Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

PAGE 04

Saturday June 25, 2016

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

OBSESSED WITH POWER It appears that power has seeped into the heads of those at the Georgetown City Council who signed a contract without knowing what they would get. They did not even inform the Deputy Mayor and the City Councilors about their trips to Mexico and Panama. The deal was so secretive that the City Engineer was not invited to accompany them. The government must reign in the Mayor, Town Clerk and the Finance Committee Chairman (described as the Almighty Trio by the Deputy Mayor) for their reprehensible behaviour. They have defied the Minister’s ultimatum to stop the project until a review of the contract is done. The fact that the Mayor has discredited GOOGLE and Wikipedia, the world’s best known research and information engines shows her arrogance and lust for power. During the PPP reign, the Mayor who was then the deputy was as quiet as a lamb. City Hall had to carry out the instructions of the last government, but now that the APNU government is in power, she believes that now is their time to get rich. The arrogance at City Hall was displayed by the Finance Committee Chairman, who at a press conference said, “I have no apologies to make to anyone; I am getting like Mr. Harmon.” Even the former Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee had to warn them not to go down the same road as the PPP. Mr. Clarke’s expression has alluded to the fact that the culture of governance practised by members of the APNU+AFC government invariably influences the type of behaviour and governance at City Hall. This is a stunning indictment on the government and a subtle acknowledgement that it is corrupt. He made the assertion to justify the awarding of the parking meter installation contract to National Parking Systems/Smart City Solutions; two barely known companies. National Parking Systems seems to be a “fly by Night Company” with no known address and no experience in installing parking meters. Smart City Solutions appears to be a dubious company that is managed by “non-descriptive characters.” The protocols which Mr. Clarke claimed to have followed in signing the parking meter contract should have allowed him to inform and seek consensus from the Deputy Mayor, City Councilors, stakeholders and the public about the project. It is immoral, unethical and corrupt for the Mayor and Town Clerk to award contracts without public tender which this government when in opposition, had criticized the PPP for doing. If it was wrong then, it is wrong now and the government will face the music if it allows the parking meter project to continue. Like the government which has not done due diligence on several of its appointees, including some ambassadors, the City has not done due diligence on the companies. The City is in chaos and its power drunk administrators feel that they have the power to do what they want and the media and the people should remain silent. However, the Deputy Mayor has brutally criticized their behaviour. He asserted that the Mayor and City Council has become a sickening bed of corruption and that such levels of arrogance are nauseating and sickening. They take Guyana right back to the days of executive thuggery. Their high-handedness is frightening and is tantamount to spitting in the face of the citizens of Georgetown. It is insane. He insists that there is no transparency and accountability at City Hall but an obsession for power by the Mayor, Town Clerk and Finance Committee Chairman.

Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.

He says he is getting like Harmon DEAR EDITOR; Clearly, the ‘Old Timers’ at City Hall do not understand what the real beef is by the new Councillors and the citizens of Georgetown, regarding the implementation of the proposed parking meter system in our capital. It is not about whether the Council has the legal authority to or whether it should be implementing a parking meter system, but rather it is all about the clandestine, crooked and unacceptable manner in which they are attempting to go about implementing it. First of all, the Georgetown Municipality is not a law unto itself, but rather is subject to the fiscal laws of Guyana and therefore it was and is mandatory, that the tender procedures be followed which requires ads to be put out locally and internationally for bids to be submitted and considered in a transparent way for the installation of a parking meter system. It is unacceptable

whether done during the life of the last Council or the present Council that Mr. Cush could walk in with a proposal costing tens of millions of US dollars which will tie the hands of the City Council for the next fifty years. Second, all Councillors in a municipality are equal, and therefore it is objectionable and intolerable that only a few Councillors are allowed to have possession of the contract document, whilst the others are only allowed to have a peek at it in the office. This document should not only be made completely available to all Councillors and officers of the Council, but to Cabinet, members of parliament and the citizens of Georgetown. What is so classified about a parking meter contract? The Councillors should not even entertain a discussion on the subject until they are in possession of the document and are able to peruse it thoroughly. Third how could the

Finance Chairman say that he is getting like Mr. Harmon and that he has no apologies for disregarding tender board procedures, for sneaking away stealthily on this infamous trip to Mexico and Panama and for concealing information from his colleagues. In a decent and democratic society he would have been removed forthwith from chairing such a committee. But then again his arrogance is well known if we can recall the debacle with his altercation with former parliamentarian Vanessa Kissoon and the haughty and callous approach he took when dealing with striking workers after he was just sworn is as Finance Chairman and Councillor. I hope the AFC is taking note of how the Deputy Mayor is being treated by some APNU bullies and I hope the Government will pull these errant Councillors and Mayor in line. Sean Moniz

Authoritarianism has taken over City Hall DEAR EDITOR; The Youth For Local Government (YFLG) is appalled by the actions and statements coming from the Georgetown Municipality, mainly the utterances of the Mayor, Oscar Clarke and Town Clerk on the Parking meter fiasco. Mayor ChaseGreene exuded her ignorance by first stating “it would be unethical for the team to visit before the contract was signed” really? Who pays for and collects a shoe before ensuring it fits? PNC General Secretary and Chairman of the Finance Committee Mr. Clarke, attempted to support the Mayor’s statement by saying “It would have been unethical to accept people’s money to go, we didn’t have any money, we didn’t have any money to do this project, we had to sign on to this project and if we would not have done that, we would not have been invited by the company to go check the stuff… they said look, soon we sign off on this thing we must come down and see everything and if you are not in agreement with it we could contest that” We have tried to understand the ramblings of Mr. Clarke and make sense out of it but what is most interesting is the ending and I quote “ Look soon we sign off on this thing we must come down and see everything and if you are not in agreement with it we could contest that” This statement left us

wondering if those who travelled to Mexico and Panama really understand the concept of negotiations, the content of the contract and ensured that the contract was one that would see the citizens of Georgetown gaining more from the contract than they would be losing or they just blindly signed because they wanted a trip and 20% of the Income. While it is clear that this contract was signed in November of 2015 it is our belief that the present councilors should have the opportunity to review and vote on the implementation of said project. What is even more worrying is the fact that the top brass PNC clique at the council feel as though they are the sole authority on council matters, the mayor boldly confessed that the councillors will not be given a copy of the contract because “it’s a private document of the city council” but wait…… aren’t the councillors, members of the said council? Should they not be privy to all contracts that were

voted on by a previous council especially if the content of the contract would be implemented under their watch? Furthermore why all the secrecy as to the details of the contract? There are many questions surrounding the company involved in this contract since nothing about it seems credible, the address, the expertise of the owner, previous works etc. This leaves us to wonder whose comrade is If a KamauCush? Let’s look at things from a different angle. We have a foreign company investing ten million US dollars that is GY$ 2 billion and getting 80% in return of the income which is estimated to be four hundred million dollars annually. That’s four hundred million GY$ leaving our country every year for fifty years totaling 20 billion GY$. Now won’t it be wiser, or should I say ethical, for the council to use its powers to borrow, and take a loan from the bank to implement such a

project and ensure that we don’t have GY $18 billion of revenue extracted from the country which could be used to develop this great city. Consultation in processes like these is key not only to ensure that the citizens are aware of what is being proposed but to also ensure that the decision made is best for all involved. The decisions that have been made thus far by the council including the displacement of the vendors, the breaking down of the dredge shop and now the signing of a contract which has so many questions leads one to wonder if this is the decisions that experience councilors make as we reflect on Mr. Clarke’s statements on Nomination Day “And there are people who will have to bring experience to bear in the new council. You call it old, but I am calling them experienced councillors.” Maybe we should examine the type of experience he was alluding to. In closing, while we agree with the government’s (Continued on page 6)

An anti-working class state DEAR EDITOR; The need for investment in Guyana to create much needed jobs should be a priority for any government hoping to develop our country. So why one might ask that no government has been able to deliver any sort of development since 1975, the answer is simple they do not want to develop this country; all of them are only interested in power and self aggrandizement- the status

quo suits them as we have all noticed with the exchange instead of change we got in 2015. The answer is simple; meaningful tax reform move the tax rate from almost 60% to 20% across the board and let the citizens of this country breathe for a change instead of been crushed into a pulp by a state that seeks to impoverish the working class people of this country. Rafeek Ferouze

Saturday June 25, 2016

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

A damning indictment Danger lurks at this place against Bharrat Jagdeo DEAR EDITOR; Let me be very blunt by saying that the former President is as imbalanced as any such human being in Guyana and perhaps in all of the Caribbean or on the face of the earth. Not only is he mentally challenged, but his comportment behind the microphone makes him look that way. He does not engage his brains before he opens his mouth and whenever he speaks, he sounds very silly. He is known to promote racism and divide the two races in order to score cheap political points. He has told a certain ethnic group in the rural areas of the country, most of whom are PPP supporters at various bottom house meetings not to invest in the country or spend any of their money because the government will steal it. This in the sick. This is a president who has no class and does not have one ounce of statesman or elegance in his being. He belongs to the ghetto with his cuss-down behavior. This is the president who fooled the nation for ten years that he was married and after the first week of his marriage, he locked his wife out of their bedroom and put her to sleep on the concrete at the ground floor. This is a

president who does not understand what it is to be an academic or intellectual because he has constantly used the honorary doctorate degrees he has received from some unrecognized universities in Asia to place the initials “Dr” in front of his name. He is dishonest and is poorly schooled in gentility. Almost every US president has a number of honorary degrees but never used the title, because they understood academic norms and decorum. This former president of Guyana does not understand decorum. He is the country’s chief mis-spender who denunded the treasury. He is the biggest culprit as a politician that is known to Guyanese and the people of the Caribbean. His place is exactly where he is, in the opposition where he will be for the rest of his life. This is the most barefaced man in Guyana. How can any sane person say that the owner of Kaieteur News, Glenn Lall, the Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan and the Prime Minister are responsible for the throwing of the hand grenade at Glenn Lall’s vehicle? He is definitely suffering from dementia and should

seek treatment right away. He is beyond the stage of redemption but this is exactly what was expected to happen to him and his comrades who corrupted the government. It is solid proof that the maker or God acts in mysterious ways against those who robbed the poor and the downtrodden. They shall not inherit their wealth but shall perish in HELL. This former president used the taxpayers’ money to build the Marriott Hotel out of spite to the owner of the Pegasus and the Berbice Bridge which is the ugliest bridge in the world to enrich his friends and relatives. In both cases, only his friends will be repaid not the taxpayers who invested more than US$60 million in both ventures or 75 percent of the total cost. This boldface liar came into the government with nothing but left with staggering wealth, a palace with a chandelier that cost millions funds and the best ocean front land. The publisher of this media rightly said, this former president has no conscious when it comes to stealing from the poor and he should be behind bars for the rest of the life. Asquith Rose

This pastor has been rude to Bryan Hunt DEAR EDITOR; Grateful if you published the following letter in your letters column. Thank you. Rare is the occasion that I would publicly disagree with the opinions of letters to the press. This instance is one which perpetuates an injustice if foregone. One of my more unremarkable discoveries, yet a true eye-opener, has been that the academic preparation of pastors and other so-called men of the cloth requires a course or two in psychology. This was so revealing because it explained why the religious order across religious denominations has become the home of resident evil, those so-called priests, pastors and other religious leaders who accomplish great evil under the guise of being God’s good shepherds. Psychology involves the study of the workings of the mind to understand how individuals think in an attempt provide solutions for persons who have premised their conclusions about various matters of concern to them on

inaccurate and illogical causal factors. Where things go wrong for some religious leaders is that these individuals turn psychology to serve their own ends, conning innocent people into all kinds of sexually abusive acts on one hand, and devising cunning marketing schemes for extracting as much money from the flock on the other. Indeed, psychology facili-

tates all kinds of abuse and skullduggery by religious leaders intent on serving their own ends, and this brings us around to our present case. Among the great teachings, the origins of which I am unfamiliar, is that we should beware of wolves in sheep’s clothing. Here we seem to have found one in Pastor Wendell Jeffrey, who thinks it an opportune time to prostitute his religious authority in the press, promoting him (Continued on page 6)

DEAR EDITOR; I want to bring to the attention of the public, the danger that lurks in the Merriman’s Mall after dark. What was a promising start to the ‘rebirth’ of this area, is quickly waning, and for me, slipping into a situation that is opposite to what it was originally intended to be. The Mall has become a haven for vagrants and thieves alike and not just petty thieves, but professionals; armed and dangerous. On Wednesday evening, just after dark, a friend of mine was robbed at gunpoint just at the Light Street entrance of the Mall in the section be-

tween Light and Albert Streets, almost in the presence of patrons of the mall; whether they are patrons or ‘look out’ none can tell. The park’s benches have become a comfortable spot for youths and ‘junkies’ to sit and smoke marijuana at leisure. There are no lights in the Mall between Light and Albert Streets, the security that ‘was’ provided for the area cannot match arms with the bandits that roam this area after dark, preying on the unsuspecting passerby. One would think that with the ‘commercializing’ of this area, adequate security and proper lighting

would have been provided. The Mayor and City Council and the Guyana Police Force should think seriously about the security of the residents of this neighborhood. I know that development comes with risks, but security risks should not be one of them. We have been making commendable efforts to clean up our city, but no matter how ‘clean’ our city becomes it will be just a window dressing that hides the evil that lurks within if we don’t make efforts to clean the streets of the many criminals that roam free. Kevin Thomas

WPA wants meter project to relooked at DEAR EDITOR; The Working People’s Alliance notes with much concern the ongoing controversy surrounding the contract for the proposed parking meters in Georgetown. The entire issue reflects negatively on the newly elected City Council which had promised a clean break with the old ways of operation. There seems to have been very little if any meaningful consultation which then leads to a lack of transparency. WPA is alarmed that a project of such magnitude was not first discussed with the citizens of the city who would, in the long run, be affected by its implementation. The habit of making decisions above the heads of citizens have become so endemic that even a change of guard at City Hall has not made a difference. The questions over the suitability and integrity of the proposed contractors and the apparent secrecy in which the

matter was handled raise serious questions of transparency. Transparency is a central tenet of democratic governance and in light of the revelations of the forensic audits, WPA is shocked that the Mayor and her team seem so dismissive of charges in this regard. WPA feels that

the initiative should be reviewed. There is no credible reason being advanced for the haste to install the parking meters. The proposed fee of $500 per hour, for example, is exorbitant. In this regard, we agree with the intervention of Central Government. While we are against the intrusion of the Central Government in the affairs of (Continued on page 6)

PAGE 6

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

MMA/ADA responsible for the flooding in Region 5 DEAR EDITOR; As a resident and APNU+AFC Regional Councilor of region 5, I will like to take this opportunity in expressing my views publicly on the recent flooding in the villages of Golden Grove to Number 30. I will like to offer my apologies as a regional representative of the people for the recent flooding and will assure all that all of the APNU+AFC RDC Councilors will continue to represent you to our best. I know many suffer economically during the floods by losing their live stocks, cash crops, etc. But as a result of quick and speedy action from the RDC, Central Government and the Ministry of Agriculture, we saw the water receding and the lives of the residents will soon become normal once again. I also will like to state that this is not the first time the area has accumulated water above land level. We all know that those areas are prone to flooding because it’s very low. Some Residents even built their houses without filling the land and when the rain falls heavily it left their yards flooded. But over the past years, we saw that whenever the rain falls heavily and the

areas get flooded, the water recedes in a quick manner due to proper drainage system and cleaning of interlocked drains within the villages. But this time it is not like that and those who are to be blamed must be blamed without any kind sympathy for them. It must be known that MMA\ADA is responsible for the outfall channels\ koker\sulices and drainage canals in the region. MMA\ADA is to serve the people of Mahica to Ithaca but this does not seems to be the case. Over the past years, MMA\ADA has been focusing on the areas from Abary to Mahaica and leave the other areas in region 5 untouched MMA\ADA must be blamed for the flood in these villages because since this APNU+AFC government took office the management of MMA has become lackadaisical in carrying out the works that it is mandated to do. On several occasions I have personally called the General Manager of MMA\ADA about drainage situation in region 5 and is being told a story of “jim cock mek ram goat.” And because of that the people suffer. Many occasions I spoke

to the GM about dams and canals for rice farmers and also clearing of outlets from various villages and was promised that something will be done. But it was never done. The machines of MMA\ADA are always at the workshop or far in the back dams. I have personally spoke to the GM on several occasions over the past months about the drains that needs to be cleaned because the rains will be coming but he turns a deaf ear. When I contacted the others they said that the decision is not in their hands but with those in higher authority. I can recall that on the 30th April, 2016 I was asked to visit the Trafalgar Sluice and upon my visit, I saw MMA workers trying very hard to get the pontoon into the waters so that they can take the excavators on it to dredge the said outfall because it needs to be dug up so that the water can be thrown easily into the sea. (I have pictures to prove). But it seems that nothing was done since. I keep calling MMA asking what is the position. Under the years of the PPP, millions was used to do drainage works by MMA but nothing was done properly. Millions was spend to

build a bridge and Sluice\Koker at the Number 12 outfall but it’s almost five years and the doors never opened and I was made to understand that there are full time operators there. Millions are being spent on various projects under the PPP and they hardly work. This government needs to restructure the entire management of MMA. Too much of nonsense taking place there. Mr. Editor, imagine there is climate change and the mangroves are untended to over the years. Over the years, we see the sea defence breaking up and water coming closer to the residents but MMA seems not to care of making new kokers because the old ones are left where it is; miles in the sea because of sea defence erosion. They never rebuild a koker in those areas as a matter of fact, I don’t think in any other area, to my knowledge. Those village kokers would have helped tremendously to ease or stop the flooding. But MMA didn’t care during the PPP time and it seems they don’t care now either. Everything that the PPP handled was political even the ‘enhancement workers” that the so called champion of the earth invented to have votes.

This pastor has been rude to Bryan... From page 5 self, it seems, as a mouthpiece for, and defender of, the current administration. I can hardly claim to be amused, knowing Wendell Jeffrey. Yes, I remember Jeffrey quite well, the little he described of himself to me. I remember his story about selling ice-cream, and then moving on to qualifying himself as a pastor, and working with offenders, which I think he still does. I remember him preaching at his church and once playing an outrageous musical version of some gospel. I said to myself at the time, ‘here’s someone who’s

had a disconnect with God.’ And this it seems, has manifested itself as no greater truth. Indeed, from hustling ice-creams, Jeffrey moved on to hustling God’s flock. In true business style, he has sought to broaden his revenue stream by, in addition to opening his new church business, Practical Christian Ministries, running as a candidate for councilor or representative of his, or some district in the recent local government elections. To all of which I have no objection, since a man has got to live. I remember his last letter on his candidacy, whining

about not attracting the necessary votes. Seeming to have been inspired by some prolific letter writers in the press, Jeffrey has now picked up his pen in an attempt to become a shaper of society’s opinions, slugging, it seems, for the government. Jeffrey knows, but yet seems unable to fully grasp what exactly it took to occasion the transition of the new government. Observing his ideas, it is clear he thinks that it was accomplished by any old hack. And that is understandable, since everyone is allowed his abilities.

Then to his letter in Kaieteur News’ June 22, 2016 issue, ‘The US Influence in Guyana,’ making rude remarks about Mr. Bryan Hunt, the outgoing US Chargé d’Affaires, apparently forgetting the guidance against speaking ill of high officials. It could of course be that such instruction is for the flock alone. What is an absolute surety is that Mr. Bryan Hunt has served both his country and Guyana in excellence. And there is nothing the Jeffrey has said, or will ever say, that can alter that fact. Craig Sylvester.

Those are the workers that should be cleaning village drains so that they cannot be silted up. Under Jagdeo they were employed by MMA, D&I, then Irfann Ali saw something in it so they were transferred to Housing and housing then employed a man (who is now at MMA) to run the work throughout region, while each NDC had a supervisor to supervise the workers. Well I will give an example of those workers that work under the Bath\Woodley Park NDC (anyway it’s a PPP’s NDC and the area in which I live). Since this APNU+AFC government took office they hardly work for the required four hours per day, and do about thirty minutes works when they do work. I can recall when the West Berbice Expo was on at the Bath Community Centre Ground the NDC had to ensure that the area was cleaned especially the drains and the entrance but it was not done. I approached the DREO who is responsible for Local Government when I heard that the workers were told not to do any work in that area by the said NDC overseer because the Hon. Prime Minister was coming. I recall sitting in the DREO’s office and he will make tens of calls to the said NDC overseer and she will disregard the man’s order. I can also recall that the man supervising the workers

who is a pensioner from the PPP village group told the DREO, “well we finish work for the day.” The workers will turn out like 7am and finish like 7:30-8am, that s not four hours. Anyway the call was made around 9:15 that morning and they finished working. The Ministry of Communities who I think is still responsible for those workers must address this issue urgently. No work, should be no pay. They should know that this work is not PPP work, it’s the government work. Those are the people that are also contributing to the flood in our communities by not doing the work although equipments\tools are being provided. So overall the management of MMA should take full responsibility for the flooding in the Golden Grove to Number 30 area that is severely hit in the region. Because of their carefree style we are faced will flood and damages to people’s livelihood. I call on the authorities not to allow this experience go so easy. But rather correct it now or else the management of MMA will become more complacent and carefree in the years to come. I must thank the residents for their cooperation Abel Seetaram APNU+AFC Regional Councilor Region 5

WPA wants meter... From page 5 Local Government, WPA feels that in light of all the question being raised along with the seeming arrogance of the supporters of the project such intervention is justified. We, however, hope that it is one of mediation and aimed at reinforcing accountability rather than seeking to over-

ride the will of the Council. WPA salutes those councilors who have stood up against the majority to bring the matter into the open-this is a refreshing sign. We however urge that, in the spirit of cooperation, the two factions seek consensus going forward. Desmond Trotman, WPA

Authoritarianism... From page 4 decision to not meddle in the affairs of the M&CC we callOn the APNU/AFC coalition to help their members who are a part of the council to understand the tenets of the APNU + AFC’s mantra of a Good Life For ALL” and the meaning of words such as transparent, transparency, accountable and accountability which can be found four, four, two and six times respec-

tively in their manifesto. It is time that the Mayor, town clerk and chairman of the finance committee stop the authoritarianism and allow a democratic process in all areas of decision making and let good sense prevail as they were elected to serve and not to impose their will on the people. Clayon Halley Youth for Local Government

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

Forensic audit recommends…

CDC’s be absorbed by NDIA to cut unnecessary costs ment of NDIA was hardly involved in exercising oversight in financial or engineering matters. “It is difficult to assess its stewardship in the absence of audited financials and interviewing the officers that are involved in the day to day activities.” According to the report, the CDC was an initiative from former President Dr. Cheddi Jagan who, after winning the National Elections in 1992, challenged all communities to refresh the landscape, and to restore the country’s image by cleaning up all canals, parapets, lawns and backwards.

CDC’s were mandated to maintain canals and channels.

The forensic audit into the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) has made strong recommendations that the Community Development Councils (CDC), a group that has been described as a political group, be absorbed into the Authorities’ operations. This is because in the forensic audit report for the period November 1, 2011 to May 31, 2015, prepared by Nigel Hinds Financial Services, it was determined that the CDC was an unnecessary expense, actually duplicating the work done by NDIA. The auditor noted that the unnecessary cost in overall administration,

which could be reduced if the CDC’s entire operations was restructured and absorbed by NDIA. And there is more. According to the auditor, “It is the general opinion that the CDC was also used as a mechanism to create employment for the governing party supporters.” The forensic audit had highlighted a situation where millions of dollars were provided to Community Development Councils (CDC) for years, but there are no audited financial statements. According to the auditor, Nigel Hinds and Associates, the CDC received $426.2M for the years 2013 and 2014 for

PAGE 7

cleaning and maintenance work to be carried out on channels and canals. When it came time for the forensic auditor to audit the books, however, there was a problem. “NDIA was unable to provide us with information for years 2011, 2012 and January to June 2015,” the auditor had stated in the report. “There is no evidence from the management at NDIA that audited financial statements were ever prepared by the CDC.” According to the report, the CDC management is required to submit activity reports to the finance office of NDIA, along with copies of registrations, monthly finan-

cial statements and bank statements for review. This is something set out by the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). In addition, engineers at NDIA are required to review the cost and benefits of all projects initiated by CDC’s. However, the auditor stated that based on information available, the manage-

“NDIA with the national responsibility for drainage and irrigation in Guyana has taken the CDC mandate upon itself by supporting these organizations to reduce the incidence of flooding on the coastland in Guyana.” “We have extremely limited information of the actual operations of this body and the number of CDCs’ that exist in Guyana.” The CDC Direction Agency was headed by Ms. Philomena Sahoye-Shury, who was dismissed in June of last year, after consistently failing to report to Minister of State, Joseph Harmon.

PAGE 8

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

Nine months later…

Charges in Pradoville matter still to be instituted It is over nine months since the release of the infamous Pradoville file and charges for the officials implicated are still to be made. Kaieteur News made several calls this week to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to explain this state of affairs but all proved futile. It was since October last year that DPP Shalimar Ali-Hack gave the green light for a full blown investigation into the criminal aspect of the contentious Pradoville Two deal. But there has been no word on the matter to date. The State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU) had written, recently, to the DPP requesting that the matter be investigated. The DPP has since handed over the case to the Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud, for further investigations to begin. SARU Head, Dr. Clive Thomas had also put in a formal request at the Ministry of Public Security to probe the criminal aspect of the Pradoville Two deal. In early October, SARU completed a report which stated that in 2010, the Bharrat Jagdeo Cabinet made a decision authorizing the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) to privatize State lands. NICIL is the body tasked with overseeing the privatization of State assets. It reportedly spent more than $200M to develop the sea front community without the knowledge and blessings of the National Assembly and other relevant bodies. The said lands were then secretly sold to

the former Ministers and known friends and associates of the previous regime. At the time of the sale, the report said, the lands were grossly undervalued and sold at a price substantially below the market value, thereby depriving the state of its full benefits. SARU said, “There is a direct link between the misconduct and the abuse of powers and duties of their position. The former Cabinet members knew they were doing a wrong in transferring State lands to their names and that of their acquaintances for undervalued market prices for the land. The lands were sold for $114 per square foot at the time.” “Public officers ought to carry out their duties, not for the benefit of themselves, but for the benefit of the public as a whole. If they neglect or misconduct themselves by their actions in the course of their duties, this may lead to a breach or abuse of the public’s trust. The act of the Cabinet members for their benefit is serious enough to amount to an abuse of the public’s trust.” In a letter addressed to Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, SARU had said that based on its findings, it is requesting that Ramjattan’s Office proceed to further investigate unlawful aspects of this matter, with the aim of establishing whether criminal action should be instituted. “It is the duty of this Unit in the Ministry of the Presidency to ensure that no Minister of Government in Guyana would be the beneficiary from any acts of misconduct or unlawful

conduct while being holders of Public Office.” SARU had also informed the Public Security Minister that it has also forwarded its report to the Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, along with a copy of a Legal Opinion on the potential misconduct in Public Office by the former Ministers. The document on the Legal Opinion says that there is legal scope for the argument of willful neglect by the former ministers in performing their duties without reasonable excuse or facilitation to an extent amounting to an abuse of the public trust. Further, based on the cases cited, the document outlines that the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, has Legal Standing on this matter. Once sufficient evidence is gathered by his Chambers, Williams had said that a civil action against the former Cabinet Ministers will be instituted. He had explained to the media that former President Bharrat Jagdeo could face prosecution. The SARU report however lists the DPP, Miss Shalimar Ali-Hack

Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar Ali-Hack as a beneficiary of the controversial Pradoville Two deal. The report said that on September 7, 2011, the DPP bought Lot 184 Sparendaam, ECD, Block IV, which is 0.2767 acres of land. Asked how this looming situation of conflict of interest would be dealt with, Williams had said, “She would have to recuse herself in the determination of the matter.”

Guyana virtually unaffected by Britain’s EU vote - UK envoy

Foreign Minister, Carl Greenidge By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell Guyana should not be worrying itself about being affected by Britain’s referendum to pull out from the European Union (EU). For one, according to a statement the Union released, “until this process of negotiations is over, the United Kingdom (UK) remains a member of the European Union, with all the rights and obligations that derive from this.” This has been confirmed by UK High Commissioner, Greg Quinn. Aside from this, it is not to be expected that even after the pull out would have been made final, that either the relations between Guyana and the Union or the relations between Guyana and the UK will be affected. From all indications Guyana will remain a beneficiary of the Union as it will of the UK. Guyana’s Minister of

UK High Commissioner, Greg Quinn

Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge told the media yesterday that there should be no “immediate” concern. Greenidge said, “There is not likely to be any adverse short term consequence by way of a curtailing of resource flows or curtailment of access of let’s say sugar, or any other commodity into the European Union whatever may be the case in relation to Britain.” Further, Kaieteur News spoke to Quinn who concurred that there should be no major changes anytime soon. He said, “There is no plan to change anything in the bilateral relationship. Bilateral funding and grants remain as they are. In terms of the EU we are still a member and will remain so until the leave negotiations are completed. That can take years.” Figures show that 51.9 percent of Britons voted Thursday to leave the EU, while 48.1 percent wanted

their country to remain in the trade bloc. Yesterday the EU sent out a joint statement on the outcome of the UK referendum. It acknowledged that in a free and democratic process, the British people have expressed their wish to leave the European Union. “We regret this decision but respect it.” EU said that it is facing an unprecedented situation but remains united. “We will stand strong and uphold the EU’s core values of promoting peace and the well-being of its peoples. The Union of 27 Member States will continue.” The Union said that it is the framework of its own common political future. “We are bound together by history, geography and common interests and will develop our cooperation on this basis. Together we will address our common challenges to generate growth, increase (Continued on page 23)

Saturday June 25, 2016

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Things are becoming frightening Things are getting frightening in this country. When nine persons employed within the 1000 homes project can be sent packing without being given a hearing, it is the most unsettling development since the new government took office eleven months on. This is not a defence of any of the dismissed staff. It is a defence of the right of each one of them to a defence of their performance. Perhaps, they deserved what came their way. Perhaps some did and others did not. But to not allow each one of them due process, to not afford them the right to defend their actions and to give reasons why they should not be dismissed is unconscionable. No one knows whether the innocent have been slaughtered in the mass dismissals. No one knows the circumstances of those who are now in the breadline and if there have been within their midst someone who did not deserve to be put in this predicament, and whose life and that of his or her family is not altered forever. It is being reported that the inspection of the 1000 homes project found defects and some of these defects were attributable to theft and others to shoddy work. It has been one year since the new

government took over, so how are we to assume that the vandalism did not take place under the watch of the new administration? How are we to judge the substandard work? Were inspections carried out a certified and qualified engineering entity? Was a report prepared? Did the report finger those dismissed as being responsible for the defective works? Is there photographic evidence? Will this be provided to the media? If there are reports on the defects done by qualified personnel, if those dismissed were fingered in the report for neglect of duties, then it should be no problem for the authorities to constitute a disciplinary committee and subject the fingered persons to a disciplinary hearing where at least they would be allowed to show evidence why they should not be dismissed. The absence of this opportunity means that these persons are denied due process. If it is a case that hundreds of millions of dollars will now have to be spent to fix the homes, then, if true, this would mean that those fingered were negligent in their duties. Such negligence constitutes corruption which is not just confined to acts of commission but also to acts

Dem boys seh...

Jagdeo full of s**t and ideas Doctors does advise dem boys not hold in dem fart because it does travel up people spine, into the brain, and that’s where sh**ty ideas come from. That is how Jagdeo had all dem sh**ty ideas. De last one he had was de biggest one; that Donald Dumb was presidential material and that he can run Guyana although Donald heself know he couldn’t do it. Another s**ty idea was that Labba Lip could throw mess in Freddy face and get away wid it. Jagdeo was so full of ideas that he lef Guyana in a lot of s**t. Although Soulja Bai clean up from top to bottom people could still smell Jagdeo. It look like when you hold in you fart you does talk s**t too. Jagdeo stand up at a press conference and seh how Kaieteur News throw de grenade to kill Glenn. He seh that Glenn Lall, Moses and Ramjattan plan that grenade attack. Dem boys could imagine how long Jagdeo hold in that fart to talk so much s**t. Donald who ain’t got nutten to do, not only s**ting but also writing s**t daily in de newspaper. There is another s**ty idea from Jagdeo that dem boys will never forget. That idea was when Jagdeo eat a lot of New Thriving food in the special room dem does provide for him. De amount of pork ee eat chock ee stomach that he couldn’t belch or fart. That is how de General Secretary for de Pee Pee Pee, Clement de Goat Man, was born. Is one thing these people had in common. All of dem had no brain so Jagdeo coulda control all of dem. Even now he trying to control Soulja Bai. He farting steady whether he at a press conference or he deh home. Dem boys don’t know who was mad to mek this man Champion of de Earth when he should have been champion of de Fart. Soulja Bai should tek warning and keep this man far. Talk half and hope de coalition boys don’t eat wheh Jagdeo does eat.

of omission. Given the extent of the alleged repairs that will now have to be done, charges should have been laid against those responsible, not dismissals. Why are the authorities seeking the easy way out rather than prosecuting those who it is said will not cost taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars? The absence of

due process should scare all those working within the government. Many of them may be afraid to speak about and since many are not unionized industrial actions becomes more difficult. If those dismissed had been unionized, there would have been a reaction from the union concerned. They would have taken strike ac-

tion. The entire workforce would have reacted by withdrawing their labour because such actions also threaten their security of tenure. But no union means that the working class is divided and therefore persons can be dismissed at pleasure. Unless the workers of the former Ministry of Housing and the Central Planning and

Housing Authority take industrial action, I am afraid that reports of the sort of mass dismissals that we are now reading about will continue.

Telecoms liberalization legislations debate set for next House sitting The liberalisation of the telecommunications sector in Guyana will be beneficial to citizens, the government and all stakeholders in the industry. This is the view expressed by Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes. The Minister explained that the increase in spectrum recently allocated to the two major telephone companies in Guyana – Digicel and the Guyana Telephone Telegraph (GTT)- has allowed them to raise the platforms and levels on which they operate. This has resulted in Guyanese now accessing for the first time 4G internet service - the fourth generation of telecommunications technology. “I know that they are still testing the platform, implementing and bringing in

new equipment to develop the 4G network, but at the end of the day, we are going to see improvements whereby the consumers would be able to download faster on their phones, at faster speed, documents and a wide range of other things,” Minister Hughes explained. The Minister said the sector’s development will put government in a better position to offer its services to the people, therefore improving its functions. This, the Minister explained is the mandate of the Public Telecommunications Ministry, along with the E-Governance Unit. “Think about all the agencies, the NIS, the tax office GRA, and all of those agencies that the E-Government and telecommunications have a responsibility to help

them develop the types of services and to include Information Communication Technology (ICT) in the provision of those services, so that’s why I say this legislation is going to be revolutionary,” the Minister explained. The Public Telecommunications Minister added that the Telecommunications Bill No. 15 of 2016 when passed in the National Assembly will see the establishment of a Telecommunications Agency. The Bill which was subject to extensive consultations was presented to the National Assembly on May 24, 2016. The Bill is expected to be debated at the next sitting of the National Assembly scheduled for June 30. With the opening up of the sector, government is banking on new companies to

Minister Catherine Hughes bring a range of services including faster internet, more landlines and expansion to the hinterland area. As of now, GTT has the monopoly on landline and international calls.

PAGE 10

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Bruce Munroe, Anil Nandlall and the DPP A very well known and respected lawyer came up to me and said, “I want you to do a column for me as a special request. My obvious response was one of skepticism. No two persons think identically about the tides of life. If I do a column based on what he told me I may have philosophical objections to some of the things he wants to be included that will go under my name. I have done countless columns based on evidential material people gave me. But they all contained my perspectives, and when they did not, the materials included were factually verifiable I listened to him and I was persuaded. I am not a lawyer, but I could understand laws and recognize the weak points and strong validities in

legal polemics. I never accepted Justice Ian Chang’s ruling that Carol Sooba could have continued in office even though her appointment by the Minister of Local Government was legally invalid. I went and I did my research and spoke to lawyers. After that, I did about four columns rejecting Justice Chang’s decision. This lawyer told me that if the police could have charged Bruce Munroe for treason, a woman on Facebook for threatening President Granger, and a man on Facebook for boasting to harm Opposition Leader Jagdeo, then, Anil Nandlall should be charged. The fault in the Nandlall matter, he says, is because of the intransigence of the DPP. I listened to this gentleman,

promised to do my research and based on what I found, agreed to do this column that you are now reading. This attorney-at-law is right. Under the circumstances which Bruce Munroe was charged, then the Nandlall tape seems an open and shut case. Bruce Munroe, as we say in local lingo, was mouthing off about his disgust with the PPP Government. A friend of Munroe, Quincy Critchlow, secretly taped Munroe. ased on what Critchlow did, Munroe, his wife and his friend were charged for treason. The charge was determined by Sydney James, who now heads SOCU. I know the Munroes. I have followed their trial in the courts. I attended some of the hearings, and I picketed for

them. There was no question in my mind that the three persons should not have been charged, but no one has since asked Sydney James about his involvement. About four months ago, I began researching the police attitude in this case, but so many other things got in the way. I intend to resume my research. I hope James speaks to me. The lawyer is on very strong grounds. Critchlow secretly taped Munroe. In the Nandlall situation, a tape is there. Could the DPP tell the Guyanese people what is the clear, legal difference in the Critchlow tape and the Nandlall tape? Of course there are some technical differences. Nandlall was distinctly heard on the tape. The voice delivery was discernible. In the Critchlow tape, you couldn’t clearly hear ninety-nine percent of the recording; that was the point that the case hung on. It was this fact that resulted in the acquittal of the three. The lawyer told me that

there is compelling reason to charge Nandlall, once the DPP agreed to prosecute the woman on her Facebook page that said she would harm the President, and the gentleman from Berbice who used his Facebook page to indicate that he intended to harm Mr. Jagdeo. The attorney made the point that if the DPP can agree to charge these Facebook users, then she has to explain why she has not pursued Anil Nandlall. He thinks she should be made to explain her attitude on the Nandlall tape. Let me repeat; I am not a lawyer but I can interpret legal papers and I am convinced that there are strong grounds for re-visiting the Nandlall tape The DPP, of course, chooses what issues to go public with and which ones to ignore. She has not made any public statement with recent memory on the Nandlall tape. My opinion is that she will not. She had a superabundance of time to issue a public statement and she chose

Frederick Kissoon not to. The DPP is one of the few persons that have not come under the radar of the Coalition Government. I guess it is because she holds the status of a puisne judge and cannot be removed. But it would be naïve for anyone to think that she has not been a widely controversial figure. Of course she was the recipient of a Pradoville 2 house lot. I have some unpleasant memories of some of her decisions. More on that later.

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

City Mayor defiant despite govt. ordered review - “I have nothing and no one to fear” Following the announcement that the controversial city parking meter contract would be reviewed by the government, Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia ChaseGreen, is defiant. Moreover, she is throwing down the gauntlet to her critics. In a recent statement to the media, the Mayor made it clear that if anyone had information about any ‘underhand dealings’ in which she might be involved, then they ought to go to the police. She said that she has nothing and no one to fear. “Anyone who has information that they think is any way untoward or underhand movement with regards to this contract is free to go to the police with it,” the Mayor stressed. “If you have any evidence of anything… I am the Mayor and I have to take the responsibility of anything of this council.” She also denied reports of the existence of the ‘Fantastic Four’; that is a group of councillors who have been making decisions and taking action independent of the council. Recently the Mayor, Town Clerk Royston King, Chairman of the Finance Committee Oscar Clarke and councillor Junior Garrett, embarked on trips to Mexico and Panama. The council and Deputy Mayor, Sherod Duncan had reportedly not sanctioned the trips. The Deputy Mayor has been insistent that a full council must discuss the deal, which was, however, signed even before the trip to inspect the meters. “I don’t know of any group of four persons. I know we are councilors and I am the chairperson for this council,” Chase-Green said. “The con-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

Town Clerk Royston King

tract is at the town clerk’s office. Anyone is free to request to look at it, nobody came forward to look at it, but you’re reading all sorts of things in the press.” REVIEW WELCOMED During a post cabinet press briefing on Wednesday, Minister of State Joseph Harmon, stated that the whole saga had been a subject of cabinet’s meeting and a decision had been reached for the Attorney General’s chambers to review the contract for any illegalities. Detailing the city’s position on this development, the Mayor made it clear that the review of the contract by the government was welcome. She reiterated that there was nothing to hide and at the end

of the day the review will bring closure. “Because all that has been happening is speculation,” she said. “So Government has it, it’s going to go to the Ministry of Legal Affairs for a review and to the Ministry of Finance. And I’m happy about that.” Asked whether the project would be on hold until the review is completed, the Mayor stated that that was not the case to the best of her knowledge. They would move ahead with their September implementation date while the review was ongoing. “We still have to focus on what we are proposing to do with the parking meters while they review the contract.” The contract was signed last November under the last

Chairman of the City Finance Committee, Oscar Clarke council, by the Town Clerk, Royston King, for a consortium, National Parking Systems/Smart City Solutions, to spend US$10M to install solar-powered parking meters around the city. However, several of the new councillors, including Duncan, have been complaining bitterly of the limited in-

formation they have been given. They complained to Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, who expressed concerns last week. On Monday, during a press conference at City Hall to defend the contract, Chase-Green announced that it is expected the first phase of the project will be rolled out by September 1. Some 1,500 parking spaces will be erected between Stabroek, South Road, Camp Street and Church Street. The pilot project will include the busy Regent and Robb Streets. She also said that talks will be held with banks and other city commercial businesses on how parking will be handled. The Mayor disclosed that the fees, which were touted at $500 per hour, was still being negotiated with the consortium and is expected to be way less. NONSENSE During a recent press conference, Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo had described the entire situation as “nonsense”; lambasting the fact that while the investor will collect the hog of rev-

PAGE 11

City Mayor Patricia Chase-Green enues from the meters, the city is set to collect only 20 percent of what is earned. “I don’t know what the city council is intent on doing. First it was the vendors, now its bringing hardships to people to park. So you now have to park your car by Pradoville Two (where Jagdeo lives) and walk to the city.” Jagdeo called for the project to be scrapped. He noted that if an employee earning $60,000 had to pay $500 per hour for parking, it would outstrip their earnings. Acknowledging that there were talks of a reduction, he noted that even if it was reduced by half the cost it would be too much.

PAGE 12

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

NDIA Board Members paid for non-existent meetings A Forensic Audit Report into the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) for the period November 1, 2011 to May 31, 2015, has revealed that the failure of the Board of Directors to meet on a regular basis to ensure the smooth operations of the agency, had contributed to the weakening of the agency’s corporate governance. Corporate governance is the system of rules, practices and processes by which an entity is directed and controlled. It is without corporate governance that leads an entity into mismanagement and chaos. The auditors stated that they are of the considered opinion that the failure of the Board of Directors and senior management to provide good governance, led to a loss of confidence in the governance and management of NDIA. They also pointed out that it is therefore the task of the new Board of Directors to use the Audit Report as a basis to do further work in the troubled areas to improve the quality of management at the agency. The forensic audit showed that Board Members were being paid $1.6 M for nine Board Meetings for the period July 2014 to March

- Audit Report 2015, however the records revealed that only two Board Meetings were held for that period. The auditors continued that aside from the “overpayment” to Board Members, the Chairman of the Board failed to hold the required number of statutory meetings, thereby exacerbating the weakness of NDIA corporate governance. The auditors recommended that a “vigilant” board of directors be established that understands the roles that are needed to be played, and must be willing to “proactively” participate in strategic decisions; ask management tough questions; oversee management’s actions; monitor management’s ethical conduct, financial reporting, and legal compliance; and determine the entity’s risk profile. “We believe that the board’s responsibility is to establish strategic goals to ensure that Government gets value for its money. They must then direct management to implement these strategic goals,” the auditors stated.

The auditors also outlined several primary duties that the board must carry out including: overseeing the hiring process for other top executives; monitor management’s sustainable strategic, financial, and operational goals in achieving long-term value; and setting the agenda for board meetings. The auditors stated that these were “sadly” lacking in the previous board while stating that they believe “good members “should possess the requisite attributes to get the best performance. The NDIA functions as Guyana’s apex organization dealing with all public matters pertaining to management, improvement, extension and provision of drainage, irrigation and flood control infrastructure and services in declared areas of the country. It was established in 2006 by an Act of Parliament, No.10 of 2004. The authority is engaged in the planning for the primary purpose of locating, evaluating, conserving and distributing water resources of the country for agricultural purposes.

Damaged appliances accompany power failure in Essequibo As the spate of blackout continues to plague Region Two ( Pomeroon/ Supenaam), residents throughout the region have been complaining about damage to their electrical equipment. They are now questioning who is going to compensate them for the damaged equipment. Almost every resident living in Westbury which is situated on the northern half of the Essequibo Coast, can attest to damage to several electrical appliances as a result of the frequent blackouts. Audrey Garraway re-

ported that her fridge, music set, blender and refrigerator were all damaged. Garraway said that the blackouts aided by a faulty transformer which is installed in her village compounded the destruction of her appliances. She said she is left with the expense to repair those appliances. Garraway stressed that she was engaged in a conversation with an employee of the Guyana Power and Light. That person told her that GPL would not repair any of her damaged electrical appliances.

But people could apply to the power company once they can establish that electricity damaged their equipment. Many have been compensated. Thursday night again and Friday residents on the northern half experienced another long period of blackout. The lights came off before 18:00 hours and came back around 2:00 hours, Friday morning. Several weeks ago, the backup engine which is housed in a separate compartment aback of the compound, at Anna Regina, went up in flames. The cause of the fire is yet unknown, but it is believed to be electrical in origin. It was understood that repairs were being done to an engine which is housed in the interior of the building when the fire started outside. Members of Guyana Power and Light are not saying what damage was incurred as a result of the recent fire, but again, it was understood that technicians had to be summoned from Georgetown to correct the problem. That fire had left residents living in the north to be without electricity for over 18 hours.

Saturday June 25, 2016

PM says ‘historic’ Brexit has implications for Ja Andrew Holness

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has hailed the outcome of the referendum on the United Kingdom’s membership in the European Union as “historic”. Holness, in a statement yesterday, said the people of the UK have decided to leave the EU as is their right to do in a democratic process. “It is clearly a momentous decision as is evidenced by

the reaction in the financial markets and capitals across the world. The outcome of the referendum has set in motion a process that will require the UK to withdraw from the EU in keeping with the provisions of the EU treaties. “We recall that under Prime Minister [David] Cameron’s leadership, initiatives were taken to re-engage the Commonwealth Caribbean, notably through the UK

Caribbean Infrastructure Programme (UKCIF) and other projects within the Commonwealth. “We also note Prime Minister Cameron’s principled decision to allow for a new prime minister to lead the transition process,” Holness said. The prime minister said the UK’s decision to leave the EU will have international impact as well as implications for Jamaica on several levels. “The Government of Jamaica is actively monitoring and assessing the evolving global environment, to position our country to advantageously manage these developments. “The Government of Jamaica remains committed to working with both our UK and EU partners, particularly in relation to trade, security, investment and development cooperation,” he said. (Jamaica Observer)

Dominica PM expects fallout from Britain’s break with EU ROSEAU, Dominica – It’s been less than 24 hours since the electorate in the United Kingdom voted for the country to break away from the European Union (EU), but already Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit is feeling it. Describing the decision as “shocking”, he said the repercussions will be felt almost immediately in Dominica which depends heavily on foreign aid, since the EU will be losing a large chunk of its budget and will have to restructure its ap-

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

proach to financing and development assistance. Skerrit made the comments on local radio station Kairi FM yesterday morning, hours after the release of the referendum results, which showed that 52 per cent of voters supported the move to leave the EU. Following the result, the pound dipped to a 30-year low, stock markets took a hit, and British Prime Minister David Cameron, who was pushing for the country to stick with the EU, announced he will step down in October.

“It’s a major shock that has hit the world and it has been felt in Dominica from last night,” Prime Minister Skerrit said in the radio interview. “Foreign aid is a crucial component of Dominica’s ability to finance its budget. I cannot recall a time that we did not need the assistance from our friendly partners.

Harding Says Jamaica Should Hold CARICOM Referendum, KD Knight Says No The Gleaner - At least one former legislator is insisting that the Jamaican government should follow the UK’s referendum on the European Union and hold a similar one on whether Jamaica should remain in CARICOM. Former Foreign Affairs Minister Oswald Harding says the issues that Jamaicans face in entering CARICOM countries like Trinidad show that the regional body has already violated the free movement of people agreement, which is a fundamental part of CARICOM. Harding, who was a minister under a Jamaica Labour Party Administration, says

Jamaica’s future as a CARICOM member shouldn’t be decided by politicians but by the Jamaicans who will be significantly impacted by any decision that is taken. Meanwhile, former PNP Foreign Affairs Minister K.D. Knight says he doesn’t believe a referendum is the right way to decide Jamaica’s future in CARICOM. Knight says whatever problems Jamaica has should be resolved through diplomacy. Questions about the necessity of CARICOM were recently brought to the fore following complaints from Jamaicans who say they were treated badly by immigration officials

Oswald Harding after they were denied entry into Trinidad and Tobago. Some Jamaican manufacturers are also of the view that the free trade policy allows countries like Trinidad with large manufacturing sectors to dump cheap products on Jamaica.

Venezuela dialogue could open way for international help – Shannon Reuters - Dialogue between the Venezuelan government and opposition could provide a platform from which they could reque s t h e l p f r o m t h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l c o m m u n i t y, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Aff a i r s To m S h a n n o n s a i d y e s t e r d a y. Shannon, a veteran U.S. diplomat who led talks with Venezuelan officials in Caracas, said there was no date set for another round of talks.

Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro attends a meeting with U.S. diplomat Thomas Shannon at Miraflores Palace in Caracas, Venezuela. REUTERS/CARLOS GARCIA RAWLINS

PAGE 22

SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVEMARKETING& PUBLISHINGINC–TEL:6004212: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:6294946 or 225-4822 Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045

FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Upstairs 2 bedroom unfurnished house @ La Parfaite Harmonie- Call: 6611585 1 Room furnished apartment, Wi-Fi included, single person only @ Lamaha Park-Call: 665-5880 after 6pm. Three storey 75ftx30ft concrete building for bond or offices. 25B Princess Street, Charlestown. Tel: 2230654, 225-0605 1-4 Storey building @ Charlotte Street Georgetown. Call: 668-8332; 638-5303 Upper flat apartment to rent @ Lot 92 Prospect 2nd Street, E.B.D- Call: 233-5426

Building Construction: house plans & estimates, floor sanding, lacquering & painting, boat for Santa Mission –Call: 650-4362 Ramdass Visa application & immigration services, room A-4, Maraj Building, Georgetown. Call Samantha: 227-0295; 615-9295 Hello the doctor is back! Have your gas stove repaired and serviced. Call: 601-0595; 220-4073 Guy Tech Repairs Service & Spares: Solar system, deep fryer, pizza oven, etc. Call: 684-2119; 680-2377 Guy Tech Repairs Service & Spares: treadmill, washing machine, refrigerator, pressure pump, air condition, etc. Call: 684-2119; 680-2377 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158

TO LET 2 Bedrooms apartment to rent @ Diamond for more information. Call: 685-1640 1-2 Bedrooms lower flat apartment situated at 529 Section ‘B’ Block ‘X’, Great Diamond, ‘10th Street Back Half’. Call: 689-1518; 6613288; 216-4200 One bedroom apartment for rent @ Norton and Creen Street Newburg -$40,000 monthly –Call: 671-5307 LEARN TO DRIVE Soman, Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj Building- Tel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997

Register now for summer courses in cosmetology and nails between 2nd -25th August – Cost $15,000 Call Abby: 619-7603

Summer classes for children age 5-17yrs, Form 1-5, CXC classes. Call: 690-5008; 6602152 Electronic Course. Starting 9th August. Hands-on training repairing all types of TVs, etc. Call: 226-6551; 225-0391

CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL @YAHOO. COM Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494

PROPERTY FOR SALE Property at lot 35 Middle Street, McDoom. EBD. Call 2260539 or 629-8842. Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 Corner property in Grove, 1 block from Main Road- Flat House, price negotiable. Call: 1905-626-2572 Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities–Reduced Price. Call: 662-9335; 612-3244

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. 1- Cat 320 BL excavator, 1 Cat 428 Back Hoe, 1-930 Cat loader, 1-Cat D44 bulldozer. Call: 275-0538; 683-7225 1-Pneumatic Roller 9 wheels, 1-55 Leyland Daf Truck. Call: 275-0538; 683-7225

House & land 150X100 @ 6 Good Hope EBE, Double Lot @ 41&44 Vergenogen E.B.E, Double lot (business spot) @ Zeelugt. Call: 642-6642 One flat house 2 bedrooms at Grove New Scheme 2nd Bridge, large land space $11M. Call: 626-1263/ 680-9593 One large family home 4 bedroom, 21/2 bathrooms @ Enterprise – Call: 617-7845 Zeelugt-(2)storey concrete building, Good Hope-(2)storey concrete building, Tel:2319690,231-9693 call between 8:00hrs-16:00hrs (Mon-Fri).

Pure German Shepherd pups, 7 weeks old, vaccinated & have clinic cards – Call: 6535702

Parfaite Harmony-(2) storey wooden & concrete building. Prices negotiable. Tel:2319690,231-9693 call between 8:00hrs-16:00hrs (Mon-Fri).

1 Complete high volume, 3stage water purification systems, UV light, water tanks, freezer, reasonable , owner migrating – Call: 649-8430

1 Front building & 1 -2 storey back building @ 180 Charlotte Street Bourda (30X120), price negotiable- Call: 2265183; 227-6817; 624-7341 Enmore: Hope West, 1-two storey 3 bedrooms wooden building, overlooking FoulisCall: 602-2818; 649-1434

Two -20ft Container chassis for sale- price $1,260,000 each for information call: 623-1615 MIX BREED PUPS –CALL: 615-0146 Bedford TM 6X6 parts for sale – Call: 697-5437 5 Chinese Seine, 1-50HP outboard engine, 1-31 FT flat bottom boat, 1000 lbs nylon seine –Call: 691-3633; 2234552 PEN PAL Middle age man is seeking female for long term relations 32-40yrs. Call: 670-7969

Ranger/Land Surveying technician available for any interior location (bush), specialized in: GPS, mapping, compass etc. Call: 691-4339 EDUCATIONAL

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

2 Storey house, 5 bedrooms semi-furnished for business, 65 Palmyra Village, East Canje Berbice, price negotiable. Call: 670-6688; 621-2060 3 Bedrooms house in Tucville, asking price -$15M, needs repairs. Call: 645-6498

VACANCY Hair/nail & barber stations for rental, discounts for new comers @ New Market St. Call: 638-1106 Lorry DRIVER/Salesman, Part time Welder/ Fabricator 676 6700 One fitter machinist & one welder - Call: 613-1588; 234-0780 2 Live -in/ live out waitresses to work at Caribbean Heat in Good Hope, East Coast Demerara. Call: 613-2650 or 627-5607 Experienced sewing machine operators.Apply in person @ R Sookraj & Sons 108 Regent Street (OPP. GBTI) (HOUSEKEEPER/COOK) required for Indian Nationals in GuySuco Scheme, Turkeyen, Police Clearance mandatory after shortlisting. Call: 686-7786 Control Room Assistants and Visiting Officers. Massy Security (Guyana) Inc. Lot 0 Ruimveldt, Georgetown.Tel: 225-5573/6

DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM

LAND FOR SALE 25 Acres land for sale @ Linden Highway –Call: 683-1521 50 Acres @ Plantation Elizabeth Ann, Right Bank Demerara River. Call: 6723886; 600-5266 Herstelling (corner lot) 100ftX50ft -$3.5M, (pay 2$M now & the rest later), La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.3M. Call: 604-2207; 611-7223 Land situated at 33 Area F Z e e b u rg S o u t h W. C . D , size: 150X55’. Call: 615-1594; 668-3293

Property located @ Waller’s Delight W.C.D- Call: 6620187; 674-4929 High value transported land and 2 bedrooms newly built house, Greater Diamond E.B.D -$16M negotiable. Call: 684-7234

Land located at Nouvelle Flanders West Coast Demerara. Call: 662-0187; 674-4929

Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807

Business property @ 21-24 Main & Magdalen Street New Amsterdam Berbice. Call: 233-0091; 683-9031

Cleaner, Security, DJ, waitress, bartenders,1 experinced secretary between ages 18-25, must have CXC–Call: 668-8332; 638-5303 Experienced driver/salesman and porter to drive & sell beverages. Experienced is an asset. Call: 226-9800 M&S Taxi and Transportation Service wanted Hire Car Drivers around Georgetown. Call: 638-0704. Experienced female Accounts clerk passes with English & Mathematics. Apply at Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling. One experienced Hauler driver, apply in person at Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling Stabroek.

Girls to work in bar @ E.C.D location- Call: 612-2522

West Minister Major Road already fenced & water in La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.5M, Bartica- $2.5M- Call: 6818897; 651-1969

Business property located at Vreed-en-Hoop Public Road, few houses away from junction, serious enquiries only! Call: 671-9035

Experienced Driver apply in person with handwritten application @ Hack’s Halaal, 5 Commerce St.

Salesgirl contact 1883 Festival City, North Ruimveldt –Call: 682-4159 from 4pm to 10pm

Republic Park Ph1: 2 flats 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, well maintained, including yard $51M-Call: 609-6516; 6170758; 645-2580 CAR RENTAL

WANTED Hallow Blocks maker- Call: 233-2767

PROPERTY FOR SALE Large 4 bedrooms concrete house for sale at Ruimzeight Garden, W.C.D, residential area. Call:269-0189; 268-3214 FOR SALE/RENT American pool table – Call: 277-0578

Needed one female cleaner to work in bond, apply in person to Alabama Trading, Georgetown, Ferry Stelling. Live in or live out maid, assistant salesgirl E.C.D-Call: 603-5416; 644-9802 3 Waitress @ R&V Sports Bar -$16,000 per shift, free meals & accommodation. Whatsapp: 661-8802 We buy land in Eccles, Herstelling, Farm, La Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt, Zeelugt, Bartica –Call: 6511969; 681-8897 1 Male to cook in the Backdam-Call: 678-0565 One administrative assistant- email CV to nwscompanygy@gmail.com 1 Maid for East Bank Area. Call: 614-4358 Experienced male salesperson must be able to multitask, communicate well & have computer skills @ KeyFood Trading McDoom. Experienced Fish processors, filleters and labourers. Earn between $3,000 and $4,000 per day. Call 223-5180 One accountant and one assistant accountant. Must be knowledgeable with Quick Book experience. Very attractive salary. Call 697-5221 (Continued on page 23)

Saturday June 25, 2016

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

Bidders protest $7.5M generator contract award The award of a contract earlier this year for the supply of a generator for stateowned hinterland Power Company is raising questions. A number of bidders for the tenders, which were handled by the Hinterland Electrification Company Inc., are complaining that the company winning the tender, “Cummings Electrical Company Limited”, had a bid higher than above most of them. The Hinterland Electrification Company Inc. falls under the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. There were no explanations how Cummings Electrical won it. According to official records, as published on the state’s http:// electricity.gov.gy/, there were 16 bidders for the supply of a 175kW generator for Matthew’s Ridge Power and Light Inc. The tenders were opened on March 8, 2016 with bid amounts ranging from $5.54M to $13.9M. Cummings’ bid was for $7,576,172. There were nine bidders that came in below that figure. According to the complaining bidders, it is now becoming even clearer that the country needs the Public Procurement Commission in place. “This body could hear our complaints and deal with it. We are hoping this commission comes into place very soon,” said an executive of one of the companies. Last week, Minister of

From page 22

VEHICLE FOR SALE Mazda RX8 – Call: 602-6024 One silver colour RAV 4 J PNN 6469, excellent condition – Call: 625-2323; 254-0530 Toyota Voxy/ Noah unregistered, 2008 model $2.5M. Call: 603-9700 Mitsubishi GLX Sports $400,000, MR2 Sports Toyota -$500,000, 200 Mercedes Benz -$300,000. Call: 226-8013 One Hilux Tiger 4X4 for sale, 5L engine, stick gear, diesel, 15 inch mag, roof rack & back covering. Call: 692-9577; 2292379 AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BRR, RZ & Pitbull, Pajero Junior, Spacio: Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 1 Mazda Axela, in excellent condition -$1.2M negotiableCall: 681-8543

The bids that came in for the generator. State, Joseph Harmon announced that Cabinet has green-lighted the establishment of a Bid Protest Commit-

tee to hear complaints from businesses which feel that they have been unfairly overlooked for another bidder.

There have been growing complaints of significant corruption in the country’s procurement system.

Soesdyke man jailed for ganja in haversack A 28-year-old man was jailed for three years and fined over $2M after he was found guilty of trafficking in marijuana yesterday, when he appeared before the Chief Magistrate in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Andel Solomon, of Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, was convicted

by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for having 1 kg grams of cannabis in his possession on April 14, for the purpose of trafficking at the aforementioned village. He was als0 fined $2. 7 M. During her ruling, the Magistrate said that she was satisfied with the case put forward by Police Prosecutor,

Neville Jeffers. She said that she was satisfied that Solomon had knowledge and possession (control and custody) of the illicit substance. When asked by the Magistrate if he had anything to say in mitigation, Solomon maintained that the marijuana which was found in a haversack did not belong to him.

Guyana virtually unaffected....

JAILED: Andel Solomon

From page 8 prosperity and ensure a safe and secure environment for our citizens. The institutions will play their full role in this endeavour.” The EU also said that it expects the UK government to give effect to this decision of the British people as soon as possible, “however painful that process may be. Any delay would unnecessarily prolong uncertainty.” The Union made it clear that it has rules to deal with the situation “in an orderly way as” Article 50 of the

Treaty on European Union sets out the procedure to be followed if a Member State decides to leave the European Union. “We stand ready to launch negotiations swiftly with the United Kingdom regarding the terms and conditions of its withdrawal from the European Union. Until this process of negotiations is over, the United Kingdom remains a member of the European Union, with all the rights and obligations that derive from this. According to the Treaties which the United Kingdom

has ratified, EU law continues to apply to the full to and in the United Kingdom until it is no longer a Member. As regards the United Kingdom, we hope to have it as a close partner of the European Union in the future. We expect the United Kingdom to formulate its proposals in this respect. Any agreement, which will be concluded with the United Kingdom as a third country, will have to reflect the interests of both sides and be balanced in terms of rights and obligations.”

2010 IST -$2.6M, 2011 BLUEBIRD -$2.7M, 2001 RACTIS -$2.6M, 2009 AXIO -$2.4M, 2009 BELTA -2.4M. CALL: 617-2891 One Silver Premio excellent condition, PRR 3854 -$1.7M negotiable. Call: 682-4742 2008 Toyota Axio, registered (PVV), immaculate conditionCall: 618-6207; 673-1617 (no reasonable offer refused) 1 AT 212 New Model Toyota Carina PMM series, lady driven -$1.3M –Call: 617-7845 Toyota AT212, in good condition -$1M negotiableCall: 690-3352; 267-1308; 6262841 Unregistered Fielder 2009 dark interior, Body Kit, roof rack, rear spoiler, rear spoiler, TV, CD –Call: 617-5536

WANTED One baby sitter and one maid. Attractive salary. Call or text, 223-5180 Experienced taxi driver, bus driver and dispatcher at Princess Ramada Hotel. Call: 265-7076; 616-5419 Experienced domestic help/ nanny with valid police clearance required at Station Street Kitty. Please contact: 643-3061/227-6662/ 654-0382 One cook to work in snackette, must be able to clean- Call: 647-7432 Driver with both a minibus and taxi license living in Georgetown. Call: 664-0802 FOOD WHOLESALE COMPANY LOOKING FOR SALESPERSON WITH EXPERINCEDAND VEHICLE . POLICE CLEARANCE A+ -CALL: 231-8529/ 231-8344 EDUCATIONAL Summer Classes: Phonics, Reading, Language, Mathematics, Art & Craft & fun day (4-12yrs) July 18thAugust 12th @ Roxanne Burnham Gardens-Tel:2182076; 619-4355

PAGE 24

Turkey warns of rising European xenophobia after Brexit vote

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan (C) and former President Abdullah Gul (R) pray during a funeral ceremony in Istanbul, Turkey, yesterday. REUTERS/MURAD SEZER Reuters - Europe’s politicians are failing to combat rising xenophobia and anti-immigrant views, Turkish officials said yesterday, after Britain’s vote to exit the European Union deprived Turkey of what had been a major backer in its quest for EU membership. The Brexit campaign and the rise of Europe’s populist right have cast further doubt over Turkey’s decade-long accession negotiations, a process which was in its early years an anchor for economic and social reforms in the country. President Tayyip Erdogan blamed Islamophobia for holding up Turkey’s accession process, accusing the bloc of double standards and warning that more countries could seek to leave. “The practice currently against Turkey is Islamophobic, that is why they are delaying taking us in,” he said in a tele-

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

vised speech late yesterday. “If the European Union deepens its inconsistencies and continues on its path, in a short time it will be inevitable for it to face new exits,” he said. His comments echoed those of one of the country’s deputy prime ministers earlier in the day. “The fragmentation of the EU has started. Britain was the first to abandon ship,” Deputy Prime Minister Nurettin Canikli wrote on Twitter. Turkey’s EU Affairs Minister Omer Celik said the British campaign had been marred by Islamophobia and anti-Turkish sentiment fuelled by mainstream politicians. The “Out” campaign played on voters’ fears about immigration by warning of dire consequences if Turkey, a largely Muslim nation of 79 million, joined the EU. Ankara

was particularly angered by the response of Prime Minister David Cameron, once a staunch advocate of Turkish accession to the EU, who joked that it would not happen until the year 3000. “This has been a worrying process ... in which mainstream politicians relied on the far right’s rhetoric too much,” Celik told a news conference. Turkey began EU accession talks in 2005 but has made scant progress despite an initial burst of reforms. Many EU states are not eager to see such a large, mostly Muslim country as a member, and are concerned that Ankara’s record on basic freedoms has gone into reverse in recent years. Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said the EU needed to reflect carefully on the British vote and to embrace more inclusive policies. His foreign minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu, said the EU’s enlargement and integration policies had been a failure. But trade ties are likely to remain strong between Turkey and both Britain and the EU. Britain was Turkey’s second-biggest market in 2015, with $10.5 billion worth of exports and total trade volume of $16 billion. Economy Minister Nihat Zeybekci said Turkey would continue to take steps to maintain and strengthen investment, foreign trade and financial relations with Britain.

Joint Special Operations Group rank held with AK-47 and 9mm rounds A constable attached to the Joint Special Operations Group (JASOG) was in custody last night after he was held with an assortment of ammunition. Kaieteur News understands that around 18.30 hrs last night, senior police ranks, acting on information,

searched a locker at the JASOG headquarters. On checking a haversack belonging to the constable, the ranks unearthed eight 7.62x39 rounds (used in the AK-47 assault rifles), 23nine millimeter rounds and three .38 rounds of ammunition.

Kaieteur News understands that the same constable was questioned last year about the death of a prisoner at a We s t C o a s t Demerara police station. He has been placed under close arrest at the Tactical Services Unit Headquarters.

Businessman sues State for $1.5 Million - Claims police stole $265,000 from his home

Businessman, Roymond Prepont, is suing the State for damages in excess of the $1 million for alleged breach of his constitutional right. According to court documents, Prepont of Lot 491 Recthdoorzee, La Parfaite Harmonie Housing S c h e m e , We s t B a n k Demerara, brought the lawsuit against the State after its servants (members of the Guyana Police Force) invaded and searched his home without his consent. The applicant is contending the police came to his home on June, 7 2016, and searched the property while his 17-year-old daughter was home alone. They allegedly seized and detained $265,000. Prepont is contending that the search is unlawful and in contravention of the Applicant’s fundamental right and freedom of protection against arbitrary entry as is guaranteed to him by Article 143 of the Constitution of Guyana. He is therefore suing for damages in excess of $1.5 million for breach of his fundamental right and freedom against arbitrary search and entry; the protection of which is guaranteed to him by Article 143 of the Constitution of Guyana. In the affidavit

to support his claim Prepont explained that he was in Linden conducting business when his daughter called him and told him that the police had broken into his home. “I immediately departed Linden and travelled to my home. When I arrived home, I observed that spikes and lights on the concrete fence were damaged. I thereafter contacted my neighbours and was informed and verily believe that sometime around 5 pm, on the 7th day of June, 2016, a group of policemen visited my home and broke into it.” He was informed by his neighbours that the said policemen climbed my fence to gain entry into my yard. I was informed by neighbours and (therefore) believe that while climbing the said concrete fence, the policemen broke spikes and lights on the fence. I was also informed by my neighbours that once inside the yard; the said policemen broke the padlock on the gate to allow other officers to gain entry into my yard. The businessman claimed that police also climbed through a window on the veranda to gain access to his house. “The said officers from

the La Grange Police Station then opened the door to my house and I immediately began to conduct a search of my personal belongings. I observed that clothes were taken from the bedroom and were tossed in the walkway. I thereafter discovered that some $265,000 which I had hidden in my daughter ’s bedroom in a clothes basket was missing.” The applicant said that he also observed that the bedrooms of the house were in disarray with furniture, and other items tossed about in a haphazard manner. The officers from the La Grange Police Station reportedly took photographs and fingerprints from the house and also took statem e n t s f r o m P r e p o n t ’s neighbours. The businessman further alleged that the police refused to take statements from them when they visited the police station. It was based on the advice of a senior officer, Prepont said that he decided to take the matter to court. He therefore visited the law offices of Nandlall and associates where the motion was prepared and filed. The matter is set for July 21 in Constitutional Court.

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Saturday June 25, 2016

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

‘Explosive shock’ as Britain votes to leave EU, Cameron quits Reuters - Britain has voted to leave the European Union, forcing the resignation of Prime Minister David Cameron and dealing the biggest blow since World War Two to the European project of forging greater unity. Global financial markets plunged yesterday as results from a referendum defied bookmakers’ odds to show a 52-48 percent victory for the campaign to leave a bloc Britain joined more than 40 years ago. The United Kingdom itself could now break apart, with the leader of Scotland - where nearly two-thirds of voters wanted to stay in the EU saying a new referendum on independence from the rest of Britain was “highly likely”. German Chancellor Angela Merkel will meet French, German and Italian leaders in Berlin on Monday to discuss future steps, and foreign ministers of the bloc’s six founders — Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg — will meet this morning. An emotional Cameron, who led the “Remain” campaign to defeat, losing the gamble he took when he promised the referendum in 2013, said he would leave office by October. “The British people have made the very clear decision to take a different path and as such I think the country requires fresh leadership to take it in this direction,” he said in a televised address outside his residence. “I do not think it would be right for me to be the captain that steers our country to its next destination,” he added, choking back tears before walking back through 10 Downing Street’s black door with his arm around his wife Samantha. The pound fell as much as 10 percent against the dollar to touch levels last seen in 1985, on fears the decision could hit investment in the world’s fifth-largest economy, threaten London’s role as a global financial capital and usher in months of political uncertainty. The euro slid 3 percent. World stocks saw more than $2 trillion (£1.46 trillion) wiped off their value although the FTSE stock index recovered much of its early losses. U.S. stocks fell sharply, with the Dow Jones industrial average dropping over 500 points. Quitting the world’s big-

Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron speaks after Britain voted to leave the European Union, outside Number 10 Downing Street in London, Britain. REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth gest trading bloc could cost Britain access to the trade barrier-free single market and means it must seek new trade accords with countries around the world. A poll of economists by Reuters predicted Britain was likelier than not to fall into recession within a year. The EU rose out of the ashes of two world wars and fascist and communist totalitarianism to unite a continent of democracies. It faces economic and political damage without Britain, which has the EU’s biggest financial centre, a U.N. Security Council veto, a powerful army and nuclear weapons. “It’s an explosive shock. At stake is the break-up pure and simple of the union,” French Prime Minister Manuel Valls said. “Now is the time to invent another Europe.” The result emboldened eurosceptics in other member states, with French National Front leader Marine Le Pen and Dutch far-right leader Geert Wilders demanding

their countries also hold referendums. Le Pen changed her Twitter profile picture to a Union Jack and declared “Victory for freedom!” The vote will trigger at least two years of divorce proceedings with the EU, the first exit by any member state. Cameron, in office since 2010, said it would be up to his successor to formally start the exit process. His Conservative Party rival Boris Johnson, the former London mayor who became the most recognisable face of the Leave camp, is now widely tipped to seek his job. “We can find our voice in the world again, a voice that is commensurate with the fifthbiggest economy on Earth,” he told reporters at Leave campaign headquarters. Lawmakers from the opposition Labour Party launched a no-confidence motion to topple their leader, leftist Jeremy Corbyn, accused by opponents in the party of campaigning tepidly for its Remain stance.

PAGE 27

PAGE 28

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

Sanders will vote for Clinton to stop Trump Reuters - U.S. Democratic presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders said yesterday he would vote for Hillary Clinton to stop Republican Donald Trump from winning the White House, a lukewarm show of support that his campaign said was not a formal endorsement. Sanders’ comments come after weeks of pressure from Democratic Party officials to throw his weight behind Clinton, the presumptive nominee. She locked up the required number of delegates this month with a string of wins in state-by-state primary contests.Clinton, the former U.S. secretary of state, senator, and first lady, needs Sanders’ supporters to boost her chances against Trump in the Nov. 8 election. Only 40 percent of them say they would vote for her, with the rest undecided or divided between Trump, a third-party candidate and staying home, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling. Asked if he would vote for Clinton in November, Sanders,

Bernie Sanders

a U.S. senator from Vermont, told MSNBC television: “Yes. The issue right here is I’m going to do everything I can to defeat Donald Trump. I think Trump in so many ways would be a disaster for this country if he were elected president.” “We do not need a president whose cornerstone of his campaign is bigotry, who is insulting Mexicans and Latinos and Muslims and women, who does not believe in the reality of climate change,” he continued. A spokeswoman for Sanders said his comments on MSNBC did not amount to an endorsement of Clinton, adding that “Senator Sanders is

also still an active candidate.” Trump has angered minority groups with his hard line on immigration, including calls to temporarily ban Muslims from entering the country, deport millions of undocumented immigrants, and build a wall along the U.S.Mexican border if he is elected. A spokeswoman for Trump’s campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The wealthy New York businessman has rejected accusations his proposals are bigoted, and has said his policies would help minorities by bolstering the economy and creating jobs.

Saturday June 25, 2016

Guyana drawn in Group 4 of 2016 CFU Men’s U17 WCQ In preparation for the Caribbean Football Union’s (CFU) Men’s Under-17 tournament in July 2016, 66 youths are scheduled to participate in a two-day National Under-17 trials scheduled for the Guyana Defence Force Ground, Camp Ayangana today. The trials are scheduled to begin at 08:00hrs daily and will conclude at 17:00hrs (today) and 13:00hrs (tomorrow) respectively under the watchful eyes of designated Head Coach, Anthony Stephens. The youths will be drawn from eight participating Member Associations with eight participants each except for six and four participants respectively from Bartica Football Association (BFA) and Essequibo Coast / Pomeroon Football Association (EC/PFA). The national squad, which will consist of 26 players, will be finalized in the week following the trails and is scheduled to begin a one-

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

Local trials commence today and-half week encampment on 2nd July. The team is scheduled to depart Guyana for USVI on the 13th July, 2016. Guyana has been placed in Group Four with USVI, Jamaica and Antigua and Barbuda and will play their first game against Jamaica on

15th July, 2016 at the Lionel Roberts Stadium, USVI at 1 4 : 3 0 h r s . The second and third matches in the Round will be played on July 17 against USVI commencing at 17:00hrs and the 19th July against Antigua and Barbuda commencing at

14:30hrs. The tournament is scheduled to conclude on 25th September, 2016 in Trinidad and Tobago. Other members of the technical squad include Carlos Bernard (Manager), Vurlon Mills (Assistant Coach), Andrew Hazel (Goal Keeper Coach) and Pablino Cupideo (Physiotherapist).

Bravo, Gabriel put Windies in final... (From page 26) drive to wicketkeeper de Kock off seamer Wayne Parnell at the end of the second over and the 21-year-old Rabada picked up his first wicket when he had Johnson Charles caught at second slip by Morris for four in the next over. With the following delivery, Rabada yorked the inform Marlon Samuels offstump and in his next over, the fifth of the innings, he rattled Denesh Ramdin (4) with blow to the helmet before plucking out his middle stump next ball. Bravo and Pollard then

came to their side’s rescue in a partnership which was the highest fifth wicket stand for West Indies against South Africa. While Bravo struck 12 fours and four sixes, Pollard counted seven fours and two sixes. Fortune favoured Bravo on 11 when he top-edged a pull off pacer Morkel in the 11th over only for Parnell on the long leg boundary to parry the ball over the ropes for six. Emboldened by his reprieve, Bravo greeted the introduction of Imran Tahir in

Saturday June 25, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Try not to use emotional blackmail; it will only make matters worse. Be prepared to meet new lovers through colleagues. The talk you have may be eye-opening with regard to your present situation. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Your business sense will be leading you in a direction that indicates more travel and communication. Be careful not to overexert yourself. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Sign up for courses or join fitness clubs. You can mix business with pleasure to get favorable results. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Jealous colleagues may try to undermine you. You can make money through your creative efforts. Added knowledge will give you the edge when dealing with peers. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You may want to put everyone to work on a project that will keep them all too busy to complain. Make sure that you have all the pertinent facts before taking action. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) This will not be the day to lend money to friends or family. You can't make things better if you don't know what to fix. Short trips will be educational.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You may have been too nice to a friend who just wanted to take advantage of you. Put aside any decisions concerning your position at work. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Children may cause limitations. Social activity with friends and relatives will be most successful. Spend some time on yourself. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You could have a tendency to spend too much on your home or entertainment. Arguments with children or friends may leave you steaming. Relatives may be less than easy to deal with. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You're in the mood to get out and visit friends. You have been going through a period of change that has caused problems for you with your loved ones. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You can make changes to your living quarters that should please family members. Travel and creative hobbies will be your best outlet. You're intuitive today; however, this attribute could get you in trouble if you tactlessly say what you think. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your social activity should be conducive to finding love. Travel will promote new romantic connections.

the next over with a six over long on off the leg-spinner’s second ball and he then cruised to his half-century off 52 deliveries, bringing up his landmark by driving Parnell to the cover boundary in the 19th over. He needed a further 48 balls to reach triple figures, emphatically reaching the milestone by imperiously smashing Morris back overhead for the last of his four sixes. Pollard, meanwhile, provided great support in a knock marked by good judgement. He managed only two runs from his first ten balls but then exploded with a six and a four off Morkel in the 15th over which cost 15 runs before belting Morris for three successive boundaries in the next over which leaked 14 runs. He reached his ninth ODI fifty in the 29th over and celebrated in the same over with a six and a four off left-arm spinner JP Duminy. The partnership was broken when Pollard picked out Faf du Plessis at long on off Morkel in the 30th over and Bravo added a further 33 with Holder for the sixth wicket before skying Morris to du Plessis at mid-on in the 37th over. Holder then crunched three fours and two sixes and Brathwaite, two fours and a six, as they sustained the momentum with a 54-run stand for the seventh wicket. Chasing a challenging total, the Proteas were never allowed to settle as Gabriel, in only his second One-Day International, knocked over Quinton de Kock (6), du Plessis (3) and captain AB de Villiers (2) inside the first eight overs, as the visitors slumped to 28 for three. De Kock perished in the fourth over to a fine catch at the wicket by Ramdin, du Plessis was beaten for pace and lbw in the seventh over while de Villiers nicked a drive behind in the eighth over. The Proteas were in deeper trouble at 35 for four when Narine trapped the dangerous opener Hashim Amla lbw for 16, and Duminy’s demise, taken at gully by Sulieman Benn off pacer Holder for five in the 15th over, left the innings in ruins at 51 for five. The next four wickets fell for 83 runs before Morkel and Imran Tahir combined to delay the inevitable.

Dominoes set for Meadowbrook today & tomorrow A 21-team pre-birthday Domino competition, organised by Favorite & Ron, is set for today and tomorrow at RR Domino Club at 76 Meadow Brook Gardens.

The competition starts at 16:00hrs and has prize money of $100,000 for first prize, $50,000 and $25,000. There is one re-entry and Bar-B-Q Chicken and Pork will be on sale for $1,000.

Riddim Squad get past... (From page 27) minute goal. In the night’s opening match, Police were too hot for the Flaming o s i d e w h o m they trounced 6-0, the score line could have easily been more devastating were it not for a number of missed chances. For the Lawmen, there were doubles each for Leorne Charles (11, 17) and Athio Wallace in the 52nd and 54th minute. Netting one apiece were Rawle Hayes in the 47th minute and Quincy Holder in

the 67th minute. An enthralling final day is in the making when the final four matches will all be contested at the GFC ground on July 3rd. (Franklin Wilson)

They have both won... (From page 26) to ensure not only the elite league is a reality but also our junior leagues.” Commenting on the issue of the format of the league which is being debated hotly, Inniss, a former goalkeeper, said that there would be a review of this inaugural league and what is best for all including the clubs would be imple-

mented for the next SEL. ”We eagerly anticipate a very competitive match because arguably, these two clubs have really been the shining light of football for Guyana over the recent past. We can easily anticipate a very, very competitive match and once and for all settle the score.” There will be no cash incentive attached to tomorrow’s match, a trophy is at stake.

PAGE 30

Bravo, Gabriel put Windies in final against Aussies BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Darren Bravo stroked his first one-day century in nearly two years before fast bowler Shannon Gabriel stunned the South Africa top order with a rapid spell, as West Indies marched into tomorrow’s final of the Tri-Nations Series with a 100run victory here Friday night. Sent in at Kensington Oval, West Indies recovered from a disastrous position of 21 for four in the fifth over to reach 285 all out off 49.5 overs, with the left-handed Bravo carving out 102 from 103 deliveries to record his third one-day hundred. He put on 156 for the fifth wicket with Kieron Pollard who hammered 62 from 71 balls while captain Jason Holder slammed 40 from 46 deliveries and Carlos Brathwaite, an unbeaten 33. Rookie seamer Kagiso Rabada was outstanding with three for 31 while medium pacer Chris Morris supported with three for 63. In reply, South Africa lost wickets steadily to be bowled out for 185 off 46 overs, with right-armer Gabriel finishing with three for 17 from five overs of sustained pace and off-spinner Sunil Narine claiming three for 28. Farhaan Behardien top-scored with 35, Morne Morkel at number 10 finished on 32 not out while Imran Tahir (29) and Wayne Parnell (28) chipped in, but the innings collapsed badly. The innings was tottering on 134 for nine but Morkel and Tahir resisted in a 51-run

Saturday June 25, 2016

Kaieteur News

last wicket stand to frustrate the Windies. No such positive result was envisioned when Rabada produced a lethal burst at the top of the order to

leave the Windies innings in strife early on. They lost Andre Fletcher for eight, edging a flat-footed (Continued on page 25)

They have both won battles, who will win the war? Alpha and Slingerz clash to decide SEL overall champs By Franklin Wilson The two best club sides in Guyana will collide once again in what is being dubbed the final of all finals. In the inaugural season of the Stag Elite League, Slingerz FC drew first blood when they won the GENESIS phase, while Alpha ‘The Hammer’ United clawed back to win the FINALE which has set up a mouth watering final clash to decide the overall winner, based on the league’s rules. It has been well documented that Slingerz dominated both phases of the league but must now pull out all the stops if they are to deny Alpha United from taking their 7th league championship in Guyana, Slingerz have dominated their rivals in many a knock-out tournaments in the past 24 months. Does the West Demerara based unit have what it takes to deny Guyana’s most successful club at the CFU and CONCACAF levels? That score would be settled tomorrow at the GDF ground from 21:00hrs when the match commences. A supporting game between Den Amstel and Western Tigers will start at 18:00hrs. Yesterday at the Guyana Football Federation, the respective team coaches, sponsor and federation sought to update the media and by extension the public on plans for what is anticipated to be a humdinger of a match. Leading off, Slingerz Assistant Coach Kavin Pearce said that they have been working hard since the loss to Alpha 0-3 on penalty kicks

in the FINALE final to get their focus back on track for tomorrow’s match. ”We at Slingerz have been working hard to get back in preparation for this final game that come Sunday we will finish it off and prove to the nation that Slingerz Club is the top club in Guyana.” Pearce’s Captain Tichard Joseph in his comments said that the loss was a hard pill to swallow but they have remained focused and are trying to pick themselves up again ahead of tomorrow’s showdown. ”We still have a next chance winning the league, so we will come out and continue to work hard and hopefully Sunday to come out on top.” Head Coach of Alpha United Wayne Dover noted that his club has continued preparations after last Sunday’s match ahead of the champion of champions final. He said that they have done their homework and have been striving to improve their performance in the area of scoring among others. ”We will continue to demonstrate why we are the better team in this nation and make this grand finale a remarkable final for us making it six in a row in terms of national championships and that is our aim and objective going into this game.” Dover said that they have taken the SEL step by step, noting that Slingerz would have dominated from the start of the league in the group phases. ”I spoke to my players and said, listen, this is not about the fans, we are play-

ing this for us, because we have limited amount of fans.” The long serving Coach elaborated that their aim was to be one of the four teams in the semi finals, win that then focus on the final and they achieved that in both halves of the SEL. ”Unfortunately in the first half we were not successful; fortunately for us in the second half we were successful.” Dover complimented the SEL for providing matches for the players whilst calling for a review of the format given the fact that Slingerz dominated by ending with the most points but an outside chance was given to another club to sneak in and become champions. Ansa McAl’s Trade Marketing Manager Ms Darshanie Yussuf indicated that her company would have loved to see a straight league with the team accumulating the most points emerging as the winner, but that is not so, so they are now faced with the champion of champions final. ”For us the first half of the league was fantastic, it really was because we saw the results from the players, we saw the effect that it had on community based football, the appeal it had for fans so it was fantastic. In the finale stages we had some blunders, you all would know about these blunders but hope fully we’ll be able to overcome them with better strategies.” Yussuf expressed thanks to the fans and players for their support whilst committing her company to a continued partnership with building league football in Guyana. ”Stage Elite League will ensure that league football continues to be something that is developed in this country that all of our players have a chance to prosper.” GFF Executive Committee Member Mr Dion Lovell expressed thanks to all stakeholders including Ansa McAl under their Stag brand, the Government of Guyana, Courts Guyana, E-Networks and the fans for their contributions towards the league’s success. ”This is an opportune time for me to encourage other entities come o board to support football because we really cannot do it alone. Of course the subvention that we receive is really not enough for us to do this alone, we urge other corporate entities to come on board (Continued on page 25)

Kaieteur News

Saturday June 25, 2016

PAGE 31

Police join community to stage another 50th Anniversary Independence fitness event

Commander Assistant Commissioner Ian Amsterdam leading the way on the road in the West Coast Berbice fitness activity. Led by Commander Assistant Commissioner, Ian Amsterdam the police in B Division Berbice are getting more and more involved in various community activities. After successfully conducting a fitness walk in sub division number one New Amsterdam Canje area, Police from all the various subdivisions and sections recently joined with members of the community

as they successfully staged another fitness walk in the number three subdivision (West Berbice) to mark the continuing 50th Anniversary Independence anniversary programme. The 5miles walk began at No. 10 village, wended its way along the main West Coast Berbice public road and ended at the Fort Welling ton Police Station. Commander, Assistant Commissioner Ian

A m s t e r d a m w a s accompanied by a number of other senior officers from all the subdivisions including No. two (Lower and Upper Corentyne and Corentyne River and No. three (West Berbice) along with Traffic department, CID and Special C o n s t a b u l a r y , neighbourhood police and community policing groups and some members of the public participated in the event.

At the end of the walk the ranks were carried through their (exercise) calisthenics paces by Assistant Commissioner Amsterdam and other senior ranks. Speaking to the media, coordinator, woman Inspector Cynthia Kelly, stated that the activity was being held as part of the country’s 50 Anniversary celebrations. It was also done to keep the members of the force

UG Futsal team getting ready for Universities of CAC Futsal C/ship Head Coach of the University of Guyana squad currently preparing to participate in the Universities of Central America & Caribbean Futsal Championship, Challus McKinnon, speaking with Kaieteur Sport Thursday e v e n i n g , a t t h e C l i ff Anderson Sports Hall, said he was impressed by the team’s commitment and dedication to their preparations. The team was seen going through some drills under the watchful eyes of McKinnon and he told this newspaper that they had started preparations some three months ago and while a few players have not had any prior experience in the format, he was impressed with their advancement in terms of the technical and tactical knowledge of the format. “ We a r e p r e s e n t l y

Head Coach Challus McKinnon (left standing) poses with the UG team following the conclusion of a training session on Thursday. engaged in fitness drills along with getting the technical and tactical aspects of our preparations right and at some point we will then focus on the mental aspect which is very important as well,” McKinnon disclosed. The Coach said that the

fitness of the players has improved immensely and if he was to give them a grade it would be seven out of ten. “The players dribbling ability and their offensive and defensive skills have also shown positive signs of progress and I’m positive that we will do well,”

McKinnon stated. The team continues to train three days per week and according to the Coach, they intend to step up preparations as time nears for departure. The Championship is slated to be held from June 28-July 3 in Curacao.

active and fit and also to continue the interaction with the general public. A number of indoor and outdoor sporting activities

are also being planned to mark the celebrations. Another activity is planned for today on the Corentyne. (Samuel Whyte)

GFA/Stag Premier League

Riddim Squad get past Camptown; Police arrest Flamingo

T h e r a c e t o championship honours continues to hold much interest in the city when the penultimate round of matches in the Georgetown Football Association / Stag Premier League ended on Thursday night last at the GFC ground. Riddim Squad and Police have continued their neck to neck tussle for the 3rd and 4th places by taking full points in their respective matches. Riddim Squad thumped Camptown 3-1 while The Guyana Police Force ran riot against Flamingo with a 6-0 win. Amos Ramsay sent Riddim Squad ahead in the 13th minute and one minute later the advantage was

Sceyon Hope doubled when Sceyon Hope found the back of the nets. Camptown pulled one back in the 27th minute through an Anthony Sancho goal as the half ended with Riddim Squad holding a slight one goal advantage. The Mocha based Riddim Squad did not leave it too long in the second half to seal full points, it took them eight minutes to restore their two goal advantage and virtually seal the match when Teon Jones nailed a 53rd (Continued on page 25)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 32

Saturday June 25, 2016

Digicel Schools Football Championships

Ann’s Grove defeat Presidents College

Rashleigh Morrison (4th left) scores Ann’s Grove’s opening goal against Presidents College yesterday at the BV ground. Relentless pressure paid the desired dividends in the end when Ann’s Grove Secondary eased to a 3-1 win over Presidents College in soggy conditions at t h e B V g r o u n d yesterday afternoon as t h e D i g i c e l S chools Football Championship continued. The first half of this encounter ended 0-0 a score-

line that the Ann’s Grove team could not have been pleased with having dominated their fellow East Coast counterparts but they squandered a plethora of opportunities. But standing solid between the uprights with some heartwarming saves was Presidents College goalie, Akquyl Henry. However, the second half of

the 70th minute match proved to be a completely different ball game as Ann’s Grove made their dominance count, goal wise. Three minutes into the half the deadlock was broken by Rashleigh Morrison who lobbed the ball over the advancing Henry in the 38th minute, Ann’s Grove 1 Presidents College 0.

It was the breakthrough that the dominant Ann’s Grove were searching for all along and it was no turning back. The scoring was then taken over by Peter Headley who blasted a double in the 40th and 55th minutes to seal his side’s progress to the next round of matches despite Presidents College pulling one back in the 65th

minute. It was a beautiful header in the far corner from Jimmon De Santos that beat custodian Kareem Josiah all ends up. The boys from Presidents College had missed a penalty before they got on the score sheets. Alex Downer was given the responsibility to take the kick after one of his

teammates was brought down in the area. His shot was kicked away by Josiah who did even bother to use his hands. Whilst conditions were a bit tough, both teams put up a good show and stood up to the test of representing their schools, their fitness stood out as they never relented. (Franklin Wilson)

ICC Americas’ Ali-Khan excited to be a part of CPL By Sean Devers At 25, ICC Americas pacer Muhammed Ali-Khan is honoured and excited to have been picked for the Guyana Amazon Warriors and can’t wait for the 2016 Hero’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL) t20 cricket tournament to start. The biggest Party will bowl off on June 29 in Trinidad before the Warriors play their first game the next day in St Kitts. ”It was a proud moment to be selected for the Guyana Amazon Warriors and I am thankful for being picked. I am learning a lot from the Coaches and the senior pacers in the squad and I enjoy being in Guyana. I hope we can win the trophy for all the fans here,” said Ali-Khan. He said he was looking forward to get the opportunity to get a good start and to play a meaningful role in his team taking championship honours. ”I was in Trinidad in January for the Super50 and now I am here and I love the people, they are so

hospitable. Their passion for cricket and full of life attitude is really amazing. I am really excited and looking forward to the CPL,” said Ali-Khan. The lively fast bowler was born on December 13, 1990, in Attock, Punjab, Pakistan before migrating to the USA as a 19-year-old. He now resides in Ohio. AliKhan who played only club cricket in Pakistan before he moved to America in 2010 informed that he has no intentions of playing for Pakistan. The five-year period for a cricketer from a foreign country to be eligible to represent the USA is up and Ali-Khan is hopeful of being selected for the World Cricket League Division 4 and the AUTY Cup this year. ”My goal is to make the USA team, do well here in the CPL and hopefully impress enough to get a pick in the IPL and other T20 leagues. But my main focus is to help the Amazon Warriors win its first CPL title this year,” AliKhan reveled. The Warriors were the losing finalist in the first two CPL tournaments which was

Muhammad Ali-Khan at Providence inaugurated in 2013 and reached the semi-finals last year. Growing up as a child in Pakistan Ali-Khan, his brothers and a cousin would watch the West Indies matches on TV and were fascinated by their fast bowlers. ”To get the opportunity to play on the same ground as bowlers like (Curtly) Ambrose and Mr (Courtney) Walsh played on will be a fantastic and memorable experience,” Ali-Khan said with unconcealed excitement. The first time he met

Walsh was in the trials to gain selection on the ICC Americas team to play in the WICB’s 50-over tournament. The 53-old, the only West Indian with 500 Test wickets (517) headed the selection panel to pick that team. ”I spoke to Mr Walsh and he prepared me mentally for the type of pitches I would encounter in Trinidad where we played our zone of the competition. He told me how to bowl on them and I learnt a lot from his advice,” AliKhan disclosed. He said the slowness of

the pitches here should not affect him as much as it would for some of the other fast bowlers in this year’s CPL. ”I don’t bang the ball into the pitch and I have a skiddy action which should be an advantage on pitches that keep low. I generally bowl a full length and one of my strengths is that I bowl a lot of yorkers and cutters on slow surfaces,” said AliKhan. Ali-Khan pointed out that cutters and change of pace in a T20 match especially at the back end of the innings, is crucial to the flow of runs. The six-footer backed up his talk when he struck West Indies Test batsman Assad Fudadin on his instep with an immaculately lined inswinging yorker to trap the left-hander LBW for five during the Warriors’ first simulation game under lights at Providence on Wednesday night. His biggest challenge will be adjusting from the cold of Ohio to the sweltering heat in the Caribbean and getting used to bowling on the turf

pitches. ”Only three States in America have turf pitches. LA has four at one venue, Huston has just laid one and Fort Lauderdale, Florida where the CPL will be played. Most of the cricket grounds in the United States are matting and it very different bowling on turf if you are accustomed to bowling on matting,” said Ali-Khan. ”I have never bowled on hard, bouncy pitches and my wish is to bowl on the Australian pitches to see where I am as a pace bowler,” Ali-Khan added. ”The Stadium is empty now (referring to the practice game at Providence) but I hear Guyanese are very passionate, vocal and knowledgeable about their cricket. I am already imagining what the atmosphere will be like with a capacity crowd present when we play here next month,” stated the affable young man with an excited look in his eyes. He says a large noisy home crowd inspires, motivates and energizes the players.

Kaieteur News

Saturday June 25, 2016

PAGE 33

Tennis Olympiad and Fun Day on tomorrow at NRC - Learn to play tennis The Guyana Tennis Association (GLTA) is once a g a i n h o s t i n g Te n n i s Olympiad and Fun Day as a special tennis event to be held tomorrow at the National Racquet Centre. The activity, which is geared for persons from 12 years and over, is funded by the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and is held in observance of World Olympic Day which was celebrated June 23rd. Last year the promotional activity attracted over 30 participants with the feature exercise being cardio tennis which is a type of tennis highly recognized for fitness benefits rather than competitive gains. This year’s event will no doubt provide competitive tennis oriented activities, highlighting elements of tennis technique and tactic.

Yakubu Limerick

More emphasis will however be placed on fitness activities and competition designed for public participation and to illustrate

Chris Daly

the physical demands of tennis. Information will also be provided about The Olympic Movement and Tennis as an Olympic Sport.

Ileana Boodhoo

2016 Tennis Olympiad and Fun Day tomorrow June 26th at the National Racquet Centre (Woolford Avenue & Camp Streets)

starts from 09:00am and run to 3:00pm. All members of the public who wish to pursue tennis as a recreational sport will have

an opportunity to try out the sport, watch advanced players, meet tennis coaches and join a club of their choice.

Sports Hall upgrade to FIBA standards continues The Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) continues to undergo a much-needed upgrade with July 1 set as the deadline for completion of all works that will ensure the venue is compliant with the requisite standards necessary to host an international basketball competition. The Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Executive Evaluation Commission, consisting of President, Glyne Clarke and Vice-President, Patrick Haynes visited Guyana in April to sign a Host Agreement with the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) for the C B C U n d e r - 1 6 Championships. Part of that agreement is to have a facility that is in line with International Basketball Federation (FIBA) standards. As such, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has since undertaken several works to bring the facility in line with those standards. To e n s u r e t h a t contractors meet the deadlines before the CBC Executive Evaluation Commission returns to

Guyana on Monday, the NSC, GABF and Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the U-16 Championships, visited the venue for an update yesterday. Guyana will host the CBC Championships, July 3-16 at the Sports Hall. The practice venue will be the National Gymnasium. Apart from internal and external painting, each of the locker rooms for players; bathrooms; and washrooms for patrons were completely redone. The floor of the Sports Hall had to also be redone to remove all other markings. FIBA requires only basketball marks to be present on the floor. In addition, new basketball goals, including new shot clocks, control system and game clocks were imported from Gared Sports, an international company that produces high quality basketball products. Zoom Online Shopping Company in Guyana Air Freighted the Goals to Guyana. The equipment is presently in Guyana awaiting completion of the floor to be erected over this

-CBC Evaluation Team expected Monday

GABF President, Nigel Hinds (second, right) listens as NSC Chairman, Ivan Persaud makes a point at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall yesterday on a visit to the facility. Also in photo are LOC Chairman, Alex Graham and Director of Sport, Christopher Jones and contractors. weekend; the pair of goals and equipment cost in excess US$60,000, which included shipping. “It’s a whole new system we will be installing at the Sports Hall. It is the FIBA level I approved system that is used in the NBA. When

we’re done here we’ll have the latest and best equipments for basketball in the Caribbean,” GABF President, Nigel Hinds said. Director of Sport, Christopher Jones echoed similar sentiments, stating that Guyana will

have an improved venue that is in line with i n t e r n ational standards, which is something to be applauded because the venue has never undergone such works since its construction eons ago. Guyana will be hosting

about 12 countries from next weekend for the CBC U16 Championships at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Guyana plays its first game at 8:30pm against Aruba on July 3 after the Opening Ceremony.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 34

Saturday June 25, 2016

GFF part ways with Downes sets 6-time record; Gentle is former GS, Diedre Davis

GBTI INDEPENDENCE OPEN TENNIS 2016

youngest Ladies Singles champion

GBTI Independence Jubilee Open reached its climax when the five year defending champion, Anthony Downes, met 2nd seed Daniel Lopes in the Men’s Open Singles finals. Downes got things off from first service to take the lead. Lopes immediately evened the score by holding serve to 1-1. But it was Downes who dominated the set with his fast pace serves and consistent groundstrokes. These drew several unforced errors from Lopes who appeared to hold his ground in the rallies but failed to sustain a momentum to close with a winning point. Daniel’s fate dimmed as the number one seed whisked away five successive games to claim the set at 6-1. From the onset of the second set, Lopes was explicitly frustrated as he tried to grapple with the grave errors he was making on the court. Meanwhile, Downes maintained his thunderous commitment to each point and sprung to 4-0. At this point, there was a surprise shift in the course of the match as enormous encouragement from spectators showered on Lopes, clearly enabling him to secure service to pop a game on the score board. Serving at 4-1, Downes again held serve to 5-1. Lopes managed to hold serve at 5-2 with the hope of setting the match to a third set. But the number one seed further cemented his place in Guyana’s tennis history as the undefeated GBTI Men’s Open Singles king by brushing Lopes aside at 6-2, thereby securing the match at 6-1, 6-2. Downes is no stranger to tennis, as he has been dominating local men’s tennis throughout the years in virtually every category he enters. This year, he created a potent team with

Anthony Downes the young powerhouse Afruica Gentle to easily take the Mixed Open Doubles title from crowd favorites and defending champions Daniel Lopes/Aretta Dey allowing only two games to slip by to their opponents at 6-1, 6-1. The history of tennis in Guyana took another twist with Afruica Gentle stamping her name as the youngest Ladies Open Singles champion in the two week GBTI tournament. Her rival, former threetime winner Nicola Ramdyhan, brought vigor to the first set. Gentle won the toss and granted Ramdyhan the opportunity to serve. Gentle broke Ramdyhan’s serve to lead at 1-0. Ramdyhan responded by breaking Gentle’s serve twice and holding serve to enjoy a 3-1 gallop over her opponent. Serving down 13, Gentle succeeded in not just leveling the score at 3-3, but surpassed Ramdyhan to dominate at 4-3. Randyhan noted that her relaxed attitude attributed to losing the lead during the set. She went on to hold serve level the set at 4-4. Unfortunately for R a m d y h a n , G e n t l e ’s passion for the set was clearly more than hers. Constantly correcting herself aloud and staying

Afruica Gentle focused on the game, Gentle broke and held serve to seize the first set at a close 6-4. Gentle predominantly commanded the second set. Known for her powerful strokes, she exemplified her trademark by playing with a high degree of consistency to dash to a 4-0 rise over Ramdyhan. The defending champion then unleashed some of her own venom to break Gentle’s serve and appear on the scoreboard at 1-4. Her efforts, though commendable, were proven futile as Gentle relentlessly persevered to 6-1 to grab the coveted title as the queen of Ladies Open Singles at 6-4, 6-1 dethroning Ramdyhan in the process.

To replace TD and GS shortly – Exco Member, Inniss The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has part ways with former General Secretary Ms Diedre Davis who was given her letter of dismissal on June 22nd last. When quizzed at a press conference yesterday to give a reason for Ms Davis’ dismissal, Executive Committee Member Dion Inniss said that the federation will be issuing a detailed release. ”We did separate from Ms Davis who served during the NC and this executive. This was made know to our membership first and while I would not want to deal with this too much at this press conference, we’ll like to focus on the match Sunday, I will say that in due course that information, details about that would be dealt with at a subsequent or release.” Inniss also noted: “The General Secretary, having been the, I’d say the backbone of any member association must and should always command complete confidence of an executive and I dare say the President and I would leave it as that.” The Executive Member further informed that one of the requirements of FIFA to

Dion Inniss draw down on funding is to have a Technical Director and General Secretary in place. ”That is on the front burner, that’s engaging our attention; we’ve had so many applications for the TD position which is engaging our attention. We cannot allow of course our funding to be cut off so we have to ensure that those two very important positions are filled.” Davis was one of 35 participants that attended the second edition of FIFA’s Female Leadership Development Programme

Diedre Davis (FLDP) that took place in Zurich, June 6-9. It was launched in 2015 to ensure that there are female role models and women at decision-making levels in football, the FLDP aims to i d e n t i f y, s u p p o r t a n d develop strong female leaders in the sport, while advocating for women to access senior decisionmaking positions globally. The programme runs over nine months in total. Mr. Merson Jones, the Deputy General Secretary is performing duties as General Secretary of the GFF.

Xcite sponsors Guyana Amazon Warriors Team (Georgetown, Guyana) – Xcite has become a new official sponsor for the Guyana Amazon Warriors as they prepare to compete i n t h i s y e a r ’s H e r o Caribbean Premier League which kicks off on June 29 in Port of Spain, Trinidad. Xcite tablets are manufactured by the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation INC (NEW GPC INC). Team Manager of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Omar Khan said that he was pleased to have Xcite on broad while noting that its support and sponsorship will go a far way in boosting the confidence of the team. “We are happy that local companies and their products are showing so much support for our team by providing sponsorship in various forms. In return, we

promise to deliver exciting performances throughout the tournament,” he remarked. Meanwhile, NEW GPC INC’s General Manager Ravie Ramcharitar said that the Amazon Warriors can look forward to future support from the product and brand. He said, “We were encouraged by the zeal, dynamism and commitment of the team over the years to excellence. We believe in cricket and its transformative impact. We

think that Xcite also has the ability to assist people in various ways to meet their own personal goals. Xcite wants to provide also of its users with another opportunity to relive their youth.” Xcite’s sponsorship of the team is also as a result of the fact that the Guyana Amazon Warriors have been very dominant in the three exciting tournaments so far having played in two finals (2013 and 2014) and in the semi-final last year.

The Guyana Amazon Warriors will play 10 games in the preliminary phase of the League, with four matches in Guyana, two in Florida, and one each in Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts and Nevis, Jamaica and St Lucia. The Guyana Amazon Warriors will begin their four exciting and high quality home matches on Thursday July 7 against the 2014 Champions the Jamaica Tallawahs at 19:00 Hrs, then on Saturday July 9 they will play the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots from noon. The Martin Guptil led side will then turn their attention to the Trinbago Knight Riders on Sunday July 10 from 19:00 Hrs and will wrap up the leg of local matches on Tuesday July 12 against the St. Lucia Zouks at 19:00hrs.

Kaieteur News

Saturday June 25, 2016

PAGE 35

Rugby Union briefs media on impending plans & schedules By Rawle Welch The Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) held a press briefing at the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) Headquarters to apprise the media on the some of its impending plans and schedules for national teams’ engagements overseas. At the briefing was VicePresident of the Union Joshua Griffith, PRO Daniel Anderson, Head Coach of the senior team Laurie Adonis and Head Coach of the Under-19 team Troy Yhip, who all gave remarks pertaining to their specific roles. A d o n i s , w h o s p e a r h e a d e d G u y a n a ’s ‘Green Machine’ to victory over nemesis Trinidad and Tobago last weekend, which helped them regain the RAN title from the Trinidadians, was vociferous in his call on the corporate community to be more forthcoming with their support to the team which has once again made Guyana proud. “This is a team that has

been doing it for many years and when you consider the kind of support that the other countries in the Caribbean give to their rugby teams and for us to beat them all, it means that we are deserving of more,” Adonis emphasised. Adonis noted that the next game which is scheduled to be played on July 23 against either Mexico or the Cayman Islands will be no pushover and possibly a step up in quality so there is a need for the Union to call up its best players to give Guyana a better chance of winning. He issued an appeal to the business sector to offer its financial resources to make it possible for the players residing overseas to return and bolster the team. The Coach praised the efforts of all the players for their victory over the Trinidadians. Griffith questioned on the support from Government and other entities disclosed that the Government of Guyana through the National Sports

Members of the Guyana Rugby Football Union that hosted a press briefing yesterday. (From left-right)- PRO Daniel Anderson, National Coach (Seniors)- Laurie Adonis, Vice-President- Joshua Griffith and Head Coach (U-19)- Troy Yhip. Commission has answered every request made in a positive manner, informing that the Director of Sports did ask the Union to formulate a document of their request for support and they are in the process of doing so. He commended the Government and all those entities that have answered the call and urged others to duplicate the act. Yhip, who is presently spearheading the U-19 squad

preparations for the u p c o m i n g R A N Championship reported that the players are responding positively to training and he expects the team to do well in Miami, USA. He informed that because Guyana was away from junior level rugby for a few years they now have to play in the second tier and should they win then they will be elevated to the top tier and he is optimistic that they team could achieve

that. “ We h a v e b e e n i n training for quite a while now and many of the players have been around since 2010 with some even playing at the senior level locally so there is a certain amount of experience and knowledge of the game,” Yhip pointed out. According to Yhip, some of the other teams in the tournament include Turks & Caicos, St. Vincent & the Grenadines and St. Lucia.

Meanwhile, Anderson revealed that in support of Olympic Day, the Union will be hosting matches this Sunday at the National Park, starting from 11:00 hrs. He also revealed that Regional Co-ordinator Trinidad and Tobago’s Kwanieze John will be in Guyana to conduct workshops for 33 teachers and persons desirous of learning the game from July 11-15.

MoH Soft Shoe Football returns this evening at Min of Education ground Organisers of the Ministry of Health (MoH) Soft Shoe Football Competition, the Petra Organisation in a release stated that for reasons beyond their control, the Round of 16 phase of the tournament will commence tonight instead of tomorrow, at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue. Among the teams set to appear is defending champion Sparta Boss who will go up against Albouystown in what is anticipated to be a tough encounter. The champs have been aided by the return of their talisman Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, Devon Millington, Sheldon Shepherd and Denis Edwards. These four players form the nucleus of their attack and have already shown what a lethal combination they could be. On the other hand, Kemo Scott, who fired in a treble in their last encounter, will once again be called upon to duplicate hat performance, while Roy Samuels and

-Sparta Boss, Leopold Street, Holmes Street among teams to play

Part of the action in this year’s competition.

Lennox Cort are the supporting cast. In the night’s opener, North East La Penitence takes on Holmes Street of Tiger Bay and the former though being a solid team will have to lift their level to get past their opponents who’ve shown tremendous form since the start of the competition. Calvin Moore has been among the bright sparks for

North East La Penitence, but he will need much more support to get past a rejuvenated Holmes Street that has players the calibre of Jamal Blackman and Akeem Saul. They started the tournament on a high after beating the powerful Sparta Boss unit and will definitely be looking for more scalps as the competition progresses. The third encounter is

between another Tiger bay side in Queen Street and Alexander Village and this one should see the former start as favourites judging from their recent form. They’ve looked the team to beat and possessing the likes of Alpha Fletchman, Darren Harris and Omallo Williams in their line-up, it is hard to see how Alexander Village could

prevail. However, Alexander Village is a very experienced team in this format with Leon Yaw, and Shem Porter expected to play pivotal roles in their quest for victory. The other game is between Kitty Weavers and Leopold Street and this promise to be a sizzler and a hard one to predict the outcome.

Weavers will be led by Sherwin Vincent and also include veterans Terrence ‘Ole Head’ Lewis, Nigel Denny and Alpha Sylvester. Leopold street will be led by Rondel Williams and O’kenie Fraser. The championship which is being played under the ‘Stop Gender-based Violence’ theme is slated to conclude on July 18. The winning team will receive $300,000 and the Championship trophy, while second, third and fourth placed finishers will take home $200,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively. Other sponsors of the event include GTT, Lucky Dollar, Nigel Supermarket, Junior’s Jewellery, Star Party Rentals and 2-J’s General Store. 21:00 hrs North East La Penitence v/s Hope StreetTiger Bay 21:45 hrs Queen Street Tiger Bay v/s Alexander Village 22:30 hrs Kitty Weavers v/s Leopold Street 23:15 hrs Sparta Boss v/s Albouystown

t r o Sp

Bravo, Gabriel put Windies in final against Aussies Darren Bravo struck 12 fours and four sixes during his 102 off 103 balls. (AFP)

Kagiso Rabada is pumped after getting the wicket of Johnson Charles, West Indies v South Africa, ODI tri-series, Bridgetown, June 24, 2016 ©AFP Shannon Gabriel ripped through South Africa’s top order, West Indies v South Africa, ODI tri-series, Bridgetown, June 24, 2016 ©AFP

They have both won battles, who will win the war? Alpha and Slingerz clash to decide SEL overall champs

GFF Executive Committee Member Dion Inniss (2nd left) along with Ansa McAl’s Trade Marketing Manager Ms. Darshanie Yussuf (center) shares the head table with from left, Alpha’s Wayne Dover, Slingerz’ Kavin Pearce and Tichard Joseph. Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210