegotiate three more agreements with oil companies The Government of Trinidad and Tobago was recently successful in renegotiating marketing arrangements with Atlantic LNG, a move that will result in a projected US$118M of incremental revenues to the National Gas Company of T&T (NGC), according to T&T Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Franklin Khan. NGC is a major shareholder in Atlantic LNG. Next, NGC, through its ‘Empowered Negotiation Teams’, will embark on a second phase of negotiations with the other major shareholders of Atlantic LNG: BP and Royal Dutch Shell. In explaining the need for renegotiation last year, T&T Prime Minister Keith Rowley said, “There’s a role for the government in ensuring that the people of Trinidad and Tobago, while being participants in this very lucrative business, get more than crumbs that fall off the table”. Atlantic LNG has four liquefaction facilities (trains), and each has its own marketing arrangements. T&T was successful in renegotiating the agreement for Train 1. Minister Khan, in an address to the T&T House last Tuesday, said that the shareholders are now set to discuss and review agreements for Trains 2, 3 and 4, with no pushback from the oil companies. Government had received criticisms from the political opposition, the United National Congress (UNC), that the move to renegotiate would scare away investors,

T&T Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Franklin Khan and that it would violate the sanctity of contracts. Minister Khan fought back against those criticisms, explaining that the government had been working assiduously on the relationships with the oil companies. He said that it was necessary to build a platform of mutual respect, “and an ability to sit in the same room as equals with these sophisticated multinational companies”. Minister Khan said that, “… consequent on Government’s push for an improved revenue stream and after months of complex and challenging negotiations, there was agreement that Shell would enhance the revenue to the Government, these

enhancements are estimated at approximately US$944.7 million over the period 2018 to 2027.” Khan relayed to the House that Phase 2 of negotiations will entail the restructuring of the four LNG trains into a single unit, with the primary aim to ensure that NGC gains more. When Kaieteur News related T&T’s success with the Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, he said that Prime Minister Rowley’s reason for renegotiating was that there was a “changed circumstance”. He said that the “changed circumstance” for the Government of Guyana would occur if the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) finds “something illegal”. The question posed to Harmon was whether Government would initiate an investigation to respond to the alleged illegalities in the Production Sharing Agreement for the Stabroek concession. These alleged illegalities were posited by political commentators Christopher Ram and the Transparency Institute Guyana Initiative (TIGI). Harmon neglected to answer for the Stabroek concession, repeating that government will only act on findings from SARA, despite being reminded that SARA is not investigating the Stabroek concession.

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Wednesday June 19, 2019

CCJ rulings represent victory for democracy – Attorney Nandlall The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) yesterday declared the December 21 No Confidence motion was validly passed and the appointment of retired Justice James Patterson as chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), flawed and unconstitutional. Both rulings represent a loss for the Coalition Government in two matters which have significant bearing on the nation’s political future. The CCJ rulings were delivered via Audio/Video link which was live streamed at the Court of Appeal in Kingston. Following the delivery of the judgments, attorneys spoke to media operatives expressing their varying views on the outcome of the cases. Attorney-at-law, Anil Nandlall who appeared alongside, lawyers Sanjeev Datadin, and Kamal Ramkarran in the cases filed by Zulfikar Mustapha against the appointment of the GECOM Chairman and the consolidated appeals challenging the No-

Confidence Motion, expressed his satisfaction in the determination of the final appellate court. He noted that the ruling represents a triumph for the people of Guyana and victory for democracy. “Democracy won today and as I have said before, this no confidence motion case should have never been filed. It was a waste of taxpayers’ dollars. But I am particularly pleased with the rulings and the fact that the Court has indicated its intention to give effect to the letter and spirit of the Constitution.” In that regard, Nandlall noted that the CCJ has invited the parties involved in the matter to once again meet a consensus. “If we fail to do so, I believe the court will make coercive orders to ensure that certain matters…the appointment of a new GECOM Chair and the date General Elections are set within a manner as much as possible that is timeprescribed and in accordance with the Constitution.”

Winning Team: From left: Attorneys-at–law Ganesh Hira, Marcia Nadir-Sharma, Anil Nandlall, Christopher Ram, Sase Gunraj and Rajendra Jaigobin. Nandlall added. Meanwhile conceding defeat, Attorney General Basil Williams said the Government accepts the ruling of the CCJ.

Williams noted that the final court has spoken and there is no other course of appealing. “The court has knocked us down on every point conceivable.”

He said however that the Government is awaiting the full judgment, which the court promised to send, so that it can read the document and make its decision going

forward. In accordance with the law governing no confidence motions, General elections should have been held within Continued on page 29

Wednesday June 19, 2019

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Kaieteur News

June Session of Berbice Criminal Assizes Opens A total of 70 cases, including 62 for murder, are listed to be heard at the June session of the Berbice Criminal Assizes that was opened yesterday outside the Berbice High Court building on Esplanade Road, New Amsterdam. Justice Jo-Ann Barlow, who is currently sitting in the Criminal Court in the Berbice High Court, presided over the opening session. Justice Barlow was accompanied by Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall who is presiding over the civil court in the county. The judges were accompanied by Divisional Commander of Police ‘B’ Division Assistant Commissioner Paul Langevine, assisted by Assistant Superintendent of Police Antonio Fredericks. A police contingent of 28 officiated in the march past and parade, which was commanded by Assistant Superintendent Elton Davidson with Inspector Michael Newland, the parade Inspector. There were two

parade Sergeants in Rodwell Downer and Philbert Wilburg and 24 other ranks. The ranks who were accompanied by a police military band, performed with the usual pomp and ceremony as they gave an impressive display. Justice Barlow inspected the Guard of Honour in the company of Assistant Commissioner Langevine, and Assistant Superintendents Davidson and Fredericks. The police contingent had earlier marched off from ‘B’ Division Headquarters at Coburg Street and Strand, before proceeding along Strand, New Amsterdam, in front of the High Court, where the parade was held. Accompanying the parade were OC No.1 Woman Superintendent Yonette Stephens, Traffic Officer Deputy Superintendent Timothy Williams, Chief Inspector Bernard Brown and Woman Inspector Grace Bristol, among others. When the session was called to order Justice Barlow

Justice Jo-Ann Barlow and Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall are flanked by police officers and ranks during the ceremonial march past and parade outside the Berbice High Court in New Amsterdam yesterday. spoke to the jurors present. She told them that Justice Priya Sewnarine Beharry is expected to replace her

shortly. She thanked those in attendance for coming out and outlined to them some of their roles and responsibilities

as jurors. She also outlined to them some implications and consequences of not turning up for jury service.

Despite the rain, Justices Barlow and Morris-Ramlall and Assistant Commissioner Langevine took the salute.

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Kaieteur News

Conflicting addresses surface in mason’s narcotics charge - Magistrate raises concern

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Experienced cashier, Waiter. Apply at Hack’s Halaal Restaurant with H/written application 5 Commerce St Crane operator, crane porter, marine engineer. Please call #616-6988 One certified crane operator, attractive salary is offered, three years experience would be asset. Call: 665-1141 1 apartment or house to rent for one Christian couple, No kids. Call: 672-9606 Ms Keisha One car/van driver with mechanical & body work experience. Tel#227-1830 1 Diesel Mechanic/Driver to work in Interior, 1 Male to work on Chicken farm in the interior #680-2702 Wanted Salesgirl wanted $30,000 weekly, 1 male security guard $40,000 weekly, 1 Domestic worker 4 days per week $20,000 Tel# 617-5700

Timothy Badal, a 34-yearold mason, yesterday appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to a narcotics charge. Attorney-at-law PaulFung-a-Fat, who represented Badal, told the court that his client is a married father of one, who resides at 193 Middle Road, La Penitence. The charge stated that on June 15, last, at 193 East La Penitence, Badal was found with 53 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. He pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him. Police prosecutor Gordon Mansfield made objections and released the facts of the charge which stated that on

Pump attendant & Cashier, shift rotated weekly (6am-3pm & 3pm-11pm) send to shellramsburg@gmail.com

Summer School & Lessons, Common Entrance , Phonics, Reading & Writing (4-14yrs) Nursery/Primary full day school. Call: 677-0296 LAND FOR SALE Transported land 11.6 acres. Lot 15 public road. #2 Village W.C.B. Price $18M. Contact 686-4818, 648-7109 Parfaite Harmonie- Front land $1.8M Tel#697-6311 WANTED Experienced cook & Waiter/ Waitress, Apply @ Parika 2nd Flat Boodhoo’s General Store. Contact#650-0402/664-4663 (1) 2002/2006 Toyota Allion or Premio. Contact #685-8980 1 shop assistant to work in ther interior experience would be an asset. #669-3162 Cook, Apply @ Shanta’s 225 Camp St 1 Industrial Electrical to work in Georgetown. #227-1717 Porters,Drivers,Cashier. Tel#231-7002

Waiter/Waitress & Chef preferably carnegie trained. Contact #225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff St

VACANCY Deskstaff, Receptionist 25-45 yrs 233 South Road Lacytown/ 225-0198

One male Janitor, Apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb Street Bourda

Diesel Mechanic. Contact #223-5273/74

One Bartender. Tel#618-3575

Supervisor for Xenon Hotel in Essequibo. Contact#2235273/74

Vacancy for experience tractor & lorry driver. Apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb St Bourda Accounts clerk to work in Charity. Contact# 771-4180/ 654-7162 or email barry @adamantiumholdings.com Experienced Male Porters & Salesgirls with 2 yrs experience. CXC maths & english. Apply @ Christine’s Variety, Lombard St. Contact: 227-8529

the day in question, ranks from the Criminal Investigation Department went to Badal’s home - at 193 East La Penitence - and Continued on page 32

Two freed, one to lead... (From page 23) .32 ammunition when they were not licensed firearm holders. It was further alleged that Chapman on July 5, 2017, at Grove, Access Road, East Bank Demerara, while being in

VACANCY

EDUCATION

Timothy Badal

General domestic. 3 Days work. Must know to cook. Apply with 2 references. KeyFood McDoom village Experienced male sales attendant, stocktaking knowledge, computer literate, excellent service attitude, able bodied.Key Food McDoom Village.

Driver/Expediter. Contact# 223-5273/74

VACANCY FOR DAY/ NIGHT SHIFT HOUSEKEEPR TO WORK AT AAGMAN RESTAURANT SHERIFF STREET. CONTACT #2190158

Lot 3, Public road, McDoom Georgetown (1) Labour Worker who can speak Chinese. Tel#603-5480

VACANCY FOR CHEFS TO WORK AT AAGMAN RESTAURANT. CONTACT # 219-0158

Vacancy for experience tractor & lorry driver. Apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb St Bourda

NAIL TECHNICIAN. Contact#223-5273/223-5274 Driver/Salesman, Experience is an asset. Call: 663-5800

the company of another and armed with a gun, robbed Marcia Maria Martin of a cellular phone worth $70,000, four ounces of raw gold valued at $600,000, some $700,000 in cash and other articles totalling $1.4M, property of Martin. Police Prosecutor Simone Payne is representing the State in the matter. At the first hearing, she told the court that police acting on information went to High and Princes Streets, where they were on the lookout for suspected bandits. The Prosecutor added that shortly after the police arrived at the location, they saw three men sitting in a vehicle acting suspiciously. The court heard that the officers approached the vehicle where they identified themselves. A search was carried out on the men, and the vehicle and articles listed in the charge were discovered under the driver’s seat. The three suspects were then arrested and subsequently charged. In relation to the robbery matter involving Chapman, the Prosecutor told the court that an identification parade was held and Chapman was positively identified by the victim. Magistrate Weaver in freeing the two defendants, cited that the witnesses all testified saying they saw McDonald just standing in the area at the time when the police were doing their arrest, therefore he was picked up in the mix. For Adams, they said Chapman just pulled up in the car and stopped to talk with him. However, at no time was Adams in the vehicle. Chapman is to return to court on June 25.

Wednesday June 19, 2019

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GECOM Chairman appointment process flawed – CCJ rules From page 8 consultations, Article 232 of the constitution is not clear on what process should be followed to accommodate the spirit of consensus between the President and leader of the Opposition The Court decided therefore that the most sensible approach to operationalise the Article was for the Opposition Leader and the President to communicate with each other in good faith and to perhaps even meet to discuss the eligibility of each candidate for Chairman before the list is formally submitted.

The CCJ also stressed that, “an onus is placed on the President not to find a nominee unacceptable merely because the nominee is not a choice the President would have himself made”. By a majority, the CCJ found that the President should only find a nominee unacceptable for some good reason on objective grounds. “If a President were permitted capriciously or whimsically without proffering a good reason to reject eligible nominees, this would frustrate the proper working of the Constitution. It defeats the amendment

of Article 161 (2) and paves the way for unilateral appointments.” The Court found too that once the Leader of the Opposition demonstrates a will to engage in good faith the prescribed process, the proviso rule in which Granger resorted is hardly an option. Taking into consideration the engagement between Granger and Jagdeo, the CCJ found that the President could not, as a precondition to considering a nominee, include eligibility requirements that were additional, or at variance, with those prescribed in the

Constitution. “In view of the unfortunate process that was followed; in view of the imposition of criteria that were not sanctioned by the constitution and in view of the absence of cogent reasons for deeming unacceptable the candidates and lists provided, the Court is of the view that the process which was followed in appointing Justice Patterson is flawed. The Court emphasized, however, that nothing in its judgment was intended “in the slightest degree” to cast aspersions on Justice Patterson’s competence and

suitability for the position of Chairman of GECOM. Nor was there any suggestion that President Granger had not acted in good faith. In a concurring judgment, Justice Maureen Rajnauth-Lee stated that by giving reasons why nominees are rejected, the President will engender greater public trust and confidence in the Elections Commission. Justice Winston Anderson, also in a concurring judgment, agreed that the process was flawed but did not think that, at the consultative stage, it was necessary for reasons to be

given. The Court concluded that the most sensible approach to the process of appointing the Chairman of GECOM is for the Leader of the Opposition and the President to communicate with each other in good faith and, perhaps, even meet to discuss eligible candidates for the position of Chairman before a list is submitted formally. The CCJ having concluded that the appointment was in breach of the Constitution, invited both sides to present further submissions on June 24, on how the issue should be rectified.

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Wednesday June 19, 2019

Rehab, construction of GPF facilities among noteworthy projects bid for at latest Tender Board The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board opened bids for a range of projects, with the most notable batch being among those from the Ministry of Public Security, in relation to rehabilitation and construction of several facilities. A number of these facilities are in desperate need of facelifts and these rehabilitation works not only attracted a large number of bidders but also large bids, as one project had multiple bids in excess of 20 million dollars, with an engineer’s estimate being a little over 23 million dollars. Other noteworthy projects were related to the Guyana Energy Agency and Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission. Ministry of Public Security Rehabilitation of Special Branch Admin, Camp Street - Guyana Police Force

Rehabilitation Works to Felix Austin Police College Mess Hall - Guyana Police Force

Rehabilitation to Public Relations and Sports Secretariat Building - Eve Leary, Guyana Police Force

Rehabilitation Works to Fence - Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters, Eve Leary

Construction of Exercise Bay, Mazaruni Prison - Guyana Prison Service

>>>> Continued on page 29 <<<<

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Questions remain over scholarship... Rehab, construction of GPF... From page 14 consideration that was used to give such scholarship to a child…having such lucrative income…that they could still get a government scholarship as against a child that is not able to pay that money? That is the crux of my contention…” Edghill, who is one of the shadow ministers in the National Assembly for finance, noted also there is still another important aspect…that of affordability. “Minister Harmon in his response also said the Minister’s daughter was the top student at a private school. Now the question is, did the Minister’s daughter source her own university, started as a student and after being enrolled asked the government to pick up the bill or was this agreement done before the child was enrolled to the university?” Edghill explained that it is important to know, as there could have been an existing scholarship, which existed that would have placed no burden on the Government of

Guyana. “…but if the child wanted to study in Harvard and refused to go to Germany, you start studying in Harvard which is quite an expensive institution and when you started studying you used the government political connection to get the government to pick up the bill then something is wrong…” Edghill admitted that these are issues that people don’t want to talk about. “The deposit of the money into the account of the children is a matter that should raise red flags and Harmon should have addressed that by saying these deposit were there for tuition or for accommodation, book allowances…clothes allowances, etc.” The Opposition parliamentarian noted that the matter had been in the public’s domain for a month before it was addressed by Harmon. “This is somebody (Broomes) who takes to her Facebook page and

speaks very regularly but there was deafening silence (on this).” Edghill said that this situation raises alarming questions as to whether there are other situations where similar benefits are also available for the children of other ministers and top officials. He said that had Parliament been functioning as it should, the issues would have been raised. According to the Opposition official, there would be questions too if the matter went to Cabinet for approval and explanations to assure the Guyanese people that the payments to the Minister’s children is not a back-hand arrangement for political consideration. “And it is these issues that have been left in the air that are not being answered that cause us to seriously question the manner in which the APNU+AFC government and the Granger-led government is handling public money…taxpayers’ money.”

From page 28 Rehabilitation to Timehri Police Station and Barracks - Guyana Police Force

Guyana Energy Agency Supply, Installation and Commissioning of Hybrid Inverter and Energy Storage System

Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission Construction of Facility Building Parking Shed

CCJ rulings represent victory for... University of Guyana - Selection of Consulting Services for Detailed Design and Cost Estimates for Infrastructural Enhancement of the Library

Ministry of Business - Consultancy for Export and Investment Strategy and Implementation Plan for GO-Invest

Supreme Court - Supply and Delivery of Air Conditioning Units

Procurement of Security Services - Lethem Magistrate’s Court & Quarters, Region 9

Attorney General Basil Williams engages the press following yesterday’s CCJ ruling. From page 16 three months after the motion had been passed on December 21, 2018. As such in delivering the judgment, CCJ President, Justice Adrian Saunders urged parties involved in the matter, to engage with each other and come up with a consensus that the final Appellate Court can provide consequential orders on a way forward. Over the past few months, both matters have garnered much public attention given its effect on whether the nation will have early elections. Guyana’s political opposition, the People’s

Progressive Party (PPP), had moved to the Courts to challenge the ruling Coalition, A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), on key decisions relating to governance of the nation. In the first case set for determination by the CCJ the PPP Member of Parliament, (MP) Zulfikar Mustapha, had raised legal arguments against the validity of the unilateral appointment of GECOM’s Chairman. In the case of the noconfidence motion, the government approached the courts after it was defeated with 33 votes when the then

government parliamentarian, Charrandass Persaud, voted with the Opposition. The vote was initially accepted by the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Government conceded its defeat, but later pursued litigation.

Procurement of Ink and Toner Cartridges

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Wednesday June 19, 2019

Hong Kong leader signals end to MPs rally around Kamla extradition bill but refuses to quit amidst no-confidence talk

Clare Jim, Noah Sin HONG KONG (Reuters) - Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday signaled the end of a controversial extradition bill that she promoted and then postponed after some of the most violent protests since the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. In a closely watched press conference, Lam apologized for the turmoil but refused to say the bill would be “withdrawn”, only that it wouldn’t be re-introduced during her time in office if public fears persist. This was the strongest indicator yet that the government was effectively shelving legislation that would allow people to be extradited to mainland China to face trial, even if it fell short of protester demands for the government to scrap the bill altogether. “Because this bill over the past few months has caused so much anxiety, and worries and differences in opinion, I will not, this is an undertaking, I will not proceed again with this legislative exercise if these fears and anxieties cannot be adequately addressed,” Lam told reporters. Lam, appearing both contrite and defiant, used much of the same language as a previous press conference on Saturday when she announced a postponement of the bill. A day later, about two million people spilled on to

the streets, many demanding that she step down. Lam, asked repeatedly whether she would quit, refused to do so, saying there remained important work ahead in the next three years, which would bring her to the end of her current five-year term of office. “After this incident, I think work in the next three years will be very difficult ... but myself and my team will work harder to rebuild public confidence.” Lam apologized for plunging the city into major upheaval, saying she had heard the people “loud and clear” and would try to rebuild trust. But some protest organizers and opposition Democrats said Lam remained tone-deaf to public demands, namely that she state categorically a retraction of the bill, step down immediately and pledge not to prosecute any protesters on rioting charges. “Carrie Lam is continuing to lie,” said Jimmy Sham, the convener of the Civil Human Rights Front. “We hope the people of Hong Kong can unite with us ... to keep working hard to withdraw the evil law,” he told reporters. Alvin Yeung, a democratic lawmaker, said Lam had failed again to lower the political temperature in the city of seven million. “Hong Kong will not accept this,” he said.

NEWSDAY - The man who has in the past challenged Kamla PersadBissessar for leadership of the United National Congress (UNC) is now hitting critics who are expressing doubts over her ability to continue to lead the party. Addressing the first On the Pavement series of meetings in Couva on Monday night, Oropouche East MP Dr Roodal Moonilal was very dismissive of detractors and expressed full confidence in PersadBissessar’s ability to lead the UNC into government in the next general election. Chaguanas West MP Ganga Singh broke ranks and voted with the People’s National Movement (PNM) government on the pension clause of the Miscellaneous Provisions Bill in Parliament last Friday. Moonilal spoke to an audience and panel of

speakers including Couva North MP Ramona Ramdial, chairman of the Couva/ Tabaquite/Talparo Regional Corporation, Henry Awong and host Couva South MP Rudy Indarsingh. “I saw something on social media, somebody reporting about some motion by some group, some bodies contemplating some motion of no confidence of the political leader and opposition leader,” he said. “I want to tell you something: there will be no motion of no confidence in Kamla Persad-Bissessar, either as opposition leader or political leader or any leader. “That matter cannot and does not arise. Mrs PersadBissessar indeed has the support of all MPs, notwithstanding any recent ripple,” he said in reference to the Singh debacle. “When the time comes for Mrs Persad-Bissessar to vacate the office of the Leader of the Opposition, she will do so when she becomes the PM of TT. So let not your heart be troubled with that.” The On the Pavement series of meetings derived its name from the challenge the prime minister issued to Moonilal in Parliament in March 2018. On that occasion, Moonilal was enquiring about the continuing medical expenses of then Public Administration and Communications Minister Maxie Cuffie and questioned whether Rowley would assist Cuffie rather than taxpayers., Rowley responded, “Madam Speaker, if my colleague from Oropouche East want to talk about party

UNC political leader Kamla Persad Bissessar elites, I will meet him outside on the pavement.” Moonilal said that is what spurred the title of the meetings, to be held in the constituencies of every opposition MP to discuss key issues in the national community “to report to you some of the measures of the PNM government and give our critical views. Many of the views, of course, we are not able to give in the Parliament. Chief Whip David Lee (who was scheduled to speak but was delayed) will tell you of some of the struggles we have in the Parliament every week when we ask questions and put forward motions and many are rejected.” Moonilal said when opposition MPs ask questions about the people’s business and seek answers from Dr Keith Rowley and Cabinet ministers, “It is a struggle to get fairness and equality in the Parliament. “When the government come to talk, they insult us. They are arrogant. They don’t deal with the issues,” he said.

Elections can and must... From page 12 “[What this means is that] the government has been illegal since March 21, 2019”. Jagdeo read a release from the CCJ on the matter, which states “… Guyana’s Constitution states that the Cabinet including the President, is required to resign if the government is defeated by the majority vote of all the elected members of the National Assembly on ‘a vote of confidence’” He said that the only reason Government should have stayed in office was to hold elections. Jagdeo noted that, in the past few months, government awarded contracts, conducted outreaches, passed the Natural Resource Fund Act, and made amendments to several acts in the National Assembly, including one that gave a series of public organisations a total $7.9B supplement. He said, “This government has not acted, since December of last year in a caretaker capacity. What it has done is business as usual.” All of these things will be considered illegal under a PPP government, he noted, but whether he would seek to reverse contracts and amendments to the law has not yet been decided. The PPP is now seeking legal advice to determine how practical it would be to make certain reversals.

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Kaieteur News

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Increased farming being promoted in Linden as Guyana anticipates oil boom With the drilling of oil slated to commence next year, it is expected that the demand for food, particularly fresh produce, will increase significantly. This observation was made by Regional Agricultural Officer of Region 10, Derrick Collins. Collins was at the time

addressing a number of farmers in Region 10 in a meeting organised by Regional Chairman, Renis Morian, to help in propelling Co-ops with the view of bringing about holistic and broad-based development. According to Collins, the best approach that farmers can

Conflicting addresses... From page 26 identified themselves as policemen. The ranks then went into the house which is a flat threebedroom concrete building. A female was present, who Badal identified as his mother. The lawmen were told that she occupies one of the rooms. A search was then conducted in Badal’s room and one of the ranks found two black plastic bags with stems suspected to be cannabis in a clothes basket. Badal told the ranks that he found the two plastic bags in a cemetery. He was later arrested and charged. Concerns were raised by Chief Magistrate McLennan about the difference in the address that was in the charge (193 East La Penitence) and the address given by the defendant’s attorney (193 Middle Road, La Penitence). The Magistrate then granted bail to the tune of $120,000 with the condition attached that he must report every Friday at East La Penitence Police Station. Badal will make his next court appearance on July 9.

embrace is to become actively involved in Co-ops, He noted too that this will serve farmers well once they are properly organised. In sharing this tactic, the Agricultural Officer made it clear that farming will serve as another platform for many to earn significant incomes through anticipated increased sales. “Irrespective of what you think, farming is the way to go, let me urge you to get involved because it will help in bringing about the needed revenues to enhance your respective communities,” he said. As such, Collins called on farmers to support their respective cooperatives, even as he stressed that farming is the best way to go. “Check all the modern agricultural countries around the world, when you check how they [farmers] got the way they are, they will tell you that they belong to Co-ops. Check Europe, farming countries like Italy, they all have Co-ops, so I am encouraging you to get organised... with Co-ops you

stand better to gain,” he reiterated. The Agriculture Officer declared too that, through the Regional Democratic Council, his office will seek to provide certain opportunities in enhancing the growth and development of agriculture in Region 10. “Oil is coming and the men and women who would be working on those oil rigs will need food [fresh produce]. When Exxon, for instance, goes out [to buy], they will not go to an individual to buy...the first group that approaches, they will buy from them because they see what is called an organisation; they see democracy, so I encourage you to take heed and visit the Coops office,” he appealed. He noted that while Region 10 has been known to be a mining community for several decades, the shift to farming has also proven to be beneficial. He, moreover, urged residents to not see farming with the stigma and discrimination that many

usually do, but underscored that agriculture is certainly going to help return Guyana to being the bread basket of the region. “Learn more and join a Co-op, so the next time that I speak to you, I can see you benefitting from the things that I have given to your respective co-ops,” said Collins, who revealed that recently “I donated a 1060 water tank and 105 permanent crops to a Co-op right in Linden. So by you joining a Co-op, you can imagine how you can benefit, through your Co-op, from the RDC,” the Agriculture officer said. He continued by stressing, “Get involved in what is usually referred to as Community and family farming. Linden is celebrating a decade of family farming and with the United Nations’ move to eradicate hunger and end poverty, I think the best way to go should be to return to the soil.” Collins said too that

Region 10 Agricultural Officer, Derrick Collins communities like Millie’s Hideout and Moblissa are leading the charge in agricultural development even as, he added, “I urge others to emulate such efforts.” According to the Agricultural Officer, the Madena Co-op society has certainly laid the foundation adding, “I know communities like Moblissa, and from the stories that we have heard, Region 10 [as a whole] was once a powerhouse as it relates to agriculture. So please take this opportunity wisely and do what is generally referred to as ‘make hay while the sun shines’,” Collins stressed.

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Letter to the Sports Editor

Sparrow says thanks for his MS DEAR SIR, Permit me space in your daily newspapers to express my gratitude to all of those who contributed in me achieving the award of Medal of Service which was presented to me by the His Excellency President David Granger of this Government on Fri 24th May 2019. In no particular order I will mention a few. To my Parents Mr Sherlock Griffith (deceased) and Mrs. Gloria Baird-Griffith thanks for the early guidance. To my wife of

33 years Hazel Griffith you have been a tower of strength, guidance, support, patience and tolerance in allowing me to spend hours away from the house to achieve this National Award. I must also mention my first wife Ms Debra Allen for her help also my Children, Vonetta, Krysty and Althea, Grand Children, Brothers and Sisters, Cousins, Uncles and Aunts and my Grand Parents and other family members whom I have not mentioned. Mr Colin Klass, Mr Colin

Baker of Florida, USA, Mr Ivor O Brien, Mr Harry Shepherd (deceased), Brigadier Major General (retired) Michael Atherley, Mr Mark Bender, Mr Noel Adonis, Mr George Rutherford, Mr Franklin Wilson, Mr Christopher Matthias, Mr Odinga Lumumba, Mr Kashif Mohammed, Mr Aubrey “Shanghai” Major, Mr Maurice Enmore, Mr Keith Smart, Mr Ryan Otto (deceased), Mr Evaroy Babb (deceased), Mr Alfred King, Mr Colin “BL” Aaron, Mr Harold

Wednesday June 19, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your energy is running high, Aries, and you have a great deal of fire that you can use to transform anything. You have a wonderful capacity to turn a bad situation into a good one. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Every time you bring up a sensitive, important, or deep subject, does someone squash it? You may feel like you aren't relating well to other people today, Taurus. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) This is a wonderful day. You feel emotionally strong, Gemini. You have all of your energy available for use. Don't miss this opportunity by feigning a headache and staying at home doing nothing. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Nothing seems to be clicking the way you want, Cancer. Your rational mind tells you that things are fine and you have the green light to proceed with your plans. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You're emotionally much stronger than usual. You will be surprised at the events, thoughts, and conversations you command with your words, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) While this may be a day when all you want to do is to relax, you may not feel like you can, Virgo. Alittle voice is telling you to work. Perhaps you're inspired to clean out your closet, change the landscaping, or wash your windows.

.LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) This may feel like a day made just for you, Libra. You're emotionally strong. You feel like you're able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Tackle all those projects you love but have been too scared to start. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your energy may be a bit scattered, Scorpio. Although your days are jam-packed with activities, you still go to bed every night feeling like you didn't get anything done. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Your emotions and actions are well aligned, Sagittarius, meaning that you're likely to do things that are more in tune with your true beliefs. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You may feel emotionally stuck, Capricorn. Perhaps you feel your sensitive, loving nature isn't fully appreciated. Today is energetic and lively, but you'd rather sit home and relax. Your best strategy is to do just that. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) It feels like you have more emotional armor on, Aquarius, which will help you deal with a looming battle. Somewhere in your world a conflict is brewing. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may feel like your resources are depleted and you want to throw in the towel, Pisces. Don't give up yet. Today may not be the best day of your life, but that doesn't mean you should write everyone off and become a hermit.

“Lightweight” Kisson (deceased), Mr George Grimes, Mr Clifton Bobb, Mr John Yates, Mr Wayne Forde, Mr Jack Warner former President of CONCACAF and FIFA Vice President, Mr Peter Prendergast of Jamaica, Mr Osmond Downer of Trinidad, Mr Ramesh Ramdhan of Trinidad, Mr Merere Gonzales of Trinidad all from the Football Fraternity who helped me along the way. The following persons were also instrumental in some way for me achieving my award Mr Robert Williams, (deceased) former Deputy Mayor, Ms Elsie Croal, former Chief Agriculture Officer, Mr Ruben Charles, former Chief Fisheries Officer, Mr Martin Stephenson, (deceased) former President AA, Mr Deryck Whitehead (deceased) former President AA, Dr. Maxine Parris-Aaron former President Guyana Netball Association, Mr Shree Chand, (deceased) former Government Minister, Mr Cleveland Lewis, former General Manager Sanata Textile Limited, Mr Leon Walcott, (deceased) former Teacher of East Ruimveldt Secondary School, Mr Neil Kumar former Director of Sports, Mr Stanley Cooke (deceased) former Personal Manager of Guyana Rice Milling and Marketing Authority, Mr Neville Gittens, (deceased) former Administrative Manager of Guyana Rice Milling Authority, Mr Charles Ogle former GUYSTAC Sports Organiser and at present the Chief Labour Officer, Mr Trevor Carrington, former GUYSTAC Sports Organiser,

Ms. Lavern Fraser Thomas, Sports Organiser of UG, Mr Juman Yassin, President GOA and Minister Valerie GarridoLowe of the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs. There are other persons out there whom I may have forgotten or have not mentioned or too much to mention, I thank you also. I must also thank the press both, print and electronically, that travelled with me during the years in my sojourn in the field of sports, the many articles and press releases of my achievements, the interviews. The journalists and photog-

raphers are so many, I will refrain to mention names at this juncture but to wholeheartedly thank all of you lovely ladies and gentlemen. I truly enjoyed my participation in the sports arena, and I know I contributed to many persons gaining national and international recognition due to diligence and guidance. Sometimes the financial rewards were minimal or none at all, however the end result was satisfying. Once again thank you. Respectfully yours, Lawrence Llewlyn Griffith MS

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Guyana go down to USA in 2019 CGC debut Minnesota, USA: Urged on by 19,418 vociferous fans at the Allianz Field Stadium in Saint Paul MN, USA Guyana lost its debut match at the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup to the host nation and defending champion, USA 0-4. President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde, other executive members of the Federation, Director of Sport, Christopher Jones and dozens of Guyana fans living in the USA along with some who travelled to the US to support their Golden Jaguars witnessed a spirited performanc e f r o m t h e S o u t h Americans. The first half saw a determined performance from the Guyanese who had a passing accuracy rate of 93% to the host nations 87% and 44% possession compared to the USAs 56%. The half

ended with the home team enjoying a slim 1-0 advantage owing to a 28th minute goal off the boot of Paul Arriola following a lapse in the defensive third. The second half saw the more experienced USA side pulling away from the young Guyanese side as they hit in three more unanswered goals, two coming off the boot of player of the match, Tyler Boyd, and the other from Gyasi Zardes. Guyana next play Panama on Saturday, while the same day, the USA face Trinidad and Tobago. And in the earlie match of the day. Trinidad went down to Panama 2-0. Today the tournament will see Cuba versus Martinique, while Mexico o p p o s e Canada is what should be an interesting contest.

Neil Danns in control for Guyana during the encounter.

Brain Storm claim Fathers day dominoes title in Wakenaam

Brain Storm Captain James Ramnarine (right) receives the winning prize from Mohamed Sheriffudeen of V Net Communications. Brain Storm prevailed in a closely contested affair to emerge champions of the Fathers day dominoes competition which was contested on Sunday at Carlosh Sports bar in Good Success, Wakenaam. Brain Storm and Hustlers both made 76 games, but Brain Storm won the duel by making more sixes, eight, two

more than Hustlers. Thunder Storm placed third on 71 games. Shafdar Ali and Suraj Narine made 17 games each for the winners, while Heera Sukram, Vickey Ramdhani and Amit Ramnarine marked 15 games apiece and Nazeer Mohamed 14 for the runner up side. Thunder Storm leading

players were Khemraj Surujpaul and Krishundat Hansraj with 16 and 15 games respectively. Shafdar Ali was named man-of-the-match. Organiser Nazeer Mohamed congratulated the winners and thanked the sponsors, V Net Communications and Mohamed Azam Aslam.

Estwick says unity key to Windies... From page 33 cricket looked,” the former Barbados fast bowler contended. “Hindsight is a wonderful thing. If wed bowled spin against Bangladesh, everyone would have said that we should have stuck to our strengths. Four games down the road, its the worst tactic in the world.

“Give Bangladesh credit. They played well and theyre an improving side. Theyve played us now five times in the recent past and have beaten us every time. We just have to go away and put our heads together and find a solution. “Were not down and out yet. Were going to fight and come back harder.”

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Kaieteur News

Estwick says unity key to Windies turnaround MANCHESTER, England, CMC West Indies assistant coach Roddy Estwick has urged the struggling side to remain united in the face of a difficult World Cup campaign, warning it was not the time to “look for excuses”, ahead of their key clash with New Zealand here Saturday. The Caribbean side slumped to a devastating seven-wicket defeat to Bangladesh on Monday, leaving them seventh in the 10team table on three points and with a single win in five outings.

And with another defeat to the Black Caps all but likely to crush the Windies hopes of a top four place, Estwick said it was now time for the side to display their mettle and take responsibility. “We can stand here, saying if this and if that we didnt play well, weve lost the cricket game and thats that,” Estiwick said of the defeat to Bangladesh. “Weve got to come back stronger. Weve still got four games left in the tournament and we cant point fingers or apportion blame to anyone.

NZ contest a must-win: Hope

Shai Hope gathers runs during his top score of 96 against Bangladesh. TAUNTON, England, CMC With West Indies facing a do-or-die fixture against New Zealand on Saturday, marquee batsman Shai Hope has called on his teammates to dig deeper and find a way to win the vital contest. The Caribbean side slumped to their third defeat in five matches on Monday when they suffered a chastening seven-wicket loss to Bangladesh here, leaving them seventh on three points and running out of time to make the semi-finals. “Its now must-win. We have to put everything into getting those runs [on the board],” Hope said following Mondays defeat. “As a team, we have to go back to the drawing board, find solutions and go and win the game.” The right-hander topscored with 96 as West Indies piled up 321 for eight off their 50 overs at Somerset County Ground, leaving Bangladesh facing a record run chase in order to win the contest. But veteran all-rounder Shakib-al-Hasan hammered an unbeaten 124 while Liton Das stroked an accomplished unbeaten 94, as the Tigers romped to their target in the 42nd over with 51 balls re-

maining. Despite his performance, Hope copped criticism for the pace of his innings. He faced 120 balls and struck just four fours and a six before falling in the 47th over with West Indies still under 300. The 25-year-old said while there was a need to increase his strike rate, he had also been mindful of the importance to hold the innings together in partnerships. “Whenever I step to the crease, its a case of batting as long as possible. [You] dont leave it for anyone else in the final overs you just have to take responsibility,” Hope said. “I can massively improve it [the strike rate]. Whatever I can do to improve, Ill do that but it was a bit of a difficult spot for me in the sense that we keep losing wickets in the middle overs and putting the lower half under a bit of pressure. “Having said that we need to keep the innings together and get as many runs as we can, especially in the backend.” Hope has been West Indies most successful ODI in recent years, averaging 50 from 59 matches with six hundreds.

“We have to stick together; thats how good teams pull through. Weve got to stop looking for excuses and start finding solutions.” West Indies handed Bangladesh a target a challenging target of 322 but the Tigers produced their highest ever successful run chase in One-Day Internationals to win with 51 balls remaining. They were guided by Shakib-al-Hasabs unbeaten 124 and Litos Dass unbeaten

94, the pair posting a record unbroken fourth wicket stand of 189 to see their side home comfortably. Estwick said the Windies total had been well short of a really competitive one, especially considering the size of Somerset County Ground. “If you look at it, I thought we were 60 runs short on that pitch and on that size field. We then didnt take the opportunities that came our way,” he pointed

out. “We were always behind Bangladesh once they got through to 70 for one. The big players didnt kick on but saying that, we made 321 runs and should have been able to defend that.” West Indies relied on five quicks for the contest after overlooking frontline spinner Ashley Nurse. However, the tactics of using aggressive short-pitched bowling, which was successful against Paki-

stan and Australia, failed to produce results this time around as Bangladesh revelled on a good batting strip. While Estwick stood by the decision to omit a specialist spinner, he was also quick to praise Bangladesh who have now beaten West Indies eight times in their last 10 ODI meetings. “Four years ago, everyone was saying how exciting and refreshing West Indies (Continued on page 32)

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Wednesday June 19, 2019

Kaieteur News

Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Berbice Coaching Programme

BCB continues to invest in its Youth Players - Tyrone Pottaya named 2019 Father of the Year The Berbice Cricket Board is continuing its continuing its policy of investing heavily into the development of youth players across the Ancient County. The Berbice Cricket Board would be using the current rainy season to visit every corner of Berbice with the Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Coaching programme. The Programme started early this year with the preparation of the Berbice Under-15, Under17, Under-19 Male, Under-19 Female, Senior Female teams along with several coaching clinics. Last weekend, the Berbice Cricket Board launched another aspect of the comprehensive programme with new members of the Berbice Un-

der-15 and Under-17 Teams involved in an intense four hours coaching clinic. Under the guidance of Coach Balram Samaroo, Special Emphasis was placed on fielding, physical fitness, batting techniques and game situation. Samaroo, a former national junior player and Berbice Senior Player is currently heading the programme in the absence of Winston Smith, who is on vacation overseas. A total of twenty five Under-15 and Under-17 players were involved in the session at the Albion Community Centre Ground. Berbice Cricket Board President Hilbert Foster disclosed that the sessions would continue every week-

The Players at the Camp pose with Coach Balram Samaroo. end with the hosting of specialized sessions for fast bowlers, batsmen,

wicketkeepers and spinners. The panel of coaches would also be visiting every club in Berbice which has a junior cricket team for two days clinics. Over the next few weeks, the coaches including Samaroo and Delbert Hicks would be visiting Clubs like East Bank Blazer, Edinburgh Warriors, Mt. Sinai, Rose Hall Canje, Albion Community Centre, Port Mourant, Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, No. 73 and Scottsburg United among others. The Coaches would also visit Clubs in the West Coast Berbice area. At the completion of the visits, the coaches would select a squad of seventy (70) youths for the second edition of the Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Coaching Academy that would be held in August, 2019. Meanwhile, the Berbice Cricket Board on Saturday last honoured Tyrone Pottaya of Belvedere Village as its Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Father of the Year Awardee for 2019. Pottaya, a cane cutter attached to the Albion Estate, is the proud father of three children. His only son and youngest child, Matthew represented Guyana at the Under-15 level in 2019 at just thirteen years. A devoted father, Pottaya is Matthews personal coach and accompanies him daily to practice at the Area H

Tyrone Pottaya receives his Dr. Tusi Dyal Singh Father of the Year Award from BCB President Hilbert Foster, MS. Ground, where he is a member of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS. A humbled Pottaya expressed gratitude to the Berbice Cricket Board for honouring

him with the Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Award and urged other parents to play an active role in their childrens careers. The mother of West Indies Under15 selectee, Rampertab Ramnauth in May was named the Brian Ramphal Mother of the Year. BCB Public Relations Officer Simon Naidu expressed gratitude to Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh for his massive investment into Berbice Cricket which in 2019 would amount to almost $2M of his personal funds. The Berbice Cricket Board on the 27th July, 2019 would confer its highest Award to Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh for his support of Berbice Cricket.

Wednesday June 19, 2019

GBTI Open By Sean Devers It is said that when night falls, stars come out to shine and on Monday night playing in the GBTI Open at the GBTI Lawn Tennis Court, Gavin Lewis shone brightly to beat the seemingly invincible Anthony Downes in an epic Mens Open Quarter Finals which lasted 3hrs and 20 minutes. When the final shot from Downes hit the net at 11:05 PM, the 22-year-old had won 6-3, 2-6, 6-4 to become the first player to defeat the 28year-old Downes in seven years and emotions ran high. In what was literally a war on the Court between the pair, the last match on Monday under flood lights and in very windy conditions, the exhilarating match had all the ingredients in an epic battle; high class tennis, long rallies, cramps from both players, plenty of sweat and tears. Lewis went 4-0 up in the first set before the defending Champion dug deep and came back to win three straight games. But the slightly younger Lewis was not fazed by Downes fight back and the underdog closed out 6-3. In second set Lewis took an early lead, going up 2 but Downes using all his experience, came back and won 6 straight games before both players, soaking wet with sweat, suffered cramps in the third set. Downes went to 3-0 in the third set but with length of the match increasing both players began to show signs of tiredness and Lewis levelled the score at 3-3, Downes began to get cramps and the contest was halted. When play resumed

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Lewis downs Downes in epic battle under lights

Gavin Lewis stuns Anthony Downes in an epic Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Singles on Monday night. Downes went to 4-3 before gritty Lewiscramped-up and was in excruciating pain bringing tears to his eyes. But with Downes still in distress, both young men did justice to the saying Winners never quit and quitters never win and the battle for survival continued. Downes served and Lewis went up 0-15 before a hard serve from Downes levelled it at 15-15. Downes served again and tried to volley the return but found the net it the way but won the next point to go to 30-30. Lewis hit a return with the backhand, crosscourt and Downes sliced it down the line before he hit a heavy top spin to the forehand which Downes sent out of play to give Lewis match point. Downes served and

Lewis returned before Downes executed a thunderous smash that took game to deuce. The next serve Lewis returned with a low backhand slice which Downes chipped to net for a second match point. With those who stayed on so late, on their feet, Downes served and moved to volley and hit to net. Game, set, match. Number one seed, Cristy Campbell disposed of a spirited Sekai Jones 60, 6-1, while Kizzy Richmond defeated Simone Boucher 6-0, 6-1. In the Mens doubles, a fit looking Andre Lopes and Gregoire Vincent beat Devon Gonsalves and Aubrey Younge 6-0, 6-3, while Joshua Kalekyezi beat Viraj Sharma 6-2, 3-0, who retired in the Boys Singles Final.

Gregorie Vincent (2nd right) returns a shot as his partner Andre Lopes watches in their Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doubles against Devon Gonsalves & Aubrey Younge (extreme right).

Number 1 seed Cristy Campbell runs back to return a ball from Sekai Jones in her 6-0, 6-1 win on Monday.

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Wednesday June 19, 2019

Kaieteur News

GMR&SC Drag Championship round 2

GFF-KFC Independence Cup

BAL buckles in for this weekends meet

Quarterfinal matches on this weekend

Official Toyota distributors Beharry Automotive Limited (BAL) is the latest company to register its interest and hand over its sponsorship to this weekends second round of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Clubs Drag racing championship, which is set for the South Dakotas Drag Strip in Timehri. Yesterday, the company handed over its commitment through its representative Leon Hazel to GMR&SCs Cheryl Gonsalves. On receipt of the sponsorship, the GMR&SC Committee welcomed back Beharry, who has been a long-standing supporter of circuit racing locally. “We are thankful to Beharry Automotive Limited for coming onboard with us for this second installment of drag racing locally,” VicePresident Hansraj Singh said. He continued, “We have shared a very fruitful partnership with the company in the past and we are glad that it now extends to drag racing.” “All in all, I think track prep should be wrapping up now to ensure that we are set and ready for testing. Persons have been going up there since last week but we

Leon Hanzel (right) of BAL hands over the sponsorship to GNR&SC’s Cheryl Gonsalves. have official practice on Saturday.” Admission to the June 23rd event stands at $500 for kids and $1000 for adults with action beginning at 10:00hrs. Other sponsors include Platinum Car Show, Ramchands Auto Body and Tow Truck Services, I Bet Supreme, R. Kissoon Contracting Services, Deryck Jaisingh Trucking Service and Machinery Rentals, Del Ice

Co., Mohameds Enterprise, B.M. SOAT Auto Sales, Prems Electrical, E-Networks, Motor Trend, Nexus Machine Shop, Power Line, Jumbo Jet Auto Sales, Wind Jammer Hotel, Cyrils Taxi, A&R Jiwanram Printery, Blue Spring Water, Choke Gas Station, Special Auto, First Class Auto Spares and Sales, GT Tuners, West Coast Customs Wash bay, Tropical Shipping and Imran Auto works.

Stephan Reynolds of Santos FC will be one of the players to watch during this weekend’s play. Football fans will swarm to the National Training Center (NTC) on Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) this weekend when the quarterfinals of the inaugural Guyana Football Federation (GFF)-KFC National Independence under20 knockout tournament get underway from 13:00hrs. With the cream of the crop remaining following last weekends fiery quarterfinal clashes, much action is expected to continue this weekend with two matches each on Saturday and Sunday. The first quarterfinal will pit Dynamic FC of East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) against New Amsterdam United of Berbice, while the other clash will see Lindens Botofago matching skills with the lads from East Bank Demerara Panthers. On Sunday, Santos FC will tackle Potaro Strikers of Bartica, while arguably the most exciting clash of the entire tournament will see tournament favourites Fruta Conquerors FC pitted against Buxton United in the other quarterfinal. The star studded Conquerors side that is based in Tucville has players with experience playing for

the National side in different age groups inclusive with players with senior caps, including their skipper Jeremy Garrett. Conquerors steamrolled Cougars FC with an 8-0 thumping on Sunday last in their quarterfinal, while Buxton defeated Queenstown 8-2 in their match. Some of the players to watch for the Buxtonians will be Omari Glasgow and the Harrigon brothers; Jerome and Jemar. Conquerors stars are too many to mention but Nicholas McArthur will be looking to continue his top form after smashing four goals past Cougars last Sunday. Conquerors Skipper; Garrett told Kaieteur Sport that although his side had a great team victory last week, they are not going into the quarterfinals taking Buxton lightly. He also praised the GFF and KFC for this wonderful tournament saying, “I think this is a great initiative because talent from all across the length and breadth of Guyana has been given the chance to be discovered. It is a great opportunity for every youngster to be a part of this tournament.” (Calvin Chapman)

Wednesday June 19, 2019

Rain wrecks opening T20I NORTHAMPTON, England, CMC Heavy rain here forced the abandonment of the opening Twenty20 International of the three-match series between England Women and West Indies Women at Wantage Road here yesterday. No toss was possible as the weather kept players and officials off the field and umpires Jeremy Lloyds and Rob Bailey eventually called time on the encounter with conditions show-

ing no signs of improving and the official cut-off time nearing. West Indies will hope for better weather when they face England in the second T20I scheduled for the same venue on Friday. The Caribbean side will be keen on a strong showing in the shortest format after suffering a 3-0 whitewash in the preceding OneDay International series which formed part of the ICC Womens Championship.

Orgill brace paves way for Jamaicas winning start KINGSTON, Jamaica The Jamaica mens national team capped off a historic night with a 3-2 win over Honduras in 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup Group C action on Monday night at the Independence Park Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica. The hosts opened the scoring in the 15th minute after Leon Bailey chipped a pass over to Peter Vassell for the shot towards goal. Honduras GK Luis Lopez was able to get a hand on the ball, but not enough to deny it from reaching the far post where Dever Orgill gave Jamaica the lead. Orgill would find the back of the net again in the 41st minute as a result of some collective passing inside the box and finished for a 2-0

lead. Honduras would not back down and cut the deficit to one when Alberth Elis eventually broke free with the ball towards goal, hitting the brakes in front of Jamaica GK Andre Blake and delivering the pass for Antony Lozano to convert. Jamaica responded just a few minutes later with a header by Damion Lowe extending the lead to 3-1 in the 56th minute. Honduras would not go away quietly, picking up its second goal in the 90+2 from substitute forward Rubilio Castillo. The 3-2 win caps off a night when Jamaicas hosted its first Gold Cup match in front of an electric crowd of 17,874 spectators.

Min. Norton donates... From page 38 children of Waramuri Mission. Like the adult cricket kit, this also comprised bats, balls, wickets, etc. The third donation saw two guitars being presented to serve the village of Haimaracabra, which is the satellite area for Waramuri. Williams, a former Village Councillor and Head-teacher, who now serves as the Secretary to the Silver Sands Sports Club, is confident that the donated equipment will go a far way in promoting healthier and more constructive pastimes for the communitys young people. “It will help to keep our youths away from bad habits, like the rum drinking and so

on,” Williams said. According to Williams, the new gears, coupled with a recent upgrade of the community s playground, is likely to rekindle young peoples interest in sports. “We are very thankful for this donation as we continue working towards the development of sports in the community,” Williams noted. In addition to cricket, football is also a much loved sport in Waramuri. Williams has also engaged Minister Norton with regard to the steady presence of a coach in the village. Minister Norton is a staunch advocate for sports and music as means of cultivating rounded personalities.

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Morgan’s record-breaking six-fest helps... From page 39 six-hitting display that turned the match into a statisticians delight. Afghan spin spearhead Rashid Khan logged the worst bowling figures in World Cup history 110 runs off nine overs without a single wicket illustrating how defenceless they looked against Morgans onslaught. After Morgan won the toss and elected to bat, Bairstow walked out with James Vince, his third opening partner in five matches, and they looked largely untroubled against Afghanistans modest bowling resources. Jason Roys hamstring injury handed Vince an excellent opportunity to impress but the opener fluffed his pull shot against Dawlat Zadran and departed for

26. Root and Bairstow milked the spin-heavy Afghan attack during their 120-run collaboration before Naib intervened. Bairstow was looking good for his first century of the tournament but Naib took a smart return catch to dismiss the opener. Root was his fluent self at one end but Morgan wasted precious little time before going on the rampage. Afghanistan had an opportunity to dismiss the England captain when he was on 28 but Dawlat spilled a skier at deep midwicket, a lapse which is likely to haunt him for a while. Morgan threw caution to the wind and began clearing the ropes with ridiculous ease.

His 11th six brought up his 57-ball hundred and there was simply no let up in his aggression even after registering the fourth fastest World Cup century. Rashid bore the brunt of it. Of the 11 sixes he conceded in a highly forgettable outing, seven flew from Morgans blade. Indias Rohit Sharma, West Indiess Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers of South Africa shared the previous record of 16 sixes in an ODI innings. Naib (3-68) finally ended Morgans six-hitting spree in the 47th over but England reached another milestone on a day of tumbling batting records. Their combined 25 sixes

broke Englands own record of 24 in an ODI match as Morgans men went on to post the highest total at this years tournament. Dawlats 3-85 was little consolation after dropping Morgan. “It was one of the best innings Ive ever seen,” Naib said. “Unfortunately Rashid was expensive and not at his best, so England scored around 400. We did a lot of good things but we dropped Morgan.” Scores: England 397 for 6 (Morgan 148, Bairstow 90, Naib 3-68) beat Afghanistan 247 for 8 (Shahidi 76, Archer 3-52) by 150 runs.

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Jones half century hands Goed Fortuin comfortable win over Malgre Tout A fine half century from Dwane Jones guided Goed Fortuin to a 66-run win over Malgre Tout when the Al Sport and Tour Promotions 22nd annual End of School Year Edward Cobenna Memorial Primary Schools Memorial Windball cricket champions trophy continued recently with action in the region three leg at the National Gymnasium. Playing in the male segment, Jones struck 10 sixes in a top score 64, while Emmanuel Mukatnaught made 30 with three fours and three sixes as Goed Fortuin posted 122-0, batting first. Malgre Tout replied with 564; Javon Roberts made 26; Christoff Deochand took two

wickets. In other matches, Wales managed 82-6, batting first. Fameem Ganie claimed 3-28 and Vanenzuela OLessnnoro 2-6. Tuschen responded with 87-1 off 3.4 overs. Reon Dowlin slammed 10 sixes in scoring 64 while Jaden Hinds made 18. Leonora took first strike and scored 97-3; Shahid Bahadur made 36, Sachin Singh 30 and Chandeshwar Singh 13.Tuschen responded with 98-3; Daniel Williams struck 22, R. Dowlin 18, Joshua Mohamed 16 and J. Hinds 12. In the female segment, Leonora got to 55-2, taking first strike with Alana Williams scoring 24 and Shontell Anderson 16. Emily Daymon

Action in the region three zone recently at the National Gymnasium. had two wickets. Malgre Tout replied with 59-1; E. Daymon made 28 and

Sheryann Jacobs 16. Goed Fortuin took first turn in the middle and posted

58-1; Janiella Jackson scored 32 and Chiyedza Heywood 16. Wales replied with 61-0; Kezia Datson stroked 28 and Angelina Hodge 26.

Leonora were limited to 21-6, batting first. Danna Ramphal got 10. Tuschen responded with 23-0; Jezzel Chichester made 12.

Min. Norton donates cricket gears, guitars to Waramuri Mission

Minister Norton hands over two guitars to Mr. Sestus Williams. The instruments will serve the community of Haimaracabra, which is the satellite area for Waramuri, located in Region One. Georgetown, Guyana Minister of Social Cohesion with Responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton recently made three sets of donations to the village of Waramuri Mission located in the Moruca SubRegion, Region One. The donations, which comprised mostly of cricket gears and guitars, were made just hours after Minister Norton returned from an outreach in the region. The items were officially

handed over to Mr. Sestus Williams, during a simple engagement at Minister Nortons Office on Main Street in Georgetown, earlier in the month. The first donation consisted of a complete kit of cricket gears for the Silver Sands Sports Club. The kit included bats, balls, wickets, batting and fielding pads, etc. The second donation comprised of a complete kiddies cricket kit for the (Continued on page 37)

Wednesday June 19, 2018

NSC August holiday Swim Programme set for July 8 August 16 The National Sports Commissions July - August “Learn to Swim Programme” will commence on the 08th July, and concluding on the 16th August. Registration is $1,000 and begins on Monday June 24th, running until July 03rd, and is only done at the NSCs Head Office on Homestretch Av e n u e . To c o m p l e t e Registration, Parents are

asked to present the childs Birth Certificate. Registered participants ages 6yrs- 10yrs are asked to report to The Colgrain Swimming Pool Camp Street and the 11yrs -16yrs to the National Aquatic Centre at Lilliendaal East Coast Demerara, Respectively. Sessions start at 09:00am on the following days Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays at both locations.

Morgan’s record-breaking six-fest helps England crush Afghanistan

England’s Eoin Morgan in action v Afghanistan at Old Trafford. (Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff) MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - Eoin Morgan rewrote the record books yesterday, clobbering 17 sixes - the most in a oneday international innings - in a blistering century as England crushed Afghanistan by 150 runs in their World Cup match at Old Trafford. M o rg a n s m a s h e d a career-best 148 with 118 coming from sixes and fours off 71 balls to power England to 397-6, their highest World Cup total. Even the presence of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in the stands could not inspire Gulbadin Naibs men who managed 247-8 before succumbing to their fifth defeat in five matches. Hashmatullah Shahidi (76), Asghar Afghan (44) and Rahmat Shah (46) helped

Afghanistan to their highest total in the World Cup but they stay rooted to the bottom of the points table, which England now head after their fourth victory. “Today was a fantastic day for us, and I managed to have a day out, which was great,” man-of-the-match Morgan said. “Hobbling around with a bad back, I didnt think Id produce an innings like that,” added Morgan who suffered a back spasm during last weeks win against West Indies. “It makes it a bit more special when I can compete with the youngsters in the side.” Jonny Bairstow smashed 90 and Joe Root made 88, but it was Morgans breathtaking (Continued on page 37)

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Guyana go down to USA in 2019 CGC debut

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Guyana and the USA battle it out during their Gold Cup encounter which Guyana lost 4-0.

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