PAGE 02
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 04
Friday March 08, 2019
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 Violence against women: deeds not words are required The creation of the new offence of coercive or controlling domestic abuse in 2015, combined with provisions in the current government’s domestic abuse bill including the creation of a specialist commissioner, ought to mean that the situation for survivors across the UK is improving. The new tools are important ones for police, prosecutors and campaigners. A broader definition of abuse taking in psychological and economic factors was overdue. The bill, published in January, will outlaw the cross-examination of victims by abusers in the family courts and introduce new protection orders. But that only applies to the United Kingdom. Guyana should contemplate similar measures particularly with the growing number of abuse, almost reaching crisis proportions. International Women’s Day ought to be an opportunity to celebrate such successes, while continuing to advocate for change (2 million adults in England and Wales experienced abuse in the year to March 2018, with women more than twice as likely to be victims as men). In Guyana the ratio of abuse victims to the population of the country, was directly proportional to what occurred in England and Wales. In England, Theresa May has been widely observed to care about these issues, even amid the maelstrom of Brexit. Last week’s quashing of Sally Challen’s conviction for murdering her husband reinforced the idea that it is becoming easier for women to access justice; that domestic abuse is becoming better understood. Mrs. Challen maintained she had killed her husband after suffering years of being controlled and humiliated by him. Judges ordered a retrial after new evidence was presented that she was suffering from two mental disorders at the time of the killing. But while the court of appeal’s ruling was welcome, as the domestic abuse bill was, advocates of women’s rights in the UK are frustrated and alarmed. That sense is echoed internationally. This week the World Bank reported that only six countries in the world enshrine equal rights in employment law. Reproductive rights are under attack in countries including the US, Poland and Brazil. The reasons for this are complex and discrimination cannot be neatly mapped across the public and private spheres. But the rise of populist, authoritarian politics spearheaded by anti-feminist leaders is relevant, as are economic pressures that disproportionately affect women because they are overrepresented among the poor and unpaid.In Guyana rape prosecutions are not as high as they should be, and the incidence of domestic abuse has barely altered in a decade according to Crime Survey data. Other figures suggest sharp increases. Threequarters of all women murdered by men in 2017 were killed by partners or other men they knew.Police need more training if they are to tackle coercive abuse effectively. Before it has even been passed, the new bill, in London, risks being undermined by local cuts, which there is no mechanism to challenge. Nor will it adequately protect migrant women who are vulnerable as a result of “hostile environment” measures. In Guyana there has been all the legislation in recent years. Legislation is not the problem. Sometimes it is getting the victims to testify against the perpetrators. In other cases, the cases take so long to get to trial that the victims have often moved on with their lives and are reluctant to relive the experience of a rape or an assault. In other areas there have been significant gains. Women form the bulk of the public service but they are disproportionately absorbed into the leadership role. International Women’s Day must be a time for deeds not words. (Excerpts from the Guardian)
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.
Leaders taking this country down a road that has been journeyed before DEAR EDITOR, The road in Guyana keeps getting rougher: from hardline to deadline to immovable lines in the mud. The word is: No way! Not today! None of this leaves any room to maneuver; less space for optimism for those few citizens who do not proudly number themselves in the ranks of the unalterably committed (politically) and the increasingly hostile (socially). For whatever it is worth, I say this again: this troubled road now enshrines all the chronic stoppages of bottlenecks that build until (it has to be said) it blows up. Blows up points to the confrontational that are rooted in anger, anticipation, and asininity. Asininity because no one wins anything.Where to from here? Deeper into the political swamp? Deterioration from the same unchanging, unthinking, uncompromising leadership lead-footedness? Regrettably, there are no (none) recognized domestic intermediaries embodying across-the-spectrum trust or regard: no credible conciliator, no reliable mediator, no acceptable bridgebuilder. Not the neutral brokering of churches, for they are viewed as fragmented and i n s i g n i f i c a n t a rg u a b l y biased. Not the pressing presence of the powerful business sector, for that is seen as hopelessly tainted and compromised. Not civil society for that is seen as too impotent, too fragmented, and too selfserving. It is not even the unions with their praiseworthy 19point initiative, for they do not travel with a compelling and authoritative aura. It is not even the sobering, restraining hand of the judiciary. All of these societal blocs that should have been influential sectors lack standing in the political arena, due to perceived prejudices and weaknesses, some accurate, some speculative. They may be listened to, but there is no hearing. Minds and objectives are that steely at this point, and promises to coalesce even more every step, every word, and every posture forward.
Once again: where to? Since there is not much for the table (or in the head) locally, then only the international community remains; it has to be. It is that or the bitter disturbed pathways. As a quick digression, I ask another question: after the hard talk and inflexible posturing, does any leader aspire to that terminal? Also, do followers (some salivating, some celebrating) have a really full appreciation of what advances with remorseless inevitability? I do not think so. Now the international community represents the last gasp fallback net and option; it’s a desperate stretch and footing. There is nothing else. Caricom has to signal some move and initiative, even if only verbal. The Carter Center has to come again. That must be now. The diplomatic corps is
already here and watching. They should hear: help wanted and needed. Might be internal meddling, if uninvited; yet I think that such overtures must happen behind the scenes. T h i s i s h o w insurmountably difficult, how humiliatingly pathetic the local political context has become. It speaks for itself: Unreceptive. Unnourished. U n p r o d u c t i v e . Unmanageable. It could transform quickly to close to the unlivable, too.Already, there are two of everything in what is harshly and bitterly controversial: two visions; two interpretations; two disparate, but comforting answers (one each) for the two adversaries. And along with these, come too much of the self-serving and too little commonsense that barters towards a bridge of convergence. Observe keenly. In this Guyanese world of two only,
there are no third parties and third forces anymore. As suspected and predicted (again regrettably) they have all evaporated in the ether of insignificance. They might as well not exist for the dismissal of presence and inaudibility of voice before the majors and their followers. Not a second thought.Overheard on the radio were the usual laments that voters should hold leaders accountable; well, they derive their authority and strength from the same nice people calling for sanity and good sense. That is the Catch-22: the electoral mourning is the leadership empowering; the leadership knows so, and delivers to suit. And none of this -not leader, not follower - is not changing by one speck. The critical should check with the forlorn third parties, bystanders all. Thus, it is down to the (Continued on page 6)
PAGE 5
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Can a no confidence vote really remove a President and his Cabinet? DEAR EDITOR, The Leader of the Opposition is mistaken in his assertions and belief that a constitutional crisis exists, that the government will be illegal if elections are not held by 21 March, 2019 and that the President must accede to his demands if this situation is to be averted. Article 106 (6), upon which he relies for this opinion, and which states that “the Cabinet including the President shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence” is, in my opinion, an erroneous provision and has no ability to remove a President of Guyana or his cabinet. It purports to dismiss the Cabinet while seemingly dismissing the other roles of the executive presidency. This provision seems more in line with a Westminster-style constitution where the roles of Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces is separate from the head of government and cabinet whose position is dependent upon maintaining a parliamentary majority. Our Republican constitution is very clear that “there shall be a President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, who shall be Head
of State, the supreme executive authority, and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces of the republic” (Article 89) and he shall serve for a period of five years and shall continue in office until the person elected to the Office of President at the next elections assumes office (Article 92). The Constitution also declares that the executive authority of Guyana shall be vested in the President or through officers subordinate to him (Article 99 (1)) and that there shall be a Cabinet for Guyana, which shall aid and advise the President in the general direction and control of the Government of Guyana (Article 106 (1 & 2)). The Constitution also gives the President the right to prorogue and to dissolve parliament (Article 70) and to proclaim the date for elections (Article 61). In relation to limitations, if any, on the supreme executive authority by Parliament or any other body, the constitutes declares that the President “shall act in accordance with his own deliberate judgment except in cases where he is required to act in accordance with the advice, or on the recommendation of, any person or authority” (Article 111 (1)) and he may consider it necessary to refer it back
for reconsideration (Article 111 (2)). Similarly, a Bill sent to the President for his assent, having received the support of a majority of members in the National Assembly, does not compel his assent and he may return the Bill to the National Assembly for further consideration and the support of no less than twothirds of the members of the National Assembly (Article 170).In relation to creating a vacancy in the office of the President the constitution provides for the removal of the President on the grounds of incapacity (Article 93), for violation of the Constitution or gross misconduct (Article 94) or if the Office of the President becomes vacant through the death (Article 178 (1) (a)) or the resignation (Article 178 (1) (b) of the President. In the instances involving the possibility of the removal of the President (Articles 93 & 94), the Constitution details an exhaustive process requiring a vote of no less than two-thirds of the members of the National Assembly to succeed. Article 106 (7) attempts to recover from the debacle of the previous provision (Article 106 (6) and recognizes that “notwithstanding its defeat the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an
No one can ridicule our country if a credible election is GECOM’s ultimate aim DEAR EDITOR, Sometime not too long ago I read a news report that quoted the Chief Elections Officer, Mr. Lowenfield, advising that elections could be held by July 2019. Based on Mr. Lowenfield’s reported pronouncement, I want to recommend that the President and Opposition Leader meet again prior to March 21 and agree on a date for elections. Then immediately have the National Assembly extend the life of the Government for that period of time. That date should be communicated to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and then leave it to GECOM to advise that the date is not achievable thereby putting the onus on GECOM, as an Independent body to convince both sides that the date is unreasonable and to indicate what resources it needs and in what timeframe to hold credible elections. There is a constitutional requirement resulting from the passage of the NCV that elections be held within 90 days and the only reason for not conforming to this requirement, other than a stay
or overturn of the ruling of the Chief Justice, is for GECOM to justify its lack of readiness, reasons for which it has a responsibility to explain and justify to the President, the Opposition Leader and the people of Guyana. It is the President, not GECOM, that sets an election date, but it is GECOM and not the President that must ensure that everything is in place for a credible election. Recently in Nigeria, the Elections Commission there postponed the elections just a few hours prior to the opening of polling stations. Both the ruling and opposition parties questioned, if not condemned the decision of the Elections Commission whose chairman held a press conference, with international observers present, to explain the reasons for the postponement, and suggested that people could “cry cheese” about the commission’s decision, but that it was the commission which has a responsibility to ensure credible elections. Editor, as I pen this letter I am viewing television coverage of the UN Human
Rights Council meeting at which several nations are condemning Saudi Arabia on its human rights record. I would hate to see, even if it were just one member of the global community condemning any Guyana Government for its failure to comply with the provisions of the Constitution. Guyana has its problems like every other country, but our leaders must spare no effort to ensure that our dear country is not brought into global disrepute. No one can ridicule our country if the constitutionally established Elections Commission says it needs more time to put in place a credible election. Regards Wesley Kirton
election within three months or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than two-thirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine and shall resign after the president takes the oath of office following the election”. It follows that the Government will remain in office unhindered, and since the Guyana Elections Commission, as required by the constitution, has tendered its advice to the President that elections cannot be held within the three-month period, that this situation will continue until the National Assembly, supported by no less than two-thirds of all elected members resolves a date for general elections. The passage of a noconfidence motion should signify that a government has lost its ability to govern by virtue of not having the support of a majority of the elected members in the
National Assembly. This is not the case now, nor was it before the passage of the noconfidence motion. The APNU-AFC government continues to enjoy a 33-32 majority that it received at the last general and regional elections and it is absurd that the government and people of this country should be held hostage by a minority party that has essentially orchestrated an attempted coup d’état. Charandass Persaud’s presence and membership of the National Assembly was illegal and his vote on the noconfidence motion was as insincere as they come - as he clearly recognized when he essentially discarded his membership in the National Assembly and ran off to Canada - and should have been invalidated. The Constitution made clear that a person may stand for election only if “he or she has declared that he or she supports, or has otherwise identified himself or herself
with one and only one of the lists related to that geographical constituency, not with a list in any other geographical constituency, and not with any lists of another party” (article 160(2)(a)). Mr. Persaud was elected on the APNU/AFC List and owed his allegiance to that list. The other 64 MPs fulfilled their obligations and voted for the list to which they had declared their allegiance, except for Mr. Persaud who, by his perfidy and his intent to defraud the thousands of persons whose vote secured his position, voided his representation. The Opposition Leader’s arrogance, dishonesty and disrespect for the Constitution and the office of the President, may delude him into believing that he possesses the political power to compel the President to do his bidding by threatening to engineer mayhem. He will not succeed. Sincerely Oscar Dolphin
Let democracy speak for itself DEAR EDITOR, We stand at a momentous period of Guyanese history; the first of its kind. And as such, our ignorance and complacency (with regards to elections) must be understood and forgiven. I’d like to bring light to a few dubious points that appear to be very contentious in the media (and needlessly so): F i r s t l y, the government’s commitment to allowing for the full representation of the electoral pool over the sovereignty and power of the constitution is lacking, and to a great extent, is a mere political tactic. Is it not appropriate enough that the same pool of people who voted for the current government during the last election be tested once more to exact whether their previously affirmed ‘confidence’ remains unshaken (or not)? To bring in new voters into the picture, especially at the expense of the constitution’s supremacy, is unfair and potentially
catastrophic. Secondly, the very test of whether there is confidence in the government should be taken by its literal interpretation. There is deemed to be no confidence in the workings and efficacy of the ruling party. I cannot understand how a party so geared towards transparency, accountability and democracy, has not heard the supposed ‘will of the people’ (at least by its currently defined parameters.) To ensure that Guyana does not lose the respect of the largely democratic global population, we must allow
democracy to prevail. It is urgent that the government see elections being held without unnecessary delay and poppy-cocking. Let democracy speak for itself. On this note I urge that my fellow Guyanese recognise the rhetoric of both parties, so as to not entangle themselves in frivolous ethnic and racial conflicts. Tensions are high between our people, and rightly so; yet we must not allow this to divide our strengths but rather to build upon our weaknesses. Yours truly, A concerned youth
PAGE 6
Kaieteur News
Guyana now firmly on path for an illegal government DEAR EDITOR, In just about two weeks, Guyana becomes a dictatorship. The passage of the NoConfidence Motion on December 21st, 2018 set Guyana on a path to new General and Regional Elections. The date of the elections had to be chosen by the President, as long as it was within 90 days from December 21st. Beyond the 90 days, which means beyond March 21st, the decision on a date belongs jointly to the President and the Leader of the Opposition. Having squandered the first option, the President now depends on the Leader of the Opposition for legitimacy, even though he has adopted a position of an emperor. Bharat Jagdeo took an Olive Branch, a genuine offer for compromise, to the President Wednesday morning. He offered the full support of the PPP for Parliament, under Article 106(7) of the Constitution and with the required two-thirds majority, to extend the life of the government for a reasonable period, beyond the deadline of March 21st, 2019. All Bharat Jagdeo, the Leader of the Opposition, wanted was for a good-faith agreement on a date for election. In keeping with the law and the constitution and representing a large section
of the Guyanese people, the Leader of the Opposition presented the President with a face-saving way forward, so that come March 21st, 2019, Guyana would not have an illegal government. The President, not surprisingly, was unwilling to discuss a date for election. The President abrogated his responsibility under the constitution to be the person who must decide on the date for an election. The law provides for two possibilities for the election date. The first was established on December 21st, 2018 when the passage of the NoConfidence motion started a timeline requiring election within 90 days. That meant the President had to choose a date before or on March 21st, the 90th day from December 21st. He and his Government deliberately ran the time down and now are faced with the daunting challenge of being an illegal government. There is a second option, provided for by the Constitution. This second option is a reasonable date after March 21st, if the Leader of the Opposition guarantees a two-thirds majority in Parliament for the extension of the timeline under Article 106(7) of the Constitution. While the President has absolute choice in the first option, that choice is absolute only for a date anytime before or on March 21st. It is now
impossible for him to exercise this first option. We are now left only with the second option and, for that, he needs the acquiescence of the Leader of the Opposition. In refusing to exercise the first option, President Granger arbitrarily wants to delegate the second option to GECOM. But he conveniently ignores the law that states he cannot now act alone. The President gave up that option when he did not exercise his mandate to set the date before March 21st. He needs the Leader of the Opposition to exercise the second option. The President cannot arbitrarily delegate the authority to GECOM. The law that now governs the choice of a date for election is one that must be made only by a compromise between the President and the Leader of the Opposition. The President, APNU+AFC and GECOM are violating the Constitution and the laws of Guyana. There are too many people and organizations who are silent. The trade unions, the Guyana Human Rights Organization, etc. are adding complicity to the recklessness of the government. The silence of CARICOM and the ABC countries is troubling. This silence is permitting the formalization of a dictatorship. Dr. Leslie Ramsammy
Teachers, strive to make a positive difference for women through education DEAR EDITOR, International Women’s Day is a day set aside to globally celebrate women’s social, cultural, economical, political, professional and even personal achievements. Women are recognized and appreciated throughout the world, for their contributions and achievement in various fields in society.Today, it should also form an essential part of the curriculum in our schools in order to spread the knowledge and awareness of women empowerment, their position would contribute to the society and their
achievements. This year, as we observe this remarkable day under the theme “Think Equal, Build Smart, Innovate for Change”, and while we acknowledge the contributions made by our sisters, let us not forget to focus on innovative ways to advance gender equality, in this noble profession of teaching, by using our daily platform. Empowering women is a critical step that must be actualized in order for there to be gender equality. As educators we interface with a large percentage of female students daily,
Leaders taking this... From page 4 same two that leads to nowhere but the here at the downward slope that imbues with so little hope. The only reserve left and maybe available at this stage is the community of outsiders. Since there is no interest in listening to or heeding of each other, then this is what it has to be. This is it. This road has been journeyed before. For beautiful Guyana is also a dependent Guyana. A troubled and suicidal one. Sincerely, GHK Lall
therefore it is only fitting that we usurp this opportunity afforded to us, to encourage our female teachers and students to live for what they are passionate about. Today’s woman should no longer be a dependent soul; she should be independent and self-reliant in every respect of her daily life and capable of doing everything. Let’s recognise the importance of their existence and motivate them for the future achievements, be it Science, Construction, Technology, Engineering, Entrepreneurship.Let’s not forget those remote areas where equality is just a dream to our young girls. Rather, let us strive to also grant them equal access to opportunities in order for them to advance their dreams.Teachers, do what you can to truly make a positive difference for women through education. Dolores DublinBenjamin Guyana Teachers’ Union-Women’s Advisory Committee Chairperson
Friday March 08, 2019
LET’S ALL HELP CREATE A #BALANCEFORBETTER WORLD DEAR EDITOR, We believe that balance drives a better world for all. Therefore collective action is key for promoting an environment where the rights of women are recognized as human rights and gender equality is upheld. The Women and Gender Equality Commission (W&GEC) support grassroots activism to global action. We embrace this exciting period of history where combined action and shared responsibility for driving a gender-balanced world is key. We are cognizant that Gender equality by 2030 requires urgent action to eliminate the many root causes of discrimination that still curtail women’s rights in private and public spheres. For example, discriminatory laws need to change and legislation adopted to proactively advance equality. As a result, the W&GEC initiated a research titled “Achieve gender equality and
empower all women and girls”; which examined international, regional and local laws and made twenty eight recommendations for women’s rights and equality. The Report was handed over to the Speaker of the National Assembly on Tuesday last. Given that Gender Based Violence is one of the most pervasive human rights violations in the world today. We believe that eliminating gender-based violence is a priority, therefore we have embarked on hosting workshops and public awareness session in all 10 Administrative Regions of Guyana. We also recommended that there should be ongoing specialized training on the Sexual Offences Act and the Domestic Violence Act for judges, magistrates and police officers and others involved in the criminal justice system. There should also be effective legal aid services
throughout Guyana with priority being given to matters that affect women such as Gender Based Violence and other forms of discrimination. Guyana should introduce and enforce legislation to identify and punish those who engage in sexual harassment. The W&GEC continues to promote women’s needs and interests and concerns in the wider spectrum of economic and social development and address the practical and strategic needs of women as being different from those of men. Michelle Obama said “No country can every truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens”. Balance drives a better working world. Let’s all help create a #BalanceforBetter world. The Women and Gender Equality Commission
MESSAGE FROM THE UN SECRETARYGENERAL ON INT’L WOMEN’S DAY 2019 Gender equality and women’s rights are fundamental to global progress on peace and security, human rights and sustainable development. We can only re-establish trust in institutions, rebuild global solidarity and reap the benefits of diverse perspectives by challenging historic injustices and promoting the rights and dignity of all. In recent decades, we have seen remarkable progress on women’s rights and leadership in some areas. But these gains are far from complete or consistent – and they have already sparked a troubling backlash from an entrenched patriarchy. Gender equality is fundamentally a question of power. We live in a maledominated world with a maledominated culture. Only when we see women’s rights as our common objective, a route to change that benefits everyone, will we begin to shift the balance. Increasing the number of women decision-makers is fundamental. At the United Nations, I have made this a personal and urgent priority. We now have gender parity among those who lead our teams around the world, and the highest-ever numbers of women in senior management. We will continue to build on this progress. But women still face
major obstacles in accessing and exercising power. As the World Bank found, just six economies give women and men equal legal rights in areas that affect their work. And if current trends continue, it will take 170 years to close the economic gender gap. Nationalist, populist and austerity agendas add to gender inequality with policies that curtail women’s rights and cut social services. In some countries, while homicide rates overall are decreasing, femicide rates are rising. In others we see a rollback of legal protection against domestic violence or female genital mutilation. We know women’s participation makes peace agreements more durable, but even governments that are vocal advocates fail to back their words with action. The use of sexual violence as a tactic in conflict continues to traumatize individuals and entire societies. Against this backdrop, we need to redouble our efforts to protect and promote women’s rights, dignity and leadership. We must not give ground that has been won over decades and we must push for wholesale, rapid and radical change. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day, “Think Equal, Build Smart, Innovate for Change”, addresses infrastructure, systems and frameworks that have been constructed
largely in line with a maledefined culture. We need to find innovative ways of reimagining and rebuilding our world so that it works for everyone. Women decision-makers in areas like urban design, transport and public services can increase women’s access, prevent harassment and violence, and improve everyone’s quality of life. This applies equally to the digital future that is already upon us. Innovation and technology reflect the people who make them. The underrepresentation and lack of retention of women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and design should be a cause of concern to all. Last month, in Ethiopia, I spent time with African Girls Can Code, an initiative that is helping to bridge the digital gender divide and train the tech leaders of tomorrow. I was delighted to see the energy and enthusiasm these girls brought to their projects. Programmes like this not only develop skills; they challenge stereotypes that limit girls’ ambitions and dreams. On this International Women’s Day, let’s make sure women and girls can shape the policies, services and infrastructure that impact all our lives. And let’s support women and girls who are breaking down barriers to create a better world for everyone.
PAGE 7
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Granger to meet GECOM today
It has been confirmed. President David Granger will meet with the Chairman and Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), today, to determine what is needed for early polls. The consultations will be held at 11:00 hours at the Ministry of the Presidency. The meeting would come after one on Wednesday between Granger and his team and the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, and his delegation. While the President had described the meeting on Wednesday as fruitful, Jagdeo said it was an exercise in futility as no date for elections was set. Jagdeo had proposed anytime before April 30, a shift from the drop-dead March 21. According to the Ministry of the Presidency yesterday, in a letter addressed to GECOM’s Chairman, J u s t i c e (Ret’d) James Patterson, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, writing on behalf of the President, invited Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson and the Commissioners to a meeting on the readiness of GECOM for the conduct of General and Re-
gional Elections. “I write on behalf of His Excellency, the President, on the issue of the readiness of GECOM for the conduct of General and Regional Elections,” the missive said, while reminding that President Granger in his February 25, 2019 letter to Justice Patterson inter alia invited him (Justice Patterson) to consultations on GECOM’s readiness for the conduct of General and Regional Elections in 2019. “His Excellency now wishes to invite you and the Commissioners to the aforementioned consultation on Friday 8th March, 2019 at 11:00 hours at the Ministry of the Presidency, Vlissengen Road, Georgetown. I trust that in the national interest you give this matter the urgent attention it deserves,” the Minister of State said. On Wednesday, following a meeting with the Opposition Leader, President Granger had made it clear that GECOM is an autonomous, independent agency while reminding that the Constitution of Guyana does not empower him, the Executive or anyone to interfere, intervene or intrude in the
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo
GECOM’s chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson
work of the Commission. “Of course, based on what will take place in the courts and the National Assembly, we are moving towards elections, but GECOM is in charge of elections, not the Executive. I cannot decide when elections will be held; GECOM has to advise,” the Head of State said. Describing the engagement between the Government and the Opposition as “very useful and very fruitful,” President Granger said efforts are being made by both sides to resolve issues relative to the hold-
ing of General and Regional Elections. “As you know there are four processes taking place; one is the importance of the National Assembly; second is the Judicial process; third is the Executive process and fourth is GECOM,” the President added. The Opposition Leader has agreed to meet President Granger following a meeting with GECOM and as such, the Head of State has assured that “we are working to ensure that credible elections are held in as short a time as possible”. “There is no crisis. There
President David Granger are issues which have to be resolved and most of those issues will depend on what I hear from GECOM when I consult them,” President Granger stated. On December 21, a parliamentarian for the Coalition Government, Charrandass Persaud, joined with the Opposition in voting yes in a noconfidence motion against the
administration. The shock vote was enough for the motion to be carried. It triggered provisions in the Constitution of Guyana which called for elections in 90 days- that time expires on March 21.However, Government has appealed the matter in court. It is at the Court of Appeal after the High Court agreed that the motion and votes were carried properly. Government has vowed to take the matter to the Caribbean Court of Justice. The situation has investors nervous and the diplomatic community warning of confidence in the economy. Jagdeo has threatened to complain to the international community and to ask for sanctions if the administration, whose term has been cut short by a year, does not hold elections. GECOM is insisting that it is moving ahead with house-to-house registration.
PAGE 8
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Jagdeo loses temper with press association boss over Pradoville inquires By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell The State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) has initiated procedures to recover the seaside property at Ogle where sits former President Bharrat Jagdeo’s mansion. Jagdeo was served by SARA with civil legal recovery papers. At a press conference yesterday, Jagdeo faced questions on the matter; questions that irritated him. At least three members of the
media posed questions to Jagdeo on this matter. He eventually lashed out at President of the Guyana Press Association (GPA), Nazima Raghubir, as she questioned him. Initially, Jagdeo was asked to confirm if he was served by SARA. He said, “Yes, I received it; I am responding to it; my lawyers are responding to it.” Jagdeo refused to say if any other People’s Progressive Party (PPP) member was served.
But he took the opportunity to state that the Director of SARA, Professor Clive Thomas, was improperly appointed and that the Act governing SARA is unconstitutional. Jagdeo further went on to state that the entire deal of trying to recover state property deemed to have been illegally and unfairly distributed is a “political issue.” He said, “Pradoville is the only case (SARA managed to work on) after we spent $600M or $700M on hiring the
geriatric cabal at SARA.” Jagdeo ranted, “They are all politicians, Eric Phillips as an advisor; Clive Thomas, Desmond Trotman who is also a commissioner at GECOM, (Aubrey) HeathRetemyer are all political appointees; not technical people.” Jagdeo was then asked if SARA required of him to disclose the value of his property. He said, “I did not even look at it. I heard it came and I told the guys to just send it over to the lawyers. I am not even wasting my time… That is an issue for a few papers and the government.” He was further questioned about whether SARA offered him to settle the matter in having him pay the state the difference as SARA believes that he was given the Ogle land at a price below market value. Jagdeo responded, “I had preempted that by saying even if they offer me to pay one cent more to settle it (he would refuse). They never did (asked). I preempted that.” This is when it became uncomfortable for the former
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo
GPA President, Nazima Raghubir
president. President of the Guyana Press Association, Nazima Raghubir then asked Jagdeo , “On what basis were you going to reject it? “ He responded, “That is my position.” Raghubir: “I just wanted to clarify on what basis you rejected the payment?” Jagdeo: “Because I rejected it. I do not have no basis. What kind of stupid question is that?” Raghubir: “That is not a stupid question, it is a logical question. You made a state-
ment and I am asking you to clarify.” Jagdeo: “I said it is political; you have to use deductive reasoning, if it is a political thing. I get impatient with silly questions.” Raghubir interrupted: “I get impatient with stupid statements.” Jagdeo continued: If it is a political matter, it’s an adventure. Why would I waste my time behind an adventure which is a political matter? That is the reason I rejected it.”
GECOM no longer independent- Jagdeo Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo thinks that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is no longer independent. He said that therein lays a serious problem, one that is likely to land Guyana into a bad state, constitutionally. Jagdeo said this at a press conference he held
yesterday at his Church Street Office. The politician said that the fact that GECOM has lost its independence is evident in the actions of the Chairman. In fact, he said that the makeup of the Commission is now four to three; four being for the government and three for the opposition.
Jagdeo noted that the practice for years was three on each side—Government and opposition—and an impartial Chairman. He said that President David Granger changed the decades of practice when he unilaterally appointed retired Justice James Patterson as GECOM Chairman.
PAGE 9
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Democracy in reverse
T
he fate of the nation hangs in the bal ance. No agreement was reached in Wednesday’s meeting between the President and the Leader of the Opposition. The meeting should not have been held. Why does the Leader of the Opposition have to be summoned to the Ministry of the Presidency, only to be told that there is no date for elections as the President has to meet with GECOM? It is a waste of the time of the Leader of the Opposition and of the people of Guyana who were waiting with bated breath, hoping desperately that a solution would have emerged from that meeting. No solution could have emerged because there was no timeline available as to the actual date on which elections will be held. No useful purpose could have been served by that meeting. There was no need for that meeting. The communication about the need for the President to meet or to con-
sult with GECOM should have been done through emissaries. This is how things are done internationally. The leaders do not need to engage over the fine print. These negotiations are done by emissaries who enjoy the confidence or at least the ear of both sides and therefore can more easily hammer out an agreement which can then be endorsed by the leaders. This behind- the-scenes talks and negotiations by representatives is what was needed that the leaders can then meet and resolve what cannot be resolved by their emissaries. Unfortunately, power has become so centralized at the level of the state and, regrettably, within the political parties that leaders are having to meet to discuss issues that should be resolved by their emissaries. As such, the public is becoming frustrated. They are blaming the leaders for the failure to reach agreement and for what is perceived to be stubbornness or an unwill-
ingness to be reasonable. The nation was riveted on Wednesday to their social media platforms, hoping to learn what would be the outcome of the meeting between the President and the Leader of the Opposition. The people were hoping for a solution to the impending crisis because it is people who bear the brunt of the problems which emerge when there is a political crisis. The meeting was a failure. Not even a joint statement could have been issued. The people were in suspense, hoping that their leaders would reach an understanding. It shows how disconnected the people are from the system of democracy which exists. Instead of the people being in control of the situation, it is the people who are at the mercy of their politicians. This is democracy in reverse. A constitute+onal crisis will result unless elections are held. The actions of the government after March 21, 2018 will be unlawful unless these
ExxonMobil estimate jumps to 5.5B barrels
The gross recoverable resource from the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana has now increased to approximately 5.5 billion oil-equivalent barrels. This is according to Deedra Moe, the Senior Director of Public and Government Affairs at Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL). EEPGL is a subsidiary of ExxonMobil. Moe said that this estimated resource update includes the recent Tilapia-1 and Haimara-1 discoveries. She said, “Exploration activity in the Stabroek Block is continuing. The Noble Tom Madden drillship will next drill the Yellowtail-1 well, approximately six miles (10 kilometers) west of Tilapia-1 in the Turbot area. “The Stena Caren will next return to the Longtail discovery to complete a well test. Baseline 4-D seismic data acquisition is also underway.” The Senior Director of Government Affairs said that there is potential for at least five floating, production storage and offloading vessels (FPSO) on the Stabroek Block producing more than 750,000 barrels of oil per day by 2025. Further to this, Moe said that the Liza Phase One development is progressing on schedule and is expected to begin producing up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day in early 2020, utilizing the Liza Destiny FPSO. Pending government and regulatory approvals, the Se-
EEPGL’s Senior Director of Public and Government Affairs, Deedra Moe nior Director said that Liza Phase Two will use a second FPSO designed to produce up to 220,000 barrels per day. She noted that start-up is expected
by mid-2022. Moe said that a third development, Payara, is being planned, with startup expected as early as 2023.
actions are legitimized by the National Assembly. And in order to do this, there has to be a constitutional amendment to extend the life of the government. Such an extension requires bipartisan support. The doctrine of necessity cannot by itself ensure legitimacy; it is the only legal argument which is used to justify the constitutional amendment necessary for le-
gitimacy. The consequences of a constitutional crisis after March 21, 2019 can only be resolved by the holding of elections. But there is a bigger problem with elections. Not only is GECOM divided internally over elections but its actions, since December 21, 2018, have generated public mistrust. And Guyanese are well
aware of the problems which have resulted from mistrust over elections. Guyana is therefore not just headed towards a constitutional crisis. It is also headed straight towards political turmoil.
PAGE 10
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Sorrel juice, cranberry juice, western domination and copyright laws
I
n my thirty years of newspaper commen tary, last year was the only year I did not do my customary year in review series. At the beginning of 2019, there just wasn’t space to accommodate the series. The mighty Atlantic was dumping too many debris on the shores of Guyana with tempestuous high waves for me to ignore the new debris and reflect on the old garbage that flowed in Guyana in 2018. But there was one thing that caught my eyes as 2018 drew to a close. I had planned to analyze this thing at the beginning of January but the powerful Atlantic waves keep dumping so many things on the landscape that it completely missed me. This is how I remembered it. I went into this supermarket and saw a big cranberry juice sale. Half price was the offer and people were buying it. Minutes before, I had bought a half gallon plastic bag of sorrel juice at the Demerara Distribution Service, the supermarket branch of DDL. The price was $550. Sor-
rel juice and its cranberry counterpart have the identical appearance – deep red. As I watched at people buying the cranberry thing, it occurred to me that maybe sorrel has the same medicinal usefulness that we are told cranberry has. But sorrel is a Third World product so western scientists have shown no interest in ascertaining its properties. We, former colonial subjects have been brought up to accept that cranberry is good for flushing out your kidneys and cleaning the urinary track. We were told that red wine for your health but why not red sorrel? So what is this thing that caught my eyes as 2018 drew to a close and that the cranberry sale reminded of? It was a statement by the Foreign Minister, Carl Greenidge, who said that in 2019 there will be emphasis on copyright legislation because too many CDs and DVDs are being copied here. When I read that I laughed not because this gentleman has foreign citizenship but for the example he used to justify
copyright laws in Guyana – selling pirated CDs and DVDs, I am willing to bet that if you go to Taylor Swift and tell her that a country named Guyana is pirating her albums and selling them in stores , she will show two reflexes. She would ask where or what is Guyana? Secondly, she would say she couldn’t be bothered. Seriously, you think Hollywood studios would suffer even an infinitesimal dent to its trillion-dollar-based profit system if Guyana sells pirated Hollywood movies? Now I am not using the reaction of Taylor Swift and the Hollywood movie industry to argue against copyright legislation in Guyana. I am simply asking those two questions. So Greenidge is concerned with pirated CDs and DVDs selling in Guyana. As our foreign minister, I am wondering what else he is concerned about. Before I suggest some topics for him, I am politely asking if he intends to go the route of Lennon Shuman and relin-
quish his foreign citizenship. Why I am curious about this is because the court has clearly stated that you cannot sit as a member of the National Assembly if you hold foreign nationality and since then Greenidge has not shown any reaction to the ruling. In this article here, I am not going to argue if copyright law is relevant to Guyana. I have done that in three previous columns; “Who will benefit from copyright legislation?” Sunday, November 4, 2018; “Copyright law: Is colonial brainwashing still alive in Guyana?” Sunday, November 18, 2018; “Is Aurora company’s beef policy, a violation of Guyana’s copyright law.” Sunday, December 16,
2018. In those three columns I outlined my argument for its irrelevance to this country and I used polemical angles involving history, economics, sociology and culture. Let’s return to some suggestions for the Foreign Minister. Can a country declare a person the president of another country if he is not elected? This is what the Trump administration has done in relation to Venezuela. I am no admirer of Maduro. I am not even a supporter of Maduro in the remotest of ways, but is international law not in violation here? What does the Foreign Minister think of the fantastic treatment Saudi Arabia’s crown prince Mohammed bin
Frederick Kissoon Salman received in Egypt and Pakistan? Did Pakistan and Egypt show concern about his involvement in the murder of the Saudi journalist, Jamal Khashoggi? They are acting in their countries own interest. Trump dislikes Maduro but not bil Salman. Trump says he will not sanction Saudia Arabia. Does Greenidge know why Egypt, Pakistan and the US have this attitude? A schoolboy knows the answer.
DEM BOYS SEH
Always seh somebody beg you to change you mind
When people want feel important dem does mek up stories. Everybody know this. Think about dem li’l boys. Dem always want feel big and important that dem would boast about kissing some gyal or doing big people thing wid some woman. When you check you find out is lie but you don’t want to embarrass dem suh when dem talk again all dem boys does do is watch one anodda and smile. Last week Jagdeo talk big and bold how he refusing to meet wid Soulja Bai because he don’t want to be a film star starring in photo ops. When he seh suh some people wonder if he head good because nobody in any part of de world would refuse an invitation from de president. Not even in Venezuela de man who claim is de interim president would refuse to go to de Palace if Maduro call him. That is why dem boys watch one anodda and smile when Jagdeo announce how he meeting wid Soulja Bai de same day de meet-
ing was to tek place. Of course, Soulja Bai couldn’t give a date fuh elections suh Jagdeo claim how de meeting was a waste of time. When de media question him about going to de meeting wid Soulja Bai he claim how some diplomats, some members of de private sector and some APNU supporters beg him to meet wid Soulja Bai. Of course, that sound like good news because it mean people got an interest in Guyana and dem want to see two big man talk. But fuh all de begging dem reporters beg Jagdeo couldn’t give one name of somebody who beg him to meet wid Soulja Bai. Dem boys know that not one soul beg him to meet wid Soulja Bai but just like when you find out a li’l boy mekking heself big bout kissing woman, all dem boys do is watch one anodda and smile. But somebody nearly buss out a big laugh at de press conference when a reporter start to sing, “How you could lie so.” Talk half and don’t embarrass Jagdeo.
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 11
PAGE 12
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Jagdeo considers legal action GNBA to publish list of to force GECOM’s hand compliant broadcasters
The Opposition is considering taking legal action, to force the hand of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), to start preparations for General and Regional Elections. At a press conference, yesterday, at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo said this in response to a question about how he could influence preparations for elections by GECOM, since he believes the A Partner for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition, through the President and the coalition-aligned commissioners of GECOM, are deliberately delaying elections. Jagdeo revealed that President David Granger, in their meeting on Wednesday, said that elections could be held before April 30, the day the Official List of Electors (OLE) will expire. But the President indicated that he will not set a date for elections because he must first be informed about the readiness of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). Granger had explained that setting a date without considering GECOM’s readiness would violate the Commission’s freedom to op-
erate independently, as a Constitutional body. However, Jagdeo said that the President already violated the “balance” at GECOM by unilaterally appointing Chairman James Patterson. This is what led Jagdeo to believe that “the sole purpose” of the Chairman and three coalition-aligned commissioners has been to delay the elections. Jagdeo said he informed Granger that GECOM has been saying that the President must set the date. He stated that Commissioner Vincent Alexander said, “What people don’t seem to understand [is that] it’s not for GECOM to automatically go into preparing for election outside an order from the President; giving a date. The President has to give a date for elections and that is what GECOM has to work with because there are statutory dates leading up to that date.” Jagdeo said that GECOM, including Granger’s own Commissioner, has said that they need a date from the President, and “[the President] is saying ‘I have to wait on their readiness’ and they would not start preparing to be ready until they get a date
from him”. This back-and-forth between the President and GECOM constitutes delaying tactics, according to the PPP General Secretary. “Are you, [the President], saying that GECOM, a constitutional body, will now determine what is above the Constitution, and that all the Constitutional imperatives must subject themselves to GECOM’s readiness. What is your role, Mr. President in upholding the Constitution of Guyana?” He said he pointed out to the President that GECOM must act in compliance with the Constitution because it is a “creature” of the Constitution, and that the Constitution imposes a deadline on when elections should be held. He explained that there is a pattern of behaviour where the President is “passing the buck to GECOM” when he, himself, has the authority and the responsibility of naming an election date. Though the Opposition Leader is considering legal action, he is doing so with caution because he doesn’t want such litigation to be used as a delaying tactic by the government.
T
he Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) says it will soon be publishing a list of compliant broadcasters. “Persons not indicated on that list would not have received licences for the year 2019; and consequently should not be broadcasting. Moreover, according to the Broadcasting Act of 2011, Section 43 (C), any person who carries on a broadcasting service at the licensed location after the licence granted to him has been suspended, cancelled or expired, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of one million dollars and imprisonment for one year and all machinery and equipment used, or which can be used, for broadcasting and owned by or in the possession of the person concerned is liable to be forfeited,” GNBA said yesterday. The fees are in the millions of dollars annually for broadcast and for spectrum. “GNBA takes this opportunity to urge all broadcasters to honour their obligations to the authority in order to be recognized as a responsible and compliant broadcaster and to avoid sanctions under the Act.” Meanwhile, the authority
- newscasts to have closed captions soon
disclosed that this year it will be rolling out a policy to cater for persons with hearing disabilities. It will involve, among other things, the use of closed captions on daily newscasts. “This policy was structured during the last quarter of 2018. The Authority wishes to affirm its commitment to the development of a broadcasting landscape that makes provision for all Guyanese, irrespective of their differences. This policy is intended to create a level playing field through equal access to information and/or broadcast content on radio and television.” The authorities noted that
it is important to emphasize that the Persons with Disabilities Act 2012,Chapter 36:05 Sec 26 (1), (2)stipulate that (1) within ten years of the coming into operation of this Act or a later date that the Minister may prescribe, the person in charge of every national television station shall provide a sign language inset or subtitles in at least one newscast programme daily and special programmes covering events of national significance; (2) any person who fails to comply with subsection one (1) commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of one hundred thousand dollars and to imprisonment for six months.
Friday March 08, 2019
PAGE 13
Kaieteur News
Guyanese man killed, burned in Georgia Forensic psychology training for judicial officers handling sexual offences cases
Family of Marshall speaking with a reporter. DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. (FOX 5 Atlanta) - DeKalb Police are searching for the person who killed a 58-year-old father of six and burned his body. Loved ones identify the man as Darnley Colin Marshall, said to hail from Guyana. “Who would do something like that to him?” said sister Olive Haly. “Come forward and speak the truth.” Police said park workers at the Southeast Athletic Complex off Hillvale Road discovered the man’s burned body last week Thursday morning. The dumpster beside it was
also burned. A police report said that workers found the gate had been secured with a chain, yet the park gate is never locked. Police could not identify him that morning. Loved ones found out about Marshall’s death Friday. According to family members, Marshall’s cell phone as well as his 2015 red Suzuki Boulevard motorcycle is still missing. Police are searching for clues related to a motive and any possible suspects. A vigil was set to be held yesterday.
Killed: Darnley Colin Marshall
The impact of sexual abuse has far reaching emotional, psychological and psychical effects on victims— women, children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups as they engage the court system. As such the United Nations Children’s Fund, (UNICEF), and the University of Guyana, (UG)’s Faculty of Health Sciences collaborated with the Judiciary to offer specialized forensic psychology and sexual offences training to court officials involved in the process. During the launch of the programme on Tuesday, Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, told members of the judiciary who converged at the Savannah suite of the Pegasus Hotel, that the training is important, since insensitive treatment of victims can result in secondary trauma. “You may ask why the need for training in this field? What does this have to do with law? The complexities of such cases required specialised training on the part of all involved… “Persons engaged in working in this field also need debriefing exercises, because they, too, can suffer from secondary trauma,” Justice CummingsEdwards said. Further, the Chancellor stressed that victims not only require support services but also to be treated with fairness, respect, dignity and privacy. “Even the offenders cannot be left out in this regard. To ensure prompt, adequate and effective court response to meet both the offender and victim, an intensive approach is needed.” “The efficacy of the Court will ultimately depend on its personnel. The court and its equipment do not exist in a vacuum,” she added. Justice Cummings-Edwards emphasized further that court appointed social workers, probation officers, those providing support services, prosecutors, police officials, the Magistrates, the
Judges must be exposed to some level of training. She therefore dubbed the programme, another step in the right direction. In her remarks, UNICEF Country Representative to Guyana and Suriname, Sylvie Fouet stated that the rate of, sexual violence against children in Guyana is very alarming. Fouet pledged further collaboration with various stakeholders, towards addressing the issue. This includes the establishment of the Sexual Offences Court in 2017 and the Juvenile Justice Court in 2018. “In 2019 and 2020, there are plans to bring those services to scale with the leadership of the judiciary, we are looking at expanding the court system outside of Georgetown in Berbice and Essequibo, therefore, increasing access of services to children who have been abused,” Fouet stated. Meanwhile Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Emmanuel Cummings, highlighted the importance of DNA profiling in solving sexual offences cases. Dr. Cummings explained that the evidence from DNA profiling can make or break the outcome of a case. He said it can hold the perpetrator accountable, prevent future crimes of a similar nature, increase guilty pleas and result in a reduction of retrials. With that, the Health Sciences Dean explained that “the applied focus in this course will provide an excellent foundation for continued education for the judiciary in various forms of forensic science including forensic psychology and medical science in an effort to strengthen the justice system by building the capacity for the use and interpretation of more credible evidence.” The training will commence this weekend. The Magistrates and Judges will undergo 20 hours of training at the University of Guyana Turkeyen Campus.
PAGE 14
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
NA baby died from broncho-pneumonia - post mortem done without parents’ knowledge
The New Amsterdam hospital, Region Six A post mortem examination that was conducted by Pathologist Dr. Zaida from the New Amsterdam Hospital on the baby that died after delivery, has revealed that the infant had inflamed lungs (Broncho-pneumonmia) followed by haemorrhaging. Broncho-pneumonia occurs when viruses, bacteria or fungi cause inflammation and infection in the tiny air sacs in the lung. It is a type of pneumonia that also causes inflammation in the air passages that feed air into the lungs. It was reported that the father, Nandram Gopaul, had relayed that the baby had defecated while in her mother’s womb during labour at the New Amsterdam Hospital. He had stated that the medical professionals tending to his wife during the delivery had told him that the feces were absorbed into the lungs and their efforts to pump her lungs out were unsuccessful. Gopaul said that a doctor told him that the baby should have been delivered earlier. However, when this publication contacted the father of the dead infant, he said that
he is not satisfied and is still confused as to what really happened to his baby. He explained that after several delays in the post mortem he was told that the PM would be done on Wednesday at 2:00 in the afternoon and that he will be contacted before the examination is conducted. Gopaul told Kaieteur News that when 2:00 pm passed he called the hospital and was told that the pathologist was at the hospital. “Me hustle and go over to be there.” But by the time Gopaul arrived the autopsy had already been conducted. Gopaul said, “They do the post mortem and no parent na bin deh and whole week me deh behind dem. Dem got me a go and come and a delay the thing and now when it do, dem do it without me being present. How that look?” He further explained that he was given a piece of paper signed by Dr. Martinez. Gopaul stated that she was barely speaking English and he could not understand what she was telling him about the autopsy, thus leaving him with more questions than an-
swers about the death of his child. Gopaul’s wife was experiencing labour pains and was rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital Friday last. He said, “After she start getting the hot pain I take her to the hospital and I reach there 6:00. But by then she telling me the pain get more hot.” He stated that the doctor checked her and she was told that she had only dilated to 4 cm and that she was not ready to deliver. It was between 6:00 am and 9:00 am that the young mother reportedly dilated quickly and was screaming out for pain to inform the doctors that she was ready to give birth to her baby. However they were told, “You aint getting the right kind of pain; you ain’t ready”. Within a matter of minutes the pregnant woman felt her baby’s head crowning and the doctor immediately rushed to her and moved her to the delivery room. She gave birth at 9:30 am that day but the baby was experiencing difficulties, the father told this publication.
According to the father, “When the baby come out and so dem tell she how the baby mess up (defacate) in she and the baby swallow it and dem had to pump it out.” He detailed that the medical professionals who attended to his wife in the delivery room, including a doctor, stated that the feces went into the infants lungs. “Dem say they try and could not do anything because the baby take long to deliver.” The man said that the doctor reportedly admitted that the baby should have been delivered earlier. He added that when his wife was indicating to the nurses that she was ready to give birth they paid her no mind. “She tell dem that she got another child and she know that she ready. But these people didn’t listen to my wife. If they bin listen my child would have been alive. They played with my child’s life and now I can’t even hold my baby,” he sadly said. The infant was buried at the Rosignol burial ground on West Coast Berbice on Wednesday.
$50,000 fine, jail for heavy equipment driving on roadway Yesterday, around 12:50 pm, a Laverda rice harvester was traveling along the Tuschen Public Road, East Bank Essequibo. According to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, its National Task Force Commission (NTFC) team was in the area and confronted the operator who refused to cooperate or stop his machine when requested to do so. The harvester carried no registration number. The team followed the harvester for a few minutes until it slowed down to cross the public road.
At that point, the ministry said, an engineer within the Ministry was able to speak with the operator in an effort to ascertain the identity of the owner. The operator claimed that the machine belonged to “Two Brothers”. This is the second time within recent days that the NTFC has noticed this problem along this highway, the ministry said. “The public is advised that this offence carries a penalty of $50,000 plus three months’ imprisonment.”
Friday March 08, 2019
PAGE 15
Kaieteur News
Region One farmer gets 44 years for rape A farmer of Aruka District in Region One was yesterday sentenced to 44 years in jail for two counts of sexual penetration committed on a girl under 12 years old. Errol De Souza, 42, a f a t h e r o f t w elve, was sentenced to prison after a probation report was presented to presiding Judge of the Sexual Offences Court of the Georgetown High Court Jo Ann Barlow. According to the allegation the acts were committed between January 1 and December 31, 2013 and on May 3, 2014. State Prosecutor Lisa Cave called a Social Services Officer to the stand who revealed intimate details about De Souza’s life. According to the report, De Souza who grew up in Region One, engaged in ginger farming and part -time logging to provide for his family which consisted of a reputed wife of six children. He had six children from a previous relationship and would often consume alcohol. The report revealed further that the man was never a trouble maker in his village and that he denies the rape accusations against him. De Souza instead claims that the child’s older sister instigated the allegations against him. However, a ChildLink Court Support Officer, who read the victim’s impact statement into evidence
Errol De Souza revealed that the child is saddened by what happened between herself and De Souza. In her statement, the victim, now 16 years old, noted that she had shared a close relationship with the perpetrator prior to the incident. She noted that the experience made it difficult for her to socialize and to trust other people. She said that because of her experience she could no longer play with her siblings or friends and view people in the same light. In his plea of mitigation, De Souza’s Lawyer Ravindra Mohabir asked the Court to consider that “no violence was used in the commission of the crime.” He said, too, that his client has an
unblemished record—he was never charged prior to the incident. The lawyer claimed that his client was remorseful for his actions and beseeched the court to consider the man is a father of 12 including a five- month old baby. He asked the court to consider the impact it would have on the family particularly the children, if De Souza should be put away for a long period given he is the sole bread winner for his family. Prior to the sentencing, Justice Barlow however noted that there were a number of aggravating factors in the matter. In addition to breaching the victim’s trust, the Judge noted that De Souza was not remorseful for his actions— He instead tried to blame t h e c h i l d ’s e l d e r s i s t e r claiming that she had instigated the little girl to frame him for the crimes. Justice Barlow noted, nonetheless, that the evidence against De Souza was compelling. She said that while the attorney claimed that no violence was used in committing the act—that statement is not accurate. The Judge said that based on the evidence De Souza had raped the victim the first time, but aggravated the situation when he committed the act a second time. Barlow said there are an alarming
number of reports of sexual abuses committed against children, and a strong message must be sent to society that such acts will not be condoned. “What you
have done to the victim is more than violence …Our children must be protected,” the judge told the accused who stood in the prisoners’ dock a short distance away.
As such, Justice Barlow sentenced De Souza to 20 years in prison on the first count and 24 years imprisonment for the second charge.
PAGE 16
Canada supports Guyana on Venez. border controversy Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, yesterday met with Michael Grant, Assistant Deputy Minister for the Americas in the Ministry of Global Affairs of Canada at the Ministry of the Presidency. During the meeting, the two discussed matters of mutual interest, including the Guyana- Venezuela border controversy; the migration of Venezuelans and its effect on neighbouring countries; Canada and Guyana’s bilateral relationship and the assistance given to Guyana in a number of areas, including support to manage the influx of Venezuelan migrants. According to the Ministry of the Presidency, Canada has donated CAD$46,000 to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to support Guyana’s efforts in accommodating the Venezuelan migrants. Harmon thanked the Government of Canada for the contribution, even as he noted that the Guyana Government wishes to take a holistic approach to address the issue and would therefore welcome any kind of support in this endeavour. “Our intention is to provide a better facility to these migrants and that means we must provide a place where they can live and work. We would therefore welcome any additional support that can be given in this area,” he said. Minister Harmon also
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
UNAIDS on HIV infection rate...
Reaching men constrained by insufficient health services - Gay men, men who have sex with men accounted for quarter of new cases in 2017
Guyana, Ms. Lilian Chatterjee and Assistant Deputy Minister of the Americas in the Canadian Ministry of Global Affairs, Michael Grant welcomed Grant to Guyana while noting that the two nations have shared a strong and fertile relationship for over 50 years. “We value and cherish the relationship we have shared with Canada over the years and as you know, outside of the United States, the majority of Guyanese are settled in Canada. We also have strong collaboration in several areas and as such Guyana can only look forward to strengthening this relationship,” he said.
Grant expressed his appreciation to the Minister for his remarks. He also said that he recently took up office here and as such, he is endeavouring to familiarise himself with all of the areas that fall within his remit. “We value very much the relationship between the two countries as well as the Guyanese community. While it is a shared population, it is so central for Canada as well. We are very excited about the relationship between the two countries and as you rightly
said, we have collaborated extensively over the years,” he noted. Grant also took the opportunity to express his country’s support and solidarity with Guyana on the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy. He noted that Canada has made its position clear on this matter and this stance has not changed. The Assistant Deputy Minister was accompanied to the meeting by Canada’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Ms. Lilian Chatterjee.
Gay men and other men who have sex with men accounted for nearly a quarter of new HIV infections recorded in 2017. This is according to the UNAIDS Global AIDS Update 2018. The report also highlights that efforts to reach men and boys, and particularly gay men and other men who have sex with men, are constrained by health services insufficiently tailored to their needs and limited community-based services. To build capacity in the area of improving access to health by men, the Pan-Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS [PANCAP] will host a Knowledge Management Share Fair. The Fair set for March 14 in Trinidad and Tobago will target participants, including over 80 National AIDS Programme [NAP] Managers and Implementing Partners such as civil society organizations that work with people living with HIV and key population groups [including youth]. The Share Fair is an initiative of the PANCAP Knowledge for Health project, which aims to enhance knowledge generation, sharing, and learning among HIV
programme implementers and civil society around the implementation of ‘treat all’ and the ‘90-90-90 targets’. While the ‘treat all’ recommendation speaks to the removal of limitations on eligibility for antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV, the 90-90-90 targets aim at ensuring that 90 percent of the estimated number of people living with HIV are aware of their status; that 90 percent of those aware of their status are on sustained antiretroviral therapy, and of those on antiretroviral 90 percent must be virally suppressed. The Share Fair will, moreover, expand on the capacity building initiatives implemented by the Project. These include the Knowledge Synthesis and Best Practices Workshop [2016], South-toSouth Learning Exchanges to the Dominican Republic and Jamaica [2017-2018], Treat All Message Design Workshop [2017], “Collaborating and Learning towards Treat All” Share Fair [2018], PANCAP webinars, and other ongoing regional knowledge management efforts around 90-90-90 and Treat All. It will provide a space for NAP managers and Civil (Continued on page 29)
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 17
PAGE 18
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Women in Business expo attracts many first time exhibitors
“Next level and elevation is what I was feeling throughout the preparation for this year's event and we got that. I must thank God and all who made it possible,” Sonia Noel said, over the weekend. According to feedback from exhibitors, participants and team, this year exceeded expectations in a major way. Over 67 exhibitors showcased their goods, products and services. The variety of business included spa, hotel, cleaning services, Shipping, catering, craft, clothing, beauty products among others accounting service, majority of the high quality products are made in Guyana. The two-day expo experience created a platform for women businesses to elevate to the next level. One of the sentiments shared by most exhibitors, is the effects of the training leading up to this event. Some of the forums were on marketing and branding, dressing for success, technology and your business, and health and leadership forums. First time exhibitor, JoAnn Forde, of Innovoir said that the experience brought her to tears.” There are not enough words to express how I'm feeling, the emotions I'm feeling having my new venture at this expo
and the response I have received.” “This is an excellent jump start for any small business.” Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin lauded this initiative. He said that he is already seeing in the years to come, what a huge event this will be and he is happy that his ministry partnered with the expo this year. Mikiko Tanaka , UN Resident Coordinator, said, “Research indicates that women in business can play a critical role in deploying these six competencies within more genderbalanced leadership teams. “This does not mean that women are gifted with leadership qualities and motivation that make them innately better than men at business opportunities in line with SDGs. “Rather, there is growing understanding that valuing and prioritizing gender balance in leadership teams benefit companies in multiple areas.” A long-term vision – and the tenacity to 'make it happen' – are essential to doing business in line with SDGs. Research indicates that businesses with more women in high level management positions, particularly on directorial boards, are better able to shift (continued on page 30)
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 19
PAGE 22
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Police stage walkabout 'We have to do this more often!' in Linden ...Commander Linden Lord
C
ommander of E Division, Linden Lord, and a team, including members of the Wisroc Police youth group did a walk about in Block 22, yesterday. They interacted with residents and shared out a few food hampers. The Commander said that the walk about was long overdue and that it was the first to be done in the community. "I plan to visit here more often, and not only here, but other areas as well. “It is a way to build a relationship between the community and the police, allowing residents to see the police as their friend and not their enemy, so these interactions are about building trust with the community," Lord said. He expressed optimism in that regard given the response from residents. Hampers packed with food stuff were donated to three deserving families. The recipients thanked the Commander and team and praised the initiative. President of the Wisroc Police youth group, Shaquille Austin, who helped to coordinate the activity, said that the group is continuously seeking for things to do that would benefit residents.
" We a r e p r e s e n t l y working to resuscitate the group which has been dormant for a little while. However we are actively pursuing economic activities that can benefit the youths here and keep them away from negative pursuits, " Austin said. One of the ventures that the youths are involved in is the manufacturing of local seasoning pepper sauce. Police Segeant Lyndon Barkoye, who is in charge of the Wisroc Police outpost posited, “Over the past couple of years we came to realise that the trust between the police and the community had eroded somewhat, so we decided to engage youths and involve them in certain activities that would keep them away from crime". Approximately twenty five youths currently make up the Wisroc Police Youth Group. Sargeant Barkoye explained that the group is financed through fund activities, with some
assistance from Commander Linden Lord and others. Commander Lord praised the activities of the youth group, positing that the results from same could only be positive. Assistant Superintendent of Police, Peters-Fernandes, which functions as the Community relations officer also commended the youth group. She indicated that in her capacity she also derived tremendous pleasure from interacting with the community and especially putting together hampers for those deserving of such. "I enjoy this so much, when we give we get more, and the business persons in the community are always willing to come onboard with us." Peters-Fernandes said that she especially loved to assist in equipping students for school at the beginning of the school term. That initiative she said, receives tremendous support from the business community.
PAGE 23
Kaieteur News
PAGE 24
Editoria By the High Commisison of Canada, Lilian Chatterjee
T
he Government of Canada sees March 8th, or International Women's Day, as an opportunity to celebrate what women have achieved and the progress we have made globally on gender equality. It is also a time to reflect on how much more we have to do. Women and girls are still held back in so many ways all over the world. They are disproportionately affected by diseases like HIV/AIDS. They are subject to abuses like child, early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation and cutting.650 million women and girls in the world today were married before they turned 18 and 214 million women and adolescent girls want access to contraception, but do not have it. I could go on, but the bottom line is that millions and millions of women and girls all over the
Friday March 08, 2019
Observing International
world simply do not have the power to make decisions about their lives. And when we hold women back, we are all held back. The World Bank Group tells us that if women had the same lifetime earnings as men, global wealth could increase by $160 trillion dollars. That is potential we cannot afford to keep losing. And that is why Canada has integrated gender equality into our diplomacy, trade, security and development efforts. In 2017, we launched aFeminist International Assistance Policy that putsgender equality and the empowerment of women and girls at the heart of all of ourdevelopment efforts. We didn't stop there. As our Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chrystia Freeland,has noted, Canada's approach to foreign policy is feminist. And from Canada's National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, to our progressive trade agenda,to the $650 million we've allocated for projects on
Women's Day sexual and reproductive health and rights around the world, Canada is working tirelessly to make sure that gender equality is always on the agenda. We did this during our 2018 G7 Presidency, when we made history by integrating gender equality and women's empowerment into all G7 themes, commitments and initiatives and by inviting young women to the table. And we will keep doing it—when we proudly host the Women Deliver Conference from June 3rd to 6th in Vancouver, for example. This conference is the world's largest gathering on the health, rights and well-being of women and girls, bringing together more than 7,000 world leaders, influencers, advocates, academics, activists and journalists from more than 160 countries with an additional 100,000 people joining virtually. It is not just a conference; it's a movement that that gives voice to a broad spectrum of people, including Indigenous peoples, youth and people living in
conflict and crisis settings. And we will not stop. Not until women and girls no longer face barriers to achieving their full potential in all spheres of life. Not until women and girls no longer face discrimination, harassment and gender-based violence. Not until their human rights are upheld. #BalanceforBetter The theme for this year's International Women's Day (IWD) is #BalanceforBetter. It argues that if we better the balance, we better the world because greater gender equality benefits everyone. It is not about leaving men and boys behind. Indeed, the struggle to transform our institutions, our politics and our culture so that every member of society stands to benefit, is a struggle best won when shared by women and men. This includes breaking the social norms and attitudes on gender stereotypes that constrain the roles of men and boys, such as having more women in sectors that are traditionally considered
“male” and more men in sectors that are traditionally considered “female.” It is about building a more gender-balanced world. So, on March 8th—and every day—let us all put gender equality at the forefront of our thoughts and efforts. And let us celebrate the achievements of women around the world, including Guyanese women working to promote greater opportunities for women and girls in organizations like STEM Guyana, the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association, Women Across Differences, Guyana's National Committee for Sisters' Affairs (NACOSA), and others. I invite all Guyanese—men and women—tojoin the High Commission of Canada on Sunday, March 10th, 2019 at the Everest Cricket Club Grounds from 14:00 hrs. Come and get to know these organizations and the amazing work they are doing and maybe even get involved. Or come for the exhibition and concert to celebrate International Women's Day. Come help us build a more gender-balanced world. We can #Balanceforbetter!
PAGE 26
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
Another batch of Cadet Corps promoted
Another batch of members of the Guyana National Cadet Corps (GNCC) who have displayed the commitment and dedication to lead has been promoted. Apart from their commitment to lead, the Cadets have been vigilant in their atten-
dance of training, performing well at school, and, as such, positively influencing their peers. Those promoted also had to be successful at the Cadet Leadership and Proficiency (CLAP) Examination. Promotion ceremonies were held at the six pilot
schools and the cadets were awarded a stripe/bar representing their ascension to Lance Corporals and Corporals. They were decorated by senior officers of the Guyana Defence Force. Training for the cadets covered a number of areas
including dexterity (which involves Drills), Physical Training, First Aid, Mathematics and English. The GNCC recently celebrated its anniversary since its re-introduction. Training began in March last year. The GNCC is a collaboration be-
tween the Ministry of Social Cohesion, the Ministry of Education, and the Guyana Defence Force. It is augmented by Reservists of the Guyana People’s Militia. Teachers on the programme have since reported improvements in the
conduct of the students involved. The improvements have to do particularly with their discipline and their ability to positively influence their peers. Some 56 cadets from the Berbice High School were promoted.
Mystery fire destroys D Field home - owner says cops failed to investigate woman’s threats to torch his property ‘D’ Field Sophia resident, Quincy Benn, says that he would have still had his home today, had ranks at the Turkeyen Police Station investigated claims he had repeatedly made about a woman who threatened to torch his property. Benn believes that the woman made good on her promise around 21.00 hrs on
Wednesday night. That was when his two-bedroom home mysteriously went up in flames. Benn and his 17-year-old son lived at the Lot 766 property, but were not at home at the time. They lost all of their belongings, including household appliances and clothing. Fortunately, Benn said that because of repeated
threats, he has been storing his valuable documents at a relative. Benn, who is divorced, said that he was at a friend’s home in Pike Street, Kitty around 21.00 hrs on Wednesday when he received a call from someone who said that his house was on fire. He immediately rode to the scene. Firefighters were
there, but the entire house, save for the verandah, was already destroyed. The distraught man said that neighbours suggested that the fire started at the back of the house, but no one admitted to seeing anything suspicious. But Benn is pointing fingers at the woman, whom he claims made repeated threats
to burn the house down. He said that the threats began around 2016. “On several occasions I reported that she threatened to burn the house down,” he said. “She would come to the house and threaten to burn it.” Benn also replayed a text message, in which a woman is heard threatening to send
individuals to beat his son, while boasting that the police would be unable to intervene. He alleged that someone had tried to burn his property last Saturday by setting fire to his motorcycle, which he stored in a shed beneath his house. At present, he is staying at a relative, but is seeking to rebuild.
Friday March 08, 2019
PAGE 27
Kaieteur News
MoE moves closer to introducing robotics in primary schools … senior officials witness the first demonstration The Ministry of Education (MoE) late last year announced that for the first time in Guyana’s history, robotics will be introduced to all primary schools across the country. This undertaking is one step closer to fruition as the MoE finalizes plans for its rollout across the country later this year. The Ministry of Education has begun engaging possible partners to execute this initiative. As such, A+ Technology and Security, an American company and a potential supplier whose speciality is in this area and has a proven track record in the field of robotics and similar technologies, met with senior officials of the Ministry of Education yesterday. President of the company, Mr David Antar, facilitated a demonstration on the use of robotics in the smart classroom of the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD). This demonstration was witnessed by senior officials of the MoE including, Minister of Education Dr. Nicolette Henry; Chief Education Officer, Mr Marcel Hutson; and Permanent Secretary Ms Adele Clarke. During the demonstration, the officials were introduced to drone blocks and different aspects of robotics. Mr Antar commended the MoE for the direction in which Guyana’s education system is going. He opined that with the introduction of robotics the education sector can only get better while modernizing and producing critical thinkers. Proffering his professional opinion on robotics in schools, Antar said that he
has seen how this technology has transformed the lives of children living in difficult neighbourhoods in the United States of America. Further, he said that the introduction of robotics in the primary schools will serve as a stimulant for children at a young age since this technology gets them excited and involved. Additionally, the A+ Technology President said that robotics in the school system gives the children hands-on experience of putting the robots together and programming them to execute different functions. He noted in the past that some children were uninterested about getting into the STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) subjects but with robotics, this will certainly change since this form of technology captures their interest. Antar believes that the introduction of this technol-
ogy to the education system will widen the human resources pool of the country and this, he asserts, will have a positive developmental impact for Guyana going forward in the context of the country’s emerging Oil and gas sector. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Antar said the most important aspect of this exercise is to ensure that there are adequate training and professional development for teachers to be able to properly teach this new area. However, the IT specialist was adamant that although this is a new frontier for Guyana, grasping a good understanding of the technology will not be difficult and Guyana can be a model for other countries in the region. Ultimately the Ministry of Education, according to Antar, will have to train teachers from across the country, who will, in turn, serve as ‘Turn Key’ trainers and will
eventually fan out across the country to train other teachers to properly teach robot-
ics. When robotics are introduced in primary schools later
this year, it will make Guyana the only country in the Caribbean to do so.
Prosecution maintains prima facie case made out against driver, businessman charged with trafficking coke-in-frozen fish A City Magistrate is set to rule on whether a prima facie case has been established against two men who are charged with attempting to traffic 9.366 kilograms of cocaine in frozen fish to the USA. The men charged for the offence are businessman Amir Ally, 30, of Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara; and Canter truck driver, Baldeo Persaud, 32, of 47 Kingston Street, ‘C’ Field Leonora, West Coast Demerara. The charge against the duo, alleged that on February 6, 2018, at Laparkan Cargo Shed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), they trafficked 9.366 kilograms of cocaine. They
have both pleaded not guilty to the charge and are currently on remand. The trial is being conducted before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The matter is being prosecuted by Custom AntiNarcoticsUnit(CANU),Prosecutor Konyo Sandiford. On the last court appearance, the Prosecutor told the court that she is of the opinion that a prima facie case has been made out against the two defendants. She added that throughout the trial the Prosecution was able to lead substantialevidenceagainstthemen and they should be called upon to lead a defence.
The Magistrate after listening to the submissions adjourned the matter until March 25, when she is expectedtomakearulingonwhether the men will be called upon by the court to lead their defence. According to information, on the day in question, ranks from CANU conducted a search on boxes which had already been packed out at the Cargo Shed. Duringthesearch, ranks found a quantity of cocaine stashed in frozen fish that was destined for the USA. An investigation was then carried out and Ally and Persaud were arrested. The defendants are being represented by Attorney-at-law Bernard DaSilva.
PAGE 28
Kaieteur News
$220M Sophia Children and Family centre to open by month end
The newly constructed $220 Million Children and Family Centre at Plum Park, Sophia Georgetown Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally yesterday led a team visit to the newly constructed $220 Million Children and Family Centre at Plum Park, Sophia Georgetown. The facility, the first of its kind locally will serve as a temporary stop for the less fortunate and is expected to be commissioned by the end of March.“I must say, that I am pleased with the work carried out thus far and that our children will be provided with the much-needed comfort come March,” Minister Ally said.
In July 2016, a fire gutted the previous Drop-In Centre on Hadfield Street, Georgetown. However, this newly constructed facility will have heightened safety measures.Director of the Childcare and Protection Agency, Ann Greene, said the facility’s purpose is to avoid separation of families and provide care for children as they transition from difficult circumstances. “There are eight family apartments, independent family apartments for families. There are also four apart-
ments for children of different ages, for boys and girls, and there is a training centre for counselling sessions. “We do not want to just provide housing for persons that will be here at the facility but ensure they received every other necessity to help them transform,” the Director of Childcare and Protection Agency, Ann Greene said House mother, Norma Hamilton, who cares for children exposed to all sorts of abuse is the supervisor of Sophia Drop-In Centre. (Continued on page 31)
GTU to engage Committee on teachers’ salary increase Wednesday Come March 13, 2019, a delegation from the Guyana Teachers Union [GTU] will be meeting with a high level committee to discuss a proposal submitted by the union for salary increases for public school teachers. The meeting, which has been set for 10:00 hours at the Ministry 26 Brickdam, Georgetown office, will see the union being represented by a delegation including at least two economic specialists with vast experience in their field. This is according to GTU President, Mr. Mark Lyte, who disclosed that in addition to submitting its salary increase proposal to the Ministry, the union had also provided the Ministry with a document justifying its proposal. In its proposal the union is aiming for, among other things, a 25 percent across the board increase for public school teachers. The union is also proposing conditions for the re-employment of retired teachers; the need for grants for schools which are often subjected to inadequate stock; incentive for teachers with additional qualifications and those qualified in areas of physical education and
special needs education. “Some of the things we have fine-tuned them. We still have things like duty-free concessions, continuation of the Whitley Council [leave]...We are proposing an adjustment to Whitley Council; we have clothing allowances; we have houselots for teachers still on the cards and we do have other things like class size issues. The class size for special needs schools, we are requesting a smaller number or in cases where the number cannot be smaller, we are recommending a teacher’s aide for the teachers so at all times there will be two persons to the class,” the GTU President related. On February 5, 2019, the union submitted its proposal intended to cater to increases for a three-year period [2019 2021] for its 10,000 odd membership. Lyte had said that the union was hoping for timely feedback from the Education Ministry. In fact he shared his expectation that the feedback would be forthcoming no later than this month end. In response to the proposal, the Ministry said that a high level committee on public education has been
reactivated to examine the GTU’s proposal. The proposal, ahead of being submitted, had its content approved by the membership of the union. Lyte noted that although the union had initially planned to submit the proposal much earlier, a decision was taken at the level of its General Council to ensure that its 10,000 odd membership from across the country had the opportunity to give their input. The last [three-year] agreement the Union had with the Education Ministry expired at the end of last year shortly after it was signed. This was owing to the slothful approach taken by the ruling administration to deal with the union’s proposal which was submitted since the end of 2015. A fall-out between government and the union had resulted in industrial action before an amicable resolution was eventually realised. Given the recent experience, Lyte said, “I believe that both parties have learnt from the previous experience on how we would want to go forward. I hope that those lessons will serve to propel some urgency with the whole process.”
Friday March 08, 2019
Crackdown at Lusignan Holding Bay after…
Brazen inmates brandishing weapons post video A disturbing online video of three inmates brazenly brandishing improvised weapons, cursing and threatening to ‘kill’ has led to a crackdown at the Lusignan Holding facility and the seizure of those weapons and a cell phone. Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels said that weapons were found during searches on Wednesday and yesterday in the holding facility. In a recorded statement to journalists, Samuels said that last Tuesday he received the video, captioned ‘Nation Entertainment,’ which is being circulated on social media. “Immediately an investigation was launched and it revealed that the video was done in the holding bay at Lusignan. “A search was conducted and the items seen in the possession of the prisoners were retrieved. When analysed, they were found to be improvised weapons made from the fence material and a pot cover. Also, one cell phone which was used to record the video was retrieved,” Samuels said. “I wish to let you know that those prisoners, having been identified, are being processed for internal charges which will be adjudicated before the end of the week.” Samuels told Kaieteur News that two of the inmates in the video have been convicted for robbery under arms, while the third is on remand for robbery and attempted murder. In the brief video, with music in the background, the inmates are seen grinning and brandishing large, improvised knives. “Doan say nothing,” one warns, while imitating someone pulling the trigger of a gun. “I gun kill alyuh mother (expletive) when I come out.” “Doan say nothing,” another inmate echoes. Prison authorities have been more hard pressed to keep prohib-
The seized items
Two of the prisoners
ited items out of the country’s penitentiaries since inmates torched the Georgetown Prisons and carried similar damage at the Lusignan Prison.
The Director of Prisons expressed optimism that the smuggling of these items will be greatly reduced when the prisons are rebuilt.
Govt. contemplates compulsory arbitration (From page 3) proposals to both Rusal and the trade unions to outline their grievances in writing. He assured that before any resolution can be tabled, the affected workers must be reinstated. Minister Scott also urged the dismissed workers to remain strong and rest assured that not only the unions, but their government is fighting for them and stands behind them firmly. “…We have engaged with them, we have
given them the assurance that government stands resolutely behind them.” This has been the longest labour action involving Rusal. In 2009, the company also showed its intolerance to protests by terminating the services of 57 workers. That matter is still unresolved. This particular matter has raised issues with how the Government of Guyana is engaging foreign companies which invest here.
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Investigation launched as CAL plane hits wall at Piarco airport PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CMC — Caribbean Airlines (CAL) has launched an investigation following an incident in which a plane hit a wall at the terminal building at the Piarco International airport.In a statement yesterday, CAL said the ATR-72 aircraft, 9Y-TTA, was being taxied from the ramp to an aircraft
hangar late Wednesday when it came into contact with the wall of the airport terminal building.CAL said the aircraft was not in active service and had no passengers or crew on board.No personnel were injured. The airline says the extent of the damage the aircraft sustained is being assessed.
Reaching men constrained by insufficient ... From page 16 Society Organization [CSO] representatives to showcase best practices from implementation experiences, discuss critical challenges, and provide recommendations for increasing access to services for men, including men who have sex with men and other key populations in achieving 90-90-90. The Share Fair will include a Knowledge Café, which will highlight successful Men’s Health programmes. According to PANCAP Knowledge Coordinator, Dr. Shanti Singh-Anthony, the intention is to highlight innovations from country programmes that have achieved positive results in relation to increasing access to prevention, treatment, care and support services by men and boys. Implementers of
PANCAP Knowledge Coordinator, Dr. Shanti Singh-Anthony programmes who are challenged to reach men with health services can use the innovative practices to increase men’s access to quality health services. “Previous Share Fairs were successful in forging stronger partnerships and collabora-
tion between NAP Managers and CSOs and sharing of best practices,” stated Dr. SinghAnthony. She added, “We intend to build on these successes. We cannot afford to leave our men and young boys behind at this critical stage of the HIV response. The Share Fair will provide an ideal opportunity for the two groups to utilize the lessons learned from the region to enhance services for men. “The overarching objective is to increase the number of men and boys who are accessing HIV prevention, treatment, care and support services.” Participants will also share implementation experiences in relation to the provision of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis [PrEP], innovations for reaching and testing key populations, and strategies for sustaining the HIV response.
PAGE 29
PAGE 30
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
Women in...
SERVICES
FOR SALE
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Piles for sale- 40-45ft $1000 50-55ft $1,100 60-65ft $1200 Tel#699-6505
Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisement, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Jay’s Welding Est specialized in: Grills, Gates, Rails, Fencing, Razor wire, Repairs etc. Tel#698-0501
Original pure breed rotweiler pups for sale. Price $150,000. Tel: 609-2815, 696-4659
Fully Furnished apts $5000 and $6000 daily, air condition room $3000 per day #223-0994 or 678-5827 PROPERTY FOR SALE House and land available at Parfaite, Tuschen, Diamond etc. Contact Pacific Development Inc. 223-6035/604-4909 House for sale, Eccles Housing Scheme. 7 bedrooms, 3 toilets and bathrooms enclosed. $28.5M. Call 642-0391/ 001447587233657 Property for sale, 32 James St, Albouystown. #682-8236 Property for sale, located on 18th Street on the 8th Cross St Diamond. Contact# 6805944/656-4211 Norton street $16M, Atlantic Ville $17M, Roxanne Burnham $18.5M, Diamond $14M, Stewartville, Campbellville $40M, Durban. 231-2199, 618-7483
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Wanted experienced hire car drivers, bus drivers and dispatchers at Ramada Princess Hotel. Contact on #256-7075/616-5419
1-1 Bedroom apartment, Uitvlugt Housing Scheme, WCD Tel#276-0400/698-2802 Spacious 2-bedroom apartment in Festival City. Asking $70,000 monthly. Call 619-2141 Bottom flat house to rent. Parfaite Harmony. Tel# 6193258/614-8104
Prime Business Spot, opposite Gafoors in Parika. Contact# 650-0402/603-1402
3 bedroom apt, unfurnished, can be used for storage. Rent Negotiable, $55,000 Lusignan ECD #695-6550/ 656-9313
LAND FOR SALE House lots for sale. New development. 200k down. 20k monthly. www.jobfairworldwide.com 233-6997/622-1957
EDUCATION
ACCOMODATION
WANTED
2010 Ducati 796, Black. 2015 CBR 300R, Red. 2012 250 Ninja, White/Black. 6105370
Parfaite Harmonie $1.6M Dairy- with Foundation & Fence $2M Schnoord $4M Farm (East Bank) $3.5M Tel#656-0701/651-1969 Electronic Course, Registering now, limited space available, Abdul Electronics Tel#226-6551/ 687-9992
FOR RENT
Transported land 11.6 acres. Lot 15 public road. #2 Village W.C.B. Price $18M. Contact 686-4818, 648-7109 Parfaite Harmonie Dairy 10 yrs $1.500 10 yrs $1.800 Transpot land, Best Village, Vreed-en-hoop $2.600 105x41 #672-0416 Uitvlugt - $2.3M, Zeelugt $1.1M, Parfaith Harmony $1.3M 697-6311 House lot for Sale. Providence high income area. 60x100. Price 5.5mil. Contact 602-1749
Urgently needed soursop leaves and stem from 50lbs to 1000lbs. Tel#609-8281 Male and Female Counter Staff, Kitchen Assistant, Apply Shanta’s 225 Camp St Wanted land to buy on the East Bank or West Coast. Tel: 642-1252
Newly renovated apartment for rental at Peters Hall. 2239677,698-5800/648-1391
Experienced cashier, counter server, roti/puri cook, cleaner. Apply @ Hack’s Halaal with h/written application. 5 Commerce St
Salon for Rental- Hair stations, Nail stations, Barber stations available for rent. Tel#6996505/615-1872 New Market Street
Live in or Live out, Domestic worker. Call from MondaySaturday between 8:154:15pm #223-7500
1 Self contain room, South Ruimveldt Park. $32,000 monthly. 622-5521/668-5296. Single male/female (working)
1 Electrician. Must have experience in both domestic & industrial wiring. Please contact Keith on 644-9084 or 664-9635
Parfaite Harmonie (transferable) 2.3M, Parfaite Harmonie 1.8M, 1.6M, 2M, Lust-en-Rust Corner Lot 1.2M Call 666-2326 Tuschen phase II 1.4M, Province (incompleted house) 6M, Farm 3.5M, Herstelling 5.5M Call 6662326
1 Live in domestic between 3540 yrs. Must know to cook and wash. Contact 673-1131
1 Experienced cook. 1 counter staff wanted. Call 623-8654
CAR RENTAL
Experienced cook/chef. Apply to the Manager Herdmanston Lodge
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL:643-5122/6560087, ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM
1 General domestic (housekeeping) Ages 30-45. Tel 673-5300
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL:225-7126/ 2263 6 9 3 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL @YAHOO.COM/ WWW.D OLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM
LEARN TO DRIVE
Fabs Rental, Beterverwagting ECD Cars from $4000 #604-0883
HEALTH
AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FORAIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807
HERBAL REMEDIES: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, Enlarged prostate, Kidney,Gall stones & Arthritis etc. Call Sparman #676-5924
WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP R AT E S , S P E C I A L OFFERS! . CALL: 6906494
1 Working female to share an apartment. #672-3445
N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/6912561 VEHICLE FOR SALE
VACANCY One (1) seamstress to work for an established company. Must have experience. Call 672-4695 for more information Surveyor Technician. Must know to use GPS. Contact 2235273/74 General domestic with cooking experience for East Bank. #614-4358 2 Experienced welder fabricators & 2 riggers with experience to do height work urgent. Contact 697-4258 One cleaner. Apply at Alabama Trading. 65 Robb Street Vacancies exist at Nirva Superstore for cashiers and supermarket helpers. Apply in person with written application. Tel#227-5775 Vacancy for mason. Apply at Alabama Trading. 65 Robb St Bourda Sales girl. Apply at Alabama Trading 65-67 Robb Street Bourda Receptionist. Ages 25-50. #225-0198. 233 South Road Lacytown Male factory worker needed, must have police clearance. For more info, call: 223-0090 Outdoor salesman. Apply at Dharmendra Variety Store. Lot B7-9, Avenue of the Republic, Lacytown, Georgetown. 675-3440, 6708862 Urgent 1 male & female with creole cooking experince to multitask, flexible hours. Contact X’s Grill and Cuisine #695-6550/656-9313 One experience truck/tractor driver to drive distribution vehicle. Apply @ 65-67 Robb Street Bourda 1 qualified female teacher/ tutor to teach/care for 3yr old boy. Apply 65-67 Robb St Bourda Alabama Experienced accounts clerk. Must have passes in maths & english. Apply @ Alabama Trading 65-67 Robb Street Bourda
Bedford TL Truck GHH 6776, engine in perfect condition. Tacoma 2005, excellent condtion GTT 1295. Tel#687-3146 Honda Suv, PTT Series.Call: 623-0368/225-9230/225-1005
1 Cook and 1 domestic at University Garden. Workers needed from surrounding area. Call 231-8737 Start a new career. Free training. Earn 5k-20k daily. 233-6997/622-1957 www.jobfairworldwide.com
From page 18 from maximising short-term profit to focusing on longer-term growth goals. “The SDGs give you a sense of moral satisfaction. Twenty years from now, when I look back at my life experience, I don't want to look at it as money-making and career-making. I want to be proud of what I have done. “The SDGs are a wonderful way to create solutions, to create a balanced lifestyle, to make money, and to change the world. When you are in a better world, which our world should be by 2030, you will look back and say, 'I was part of it'. That is quite motivating,” quoted Ms Tanaka. One of our main partners, Ramps Logistic Business Development Manager, said at the opening ceremony, that the company is big on CSR. It continues to support events such as the expo because it will contribute to the personal an economic growth for women. The company was also a sponsor for the first Living with Intention Youth Forum for girls at the Theater Guild. The other mail partners were Integrated Security Services, Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Ministry of Public Telecommunications. Jernej Videtic, Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation and his wife; Vice- Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith; Waneka Arindale and Derrick Cummings, Permanent Secretary, Public Telecommunications were among the dignitaries present during the opening. VACANCY Accounts clerk. Apply in person at Alabama Trading. 65 Robb Street, Bourda Urgently needed: one office assistant. Age 25-30. One live in domestic. Age 28-38. Attractive salary offer. Tel:603-2590 Industrial Sales Representative, 5 Subject CXC Age 25+ Experience in Sales, must own vehicle, email resume: vacancy@josarltd.com One waitress & cook needed. Apply in person at the coffee bean 133 Church Street #233-2222 Female cleaner office & home age 25to 50 Tel# 2332745 Looking for a job & educational services? Contact The Job Centre 43 Croal & Alexander Street or call 502-4002/683-8765 Tutor/Nanny to work from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb Street Chef & assistant cook preferably Carnegie trained. #225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff Street
Friday March 08, 2019
PAGE 31
Kaieteur News
19-yr-old charged with Guyana dubbed world’s killing Guyanese in St. Lucia best ecotourism destination St Lucia (St. Lucia Times) - A 19-year-old has been charged with murder in connection with the stabbing death of Guyanese national, Michael Pooran, last month. The incident occurred at Bagatelle, Castries. Law enforcement officials have identified the murder suspect as Matthew de Flermon. Michael Pooran was stabbed to death at a party in Bagatelle. The deceased came to Saint Lucia in 2014. According to the police, Saint Lucia has so far recorded six homicides for the year. Debbie Lustal, the mother of the Guyanese national, had described her son as having been an outgoing individual who always put a smile on everyone’s face. “He was the life of the party,” Lustal recalled. She said Michael Pooran, 27, always liked to make people feel happy. Pooran, who lived between his mother’s home in Odsan and a friend’s home at Bagatelle, died after he was stabbed at a party in Bagatelle. The mother said she has been hearing various versions of what actually led up to the stabbing. According to Lustal, her son died from multiple stab wounds.
The judges were impressed by Rewa Eco-Lodge, a small Indigenous community in the North Rupununi Forest
Mom, Debbie Lustal and son, Michael Pooran She said based on what she saw of the body, he had ‘a lot of holes’ in his stomach and chest. Lustal, who has three children, told St Lucia Times that Pooran was her only son. She said she never knew
him to be in problems with anyone and did now know that he had any enemies. Lustal recalled that on one occasion, her son told her that he had been robbed, whereupon she advised him to be careful on the road.
$220M Sophia Children and Family... From page 28 According to Norma her main priority is to ensure that the children housed at the facility, receive the necessary love, care and attention they need. “I am proud of the children that left the Drop-In Centre … There are children, who would have become nurses, teachers, even a paramedic and there is one presently studying to become an Agronomist. We have different careers and I am proud of them, some I sent to be trained at the Kuru
Kuru Training Centre and they are doing their own jobs” “We have children who are there with lots and lots of problems, because of abuse, because of so many things we take for granted as parents. As their support, you have to be an individual that is cohesive, tolerant, patient and kind so you can help them to be what they want to be, help them to develop self-esteem,” She has been in the profession for more than
five years and emphasised that her job demands a positive personality and a strong mindset. “For example, when we have a new intake, a child might throw tantrums and display all sorts of behaviour. There are children who may have lived an abusive life and try to bring it into our domain and the challenge is to get that child to be comfortable and understand that they are in a different environment and that there are rules and regulations they must abide by.”
The best country in the world for Eco-tourism is Guyana, for its “global leadership in offering responsible tourism opportunities”. This was announced by the largest global trade fair called ITB (Internationale TourismusBörse) Berlin. The Green Destinations Foundation, in Berlin, Germany, held the “Best of Top 100” Awards during the fair. The winner is the country that achieved the most success in sustainability. Submissions were received from around the world and Guyana was awarded first place in the “Best of Ecotourism” category, which was added this year. Guyana competed against other well-known ecotourism destinations like Sierra Gorda in Mexico, Tmatboey in Cambodia, and the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. At Berlin’s Messe Berlin exhibition grounds, President of the Green Destinations Foundation, Albert Salman made the announcement. Brian Mullis, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, accepted the award. Mullis told the gathering that “Guyana has expended considerable effort in recent years not only to develop
new and innovative ecofriendly tourism products as a part of the national Green State Development Strategy, but also to incorporate sustainable tourism best practice into all aspects of its strategy, planning and programming while educating the world about its deep commitment to maximising the positive socioeconomic and conservation outcomes from tourism.” When asked about Guyana’s selection as number one in the “Best of Ecotourism” category, Mr. Albert Salman, President of the Green Destinations Foundation said, “The Top 100 Awards Jury was impressed by the dossier prepared by Guyana Tourism Authority for the Top100-nomination and by the success stories submitted of Surama and Rewa.
“Both these eco lodges have ambitious and admirable goals and successes, are community-owned and led, and aim at preserving Guyana’s ecosystems and indigenous traditions. The Jury also liked that Guyana has a policy of a ‘Green, Inclusive and Prosperous Guyana’ that provides a good quality of life for all its citizens based on a sound education and social protection, low-carbon resilient development, green and decent jobs, economic opportunities, individual equality, justice, and political empowerment.” Guyana also recently became the first country to adopt the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s International Adventure Travel Guide Qualification & Performance Standards.
PAGE 32
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
PAGE 33
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
Over 200 small businesses not registered with GRA, NIS, Deeds Registry –IDB Report reveals By Kiana Wilburg A study by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) has found that there are more than 200 small and medium scale businesses that are not registered with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and the Deeds Registry. In its report titled, “Small Business Survival in Guyana: Insights and Implications”, the IDB said that these small businesses which account for 60 percent of its 439 surveyed participants, form part of the nation’s informal economy. In fact, the Bank found that only 23.9 percent of the respondents were registered with NIS, while 32.9 percent and 25.8 percent were registered with the GRA and the Deeds Registry, respectively. Be that as it may, the Bank found that being formally registered with government agencies (GRA, NIS and Deeds Registry), was not a significant determinant of the survivability of small and medium scale businesses (SMEs). The Bank explained that there were no significant differences in survival rates of SMEs based on legal form. It said, however, that the SMEs that were formally registered
with the Deeds Registry, NIS, and GRA reported lower survival duration than the companies that were not registered. It said, “The survival duration of firms registered with GRA, NIS, and Deeds Registry were 12.7 years, 13.6 years and 12.4, years respectively. Meanwhile, the survival duration for SMEs not registered were 17.1 years (NIS), 16.6 years (GRA) and 17 years (Deeds Registry). These preliminary results could be interpreted to mean that the SMEs that operated in the informal sector outlived those in the formal sector...” Interestingly, the financial institution noted that the results of its survey indicate that women-owned SMEs were more prone to fail than men-owned SMEs. It said, too, that the age, educational background, and experience of the owners of these businesses were not significantly related to their survival. However, the location and type of economic activities pursued by SMEs impacted considerably on their survival. The Bank said that while SMEs play an essential role in the Guyanese economy, as they provide significant employment opportunities and contribute to wealth creation, they were never given any
serious policy attention prior to the enactment of the Small Business Act. This legislation sets out an incentive regime to support SMEs. It includes: the establishment of a Development Fund, a guarantee of at least 25 percent of government procurement being directed to small firms, and the establishment of the Small Business Council and Bureau to promote policies supportive of the small business sector. Notwithstanding this, the IDB pointed out that SMEs continue to be constrained and report high failure rates. It said that one of the perennial complaints of small business owners is lack of access to affordable credit. On this premise, the IDB recommended some practical recommendations for strengthening credit programmes targeting SMEs in Guyana. The IDB said, “First, initiatives designed to provide finance and other support, such as public procurement,
Muslim scholar rape trial further deferred
The trial of Muslim scholar, Neezam Ali, who has been indicted on nine counts of sexual activity with a child by abusing a position of trust with an alternative count of rape of a child under 16 years, has been further deferred to next Tuesday. The matter was slated to commence before Justice Navindra Singh at the Georgetown High Court yesterday. It was delayed to facilitate other pressing matters on the Court schedule. Some seven years ago, Ali, also known as ‘Mufti’, an Imam, whose last known address is said to be South Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, was charged after it was alleged that he raped nine boys, who took Quran and Arabic lessons from him. The victims alleged that Ali had penetrative anal intercourse with them while they were attending classes at a Masjid on the East Coast of Demerara. Following a preliminary inquiry before Magistrate Alex Moore, Ali was committed to stand trial for the offences in 2013. Shortly after Ali’s committal in 2013, his
Muslim scholar, Neezam Ali lawyer, Nigel Hughes, filed an action in the High Court to have the committal overturned. However, this was rejected by the court. His application was made on several grounds, including that the Magistrate acted in excess of his jurisdiction when he failed to consider the expert opinion of Dr. Walter Ramsahoye, who testified that it was impossible for Ali to commit the act, since he is impotent. This statement was the essence of Ali’s defence, one which he claimed was ignored by the prosecution and the
Magistrate. But Magistrate Moore in response, noted that police witness, Inspector Hatty David, testified that Dr. Ramsahoye’s opinion was formed from information provided by Ali, and was not one which came as result of doctors treating and attending to a medical condition, which Ali reportedly suffered, over a period of time. However, in 2017, the matter was sent back to the Magistrates’ Court based on directive from the DPP. Then, it was reported that the medical reports and birth certificates, of the nine boys involved in the case had allegedly disappeared.In addition to remitting the matter to Magistrate Alex Moore to re-open the paper committals, the DPP also issued a directive to the Guyana Police Force to obtain certified copies of the original documents. Kaieteur News understands that those files have since been reconstructed. The following year, Magistrate Moore, again, committed Ali to stand trial. Ali is out on $1.3M bail pending the hearing and determination of his trial.
should not be viewed as the panacea for helping SMEs to survive and grow. “More ancillary 29 services, such as marketing assistance, quality assurance, financial planning and analysis, and business coaching
may be needed in program delivery to improve survivability. Credit-only interventions and the incubation of businesses via public procurement that do not include training may be ill-designed.” The financial institution continued, “Second, the criteria used for assessing the suitability of SMEs for various modalities of assistance under the Micro and Small Enterprises Development Project (MSED) project should be reexamined. “While this initiative
places significant weight on the experience in business and the educational background of business owners, there are firm-specific factors which are also important.” The Bank added, “The evaluation framework should, therefore, be amended. Third, under the MSED project, the Small Business Bureau (SBB) is required to establish and maintain a database of SMEs registered with the agency. The Act also empowers the SBB to collect and maintain a database of SMEs.”
PAGE 34
Kaieteur News
James passes Jordan to go fourth on all-time NBA scoring list - can’t prevent LA Lakers losing to the Denver Nuggets
LeBron James buries a basket during LA Lakers’ defeat by Denver Nuggets on Wednesday.
Mailonline - LeBron James has surpassed Michael Jordan to climb into fourth place on the NBA’s career scoring list, behind only Kobe Bryant, Karl Malone and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He scored 31 points to go past Jordan’s 32,292 career points, but could not help the LA Lakers past Denver Nuggets on Wednesday night. Next in his sights in Bryant, who finished with 33,643 points. James was congratulated by his Lakers team-mates as the crowd at Staples Center rose to acknowledge his achievement. At the next timeout he sat alone on the
bench with his face buried in a towel as a video tribute to him was played in the arena. ‘A lot of stuff that I’ve done in my career, this ranks right up at the top (with) winning a championship,’ James said. ‘For a kid from Akron, Ohio, that needed inspiration and needed some type of positive influence, MJ was that guy for me. ‘I watched him from afar, wanted to be like MJ, wanted to shoot fadeaways like MJ, wanted to stick my tongue out on dunks like MJ, wanted to wear my sneakers like MJ. ‘I wanted kids to look up to me at some point like MJ, and it’s crazy, to be honest. ‘
Denver Nuggets’ Gary Harris added: ‘You’ve got to appreciate him. We’re witnessing greatness. It’s an honor.’ The Nuggets snapped their three-game losing streak with a 115-99 victory despite James’ historic score. NBA TOP SCORERS 1 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar 38,387 2 Karl Malone - 36,928 3 Kobe Bryant - 33,643 4 LeBron James - 32,311 5 Michael Jordan - 32,292 6 Wilt Chamberlain 31,419 7 Dirk Nowitzki - 31,362 8 Shaquille O’Neal - 28,596 9 Moses Malone - 27,409 10 Elvin Hayes - 27,313
Maxwell unbeaten ... Friday March 08, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Creative projects may take on a new intensity now. New ideas and visions may appear out of nowhere. Whatever you're working on could have new meaning for you and others. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Expect some changes in your household today. You could finally be making some repairs or remodeling or redecorating. It's also possible that someone could move in or out. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You're a sociable person with a gift for small talk and interesting discussions. Today you will find some amazing information that will keep your conversations fascinating for months. CANCER(June21–July22) Sudden, positive changes in your financial condition could come your way. This could be an increase in income or involve some kind of windfall. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You could be planning a major journey of some kind, Leo. It may be a long vacation or travel to foreign countries, or it could be an intellectual or spiritual journey into new schools of thought. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You're practical and down to Earth, Virgo. Today your intuition is more active than usual. You might receive some powerful messages from the higher planes that open up new doors for you.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Travel by air seems possible today. The appeal of foreign countries may be too strong to resist. If you don't have a passport, you'd better apply! SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) The Universe is encouraging you to listen today, Scorpio. This isn't a day for polemic speeches. It isn't a day to try to win others over to your point of view. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Sudden opportunities for advancement may come your way today. Innovative ideas may have paved the way for you, so your skills and abilities are appreciated now. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) New and expansive ideas for investing time or funds could make a big difference to your future income. Today you feel especially in control of your life. You should have the power to put your plans in motion. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) A relationship that may have in the past been based primarily on intellectual interests may take a sudden turn toward romance. If you aren't careful, Aquarius, this could turn into an obsession! PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) If you've been feeling under the weather, expect to feel stronger today than you were before. Your enthusiasm is up and new ideas are flowing into your brain.
From page 37 Ambassador scored 113-9. Damian Ross made 40 (4x4 2x6) and Melroy Albert got 21. Marvin Cheong captured 4-14 and Shane Persaud 2-16. In reply Rising Star reached the target in 16.3 overs. Cheong scored 34; Joel Thomas took 2-12 and Emmanuel Martin 2-24. Host Canal Sports Club overcame Dynasty by 51 runs. Canal Sports Club took first strike and scored 175-6. Chabiraj Ramcharran slammed 54 and Tejpaul Persaud 31; Brian Puran had 2-26. Dynasty in reply scored 124-7. Robin Singh got 19 and Devindra Ramdial 16; Narendra Persaud claimed 3-20 and Seecharran Persaud 2-14.
Agippa guides Covent... From page 37 responce; Q Wallace stroked 54. Central High School batted first and posted 111-5. Deonarine Tiwari struck 47; Akeem Charles had 2-26. Carmel Secondary responded with 115-3. Rawle Singh made 44; D. Tiwari took 2-25.
Friday March 08, 2019
Skyy Vodka on board Birth Anniversary Domino... From page 40 competition will have to conform with the rules and regulations that will govern the event,” Mittleholzer assured. Meanwhile, close to $300,000 in prize monies and trophies will be up for grabs in the tournament which commences tomorrow and ends the following day at the Sparta Boss Square located behind Rubis Gas Station on Mandela Avenue. The winning team will receive $150,000, while second and third place finishers take home $75,000 and $40,000 respectively. Entrance fee is $15,000 per team , while the Most Valuable player (MVP) of the final will be awarded $8,000. According to the Organiser, there will be two Citizen Watches up for grabs for the MVPs male and female of the preliminary stages. The rules of the competition are as follows: (1) The first three rounds will be played using the points system; (2) The top nine teams will advance to the semi-finals; (3) Semi-finals will be played in sudden death in a 1-in-2- out system and the three teams to win will move on to the finals. Each team will be presented with a bottle of Skyy Vodka on completion of registration. Among the other sponsors on board are Grill Kings, YK Pawn Shop, Montcherri Beauty Salon, John Lewis Fashion, Magnum and Campari. Also present will be one-man band Stitchie.
FIFA recommends... From page 35 introduced at the men’s World Cup last year in Russia. The FIFA council will make a final decision on whether the technology will be used at this year’s women’s event, which runs from June 7-July 7, when it meets in Miami later this month. “I can’t see them not having (VAR), I think it would be a little bit insulting if we weren’t afforded the same opportunity (as the men),” U.S. coach Jill Ellis said in July. The technology, which is operating in most of the leading European soccer leagues, has been used in the Champions League knockout stage for the first time this season. The English Premier League plans to use VAR next season.
Friday March 08, 2019
PAGE 35
Kaieteur News
Women’s World Cup trophy excites, inspires kids in Jamaica Montego Bay, Jamaica – Even though it rained, the lure of the Fifa Women’s World Cup trophy was too strong to resist. Boys and girls, men and women all poured into the Montego Bay Sports Complex on Sunday to get a glimpse of, and photo opportunities, with the shining trophy as it made its first stop on its global sojourn. The trophy’s arrival, with the usual security detail, coincided with the Reggae Girlz’s friendly international match against Chile and a grassroots festival in the morning. Jamaica, which like Chile is debuting at the June 7-July 7 Women’s World Cup in France, won the match 3-2. Sunday’s win completed a sweep of the two-match series, with the Girlz winning the first in Jamaica’s capital Kingston 1-0 on Thursday night. Among those attending the trophy ceremony were Concacaf general secretary Philippe Moggio, Fifa’s Chief of Women’s Football Officer Sarai Bareman, head of women’s football at Concacaf Karina LeBlanc, Concacaf’s Director of Caribbean football Horace Reid officials of Fifa, the Caribbean Football Union, the Jamaica Football
From left, One Concacaf Senior Manager Howard McIntosh; Concacaf Caribbean Director Horace Reid; Concacaf General Secretary Philippe Moggio and Concacaf Head of Women’s football Karina LeBlanc pose with the Fifa Women’s World Cup trophy in Montego Bay, Jamaica, recently. Federation (JFF) and civic leaders. “This obviously is historic and was indeed a great experience, and even though it rained, it could not dampen the spirit and the excitement surrounding the trophy,” said JFF president Michael Ricketts. “Qualifying for the World Cup was a fillip for women’s
football in Jamaica and even the wider Caribbean, and for the World Cup trophy to be on the show was indeed a source of motivation for both girls and boys wanting to pursue the beautiful game of football,” he added. Ricketts said the experience was priceless from a personal point of view, plus its impact on the Jamaican
FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019™: Individual tickets now on sale
Concacaf Head of Women’s football Karina LeBlanc pose with the Fifa Women’s World Cup Mascot. FIFA - With only three months to go until the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ kicks off, individual tickets are now on sale at www.fifa.com/ fifawwc/tickets. Category 4 tickets for all group matches are available from €9, apart from the opening match between France and Korea Republic at the Parc des Princes on Friday 7 June, for which prices start at €13. Lyon will host the semifinals (2-3 July) and the final (7 July) of the tournament,
with prices for the final ranging from €23 for category 4 to €84 for category 1. Visa, the Official Payment Services Partner of FIFA, is the preferred payment method for FIFA Women’s World Cup ticket sales. Before this latest sales phase, an impressive 535,000 tickets had already been sold. French supporters are leading ticket purchases (53 per cent of sales), with a significant number of fans from the USA (23 per cent) and the
Netherlands (9 per cent) also snapping up tickets. The three stadiums that have sold the most seats so far are Lyon (150,000), Paris (120,000) and Rennes (55,000). The FIFA Women’s World Cup – to be held from 7 June to 7 July – will feature 24 teams contesting 52 matches across nine Host Cities in France: Grenoble, Le Havre, Lyon, Montpellier, Nice, Paris, Reims, Rennes and Valenciennes.
football product on the whole. “You could see the excitement from the kids as they took photographs with the trophy and this must have a positive impact on them, and Jamaica’s football on the whole. I was personally delighted to have been a part of the exercise and to be that
close to the trophy that the 24 teams in the Women’s World Cup will be vying for,” Ricketts ended. Meanwhile, chairperson of the JFF Women’s Committee, Elaine WalkerBrown, said: “I was very excited to be a part of the trophy experience.” “This is an excitement that has carried over from our Girlz first qualified for the World Cup… so I think the trophy coming to Montego Bay was very inspirational for everyone, especially the kids who participated and had the opportunity to take pictures with the trophy. To me, this is all a dream, and I don’t want to wake up. It’s all awesome,” she said, beside herself with excitement. The trophy, after its Jamaica stop, is headed to Chile and Argentina before continuing its tour of all 24 participating member associations across six continents, giving fans a rare opportunity to see the coveted prize up close. As part of the trophy experience in Jamaica, a grassroots training exercise with some 120 children aged 6-12 years and from five parishes on the island was the heart and soul of the
interactive morning session. FIFA Legends Squad member and former Reggae Girl Tashana Vincent shared her knowledge of the game with the excited children, plus gave them a demonstration of her footballing skills. Bareman and LeBlanc also participated in the training exercises, a move to be a part of the fun, but more importantly, to spur interest in the game among the kids. Following the morning festival, the JFF officially launched its kiddies grassroots program, which is aimed at impacting young players from the 14 parishes in the country. Head coach of the Reggae Girlz and Concacaf Women’s Coach of the Year Hue Menzies endorsed the national grassroots activation. “We take grassroots seriously because it’s the future of our game and the festivals will allow us to pick out some of the talents and make sure they come into our program. We have seen a significant amount of support over the last few years from the public, so we hope that continues because we need it,” he said.
Azarenka, Konta cruise into second round at Indian Wells Indian Wells, Calif (Reuters) - Former world number one Victoria Azarenka dismissed Vera Lapko 6-2 6-3 to set up a second round clash with Serena Williams while Johanna Konta cruised to a straight sets win in opening round action at the BNP Paribas Open on Wednesday. After falling behind 2-0 at the start, Azarenka reeled off six straight games and ultimately made quick work of Lapko on a windy day in the California desert. Konta’s pinpoint serving proved too much for France’s Pauline Parmentier to handle as the Briton coasted to a 6-2 6-3 win to set up a second-round clash with Hsieh Su-wei of Taiwan. Two young Americans also advanced on Wednesday as 17-year-old Amanda Anisimova crushed Serbia’s Aleksandra Krunic 60 6-4 and 20-year-old Sofia Kenin came from behind to dispatch China’s Wang Yafan 1-6 7-5 6-4. Canadian Bianca Andreescu, fresh off her semifinal appearance at the Mexican Open in Acapulco last week, defeated IrinaCamelia Begu of Romania 6-
Victoria Azarenka 7(3) 6-3 6-3 to set up a second round battle with Dominika Cibulkova. Czech Barbora Strycova, China’s Zhang Shuai,
American Jennifer Brady and German Tatjana Maria were among the other players to advance at the event in Indian Wells.
FIFA recommends use of VAR at 2019 Women’s World Cup Zurich (Reuters) - FIFA has recommended the use of video assistant referee (VAR) technology for the 2019 Women’s World Cup in France this year. The
organising committee of world soccer’s governing body met on Monday and backed the use of VAR at the tournament after it was (Continued on page 34)
PAGE 36
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
West Indies Championship
Shepherd 5-24, Bramble’s 62 give Jaguars slim advantage;22 wickets tumble on eventful 1st day Story and photos by Sean Devers A fair size working day gathering saw 22 wickets tumble on an eventful opening day of the Guyana Jaguars’ final round day/night match against Trinidad Red Force in the fifth annual Regional Four-Day Championship last night at Providence. Twenty-five-year-old Romario Shepherd bowled with good pace and control to capture 5-24; his second five-wicket haul, which took his tally for the season to 34 scalps. The Berbician from Tucber Park got support from Sherfane Rutherford who took 2-31 as Red Force were bowled out for 120 half hour after the first break. Only Imran Khan with 37 from 43 balls and 67 minutes with eight fours and Tion Webster 30 from 60 balls, 62 minutes wi t h f i v e f o u r, reached 30. Anthony Bramble’s 10th first-Class fifty (62 from 76 balls, 114 minutes with 7 fours and a six) was the only score above 20 for the Jaguars who reached 165 with Daniel St Clair (3-29), Oden Smith (3-37) and Anderson Phillip (2-63) doing the damage for the Red Force who were 17-2 in their second
innings still 28 runs in arrears. Red Force with a deficit of 45 began their second innings and needing to survive 11 overs to the close. Solozano was caught behind off the first ball from Shepherd before Webster drove Shepherd past mid-off for four. DaSilva got off the mark by edging Reifer for four before Rutherford removed Webster. Earlier, in scorching heat, the Red force opted to bat on a track with a tinge of green and some help for the pacers, 20-year-old Joshua DaSilva (0) cut at a wide delivery from Raymon Reifer and was taken at Gully without a run on the board. Jeremey Solozano (6) edged Shepherd for four before edging him to second slip at 11-2 while three runs later, Skipper Denish Ramdin (1) who joined the team late, played at one that left him from the impressive Shepherd and nicked a catch to the Keeper. Shepherd struck three balls later when Jason Mohammed was caught at third slip for a duck as the team from a Country which celebrated the biggest Carnival in the Caribbean last Tuesday slumped to 14-4. Tion Webster stroked Reifer gloriously through the covers for four before square-
Imran Khan top scored for Red Force with fighting 37. driving and pulling Shepherd past wide mid-on for back-toback boundaries and along with Khary Pierre, who scored his maiden century in the last round took the score to 42. Webster was then caught behind off Rutherford for 30 after facing 60 balls from 62 minutes with five fours. Pierre then gloved a hook of a short ball from Barnwell which got ‘big’ on him and Bramble came forward to take the lobbed catch for his 40th dismissal of the tournament. Khan and Smith counter attacked before the powerfully built Smith who pulled him into the Red Stand and smashed him for four was bowled by
Rutherford for a cameo 19 at 78-7. Khan, who began as an opener, was batting well on a good wicket against some testing seam bowling and with St Clair carried the Jaguars to 94-7 by dinner break. After the 30-minutes interval was completed, St Clair was LBW to Veerasammy Permaul at 108-8 before Khan hung his bat at one that left from Shepherd, who removed Phillip for a duck four runs later as Red Force were bowled 30 minutes after the break. Chasing the small total, another failure by the Jaguars’ top order left them
The Cricket West Indies (CWI) Senior Female Regional 50-over and T20 tournaments will be hosted this year in Guyana, with six teams competing for the coveted titles. The tournament will commence on March 17 and will feature Guyana, Windward Islands, Leeward Islands, Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. Cricket lovers can look forward to viewing the matches at the Guyana National StadiumProvidence, Everest Cricket Club, Georgetown Cricket Club and Enmore Community Center ground. Recently the Guyana Senior female cricketers were engaged in an Inter County tournament in
which their performances were assessed for selection. The Guyana’s squad reads: Shemaine Campbelle (Captain), Akaze Thompson (Vice Captain), Tremayne Smartt, Erva Giddings, Sheneta Grimmond, Plaffiana Millington, Lashuna Toussaint, Shebika Gajnabi, Cherry Ann Frazer, Mandy Mangru, Kaysia Schultz, Melanie Henry, Lafona Gilgeous and Africa Gentle. Carol Nurse (Manager) and Bharrat Mangru (Coach). Stand by’s: Shemika Edward, Heema Singh, Subrina Munroe, Marian Samaroo, Lisa Charles and Dian Prahalad. The Guyana Senior Female encampment is scheduled to commence from Monday.
Tuschen, LBI triumph in latest round of MYO Inter -Jamaat 15 overs CWI Regional female 50-over tourney bowls Softball Cricket off on March 17
Tuschen Train Station Masjid and La Bonne Intention (LBI) recorded victories when the play in the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) Inter-Jamaat 15-over softball competition continued on Sunday last at MYO ground. Tuschen Train Station Masjid defeated Corneila Ida/ Hague Jamaat by 49 runs. Tuschen Train Station Masjid managed 164-7 after they were sent in. Rajesh Babooram made 40 with two fours and a similar number of sixes while Aslam Wajid and Feroze Rahaman made 26 each. Mohamed Omar and Amir Hussain picked up two wickets each. Corneila Ida/Hague Jamaat were bowled out for 115 in 12.4 overs in reply. Opener Nazim Azeez got 42
(5x6) while Amir Hussain made 28. Talim Gafoor picked up 3-2 from one over while Arshad Azim and Harry Singh had two each. LBI overcame MYO by 3 wickets. MYO playing with nine players took first strike and made 113 all out in 14.2 overs. Majeed Khan hammered two fours and five sixes before he was the last batsman to be dismissed for 57 while Azad Ibrahim made 13; Kevin Persaud picked up 4-14 and Safraz Ally 2-12. LBI struggled somewhat but eventually reached their target in 13.2 overs losing 7 wickets. Safraz Ally made 47 and Chris Khan 22. Javid Kayume captured 3-11 while Khan and Fazal Nazeem took two apiece for 15 and 18 runs respectively.
Romario Shepherd took 6 wickets for the Jaguars on day one. on the ropes at 42-4. Chanderpaul Hemraj (4) whipped Phillips for four before being caught behind next ball at 14-1 before Chanderpaul, who tucked Phillip effortless past mid-on and drove him delightfully the cover boundary, was caught and bowled, driving powerfully back St Clair for eight as two wickets fell on 14. Skipper Leon Johnson’s woes continued when pushed forward hesitantly and missed a ‘nothing’ shot to be bowled by the lively St Clair for a duck with the score 22-3. Singh looked compact while Chris Barnwell slashed St Clair past point for four and punched Phillip behind point for successive boundaries before two sets of flood lights on the western side of the ground malfunctioned at 18:00hrs with the score on 423. After an early Tea was taken, Jaguars lost Barnwell, just when he was look set for a good score he was trapped on the crease and was LBW St Clair after making a 27-ball 20 with three fours at 42-4. Singh continued to well before, when on 17 with three fours, the little lefthander and Bramble took the score to 87 with 45 run stand before Singh was LBW to Smith. Reifer got a short lifting delivery from the pacey Smith and was taken at second slip for a second ball duck to leave the wounded Jaguars on 87-6. Rutherford pounded two ferocious boundaries in his 11 but then played a nonsensical shot and skied the ball ‘miles’ into the air
for the Keeper Ramdin to run back to hold the offering at short fine leg at 103-7, still 17 away from the Red Force score Bramble, with two centuries in the early part of this season, fought fire with fire and soon reached his fifty from 50 balls, 77 minutes with seven fours and a six and along with Shepherd, who has two fifties for the season, conspired to once again lift the Jaguars out of a precarious position. But with the score on and the partnership worth 40, Shepherd was LBW for 18 at 143-8 before Bramble was bowled off the inside edge by Phillip at 159-9. Khan then trapped Permaul (5) to end the innings. Today is the second day and play starts 14:00hrs. In other scores: Jamaica Scorpions, sent in by Barbados Pride, reached 218 for seven at the close on the opening day of their final round match at Sabina P a r k h e r e y e s t e r d a y. Scores: Scorpions 218 for seven (Nkrumah Bonner 97, Paul Palmer 66; Marquino Mindley 3-36) vs Pride. And Leeward Islands Hurricanes, replying to Wi n d w a r d Islands Vo l c a n oes’ 200 all out, reached 132 for four on the opening day of their final round match at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium here yesterday. Scores: Volcanoes 200 (Sunil Ambris 92, Kimani Melius 29, Dennis Smith 27; Sheno Berridge 4-34, Alzarri Joseph 3-36). Hurricanes 132 for four (Devon Thomas 63 not out; Alick Athanaze 2-16).
Friday March 08, 2019
PAGE 37
Kaieteur News
GFF officially launch ‘Roar to Gold Cup’, Guyana vs Belize clash on March 23 @ Leonora
GFF President Wayne Forde during his remarks, yesterday. Just over two weeks remain before Guyana’s ‘Golden Jaguars’ match skills with Belize in their final game of the Concacaf Nations League and the spirit among the squad and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)
couldn’t be higher as they anticipate victory which will ultimately result in Guyana’s debut at the Concacaf Gold Cup that kicks off in the USA, this June. With 15 day’s remaining, the official launch took place
Amrit Rai Memorial T20
Maxwell unbeaten ton hands MMZ comfortable win Captain Jermain Maxwell scored his fourth century as Meten-Meer Zorg (MMZ) Future Youths defeated Leguan by 155 runs when play in the FAB Mining sponsored Amrit Rai Memorial T20 tournament continued on Sunday last at West Demerara. MMZ Future Youths posted 232-2, taking first strike. Maxwell struck 127 not out (13x4 7x6) from 68 balls. He was well supported by Sheldon Alexander who scored 68 (6x4 3x6). Leguan was never in the hunt and were bowled out for 75. Sham Persaud scored 30 and Wazir Ali 17. Sheldon Alexander and Timur Mohamed took two wickets each. At Meten-Meer-Zorg West - Meten-Meer-Zorg Cricket Club got the better of Windsor Forest by 18 runs. Batting first, MMZ Cricket Club scored 156-5. Rabindra Dasrat scored 51 (6x4 2x6) from 40 balls while Mahendra Nandkishore made 46, Kevin Coleman 21 and Zamal Khan 20 not out. Mohan Chaitram had 213. Windsor Forest managed 138-7 in reply. Lalta Suknanan got 32, Doodnauth Dhanraj 27 and Deoram Chanderbir 26.
Jermain Maxwell Nandkishore picked up 2-7 and Vishal Jaigobin 2-32. At Zeeburg, the home team beat Saw Pit by eight wickets. Saw Pit batted first and were bowled out for 91 in 18.1 overs. Zafar Khan made 30; Reylex Payne grabbed 4-14 while Malcolm Hubbard and Yetesh Dhanpaul had two apiece. Zeeburg in reply raced to 922 in 16.2 overs. Mark Jeffers scored 36 not out and Balbinder Shivpersaud 34 not out. At Canal #2 Sports Club - Rising Star A defeated Christ Ambassador by one wicket. Batting first, Christ (Continued on page 34)
Ian Greenwood - GFF TD yesterday at the Guyana Pegasus Hotel, which is one of the new partners and the team hotel of the Golden Jaguars under the theme, ‘Roar to Gold Cup’. Sharing remarks at the event were President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, GFF Technical Director Ian Greenwood, Assistant Golden Jaguars Coach Charles ‘Lily’ Pollard, Social Media Officer Keeran Williams and Golden Jaguar Midfielder, Anthony Benfield. Forde stressed that it will be Guyana vs. Belize on the 23rd: “Often times when we say Guyana Golden Jaguars, we take away the national significance but we will have the unique opportunity to have a 12th man in the game, and that is the fans’ support. So we would like to invite every Guyanese that has the means to reach to Leonora, to come out and support the match.” Forde continued: “There is not a single doubt amongst the players, coaching staff or the GFF administration that
Guyana will not win, we are going to prevail.” Greenwood oozed confidence, noting that, “It’s an exciting time for Guyana, we are 90 minutes away from qualifying for the Gold Cup and it will be an exciting achievement when we get there. We have drastically improved the overall operations and management and of the senior national team. Match fees and bonuses have improved by around 65% for both local and overseas players and that shows how serious we are about player welfare.” Greenwood also disclosed that the locally based players have been in training for eight weeks and will travel to Suriname next
Charles ‘Lily’ Pollard Golden Jaguars Assistant Coach week to engage the host in a practice match. Coach Pollard was brief in his address, “As a player it was a privilege and as a coach it’s a greater privilege to be representing Guyana. I have played for Guyana for over two decades and I have never witnessed such a big preparation. It’s a great initiative by the GFF to put together this eight week programme for the local based players and I believe it gives the locals a fair chance to challenge the overseas based members of the squad for a spot on the starting eleven.” Midfielder Benfield who has been around for some years took the opportunity to represent his fellow players: “It’s a dream come true for me
and the team and we are one game away from qualifying for the biggest tournament in the region. We are calling for a huge turn out from the local fans and we are hoping for you guys (fans) to be hostile as possible to the visiting side.” Tickets for goes on sale today and cost $1500 and are available at the GFF Secretariat (Dadanawa Street, Section ‘K’ Campbellville), Guinness Bar (Durban Street), West Indian Sports Complex (Robb Street) and Andrew’s Supermarket (Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt). In addition, Official Replica Jerseys are available at GFF Secretariat at a cost of $5000.00 each. (Calvin Chapman)
PAGE 38
Friday March 08, 2019
Kaieteur News
Execution key at Warner Park: Drakes Basseterre, St Kitts, CMC – Assistant coach Vasbert Drakes has underscored the importance of execution as West Indies go in search of a series-leveling win in the pivotal second Twenty20 International of the threematch series here today. The hosts lacked in almost every department in Tuesday’s opener which they lost by four wickets, falling short of a competitive total after batting first, and then dropping as many as
four catches in a loose fielding and bowling effort. Speaking ahead of the contest at Warner Park, Drakes said the Windies’ knowledge of the small ground would be a crucial in their match strategy. “We have to execute our game plan very well,” the former West Indies all-rounder told reporters. “Obviously a lot of the guys would have played at this ground, certainly during CPL so the guys are pretty
familiar with the conditions – with the wind factor and the short boundaries – so certainly our game plan and our strategy will be targeted towards that. “We pretty much have a good idea of what we’re looking to do in these conditions and come tomorrow, the objective is to execute.” West Indies are unbeaten in six outings at the venue, having won five and having the other match abandoned due to rain.
England, meanwhile, have never played an international match at the ground but Drakes said in the shortest format, such factors were minor considerations. “It certainly does help that we would have played in these conditions more often than the opposition but on the given day, we’re playing a T20 game and it’s all based on the execution of the game plan,” he pointed out. “So come tomorrow, with the guys continuing to be
focused and up for the challenge, it should be an exciting game.” West Indies managed only 160 in the first match at the Darren Sammy National Stadium in St Lucia, with Nicholas Pooran topscoring with 58. The only other batsman to shine was Darren Bravo who chipped in with 28, adding 64 for the fourth wicket with Pooran after the Windies lost three early wickets. West Indies fielders then put down Jonny Bairstow twice as the opener rode his luck to lead England’s run chase with 68. Drakes said the Caribbean side were aware that improvements were necessary. “I just thought we were probably 20 runs short but having said that, we created
Assistant coach Vasbert Drakes a lot of opportunities on the bowling front but we never really took our opportunities in the field,” he noted. “On reflection, we know we are capable of playing better cricket than that.” That match bowls off at 4 pm.
ECCC/SPR Enterprise 40-over Tourney
Two centuries, one six-wicket haul highlight latest action This year’s edition of the East Coast Cricket Committee/ SPR Enterprise 40 overs cricket tournament continued last Sunday with several matches. At Ogle; Ogle SC Blasters defeated Lusignan S C (B) by 93 runs. Ogle SC Blasters batted first and posted 199-8 from 40 overs. Andrew Samaroo struck 69 while Michael Deonarine made 38. Navin Persaud took 3-37 (8 overs) for Lusignan B who were bowled out for 106 in 24 overs. Sahadeo Ramkellawan scored 47. Davindra Ratahal took 2-4 and S. Gossain 2-6. Host Better Hope Sixers thumped Cane Grove New Generation SC by 125 runs in a game that was affected by rain. Better Hope Sixers managed 225-6 off their reduced quota of 23 overs, batting first. Rajindra Singh and Rajendra Dhanraj scored 61 and 37 respectively. Y. Umroa had 3-60 from five overs. Cane Grove SC were dismissed 100 in 14 overs with Jayadev Manna taking 6-24 from 3.3 (overs). LBI SC overcame Strathavon SC (B) by 134 runs at Strathavon ground. M. Persaud stroked an unbeaten 102 with six fours and four sixes while I. Mohammed
contributed 37 in LBI SC total of 249 all out in 30 overs. Strathavon SC (B) were bowled out for 115 in 27 overs in reply. C. Seepaul and R. Dowlatram captured four and three wickets respectively. At Enterprise, Enterprise Busta Sports Club won by 6 wickets against Golden Achievers SC. Golden Acvievers SC took first knock and were bowled out for 99 in 26 overs with Sherfane Rutherford scoring 24. Chatterpaul Singh grabbed 4 wickets and Vivian Albert three. The host reached their target in 21 overs for the loss of four wickets with Parmanand Dindyal scoring 25. Quacy Cummings snared 2-4. At Fairfield, Lusignan East trashed Mahaica Cavaliers by 215 runs. Batting first Lusignan East racked up 250-6 from their reduced 25 overs. Hardeo Jailall slammed a magnificent unbeaten 104. M. Cummings took 3-45 runs from five overs. Mahaica Cavaliers were dismissed for 35 in eight overs. Sachin Sahadeo bagged 5-22. The game between Enmore and Strathavon SC (A) was not played due to the absence of Umpires while Paradise SC forfeited their match against Beehive SC. The competition continues this weekend and will be played simultaneously with the Neville Ramotar Memorial T20 competition.
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
PAGE 39
Work on synthetic tracks moving apace - Athletes in Regions 6 and 10 to benefit Infrastructural works on the Synthetic Tracks’ in Region 6 (East Berbice Corentyne) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) are moving apace for completion this year, according to Director of Sport, Christopher Jones. In an earlier interview, Jones told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that despite there being a few hiccups along the way, measures have been implemented to ensure the smooth flow of operations on the projects. “There were some setbacks in 2018 mainly due to identifying the scope of works needed to be done… There were some mistakes or missteps concerning the actual measurements of the tracks, and so those have since been corrected,” Jones explained. According to the Sport Director, BK International Incorporated was awarded the $141M contract for the Region 6 track, to be built at Burnham Park, in New Amsterdam, Berbice while Builders Hardware and General
Supplies secured the $179M contract for the facility at Bayroc Community Centre Ground, Wismar, Linden. Region 10 will have an eight-lane Synthetic Track and Field Facility which will include a football pitch, security fencing, drainage and restrooms among other features. So far, the first two phases of construction have been completed. The third phase which includes groundwork, laying of necessary drainage pipes, curb work, asphalting and concreting began in January of this year. The fourth phase, which has been scheduled for a later date, will see the laying of the synthetic material for the 400-metre track, the construction of a pavilion and the additional space surrounding the track. While Region 6 will also see an eight-lane 400-meter track. The first two phases of the Region 6 project were carried out by German company BSW Regupol. This involved the evaluation of the site and completion of the design. The third phase
Agippa guides Covent Garden Secondary to victory Mahaila Agippa struck an unbeaten half century to guide Covent Garden Secondary to a 10-wicket victory over Carnegie School of Home Economics when the National Sports Commission Al Sport and Tour Promotions Easter Term five-over Windball tournament continued recently at the National Gymnasium. Playing in the female category, Carnegie School of Home Economics batted first and managed 121-1 with Grace Fung Fook s c o r i n g 5 6 a n d Ti n a Chappelle 30. Agippa then struck nine sixes in a top score of 66 while Finella Moore made 52 not out as Covent Garden Secondary responded with 127 without loss. Queenstown Secondary took first strike and managed 79 without loss; Kellisa Cozier made 48. Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary responded with 84 without loss; Tamara Gill made 48 and Tricia Singh 28. Carmel Secondary scored 95-1, taking first
Grace Fung Fook
knock. Siana Abrams struck 70. Saint Mary’s Secondary replied with 94-2; Zabeiah Green got 48. Queenstown Secondary rattled up 91-1, batting first. Kellisa Cozier made 58. Camille Institute for Business and Science Studies got to 97-1 in reply. Amancy Singh cracked 44 and Stacy Flores 38. In the male division, Carnegie School of Home Economics posted 113-3, taking first turn at the crease. Kwame Goodluck slammed 52 while Abdool George made 30. East Ruimveldt Secondary scored 118-2 in (Continued on page 34)
being conducted by BK International, entails demarcation, land clearing, laying of drainage pipes, inner and outer track works and asphalting. The fourth phase will involve the laying of the synthetic track and is estimated to take approximately 21 days. Director Jones stressed that
the department would keep abreast with the progress of the developmental works at the respective tracks to ensure completion in 2019. This project forms part of the Department of Social Cohesion’s ongoing drive to develop and strengthen sports and sports-related services in the country. (Neola Damon-DPI)
Christopher JonesDirector of Sport
PAGE 40
Team Mohamed’s third GTR is expected to make its debut in Guyana on March 24th.
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
GMRSC Drag Championship now set for March 24 The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) has pushed back the first round of the Drag Race Championship by one week with the new date being March 24th at the South Dakota Circuit, Timehri. According to official reports, the club has opted to postpone the event for a second time due to several reasons which includes the completion of the launch pad, a clash with a drag meet
in Suriname on the 17th and the arrival of an amazing car which is expected to thrill fans. In a correspondence to the media, Club President, Rameez Mohamed, was quoted saying, “The impending work on the launch pad area is one of the reasons of the postponement. Today [Yesterday] I met with him (the contractor) concerning the launch pad road and he noted that he will be free to do complete it next week.” In announcing the new date, he added, “We have a big crowd puller car that’s coming and it will change this entire event.” A source close to the club revealed that the anticipated machine is Team Mohamed’s third GTR.
Mohamed revealed that, “Suriname has drags on March 17th and they want to come here and race,” adding that the shift in dates will allow that. Also, competitors from French Guiana who will also be on show in the S u r i n a m e d r a g championship have also signaled their intention to be part of GMRSC Drag Championship so the move will allow their participation at South Dakota Circuit as well. In closing, he stated, “GMRSC thanks each and every one for supporting our events always.” For the postponement, he says the club will also try to help those who have already scheduled mechanics to be flown in prior to the event to tune their machines.
Skyy Vodka on board Birth Anniversary Domino tourney
Richard ‘Saddest’ Mittleholzer (right) receives the cheque from Ansa McAl, Brand Manager Edison Jefford. Skyy Vodka, one of the premium brands available in Guyana has consented to offer support for the two-day Birth Anniversary Domino Tournament which will be held in celebration of one of the sport’s ardent enthusiast Richard ‘Saddest’ Mittleholzer. Yesterday, during a simple presentation ceremony that was conducted at the Head Office of Ansa McAl, Brand Manager Edison Jefford handed over a cheque for an undisclosed sum to Mittleholzer. Jefford speaking at the occasion said the Company was extremely happy to be on board, adding that their long association with the sport along with a similar friendship with the organiser was one of the primary
reasons for their involvement. He added that the sport of Domino has elevated itself from being a favourite pastime endeavour, previously played mainly among older folks, to one that has grown significantly in popularity and swell with teams coming from all across the country to participate in competitions. Mittleholzer, who will be celebrating his 48th birth anniversary first thanked the Company and Jefford for their support and promised that the tournament will be conducted in a manner befitting the confidence and wishes of the sponsor. “We are taking this support seriously so all teams confirmed to participate in the (Continued on page 34)
Kaieteur News
Friday March 08, 2019
AAG final Carifta Trials
Over 200 athletes expected at Leonora this weekend The Amateur Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) will host their final Carifta trials this weekend at the National Track and Field Center (NTFC), Leonora with over 200 athletes expected to be part of the two-day action. Tomorrow will see most of the field events and heats for sprints while the finals will be contested on Sunday. Head of the AAG, Aubrey Hutson, in an invited comment revealed that he expects the number of qualified athletes, which
currently stands at nine, to increase. Over the previous three Carfita Trials, Breanna Charles came closest to qualifying for her event, falling short by 16 hundredths of a second in the under-17 200m final. Meanwhile, Sheama Tyrell from Linden in the girls’ open 3000m finished one second slower than the Carifta Standard (CS) time. Hutson believes both sprinters in Deshana Skeete and Kenisha Phillips can qualify for the biennial event which will be held in the Grand Cayman Islands
BVA/Ashwell Mohabir Open set for tomorrow in West Berbice Vo l l e y b a l l a c t i o n continues in Berbice tomorrow when the Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) holds the annual Ashwell ‘Pumpkin’ Mohabir Open, one-day competition at the Blairmont Community Center, West Bank Berbice beginning at 09:30hrs. The top teams in Berbice are expected to participate including Port Mourant Training Center, Corriverton Jets Rollers of New Amsterdam, among others. Among the female teams expected to participate are, Corriverton Jets, Orealla Females and Port Mourant
females. Castrol male and female teams along with Eagles males from Demerara are also expected to participate. Prizes inclusive of trophies and other memorabilia will be up for grabs. The outstanding individual players will also be rewarded including the Best Setter, Best Spiker, Most Discipline Team and Best Uniformed Team. Three categories would be played, senior, female and junior. Coordinators are Levi Nedd, Errol Fingal and Gregory Rambarran. (Samuel Whyte)
South Turkeyen Sports Committee 5-a-side football set for Sunday South Turkeyen Sports Committee and Blackwater Football Club will be hosting a 5-a-side small goal football and penalty shootout competition starting at 09:00hrs at East Ruimveldt School Compound. Among the teams set to take part are East Ruimveldt, Sophia, Lodge, North Ruimveldt, West Ruimveldt and Vryheid’s Lust. At stake are trophies and medals. Entrance fee is $6,000 per team.
15
this Easter Weekend. “If both these young women qualify, we will be able to field a team in the girls’ 4x100m relay. At the last Carifta Games, we finished with a bronze medal in the girls’ 4x400m and we are hoping to get another relay medal again this year”, Hutson explained.
Kenisha Phillips crossing the finish line ahead of her competitors in the first Carifta Trials last month.
PAGE 41
t r o Sp
GFF officially launch ‘Roar to Gold Cup’, Guyana vs Belize clash on March 23 @ Leonora
GFF President Wayne Forde (4th right) and other officials pose with representatives of some of the sponsors already on board. Pegasus GM, Carlos Montenegro is at left.
West Indies Championship
Shepherd 5-24, Bramble’s 62 give Jaguars slim advantage; 22 wickets tumble on eventful 1st day
Anthony Bramble made his 10 First-Class fifty yesterday at Providence.
CWI Regional female 50-over tourney bowls off on March 17
Sheneta Grimmond
Shemaine Campbell
Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.