Kaieteur News
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Wednesday March 20, 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
The presidency and the constitution
T
he president has to be a man for all seasons; ladies to be allowed later. But not yet; matters too dirty. In Guyana, he has to be Superman, Batman, and Spiderman in one. Unfortunately, Guyana has ended up with Sergeant Bilko, Bernie Madoff, and pretensions to Martin Luther King. Sure, the range of presidential responsibilities and stresses encompass national defense, natural resources, and national holidays, to identify a handful of the weightier callings. It should be bigger than any one man. For any country to have its president involved in parking meter fiascoes tells a strange story; a not so comforting one. When the big people in big governments have to intervene with big money in garbage salvaging, it goes without saying that a hundred million plus expenditure has to obtain the nod of the president. There is no wink; but a blink as to the bureaucratic traumas inflicted by those who are unable to carry their weight, and who must be perpetually given a hand, a foot, and more than a few brain cells. In view of the chronic weaknesses demonstrated over a long period of time, that foot should have been raised to give a good lick; while those cells ought to be of a different kind: the ones that come with iron bars. But such is the life of a president in this society that larger matters of the economy, security, and public service integrity are inundated and swallowed up with the minutiae of many fishes that have to be fried. At different times and in different reigns, the result is the product of an open-door policy, delegation by escalation, and the micromanagement of many fingers in every sweet pie. A surrounding Praetorian Guard of willing centurions and able facilitators—men of identical ethical disavowal—ensure that things fall nicely into place. Unsurprisingly, one president after another has come to view their vast, uncontrollable (but not unwelcomed) expansion of powers as possessing a silver lining. The aggregation of power at the top leads to the willing embrace, and practice, of a strain of leadership that resembles, at best, a benign tyranny. Except that on many occasions, matters have not been so benign. The checks and balances are slickly maneuvered around, and when slickness fails, then it is time to bring out the much-used sledgehammer. Guyanese have a healthy regard for the sweep and reach of sledgehammers. There is a sickly constitution which is trumpeted hauntingly; but observed keenly, and it is more for the sound effects, than any hope of permanent traction through trailblazing precedent. The foreigners are recruited, and even then, there is dismissal. The CCJ is the poster child. The local courts suffer from the same indignity: great acceptance speeches accompanied by greater rejection breaches. The presidencies have moved serenely onward, undeterred and untroubled. In these instances, democracy can be defined as the last translation of the most skillful interpreter. It is both boon and bane. If the constitution and courts lack brake pads and fluid, then there is no fire before which to hold errant presidential feet. That is why this nation has been repeatedly kicked around. A somewhat reinvigorated media tries mightily to bring some watchful sanity to the office of the presidency. It wins some, loses many. Presidents have perfected the practice of the patronizing: keep patting a vigilant dog on the head, and after a while it is all bark and no bite. Throw the occasional bone, and there is growling as opposed to prowling. No digging. No clawing. No menacing.
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.
Mr. Pollard misrepresents my argument DEAR EDITOR, Mr. Bryn Pollard in his letter yesterday (“My friend’s thinking may have evolved”) accused me of inconsistency. Well, I am in the good company of those who see no problem with inconsistency. A c c u s e d o f inconsistency, Mahatma Gandhi responded: “My aim is not to be consistent with my previous statements on a given question, but to be consistent with truth as it may present itself to me at a given moment.” I am sure that many statements I may make today are inconsistent with what I said twenty years ago or even five years ago. All that proves is that I am a normal human being whose views change with time and can
change from day to day as I interact with the world about me. As to the matter referred to by Mr. Pollard, I have no recollection that Justice Claudette Singh in the Esther Perreira case asked me and/or the other lawyers in 2001 whether she had the power to order the Government to demit office, as alleged by Mr. Bryn Pollard. But the events clearly demonstrate that the Judge could not have done so. If Justice Claudette Singh had ever contemplated such a question, she would also have had to figure out who, or what, would take the place of the Government. Since there was no sensible or rational answer to that conundrum, it is unlikely that
such an idea was entertained by the Judge or such a question was ever asked. A d d i t i o n a l l y, a n d without any question asked, or submission made, the Judge ruled that since elections were due in three months, pursuant to the Herdmanston Accord, there was no need for an order that elections be held. This suggests that the Judge had contemplated ordering that elections be held, rather than ordering that the Government demit office. M r . P o l l a r d misrepresents my argument in the current situation. I have never said that the Government should demit office. The same problem as in 2001 would arise. Who or what would take its place? The clear answer to the
current crisis is that the Government should respect the Constitution, speak to the Opposition, agree to a date for elections, and extend the life of the National Assembly with the support of the Opposition. I have said repeatedly that the Government’s lawful status comes to an end on March 22. Instead of an excursion into events twenty years ago to speculate about what I said, and whether or not I am contradicting myself attacking the messenger and not the message - Mr. Pollard could have used his considerable weight to support respect for the Constitution and a negotiated solution to the current crisis. Yours faithfully, Ralph Ramkarran
Dancing between the raindrops DEAR EDITOR, I recently attended a surprise dinner for a close colleague who attained the status of what I fondly refer to as senior citizen first class (NIS pension at 60 is 2nd class).During the speeches it suddenly dawned on me that in a few months, God Permit, I will be like him. Upon reflection, I have been Blessed by the Almighty in countless ways. This Bartica and West Berbice boy has been privileged to enjoy almost five decades of public service within the cooperative, private and
public sectors of my beautiful country. And since I’m not about to start writing my memoirs as suggested by some, I will instead share a few rules that help me dance between the raindrops: Some of Derrick Cummings’ Rules 1. Before you conclude that the decision of a superior is illogical, remember he may have factored in information for which you are unaware 2. Though desirable to set your sights on meritocracy, who you know is equally important.
3. When you prevail don’t gloat! Subtly proffer a face-saving gesture 4. Be ever mindful of the power of: the mighty “fluff” (adult Guyanese parlance); clannishness of squaddies, Alumni, sects, membership of social organizations; the Lodge takes the cake. 5. Without being wholly intrusive, know who is family to who, and who may be sleeping with who. 6. Strike a delicate Balance between applying the mantra “why speak to the angels when you could whisper to God” alongside
that of the influence of the informal organization within the formal. 7. In adjudicating a conflict, remember the complainant may make a stronger case, and may also be the better liar 8. (Borrowed from Gen. Powell): When someone hands you a dirty stick don’t complain, sharpen it and turn it into a useful tool I am currently saddling up to ride into the sunset with peace of mind and a content heart. Yours faithfully Derrick Cummings
Moving forward in the 21st Century DEAR EDITOR, After reading Freddie’s article posted in yesterday’s KN (19th March 2019), I became compelled to write this letter. We, the Guyanese at home, really need to step up our game and stop living in denial. It’s time to stop the backwardness. After all, we are now in the 21st century. While, I can forgive them for having the CCTV based at their HQ, I cannot believe that after all these years the Hand in Hand is still using a GCIS letterhead. It’s either the people working there lack vision or are wearing dark sunglasses at their desks. Anyhow, the real purpose of this mail is to highlight another form of backwardness observed at o u r L a w C o u r t s . I t ’s disgusting, and very
embarrassing to see Police Officers shoulder-lifting injured suspects into court rooms. B a s e d o n m y observations, this has been happening for years, at least more than nine years. I am sure there are sufficient funds in the coffers at the relevant authorities to purchase two wheelchairs for the Courts. I will place the blame on those persons who operate on the ground on a daily basis. Their mindset is “business as usual” as is the case for most employees in Guyana. As such, they (e.g. Police Officers) see no need to budget, request and insist for wheelchairs to be at the Courts. In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage all Guyanese
(especially Heads of Departments) to start thinking outside of the box, to have vision and purpose, to be innovative and to openly (meaning civilly aggressive) make demands for the modernization of systems at the workplace. To those who remained here to serve this country, I would like to ask you to “tunup” your work ethics and approach for a modern
Guyana. For example, tell your bosses that you are not coming to work if your Department continues to use pen and paper for data inputting and management. Tell the Commissioner of Police that it’s inhumane to carry injured suspects and convicts on your shoulders. It is time! Ras Omawalli Benazachari
Kudos to the Guyana Police Force DEAR EDITOR, My motorcycle was stolen from my East Coast Demerara home on February 03, 2019. Less than six weeks later - on March 12, 2019, in East La Penitence - the police recovered the motorcycle. Kudos to the Guyana Police Force. With warmest regards, Gavin Houston
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Wednesday March 20, 2019
Memorial Service for Miles Fitzpatrick Without these improved practices, the rice DEAR EDITOR, Aptly named ‘Miles’ was always ahead of the pack – of colleagues with whom he associated. Somehow, he would seem a different class, even amongst other luminary legal practitioners. For he was more than that, and they too recognised his spirituality - to the extent that they easily forgave what transgressions they may have perceived. Whatever was the individual’s orientation, one embraced Miles unreservedly, as he in turn welcomed you to his and our ‘New World’. So that the memorial service to his life and career appeared to be held fittingly at the Demerara Cricket Club – the scene of so many team efforts, notably across divides. (Curiously, there was no mention of the date (and time).)
Perhaps, just perhaps, the last was the one reason for the significant absence from a celebration, fit for a brother-in-LAW, of the swathe of lawyers APPENded to the Administration. The lone Attorney General’s presence should put their collective absence in an unforgivably brittle light, particularly at this Ides of March. Was there no sympathy for a soul with whom, at whatever distance, our profession required us to share the same space throughout careers? It simply is impossible to believe that there were no periods of bonding, however brief. How could these absentees have chosen to be so far (miles) away from the sensitive citizenry, who paid the most deserving tributes? Yours faithfully E.B. John
Will this heroic woman be granted national tion, I hereby commend Ms. Henry for standrecognition? ing by (rowing for) her husband, for what cerDEAR EDITOR, On the 14th March 2019, the Guyana Chronicle carried an article of an ordinary woman (Dianne Henry) who placed her husband (a farmer) in a canoe and paddled for about 40 miles to seek medical attention for him, due to a snake bite he received. He subsequently died.What a sad story, but also one that epitomized womanhood. Incidentally, this nightmare unfolded while the world observed International Women’s Day. Please permit me to offer condolences to the woman and other grieving relatives of the deceased. In addi-
tainly must have been not only a physically demanding feat of dexterity, paddling for several hours, but also of mental, emotional and spiritual anguish. Will this woman be granted national recognition for her heroic efforts and be accorded the status to be among the other worthy recipients of national awards for the observance of International Women’s Day 2020? My choice. After all, we celebrated the British Rower. Yours sincerely, Bernel L.H Wickham
Pertinent questions for Professor Duke Pollard DEAR EDITOR, I read with interest and concern an Article in the press by Professor Duke Pollard, former Justice of the Caribbean Court of Justice, in which he wrote touching and concerning the No Confidence Motion as contained in the Articles of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of
Guyana.I wish the Professor to inform us whether the Courts of Guyana and the Caribbean Court of Justice have the jurisdiction and power to overturn the No Confidence Motion properly passed by the National Assembly and confirmed by the Honourable Speaker, Dr. Barton Scotland.I also raise
another question – whether the Courts can fix a date for an extension of time for Election in the prevailing circumstances as the Constitution provides the process of extension of time is by a twothirds majority of the members of the National Assembly. Respectfully, Jailall T. Kissoon
industry’s long term future looks bleak DEAR EDITOR, In 2008/2009, I undertook a project to work with GRDB’s Extension Division to improve rice fertilization in Guyana. This field project was sponsored by Fertilizer Corporation of America and was one component of the GRDB’s Six Point Program of improved practices. The program was a tremendous success and the recent increases in rice production are clearly due to improvements in field practices, including fertilization, that were introduced to farmers. This success was due to the hard work of many people including Mr. Kuldip Ragnauth, Dr. Ed Pulver, Mr. Dave Christopherson and Mr. Beaufort Adams. However the true heroes of this exercise were the outstanding GRDB Extension Officers and the hard work-
ing, progressive rice farmers. Success was also due to the scientific approach that was used. Since 2012, BLT Enterprises provided farmers with over one thousand soil analyses and I produced customized fertilizer recommendations for every individual sample at no cost for my professional time. However it appears that the industry is beginning to move backwards. The scientific practice of selecting fertilizers based on soil analysis has been abandoned and the industry has reverted to the old system of “one size fits all”. Fertilizers are being imported without any scientific basis and farmers now use whatever is available, not what they need. This is exactly the approach that caused the low production of the recent past. The recent
increase in paddy bug infestation also suggests that farmers have abandoned the improved practices and reverted to traditional approaches. Paddy bug is not a problem to be solved, it is something that has to be prevented. Dr. Pulver demonstrated clearly that the indiscriminate use of pesticides kills the predators that destroy paddy bug eggs resulting in increased infestation. The common suggestion to use more and stronger pesticides is not the answer. It is clear that Guyana has to reintroduce the Six Point Program, including the proper selection of fertilizers based on soil testing, as is done in every high yielding region in the world. Without it, the industry’s long term future looks bleak. Dr. Terrence Fullerton Soil Scientist
Senior Customers – Ill-served DEAR EDITOR, The old lady complained that she did not receive her usual monthly bill from GT&T, through the post. When she eventually got through to – of all places ‘Customer Service’ – she had to wait for an interminable period before being advised in well practised robotic tones the unusual amount of the bill to be paid. In despairing protest she insisted on being sent details of calls recorded, the voice in turn insisted that she must seek help from one of the
(voiceless) branches. One only knew because she called for help for a taxifare. This is not an untypical story. It was told to a physically challenged colleague in order to earn some needed sympathy – an attribute unlikely to be found in an (un) enlightened technological environment of GT&T, who admittedly does ask us customers to do more (presumably having them do less). Nor is there any public notice of these discomfiting changes in what, derisibly, is
still called Customer Services, and indeed of new and increased charges.But appeals and complaints continue to fall on the distracted ears of those who accept responsibility for monitoring this technological overweight. Yours faithfully, A Pensioner - With help from a private technologist
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Mr Harmon, stop throwing dust in money to rice farmers; in fact, all the rice farmpeople’s eyes ers wanted was help in finding foreign marDEAR EDITOR, I note with keen interest the assertions of Mr Harmon at his most recent meeting with the diaspora in New York a few days ago. He touted the position that there is no constitutional crisis in Guyana and that Guyanese are enjoying a better life now. I have chosen to address the ‘better life’ theme, today, and not to comment on the ‘constitutional crisis’ which has been receiving widespread attention across the spectrum of media in Guyana and the diaspora. Editor, Mr Harmon was correct about one thing, that is, Guyanese are smart. Yes, they know when they are being fooled. For example, everyone knows that when exchange dollar rates go up there is a shortage of foreign currency, which occurs when the economy is in a bad state. The money kingpin at the Bank of Guyana said not so long ago that there is no shortage of foreign currency, yet travellers and businesses can’t get at local banks and exchange houses even at a rate of G$230 to US$1. The people know that we have lost over 30,000 jobs during the last three years; they know the economy has been grossly mismanaged and the host of other negatives impacting the nation due to APNU + AFC maladministration.Furthermore, it is no secret that the government failed to support the rice industry. Contrary to what some may peddle, I am not saying that they should have given
kets for their products. Instead, the government told the farmers that it was a private sector concern. Which good government does that?Editor, among the other forms of maladministration, was their shutting down the housing drive. It was not until the last few weeks’ frantic elections/political gimmicks that we see some action in this area. It should be noted too, that the government has not developed any new housing scheme and that the lots being given out are in schemes already established by the PPP/C government. Besides shutting down the logging operations, the closure of the housing drive has hugely affected the sawmilling and related industries, and together, they cost jobs and slowed exportation of wood and wood products to the detriment of the foreign reserves. The nation is feeling the squeeze. In essence, where is the better/good life that Harmon talked about? The economy has slowed tremendously; there has been a loss of jobs; foreign exchange rate is going up due to lack of foreign currency; and people are paying more for goods and basic items. Clearly, people are suffering. In a nutshell, people, whether in New York, Guyana or elsewhere in the diaspora, know what Mr Harmon said is far from reality. As smart people, they know when someone is throwing dust in the eyes of the populace. Regards, Ronald Singh
Wednesday March 20, 2019
WISHING A HAPPY AND JOYOUS NAW-RÚZ TO ALL GUYANESE! DEAR EDITOR, The Baha’i community in Guyana, and the world over, would celebrate and observe the festival of Naw-Rúz! Naw-Rúz is the first day of the Bahá’í calendar year and one of nine holy days for adherents of the Bahá’í Faith. It occurs on the vernal equinox, on or near March 21st. Baha’i New Year, or Naw-Rúz, which means “new day” in Persian, is celebrated by Baha’is around the world each year on the date of the Spring Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere. Naw-Rúz marks the end of the 19 days month of fasting, and it’s a joyous time of celebration. It’s also one of the Baha’i Holy Days on which work is to be suspended. Naw-Rúz is also celebrated by Zoroastrians and often in parts of countries where branches of Shiite Islam can be found – though there’s a difference between the Baha’i Holy Day of NawRúz and the Persian holiday of Naw-Rúz, the theme of celebrating a new day remains the same.
The Jewish festival of Purim is also said to have been adopted from the Persian New Year, and Naw-Rúz is celebrated a lot like the Christian Easter, with many symbols indicating spring and renewal. The most joyful time for a Naw-Rúz celebration is at sunset on the last day of the Fast. It seems almost directed by Baha’u’llah(1817-92) that it should be this way: From Baha’i holy writings it is also stated that... …From time immemorial this day has been consecrated, for in this there is a symbol. At this moment the sun appears at the meridian and the day and night are equal. Until today the North Pole has been in darkness. This sacred day when the sun illumines equally the whole earth is called the equinox and the equinox is the symbol of the divine messenger. The sun of truth rises on the horizon of divine mercy and sends forth its rays on all… Among the ancient Persians this day was looked upon as the holy day of the
year – a day when hospitals and charitable institutions were founded, collections for the poor were made and every effort put forth that it might not be allowed to pass without leaving some divine trace and throughout Persia one sees these historical traces… To Baha’is, Naw-Rúz is not just a calendar event. Rather it is an opportunity to reinvigorate the powers of the spirit and to re-examine matters of the heart and conscience. It begins with the idea that the renewal in the world of nature is in fact a symbol of spiritual renewal, and an occasion for the individual to explore how to contribute to the material and spiritual welfare of others In Guyana, there are several thousand from all ethnic backgrounds, who with their families, are Baha’is, and would be observing Naw-Rúz as their religious Holy day. Wishing a happy and joyous Naw-Rúz to all Guyanese! Yours Rooplall Dudhnath
I wish not to believe there is Colourism in the Parliament. I wish not to believe that the Public Buildings of Parliament has different yard sticks for measuring mode of dress between the Guyanese people and their foreign counterparts - some aliens, no pun intended. Allow me the space to explain my plight. My friend and I were preparing for a debate competition hosted by the University of Guyana Students Society, with the Moot reading “The Constitution of Guyana should restrict participation in Government based on dual citizenship to the President
go down quickly to Parliament Buildings and read the Hansards concerning what led to the reform and the article in question. My friend was dressed in a lovely red dress, with broad straps and with length passing her knees, while I was wearing a jeans and t-shirt. My friend was told by a security officer, that she could not enter the building with arms out - he (the security) was adamant. However, my friend reached into her bag and took out a sweater jacket. We were then told to check back after lunch, as the
we managed to convince him (security guard) that we would seek the discretion of the researchers, for we needed urgent help as we were in preparation for a final debate that afternoon. Fast forward, we got the much needed information from the Hansards. As we were leaving the Public Buildings, my friend highlighted to me that a group of Caucasian people were about to enter parliament. They appeared to be foreigners - greeted with a hearty welcome - they were escorted by an officer from the PR department. The irony, and colourism, and double standards existed where the group of foreigners who were dressed in fine straps that exposed their cleavage, short pants that showed their legs and slippers and sandals, were allowed to enter our parliament dressed in whatever makes them comfortable, while we, Guyanese were asked to get in order, according to the dress code. This type of attitude cannot bolster public knowledge on matters of Parliament and encourage students to do primary and/or secondary research. Further, it will not engender the cohesion we seek as a nation. What goes for Peter must go for Paul. Regards Dornel McFarlane Guyanese Citizen
These are facts Mr. Ram left out of What goes for Peter must go for Paul his letter Ram stated that in 2015, the ingful collaboration”...” and Prime Minister only” parliament workers were on DEAR EDITOR, DEAR EDITOR, period between dissolution and so, we thought it best, to lunch. It was at this point that I write in response to a letter by Christopher Ram, captioned “GECOM’s requirement of a minimum period of 148 days to hold elections is an admission of its incompetence” (SN: 03.18.2019). Mr. Ram claimed the purpose of his letter was “to give a factual summary of the compliance or otherwise with the calling and holding of elections under the Constitution between 1997 and 2015.” In similar spirit, I wish to offer some additional facts pertinent to the issue. Mr. Ram presented data on the period between the deadline for the dissolution of Parliament and the holding of elections since 1997. The problem is the manner in which he attempted to use the data. For instance, Mr
and election was 72 days. What he did not say was that when confronted with a no confidence motion, President Ramotar prorogued parliament on November 10, 2014 but did not dissolve parliament until February 28, 2015. Curiously, he announced the date of elections on January 20, 2015, some 39 days before he eventually dissolved Parliament . There was an obvious reason for this apparent procrastination by President Ramotar; he was buying time for GECOM to be ready. Even when GECOM issued a press release on January 08, 2015 stating, “The Commission now awaits the President’s announcement of the date of both elections, after “mean-
Ramotar still delayed until January 20, a full 12 days later. This allowed Gecom 110 days before dissolution and an additional 72 days after dissolution, to prepare. This is a total of 182 days, or six months, and approximates to the 180 days originally estimated by GECOM as the required period for the preparation for elections These are the facts Mr. Ram left out of his letter. He cannot claim that he is unaware, because he wrote previously presenting these same facts on his blog. Shame on him. Yours faithfully, Julianne Gaul
BLESSED ARE THE DAYS WHEN THE PEOPLE MATTER! DEAR EDITOR, On their penultimate day of legality, Government Ministers are fanning out in the Greater Georgetown as an outreach. Blessed are the days when the People matter! For decades the PNC has neglected those in the capital city, denizens treated as a ‘vote bank’ for APNU are now receiving an eleventh hour hearing, an opportunity to share ideas and air grievances. Or are they? Will Ministers that are unrecognizable to residents really listen to voices and concerns other
than their own? At Christmas time, one senior minister was present at an event where homeless persons were being cared for with showers, clothing, haircuts and food. His questions to the homeless? Do you have an ID card? Can you vote? This was followed by a reminder to vote for APNU. There was no difference when the 19 Ministers did an outreach in Region 9, and one boldly stated “I am only here to get your vote,” as he addressed a gathering of persons engaged in Sunday worship.
That he did so in the very Church did not seem to register within his consciousness. At this new APNU+AFC outreach, they come to seek your vote, to patronize you with platitudes. Should enough people be taken in by the false promises, once elected, the Coalition will continue to live the ‘good life’ among themselves. Residents of Georgetown have spoken clearly in the recent Local Government Elections and will get another opportunity to reject these ‘good life’ promises once and for all. Attiya Baksh
Wednesday March 20, 2019
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Tackling corruption is a job for Govt., private sector - British High Commissioner
T
he British High Commission has urged Government to team up with the business sector to tackle corruption. Speaking at Monday’s Annual General Meeting of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), High Commissioner Greg Quinn explained that alongside legislation there are also issues around perceptions of corruption and the ease of doing business. In recent years, Guyana has seen a steady improvement in the Transparency International (TI) Corruptions Perception Index. “In 2012 the score was 28 out of 100. In 2018 it was 37 out of 100 (sadly this was a 1 point drop on 2017 but TI noted that Guyana was one of the significant improvers overall).” C o n s e c u t i v e
governments have been dogged by accusations of corruption and of doing little to halt it. According to Quinn, the TI figures put Guyana in joint 93rd position (out of 180 countries measured) with the Gambia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Mongolia and Panama. “Some progress is being made. But there is much that still needs to be done. Only the Dominican Republic and Haiti in the Caribbean region are lower than Guyana. The average score for all countries was 43. Anything below 50 indicates a failure to tackle corruption. More than twothirds of the countries measured scored below 50.” Quinn admitted that the Corruptions Perceptions Index evokes strong feelings among the business community. “Many find fault with the methodology and the results.
Post mortem today for caretaker Police sources have indicated that a post mortem would be done today on the body of the caretaker who was found in the yard at Lot 22, Costello Housing Scheme on Monday morning. Neighbours yesterday suggested the man would have died of natural causes, but of course, that will have to be determined by the police after today’s post mortem The body of 50-year-old Lancelot Grandsoult was found lying in a pool of blood in the yard at around 07:30 on Monday morning. The man was said to be the caretaker of the premises. Sources said the man had carried out that duty for some time, and was very friendly to all whom he came into contact with. He was found motionless and topless, according to reports, A bucket was found with what appeared to be blood quite close to the body, while dried blood was also discovered on the areas of his mouth, ears and nose, according to police reports. No marks of violence were said to have been found on the body. Police are continuing investigations.
But be that as it may, the Transparency International index is globally accepted and is looked at by investors who want to do business in a country.” He urged that the Government, in cooperation with the private sector, work together to continue to address this issue and to tackle corruption, wherever it is found, head on. According to the High Commissioner, this also feeds into the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business scores. “Whilst there were some improvements, Guyana dropped from 126 to 134 in the latest report published in October 2018. That was extremely unfortunate and indicates that there is still much work to be done. Guyana is below the regional average.” According to the envoy, tellingly, the biggest drop from the previous year’s score was in the area of ‘Getting Electricity’. “Something I am sure many of you in this room will agree with. Let me also take the opportunity to note the recent IDB report on
‘Constraints Affecting Guyana’s Private Sector: Survey Results’ which notes that electricity, high taxes and corruption are ranked the most serious obstacles to local businesses. Ensuring businesses can operate (whilst also meeting necessary legislation) is key to economic growth. Bureaucracy must be reduced and the ability of entrepreneurs to set up businesses must be made easier.”He said that entrepreneurship is the driver of the private sector. “Entrepreneurs are the incubators of innovation. They must be encouraged. Guyana’s scores on the Ease of Doing Business Index suggest much still has to be done. I believe the Minister of Business is committed to doing what he can. We must all do what we can to support him.” He said that the GCCI and its members have a role to play in driving forward the economy of Guyana. “The public sector has a role to play, but ultimately the success of an economy is very much dependent on how well the private sector performs. However, the best way of ensuring this is with a
British High Commissioner, Greg Quinn strong partnership between the public and private sector. Both must come together and work together for the benefit of Guyana. The relationship must be cordial and constructive. It is surely to everyone’s benefit that that happens.” Quinn stressed that Chambers of Commerce have an important role to play. “They are the supporters
and advocates of business. They work for you (and you must ensure they do!), but they are only as strong as their members. So it is up to you to help ensure your Chamber is as strong as possible. Able to represent your interests to central government, other chambers, businesses and whomever else you might come into contact with.”
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Wednesday March 20, 2019
Magistrate dismisses contempt case against GBTI CEO, Directors After being on trial for over a year for allegedly failing to comply with a production order issued by the Chief Justice, eight high ranking officials of Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), were freed yesterday after a related charge against them was dismissed due to insufficient evidence. Those who were charged were Chairman, Robin Stoby; and directors, Edward A. Beharry, Suresh Beharry, Richard Isava, Carlton James and Basil Mahadeo, along with Chief Executive Officer (ag) Shaleeza Shaw, and Kathryn Eytle-McLean. They all denied the charge which alleged that on September 7, 2017 at Georgetown, they failed to comply with a production order granted by Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire, for them to produce certain documents to the head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), Sydney James. The order was made on August 29, 2017. They were on trial before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. They were represented by a battery of lawyers, includ-
ing Nigel Hughes. Before handing down her ruling, yesterday, the Chief Magistrate outlined that in order to prove guilt the prosecution is obligated to adduce sufficient evidence. She added the prosecution must therefore prove that a production order was granted and that the order was violated without reasonable cause by the eight defendants. The Chief Magistrate in passing her ruling said that she considered the evidence led by the Prosecution headed by Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) Prosecutor, Patrice Henry. The Magistrate said she also considered the no-case submission which was made by the defence attorneys, and the prosecution’s reply in that regard. According to the Chief Magistrate, “The court having considered the prosecution’s evidence is satisfied that there is a production order dated August 29, 2017, which was made by the honourable Chief Justice.” She added that the court was also satisfied that the time for the production of the documents in the said order
was seven days after service on the defendants, and that this date was subsequently extended to November 3, 2017 on October 20, 2017. She went on to say that a further extension was made on November 7, 2018 which extended time for compliance was dated August 29, 2017 to December 31, 2018. The magistrate added that upon examining the evidence by the court, it was revealed that the defendants were charged on October 23, 2017. This, she said, was supported by the evidence of Assistant Commissioner of Police Sydney James. Chief Magistrate McLennan, therefore, outlined that the evidence suggested that the time of the production of the document dated August 29, 2017 was already varied. “The evidence of Sydney James and Sherronie James showed that both witnesses were present and were aware of the variation of the order and were both present when the charge was read against the defendants,” the Magistrate added. The Magistrate ruled that from the evidence lead by the Prosecution, at the time of the
from left Suresh Beharry, Carlton James, Shaleeza Shaw, Robin Stoby and Basil Mahadeo laying of the charge before the court, the prosecution was aware that the time for the production of the documents stated in the production order had varied to a date which was not yet expired due to the order being further extended. The Chief Magistrate underscored, “The court therefore logically concludes that the time for production order stated in the production order was an essential element for the offence charged and crucial in proving the offence. “The court after carefully considering the evidence can safely conclude that the Prosecution has failed to lead sufficient evidence to satisfy each element of the offence charged to the court’s satisfaction and this is an essential element of the offence which is crucial to the prosecution case.” She added that the court is of the opinion that there can be no breach of failing to comply with the production order since the date of compliance had not yet expired. She added that she is of the opinion that the Prosecution’s case was not proven beyond reasonable doubt. As a result of the aforementioned circumstances, the Chief Magistrate upheld the no-case submission made by lawyers for the banking officials. Hours after the ruling, GBTI issued a statement which read, “Despite the ongoing public war of words against GBTI which seemed designed to sully the es-
From left Richard Isava and Edward A. Beharry teemed reputation of the distinguished members of the Board and the financial institution they represent, the Bank is grateful that this malicious attack on its integrity and that of staff has been brought to a predictable end in the Court. “While this unwarranted attack and abuse of power was not without severe and widespread consequences to the sterling institutional image and that of the personal reputation of distinguished Directors and staff, GBTI withstood the onslaught with customers rallying around in support.” The statement continued, “GBTI wishes to express its gratitude to so many customers and friends who expressed their support in so many ways through this traumatic, shameful charade. “To the attorneys who distinguished themselves by the highest standards of legal representation possible we are duty bound to publicly congratulate each of you.” It was reported that SOCU which is tracking down
US$500M that the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) handled as far back as 2010, submitted files to the DPP recommending contempt charges against GBTI’s eight directors. This was after the bank and SOCU were locked in a battle over information concerning the GRDB accounts, since February. SOCU is contending that the bank failed or stalled and gave all kinds of excuses, and even destroyed pertinent records relating to GRDB. SOCU reportedly argued that other banks complied, but it was finding it hard going with GBTI. SOCU received four court orders, including one from the High Court, asking that GBTI hand over the information. In late August, 2017, the acting Chief Justice granted production orders to SOCU, giving the bank a week to hand over certain information. That deadline expired in early September, and the bank was reportedly granted some extra time. However, the deadline elapsed and SOCU prepared files recommending the charges of contempt against the directors. Under tough anti-money laundering laws, once court orders are granted, financial institutions are reportedly bound to provide information. In this case, the monies are not from private accounts, but rather from the US dollar and other accounts of GRDB, a state entity.
Wednesday March 20, 2019
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Kaieteur News
The people are trapped in their ethnic voting habits
G
reg Quinn, the Brit ish High Commis sioner to Guyana is a diplomat. And he is being merely diplomatic when he calls on the political leaders to come together to solve the political crisis and when he urges Guyanese to not be reflexive in their voting habits. The Ambassador has become the ‘chief cook and bottle washer’ over the issue of the impending constitutional crisis. He has been reading the ‘riot act’ to the government but has done so with the finesse of a diplomat. The Ambassador knows full well who is at fault when
it comes to the constitutional crisis. He knows who has to bear the responsibility for call elections and who should have signaled three months ago to GECOM to put itself in order. At the recent Annual General Meeting of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Quinn was quoted as saying “What I will say is that the clock is ticking following the no-confidence vote in December. A legal process is ongoing, I recognise that, but that clock has not been stayed. I therefore urge, indeed implore the political leadership of this country to get together and
agree to a constitutional way forward,” When the Ambassador says that the clock is ticking and that there has been no stay of the clock, he is sending a message to the government that it has no legal basis upon which not to have gone ahead and scheduled elections, notwithstanding its legal challenge to the no confidence vote. He knows all too well that it is the President who has to call elections and that the government has pussyfooted with this issue and now needs the opposition to extend the time for holding elections. He knows that the gov-
DEM BOYS SEH
De Chat-3 seh Basil pay $72M to a lawyer
Nuff people does write letters to dem Ministahs fuh different reasons. One couple decide to come back home. Dem apply fuh duty free concession under de remigrant scheme because dem was bringing home all dem household equipment. De powers that be tell dem how dem can’t get it suh dem write to de Foreign Minister. He never reply. Dem try to telephone him and couldn’t reach him. De secretary was like de Berlin Wall.People complain how dem write to nuff odda Ministers and was de same thing. Harmon never acknowledge nutten and when people phone he never answer. Dem boys know de only
person who does acknowledge when a letter send to him is Soulja Bai. If a horse write a letter he does acknowledge receipt of de letter. People start to talk how before dem get into power anybody coulda talk to dem Ministers. Dem coulda also see dem at short notice. Then things change. Dem get more scarce than diamond pun de streets of Georgetown. Or as old people seh, scarce like good gold. Now dem boys know how to get all of dem to reply to anything wha people write. De Chat-3 post a voucher how Basil de Willie pay de Grenadian Senior Counsel $72M fuh go in court three times. De thing hardly see de
light of day before it went viral. Soulja Bai see de thing and right away he ask Basil how much he collect because that is money people does use to build hospital and more than de NIS building in Berbice. Basil seh is not he. And right away he write a reply to de report. People does write to him and he don’t reply but he was quick to reply this time. He holler fake news; he pick pun de Chat-3 and of course, Chris Ram jump in. De story gone abroad. De Grenadian collect $72 million and nutten Basil can do to change dem people mind. Talk half and ask how much Basil pay de Grenadian
ernment will be illegal unless the National Assembly extends the date by which elections have to be held. The Ambassador knows full well that GECOM is also pussyfooting so that the April 30 list deadline can elapse and it will have a basis for demanding house to house registration. He knows also that this house to house registration is not a requirement of law but is a policy decision taken by the Commission to have house to house registration every seven years. The call therefore for the political leaders to come together is just plain diplomatic language. The ball is in the government’s court – it has always been in the government court to name a date for elections. The Opposition Leader is not responsible for the fact no attempt was made to ensure elections preparations began the day after the no confidence vote. The Ambassador was
also reported as urging Guyanese to vote for the best polices instead of doing what is traditional. He urged voters “To not blindly follow one party because that has been what the family has always done, it is time to look to whomever has the best policies and best plans,” The top British diplomat in Guyana should ask himself what constitutes the best policies. In so far as the majority of the population are concerned, the best policy is to be ruled by their own. This is why voting is so polarized. People are trapped in their ethnic voting habits. And while its commendable for the Ambassador to urge them not to so captive,
he also needs to ask himself what are the differences, in polices, between the 28-year rule of the PNC, the 23-year rule of the PPPC and now the almost four-year rule of the APNU+AFC. The fact of the matter is that while the electorate, in the main, is bigoted, the political parties themselves contribute to this bigotry by their failure to do anything different from the each other. As the French would say, the more things change (in Guyana), the more they remain the same.
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Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
James Patterson is not fit and proper to be GECOM’s Chairman Here are my opinions on the unfolding political scenario. 1– From the time President Granger selected Patterson outside of the Carter/Price blueprint, I believed he was laying the foundation for GECOM’s politicization. My explanation – I didn’t think his semantic insistence for the requirement to be GECOM’s was straightforward. Guyanese may recall that he kept insisting with expressed feelings that the words, “and any other fit and proper person” also mean that the person must be a judge and not someone from outside the judicial world. In other words, a highly decorated university professor in biology couldn’t qualify.
2- When Khemraj Ramjattan, Moses Nagamootoo and Raphael Trotman informed the nation that they proffered the advice to Granger that it was constitutionally correct for him to make a unilateral appointment, I was convinced that the AFC will play a huge part as a solid soldier behind the PNC in shaping the conduct of the 2020 elections (which now looks to be earlier than 2020). 3- The terrible governance of APNU+AFC despite friendly criticism from people like David Hinds, Lincoln Lewis and others continues unabated. This engenders feelings in people that the APNU+AFC regime is not
interested in winning hearts and minds but feel that they will be back in power, meaning that either through orthodox or unorthodox routes, they will be returned. 4 – Now here is what Fred Sanford would call the big one. I cannot support the continuation of James Patterson as GECOM chairman after his submission to the ERC investigation into the complaint that its hiring practice is ethnically skewed. Patterson’s attitude to the ERC probe I would describe as unbelievable, incredible and downright unacceptable for a man who once held the priceless societal position of a judge. So incredulous was what I read that I thought I should
not reproduce media reports on this attitude of Patterson unless I could get a reliable media operative to conform what the media carried. I called Denis Chabrol to ask him to confirm parts of what I see by asking him to read that section from the ERC report. It concerns a question put to Patterson about his relationship with Persaud since Patterson had made very strong negative statements about the character of Vishu Persaud, the then deputy Chief Elections Officer. Patterson in his remarks about Persaud referred to him as being shifty, dishonest about his qualification among other indictments. Patterson then told the ERC that these conclusions were based on documents he read. He used the words “paper trail.” Patterson when asked about his interaction or relation with or knowledge of
Persaud, said he never met the gentleman. That is not the disturbing dimension of Patterson’s position. In fact, it is quite normal to reach conclusions about persons you have never met. But context is everything in life. In the context that Patterson could determine employment for an applicant (which in fact he did by a casting vote), it is obligatory on him to go beyond reading what he saw and assess carefully the various angles of what he read and who wrote what. Since Patterson did not work with Persaud and since he said there is a paper trail that indicts Persaud then the obvious question is who wrote what? There are six commissioners and a chairman. We don’t know before Patterson took up his job who among the commissioners wrote swell things and negative notes about Persaud.
Frederick Kissoon But the chairman who worked a long time with Persaud, Dr. Surujbally, spoke to the investigating team and offered an invitingly positive evaluation of Persaud and praised his integrity, the very integrity that according to Patterson he, Patterson, had reason to doubt Persaud possessed. The question this country must demand of James Patterson is what did he read in that paper trail? He must produce it. According to the ERC report, he agreed to submit the “paper trail” but did not. Finally – number 5. The ERC concluded that Persaud was the better qualified candidate over Myers. But he didn’t get the job. Shouldn’t GECOM explain?
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
‘360 degree’ evaluation recommended for UG’s Vice Chancellor contract renewal
The contract of serving Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana [UG], Professor Ivelaw Griffith, is
slated to expire within months and representatives of the institution’s workers unions are paying especially
close attention. In fact, the unions have already embraced the notion that if the Vice Chancellor
does not wish to have his contract renewed, the search process for a new Vice Chancellor should be kicked
into motion by the university’s Council. This was underscored in a letter the unions – the University of Guyana Workers Union [UGWU] and the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association [UGSSA] – jointly wrote to the university’s Council in January of this year. In the joint letter, too, seen by this publication, the unions stated, “We wish to ask Council how it is proceeding with its evaluation of the current Vice Chancellor as Council is aware, his current contract ends in June 2019.” According to the unions, at the institution’s Annual Business meeting last November, the outgoing Chancellor [Professor Nigel Harris] indicated that given a prevailing controversy surrounding the Vice Chancellor’s bonus and the absence of objective criteria
for assessing his performance, that he should be subjected to a ‘360 degree’ evaluation as part of the contract renewal process. The unions have, moreover, questioned the possibility of ‘360 degree’ evaluable being done for other senior UG officials. “It may also be helpful to consider whether this 360 degree process should not be applied to other members of the senior administration,” the unions suggested. But the administration has refused to provide to the unions contract status information such as when contracts would be up for renewal. It has also failed to shed light on any guidance about terms of reference/job description for these roles when the Unions requested such information. “We trust that Council Continued on page 14
‘Sir, I want justice’ - widow of murdered businessman tells Judge at trial “Sir I want Justice,” cried Lorraine Ramah, the widow of businessman Denis Ramah, who was shot and killed after bandits invaded his supermarket on November 16, 2010 at Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara, to Justice Navindra Singh. Lorraine was called to testify yesterday in the trial of Victor Bobb, who is said to be 36, and formerly of Patensen, Greater Georgetown. Bobb is on trial before Justice Singh and a 12member jury at the High Court in Georgetown for the murder of Denis Ramah, 64. In her opening address, State Prosecutor Abigail Gibbs told the court that on the day in question, Bobb was part of a group of men who stormed Denis’s supermarket at Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara and killed him. Recounting the events that led to her husband’s demise, Lorraine told the court that she and her family went to bed after 01:00hrs, on November 16, 2010. She said that she awoke at sunrise to prepare breakfast. Some time after, she heard loud walking on the floor. The woman said that soon after a man approached her, pointing a gun to her head, while demanding cash and jewellery. A visibly shaken Lorraine recounted that she directed the men where to find the valuables and made an attempt to escape when one of the men pushed her into a
MURDER ACCUSED: Victor Bobb chair and continued pointing a gun at her head. According to the woman, her husband, Denis, came to her rescue with a cutlass which he used to chop one of the men, who in turn, shot him dead. Asked by Prosecutor Gibbs if she could identify the man who shot and killed her spouse, Lorraine replied, “Yes.” She then proceeded to look around the courtroom and focused her attention at the prisoners’ dock in which Bobb was seated handcuffed and clad in a bright yellow shirt. “Is he. Is he shoot me husband,” a sobbing Lorraine said as she pointed out Bobb. Her crying at one stage became uncontrollable that it affected her speech. She said, however, that she is haunted by the sound of the Continued on page 14
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
‘Sir, I want justice’ From page 12 gunshots every day. During cross examination, Bobb’s lawyer, Latoya Roberts, suggested to Lorraine that her client was not the one who shot and killed her husband. This suggestion, however, upset the witness who shouted, “He (Bobb) is the person. He is the person, Miss (Roberts). I see. I see he with my eyes.” “Because you want justice for your husband’s death this accused (Bobb) is being blamed,” was the other suggestion put to the witness by Roberts. But Lorraine maintained
that it was Bobb who shot and killed her husband, “He (Bobb) is the one who do it. I ain’t come to lie on nobody else,” she told the jurors who had inquired if she had pointed out Bobb on an identification parade. From all indications, the question was not too clear and Justice Singh sought to re-phrase it. Lorraine’s response to the query was “no.” Another witness testified that he was shot by the men while they were fleeing from the scene. That witness, was the then Chairman of the Community Policing Group. Denis’s son testified to visiting the Georgetown
Public Hospital Mortuary on November 19, 2010 where he identified the body of his father to the pathologist and a police rank. The police, in a statement, almost nine years ago, said that Denis was shot and killed after a group of men entered his business place at L & D Supermarket at Second Street, Chateau Margot, where they held up the employees and placed them to lie on the ground. Police had said that two of the men were armed with guns, while another had a knife. According to the police, Denis raised an alarm and armed himself with a cutlass which he used to wound one of the men, but was shot.
Wednesday March 20, 2019
‘360 degree’ evaluation recommended... From page 12 has this information,” the unions noted. “We can refer Council to a decision made [at a meeting] by a previous Council on February 19, 2014. At that meeting, Council had decided that an evaluation of senior administration staff should be done every two years.” The unions went on to ask for edification of its membership, “How does Council enforce its decisions? We report Council’s decisions to our members and they have noted that it appears that Council makes decisions that are then ignored by the administration. There are apparently no consequences for such actions.” Further, the unions in the letter shared with Council concerns about the management of the institution’s finances. It was pointed out, “We were asked
to wait until the end of January for an offer [salary increase] from the administration because nothing could be decided until the accounts for December 2018 were completed.” But according to the unions, “This made no sense to us. We hope that Council has better insight because according to the University of Guyana Act, Council has the ultimate responsibility for the University’s finances.” In February even as it advocated for a speedy resolution in the interest of all concerned, particularly its primary stakeholders – the students, the university’s administration maintained that it did not have the fiscal space to meet the demands of the Unions for a 10 and nine percent salary increases for 2018 with respect to support [UB] and academic [UA] staffers. The administration has
also stated that while it is willing to have its financial position be examined by any competent and independent arbiter with a view to pronouncing on the data presented, this will only reflect the financial statements that were presented to the unions. “The administration is ultimately concerned that our students should suffer and that the unions are being urged to act responsibly as we seek to mutually resolve the current impasse in an amicable responsible manner. To date the unions and the university continue to feud over their respective concerns. As a result the university has since invoked the conciliation powers of the Ministry of Social Protection’s Labour Department, a state of affairs that has yet to address the concerns of both sides.
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Child abuse perpetrators should be charged within 72 hours – CPA Director
CPA Director Ann Greene
Police and CPA officials during a discussion
T
he Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) continues to work assiduously to prevent, reduce and alleviate the effects of abuse and neglect of children. Recognising that the task can only be accomplished through effective intervention and interagency collaboration, the CPA has begun meeting with stakeholders from the Guyana Police Force, Probation Officers, Health and Education sectors, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and other agencies to discuss ways to collaborate to better tackle child abuse.
During a recent meeting with stakeholders at CPA, Director Ann Greene, emphasised the need for police officers to work faster and have perpetrators of child abuse charged within 72 hours. Greene said that some police stations move slowly on the charges resulting in perpetrators fleeing the case or c o u n t r y . ”You must be proactive! All police stations should strive for cases to go before the court in 72 hours. Sexual abuse is a crime and the police can’t work out an arrangement with people at the police station.
The issues cannot stop at the police station; if it happens there it is corruption. Police have to charge and there is reluctance with the police sometimes to get persons charged,” Green s t r e s s e d . Some police officers present at the meeting related that they experience difficulty with obtaining evidence during child abuse cases. Greene responded that parents should be held accountable. She explained that the police can get a statement from the child and use it in the case. She advised that the statement can be taken in the presence of a probation officer. Greene added that there is also reluctance with probation officers to hasten child abuse cases. She reminded them that their first responsibility and duty is to the child. Therefore, they must do their best in child abuse cases to ensure that the child is free from the abuse and the perpetrator is locked away. Last year, 481 cases were reported to the agency, with 134 thus far, for 2019.
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
Pathologist refuses to complete Post Mortem Nearly two weeks after he was shot and killed by a police constable attached to the Whim Police Station, a post mortem examination is yet to be done on Mark Johnson of Nurney Village, Corentyne, Berbice. Relatives have grown weary and frustrated over the delay and “royal run-around” to have an autopsy done. Reports reaching this publication revealed that Johnson’s body was opened but was left by the Pathologist after a disagreement with a relative. Relatives were forced to postpone the funeral for Johnson, which was scheduled to take place on Sunday. Having nowhere to turn to, the family has since resorted to the media to air their issues. According to one of Johnson’s sisters, all that is being heard are promises from the Commander of B’ Division, Paul Langevine, and the Officer in Charge of Crime, Chabinauth Singh, to get the examination done. On March 13, last, relatives were told to show up at the Skeldon Hospital mortuary to witness the PM. The Pathologist Vivekanand Brijmohan arrived shortly after and was about to commence the examination when he allegedly cursed out the Police Corporal present. Johnson’s brother-in-law, Rawl Collins, told the media that they were standing a distance away from the mortuary when “he start with some indecent language asking the police rank if this is the bloody clothes y’all giving me to put on.” Collins added that as the pathologist was beginning the PM, he asked the police to tell the relatives to remove from the mortuary. “We were already outside and we move off more from there.” He said that after another round of swearing Dr. Brijmohan ripped off the black gown, threw his gloves in a corner and walked out of the place. Collins said he questioned the doctor about his attitude as he was leaving the mortuary but he was again cursed at. He said that Brijmohan jumped in his vehicle and drove off, leaving the relatives with a partial autopsy. Since then, it has been a struggle to have a pathologist complete the examination. “Up until now we can’t get the dead to bury because the police are putting us to Brijmohan. Everybody is pushing us around. We need help at this present time; we will not leave it here. This is not good to have a doctor behave like a pig,” Collins said. Jacqueline James, a grieving sister, who seemed
Mark Johnson visibly frustrated over the situation, said that someone informed the Commander about their situation last week and they were told to meet with him. However that meeting was not fruitful since all the Commander did was tell them that he apologised to the Pathologist over what took place at the mortuary and had asked if he would complete the autopsy but the man refused. “The commander promised us that he will try his best so that we could have gotten the body for Sunday burial. He told us that we have to get on to the Crime Chief (Chabinauth Singh). I keep calling and calling and calling and unto (yesterday) he promised me again. We don’t know what to do. My brother came in from England and he suppose to go before the weekend and until now no word,” James said. She said that they have begun to worry about what is happening. “It seems that we are living in this country Guyana and there is no help we can get from any authority.” James disclosed that they were advised to visit the office of the Prime Minister’s Region Six representative, Gobin Harbhajan, to air their concerns. She told reporters that Harbhajan was “helpful but I don’t see it getting anywhere”. Harbhajan told Kaieteur News that the deceased relatives indeed visited his office yesterday in a confused stated and expressed how unhappy they were and stated that they were being pushed around by the Pathologist and the police. He disclosed that he made contact with the Commander in the presence of the family and was told that “he was engaging the crime chief to see if he can get the Pathologist to do the post mortem”. “It is very sad that the family is grieving at this time after losing someone and then they have to go through this. Many of the man’s relatives travelled from overseas for the funeral but that is yet to Continued on page 26
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Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
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munities. Amongst the institutions that were showcased at the event were University of Guyana, the Cyril Potter College of Education, and several secondary schools across Guyana. Amongst some of the presenters were Chutney performer, Harvey Gobin, of Leguan Essequibo Islands; singer Naryeshwar Bharrat, and talented dancers Nalaini Mootilall, Seema Budhram and many others. The Success Chowtal Gold Group particularly enthralled the audience with a breath-taking performance. British transportation of Indian labour, 1842 to 1870, following the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire, it was again abolished in the French colonial empire in 1848, and the U.S. abolished slavery in 1865 with the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution A final resolution for the prohibition of indentured labour was proposed by Madan Mohan Malaviya on March 20, 1916. This was defeated, but assurances were given once again by the Government of India that indentured migration would end once suitable alternative systems were in place. Most of these indentured labourers were drawn from the agricultural and laboring classes of the Uttar Pradesh and Bihar regions of north India, with a comparatively smaller number being recruited from Bengal and various areas in south India. Approximately 85% of the immigrants were Hindus, and 14% Muslims.
Pathologist refuses to...
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(From page 23) the place of Minister Dr. Nicolette Henry, who was unable to attend, noted that back in the days the foreparents of East Indians would have observed this day with prayers in their prayer of worship. She emphasized that the recent NCC event was a joyous celebration of the closure of Indian Indentured Labour. She added that today, many are not familiar with the abolition of Indian Indentured Labour. Many seem to know about Indian Immigration which is celebrated in pomp and style there is need to educate also on the Abolition of Indian Indentureship. She applauded Indian Culture International (ICI) for initiating the venture for yet another year, and for taking the lead in sensitizing all Guyanese, both locally and overseas, of this very important part of our history through such a grand festival. She added the content of this nature would soon be added to the Caribbean Council of Examinations’ syllabuses for all assessments – including the Caribbean Primary Exit Assessments, CSEC and CAPE. She added that any country, in any society where new knowledge has to be transmitted to the masses, the teachers and students are usually the primary source of dissemination and that is because of the cascade effect. She urged teachers present at the function to share their knowledge acquired at the function with their various groups or grades of students and their parents, and the members of their com-
HEALTH For doctoring erectile disfunction problems. Asthma burns, hearing & hair loss. Call Bush doc. Tel 231-9348 HERBAL REMEDIES: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, Enlarged prostate, Kidney,Gall stones & Arthritis etc. Call Sparman #676-5924
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
GECOM Chairman tells President no elections before late November; wants $3.5B -PPP commissioners say they were not consulted; walk out of meeting
Opposition commissioners: (L-r)- Bibi Shadick, Sase Gunraj and Robeson Benn.
W
ith one more day before Guyana e n t e r s uncharted Constitutional waters, the rift at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has widened even further. Yesterday, GECOM Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson, advised President David Granger that the earliest General and Regional Elections can be held is late November. The letter from Justice Patterson to the President did not have the blessings of the three Opposition-nominated Commissioners- Bibi Shadick, Sase Gunraj and Robeson Benn. With warnings from at least one diplomat that a
solution must be found earliest to end the Constitutional problem, yesterday’s walkout by Opposition commissioners from GECOM’s meeting would signal more tough times ahead in the political landscape. Patterson’s letter to the President came days after he was asked to provide a work programme and more details about the readiness of GECOM for early elections. The Opposition is insisting that GECOM’s job is always to be ready for elections and to register Guyanese. According to Shadick, during a post-walkout press conference, from the language of the letter, it did
not sound like the Chairman wrote it. The delays in naming a date are a clear design to hold off on elections as long as possible, the commissioners said. According to the letter from Patterson, he consulted with his Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, and senior staffers. He blamed the walkouts as delaying the process of naming a date. “This has occurred at every session convened since February 28, 2019, including the Commission’s last meeting on March 14, 2019.”The chairman said that he was advised by the CEO that given all current considerations, an amount of
GECOM’s chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson has written President David Granger telling him that elections cannot be held before late November. $3.5B is required. “Kindly note that significant critical path activities associated with elections cannot commence prior to the availability of these funds to the Commission. In the circumstances, no election date should be contemplated less than five months after these funds are placed at the disposal of and under the control of GECOM.” Patterson disclosed that it would be logistically impossible for the Secretariat to produce a list with a qualifying date of April 30, 2019, to become available for May 1. “Accordingly, in the Secretariat’s submission to the Commission all viable options for the availabilities of an electoral list are anchored in a qualifying date of October 31, 2019 which lists cannot be used before November 1, 2019.” Patterson said that according to the GECOM Secretariat, the earliest that elections could have been held, catering for the houseto-house registration, is this year end- provided that enough resources are released. “In consideration of all of the above, the fulfillment of the various conditions highlighted, the removal of the external impediments, and
based on the advice I have been given by the Chief Elections Officer, I would proffer that the Commission would be in a position to conduct General and Regional Elections no earlier than late November 2019 with an Official List of Electors having a qualifying date of October 31, 2019.” The current situation was triggered after an Oppositiontabled no confidence vote was carried on December 21. A Government parliamentarian, Charrandass Persaud, joined with the Opposition in voting yes. In so doing, it caused the government to fall and triggered a 90-day window for early elections, which expires tomorrow. However, Government has taken the matter to court. At the High Court level, it was ruled that the vote was legal. It is being appealed now. The Government says it is prepared to head to the Caribbean Court of Justice. In the meantime, the foreign envoys have been warning of the impact that the political impact would have on investments. The political situation has divided the country with any elections that come expected to be one of the hardest fought in the country’s recent history.It would come at a time when Guyana is about to
produce oil—lots of oil. According to Commissioner Benn, during the press conference, the GECOM meeting started yesterday with the letter staring them in the face. The Opposition commissioners said that they disagreed with the letter being sent as they were not consulted. The commissioners claimed that there is a history in the last few months which tells a clear picture…of a plan to delay elections. While GECOM should be upholding the Constitution, it is acting contrary. According to the commissioners, the chairman is operating almost as if the Opposition Commissioners do not exist. It was pointed out that $5B had already been allocated to GECOM in the national budget. It is now asking for $3.5B. According to Gunraj, there is no legal document or policy paper which GECOM could produce that would indicate that house-to-house registration must be conducted before elections. According to Commissioner Benn, it is clear that the Chairman has “usurped” the functions of the Commission which comprises six commissioners plus a chairman.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Counterfeit voucher claims $72M paid in legal fees for No- Confidence Appeal cases Nandlall admits to posting fake news The Government has denied paying $72.8 million in legal fees to Queen’s Counsel Dr. Francis Raphael Alexis for his representation of the State in the No-Confidence Appeal cases. Dr. Alexis has been retained by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams to argue the appeal in two of the Confidence cases. The fees became a source of concern after a payment voucher of $72.8 million purportedly issued by the Ministry of Legal Affairs in favour Dr. Alexis made rounds on social media. The voucher raised the eyebrows of several persons
including Attorney -at- law Chris Ram and former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall. Both men subsequently questioned the authenticity of the information. Nandlall admitted to posting the voucher but claimed that he took it down immediately because he could not verify it. But by then what he posted had gone viral. In a statement, Ram noted that while he has no reason to ascertain the authenticity of the payment voucher, he has some doubt that Williams “would pay such an exorbitant sum in one of the most frivolous appeals before our courts for decades.” The Chartered Accoun-
tant noted, nonetheless, that he is prepared to give the benefit of an explanation to Mr. Williams but asked that he respond to a number of questions including whether the payment voucher is authentic and a payment of $72.8 million was made; whether this is a final payment, and if not, what is the total sum to be paid to Dr. Alexis and what is the scope of Dr. Alexis’s retainer?” Late yesterday, the Attorney General Chambers/Ministry of Legal Affairs, (AGC/ MOLA) issued a statement debunking the authenticity of the information. The statement however did not clarity the actual payments made to
Trafficking cocaine-in-frozen fish
Magistrate to rule today on prima facie case Senior Magistrate Leron Daly is set to rule today 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, (Continued on page 30)
Charged Baldeo Persaud
Charged Amir Ally
Mayor meets Infrastructure Minister
On March 14, last, the Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine, paid a courtesy visit to Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson.The deliberations were deemed successful. The Mayor shared strong sentiments with Minister Patterson for the development of Georgetown. He noted that there is strength in unity and cohesion as the council and the Ministry contribute, together, to the develop-
ment and improvement of “our beloved City of Georgetown on both the local and global level.” Minister David Patterson guided Mr. Narine on the projects outlined under his Ministry and also shared how the Municipality along with the Ministry can collaborate on projects for 2019 to ensure consistency and cleanliness of the City.
Dr. Alexis for entering appearances on behalf of the State. The Attorney General’s Chambers frontally denied information labeling it malicious and counterfeit. The statement outlined that the image of a purported payment voucher issued to Dr. Alexis, for his services provided to the State in Government No -Confidence Appeal cases was shared on the Facebook account of Former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, and is now widely circulated on various social media platforms by many online users. “The AGC/MOLA, frontally deny and reject out of hand such a payment was ever made. By no stretch of imagination, this document resembles or even comes close to the Payment Vouchers utilized by Government agencies.” The missive went on to note that many social media users, who are acquainted with the Government’s Payment System, can easily detect the irregularities and inconsistencies with this document. “Over the years, the Government of Guyana, irrespective, of which political party is governing, has developed a standardized system of payment and documents that should be utilized when offsetting these payments throughout all ministries nationwide. This transaction is no different and the system cannot be unilaterally abro-
Queen’s Counsel Dr. Francis Raphael Alexis
Attorney General Basil Williams
gated.” Some of the discrepancies detected in the document are not limited to but are as follows— the AGC/MOLA does not use a ‘ref #’; the amount quoted by the document is substantially inaccurate and misleading; as stated before, the document is not authentic since there is a standard payment voucher utilized by Government agencies and the cheque number is not related to any payment for Dr. Alexis. Moreover, it is imperative to note that the two officers named that are attached to the AGC/MOLA appearing on the document cannot carry out such a transaction. Mrs. Tamika Barkoye, cannot approve such payment. Also, Ms. Simone Allen does not make payments of any sort,” the Ministry added. “The circulation of this voucher along with initial speculation associated with
Dr. Alexis being retained by the AGC/MOLA is calculated to be entirely mischievous and is highly unacceptable.” Additionally, the Ministry noted that under the former administration, the AGC/ MOLA would have expended hefty sums of monies to retain lawyers from within the Caribbean region to bolster their legal teams. “Examples include the Elections Petition Case of 2015, the lawyer being Abe Dabdoub of Jamaica and Seenauth Jairam SC of Trinidad and Tobago in the Budget- Cuts case to name a few.” The Chambers added this must be seen as yet another blatant attack on professionals of the public service attached to the AGC/MOLA and by extension the Government of Guyana. The Ministry asked the images be removed immediately.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Jury acquits rape accused After about two hours of deliberations, a jury by a verdict of 10 not guilty to two guilty, yesterday acquitted Conway Gray who was accused of raping a threeyear-old girl. The proportionate not guilty verdict saw the charge being dismissed against Gray by trial Judge Jo-Ann Barlow, who is at present sitting in the Sexual Offences Courtroom at the High Court in Georgetown. The charge against Gray, who was represented by Attorneys-at-Law Maxwell McKay, stated that on June 19, 2015, in the county of Demerara, he engaged in sexual penetration with the underage girl. Upon his arraignment, Gray pleaded not guilty to the indictment which was presented by State Prosecutor Seeta Bishundial. Before informing Gray that he was free to go, Justice Barlow, took the opportunity to offer some advice to the former rape accused. The judge told Gray that the jury’s
FREED: Conway Gray verdict means that he is now free of the crime. The Judge urged him to see the outcome of his trial as a second chance, and to also motivate him to not want to return to the Court system. Moreover, the Judge urged the prosecution to continue to liaise with the relevant authorities to provide support to the young girl, who she said, is now much older to understand what yesterday’s verdict means.
Police continue probe into epileptic man’s death Police are continuing their investigations into the cause of death of an epileptic man, whose body was found in the verandah of a businessman’s residence. The business man lived not far from the dead man’s residence. The body of Lalta Persaud, a male handyman, of Belle West Squatting Area, West Bank Demerara was discovered Monday morning in the verandah of a businessman. The businessman was taken in for questioning on Monday, but has since been released. Previous reports had suggested that Persaud would have retired to bed early on Sunday night but was found missing around 02:00 hrs when relatives checked for him in his bed. The front door was said to be wide open when relatives began to make checks. The body was examined by police, but no marks of violence were reportedly discovered. It was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where an official pronouncement of death was made.
Magistrate to rule today on prima facie... From page 29 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 in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The matter is being prosecuted by Custom Anti-Narcotics Unit (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 substantial evidence against the men and they should be called upon to lead a defence. The Magistrate after listening to the submissions adjourned the matter until March 25, next, when she is expected to make a ruling on whether 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. During the search, 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.
Wednesday March 20, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Parika Ferry Stelling to be Rehabilitated The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board opened tenders yesterday, for a range of projects, including rehabilitative works for the Parika Ferry Stelling, East Bank Essequibo. The remaining projects will be published in a later edition. Transport and Harbours Department Rehabilitation of Parika Ferry Stelling
Ministry of the Presidency - SCCYS Procurement of Building Materials - Coldingen Training Centre
Bank of Guyana Technical Assistance for the Procurement and Implementation of a Real Time Gross Settlement System and a Central Securities Depository System and Integration of Government Payment
Procurement of Building Materials - Den Amstel Training Centre
Guyana Defence Force Procurement of Air Conditioning and Walk-In Freezer Spares Ministry of Natural Resources Hiring of Consultant for PSC Audit Support
Procurement of Building Materials
Ministry of Business Consultancy for Design of Export and Investment Strategy and Implementation Plan for GO-Invest
Ministry of Communities Assessment of Sanitary Conditions in Municipalities
Environmental Protection Agency Provision of Baton Security Services
Ministry of Public Health Procurement of Security Services
Supply, Installation and Refit of the Emergency Battery Power Supply System aboard the GDFS Essequibo
From NPTAB Opening 12.03.2019 The following projects constitute the remainder of bids made from last week’s tender opening. Ministry of Agriculture – NDIA Repairs to Revetment at Caledonia, Wakenaam, Region 3
>>>> To be continued in tomorrow’s edition <<<<
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
Cameron NAMILCO outfits Fruta Conquerors... says... From page 36 with Prime Minister [Allen] Chastanet [of St Lucia], Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica – the Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister [Gaston Browne] has written me a note publicly supporting what we are doing. “[We have] relationships with the Prime Minister of Barbados (Mia Mottley) … as a matter of fact I have a personal relationship with Gonsalves and Prime Minister Mitchell as well. So again, we have no personal issues.” Cameron is being challenged in Sunday’s CWI elections by former St Kitts and Nevis cabinet minister, Ricky Skerritt, while vicepresident Emmanuel Nanthan is up against Dr Kishore Shallow.
From page 34 media was also informed that Coach Sampson Gilbert is also working on the nutritional side of the players to ensure they eat well. “We have been supported by the Guyana Football Federation, they have lent us technical staff to give support to the head coach and we’ll like to thank them for that. If I’m to evaluate the readiness of the team, we are fully prepared for this competition and we are going forward to win.” The president called on Guyana to lend its full support to the team since they are not just representing themselves but the entire nation. “We need the full support of everyone, everybody have their comments but right now, positive comments is what is
going to drive the players. So we encourage members of the public to be positive as well as the media and everyone who is capable of doing so.” Fruta Conquerors will play the opening match of the competition on April 5th against Scholars International form 16:00hrs. Group A is the only group with four teams, Groups B, C and D has three teams each. Following round-robin play, each group winner and runner-up will advance to the quarterfinals. The quarterfinal winners will automatically qualify to the semifinals. The two finalists will dispute the final on Monday, April 15, 2019. The winner of the 2019 Concacaf Caribbean Shield, provided said team fulfills the Concacaf Regional Club Licensing criteria, will
Wednesday March 20, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) If you aren't traveling today, Aries, you will likely take a big trip soon. It seems that you will be sharing a room with someone special. A close friend or significant other may accompany you. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You're gifted in ways you don't even know about, Taurus. Today you may uncover that gift unexpectedly. Perhaps you doodle a silly drawing in the margin of a note to a friend. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Atrip to a museum or gallery could bring you some interesting insights, Gemini. Maybe you will ignore the realistic paintings and photographs that used to interest you and admire the abstract works instead. CANCER(June21–July22) Home and technology figure prominently today, Cancer. Perhaps you've just bought the latest gadget and want to spend the day figuring out how it works. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) If you've wanted to get involved in some type of volunteer organization, today may be when you sign up to support a worthy cause. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your career is about to take a turn for the better, Virgo. New professional possibilities may come your way today. Be receptive to any invitations or offers.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Anticipation is often as good as, if not better than, the actual event. This is what you experience today as you and your partner plan an exciting getaway. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Past issues may rear their ugly heads today. No, it isn't pretty. In fact, it's frustrating to have to deal with this problem again. You will be well served to spend time meditating. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Romance is in the air, Sagittarius, filtering your vision with a rosy light. You're in love with the world today, and you're most especially in love with your partner. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) All sorts of wonderful changes are in the air at home and at work. On the personal front, someone new is likely to enter your life and change it for the better. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) There's a big world out there beckoning to you, Aquarius. Why not plan an adventure to a faraway land? You've been working hard and deserve a reward. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today, Pisces, you're likely to undertake some seemingly urgent decorating projects in order to get your home in tip-top shape. It could be that a few minor purchases are all that's needed.
have the opportunity to face the fourth-place finisher of the 2019 Flow Concacaf Caribbean Club Championship in a playoff match to determine the fourth Caribbean representative in the 2019 Scotiabank Concacaf League.
T&T invasion continues... From page 40 Georgetown), and over 70 entries have already been registered for Sunday’s showdown. In a release from the organisers of the event, it noted that due to the current situation of the horse racing industry deteriorating in T&T, Ali is looking to further his career in greener pastures and the experienced jockey is hoping that Guyana can continue raising their standards in the sport, as has been the case for the past few years. This Sunday’s feature race will attract a total prize purse amounting to almost $2million with the winner of that C Class and lower race pocketing $1million. The winner of the threeyear-old Guyana bred race will pocket $400,000, the F Class winner; $350,000, H Class; $300,000, I Class; $250,000, J class; $230,000, K Class; $220,000, L Class; $200,000, L Class and lower; $140,000.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
NAMILCO outfits Fruta Conquerors for Concacaf Caribbean Shield Championship By Franklin Wilson As the leading manufacturers of flour in Guyana continues to celebrate its 50th year in existence, the National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO) continues to maintain its corporate and social responsibility which among other things, empowers the nation’s youths. Yesterday at the company’s Agricola, East Bank Demerara headquarters, the President of Fruta Conquerors led a delegation comprising of his executive members and two players to receive two sets of uniforms ahead of the clubs participation at the Concacaf Caribbean Cup Shield to be played in Curacao from April 5-15, next. The competition forms part of the expanded Concacaf Club Competition Platform and will feature the participation of clubs from 13 different Caribbean Associations. Fruta Conquerors have been drawn in Group A along with Jong
Holland, Scholars International Sports Club and Santiago de Cuba. Prior to handing over the uniforms to the club, NAMILCO’s Fitzroy McLeod happily informed that the company over the years, since 2006 to be exact, has developed a profound respect for the leadership of the organisation for their transparency, accountability and for the work overall. “Not just in conditioning their senior squad but also in developing young players, young minds - both men and women - and in actually putting in place an academy before they had a name for it.” McLeod noted that this initiative has served the club and country well by providing a steady stream of talent that is ever present for senior teams of the club and country. “Namilco is therefore more than happy where possible to assist with their project. We expect them to continue to be trailblazers and believe that their entry in the Concacaf Caribbean Cup
NAMILCO’s Finance Director Mr. Fitzroy McLeod (2nd right) shares remarks yesterday in the presence of Fruta Conquerors President Colin Gittens (left), Secretary Daniel Thomas (center) and other Conquerors Exco Members. Shield is a continuation of that trailblazing activity. We have no doubt that they will represent the club, NAMILCO and Guyana creditably on and off the field and in the process lift the profile of Guyana’s football and positively promote their stakeholder, spread the word of the value and quality of the Namilco Thunderbolt and Maid Marian lines of flour products.”
Thomas in his remarks informed that the value of the training uniforms provided to the club specifically for next month’s tournament is in excess of $320,000. Giving a brief on how the two entities started their relationship, Thomas said that it was back in 2006 when they partnered for the inaugural NAMILCO KO Festival, which was a much looked forward to tournament, likening it to the
Kashif and Shanghai championship which teams had looked forward to annually. “So as we celebrate their 50th anniversary as an organization, on behalf of the Fruta Conquerors executive committee, coaches, players, parents, fans and the general well wishers, we would like to extend heartfelt thanks to you Mr. Bert Sukhai and Mr. McLeod for your continued
support to our club. May your organisation continue to grow from strength to strength, God Bless.” Club President Gittens informed that his charges have been working on being fit for the competition which is important. He cited tactical awareness and endurance are traits need to last for the duration of the tournament which they intend to win. The (Continued on page 33)
NBA roundup: Nuggets top Celtics, seal playoff spot Nikola Jokic had 21 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists, and the Denver Nuggets beat the host Boston Celtics 114-105 on Monday night to clinch a playoff berth. Will Barton had 20 points, Gary Harris added 16 and Paul Millsap had 12 points and 11 rebounds for Denver, which is back in the postseason for the first time since 2013. The Nuggets (47-22) swept the season series from Boston and surpassed their win total from last season with 13 games to go. Denver needs just 10 wins to match the franchise record for a season set in 2012-13. Kyrie Irving led the Celtics with a game-high 30 points, and Al Horford scored 20. Boston played without Gordon Hayward, who left the Saturday game against the Atlanta Hawks with a neck strain. Spurs 111, Warriors 105 DeMar DeRozan scored 26 points, and LaMarcus Aldridge added 23 points and 13 rebounds as San Antonio beat visiting Golden State for its ninth win in a row. The victory was the Spurs’ 11th straight at home and guaranteed San Antonio (42-29) its NBA-record 22nd consecutive winning season. Rudy Gay added 17 points for the Spurs. Stephen Curry
Boston Celtics guard Kyrie Irving (11) drives between Denver Nuggets guard Will Barton (5) and center Nikola Jokic (15) during the second half at TD Garden. (Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports) led the Warriors with 25 points, and Kevin Durant tallied 24 in his return to the lineup after missing the past two games with a sprained ankle. Pelicans 129, Mavericks 124 (OT) Dirk Nowitzki reached a milestone, but his Dallas teammates failed to make it a celebratory evening, blowing a four-point lead in the final 19.1 seconds of regulation as visiting New Orleans pulled
out the overtime victory. Nowitzki made his first two shots, both trademark jumpers, in the opening four minutes to surpass Wilt Chamberlain as the NBA’s sixth-leading alltime scorer. Julius Randle finished with a game-high 30 points for New Orleans, and Elfrid Payton recorded his fifth consecutive triple-double with 19 points (11 coming in the fourth quarter and
overtime), 11 assists and 10 rebounds. Luka Doncic notched a triple-double for the Mavericks with 29 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists. Heat 116, Thunder 107 Goran Dragic hit six 3pointers and scored 26 points off the bench to lead visiting Miami, and Dwyane Wade scored 25 in his final game at Oklahoma City. James Johnson also added 14 points as Miami’s
reserves outscored Oklahoma City’s 67-10. Dragic had 11 assists. Kelly Olynyk contributed 18 points and nine rebounds to help the Heat win for the seventh time in nine games. Oklahoma City was playing without Russell Westbrook, who was suspended after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season in a Saturday loss to the Golden State Warriors. Paul George led the Thunder with 31 points, and he grabbed nine rebounds. Jazz 116, Wizards 95 Rudy Gobert had 14 points and 14 rebounds, and visiting Utah beat Washington. Gobert, the reigning Western Conference Player of the Week, was 6 of 6 from the field and made 2 of 3 free throws. Donovan Mitchell scored 19 points and Jae Crowder added 18 for the Jazz. Ricky Rubio had 10 assists. Jabari Parker led Washington with 19 points, and Bradley Beal, the Eastern Conference Player of the Week, added 15 on 4-of-12 shooting. Raptors 128, Knicks 92 Jeremy Lin scored 20 points off the bench, Pascal Siakam added 19 points and eight rebounds, and Toronto hammered visiting New York. Kyle Lowry added 15
points and eight assists for the Raptors before leaving the game with an ankle injury during the third quarter. He did not return to action. Fred VanVleet scored 13 points and handed out 12 assists for the Raptors, who have won all three meetings with the Knicks so far this season. Allonzo Trier scored 22 points for the Knicks while Kevin Knox added 12 points and Damyean Dotson added 11. New York lost for the ninth time in 10 games. Cavaliers 126, Pistons 119 Rookie Collin Sexton poured in 27 points, including a go-ahead 3-pointer with less than two minutes left, and Cleveland beat visiting Detroit. Cedi Osman supplied 21 points and six assists for the Cavaliers, who had seven players score in double figures. Brandon Knight contributed 16 points, four rebounds and five assists, while Nik Stauskas led the Cleveland bench with 17 points. Marquese Chriss added a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Wayne Ellington scored 25 points to lead the Pistons, while Andre Drummond had 21 points and 21 rebounds. Pistons All-Star Blake Griffin sat out for just the third time this season. (Field Level Media)
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Deontay Wilder: World champion to defend title against Dominic Breazeale in May
Deontay Wilder (left) will face Dominic Breazeale in New York. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - World heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder will defend his title against mandatory challenger Dominic Breazeale in New York on 18 May. The Barclays Center fight was ordered by the WBC, after Briton Tyson Fury opted for an alternative bout instead of a rematch with Wilder, 33. Breazeale, 33, has lost just one of his 21 fights to IBF, WBO and WBA champion Anthony Joshua in 2016. “I hold the keys in the division,” said Wilder. “I will knock this fool out.” Wi l d e r became increasingly intense at a news conference to announce the bout, making reference to an altercation with Breazeale at an Alabama hotel in February 2017.
After both had won bouts at the Legacy Arena, Breazeale claimed Wilder and his entourage attacked him and his family as they were attending dinner. Wilder added: “I hope he is in a great place and trained his hardest. Every man I have faced has landed on the canvas. I have the sauce to do that. No man can get in the ring to defeat Deontay Wilder. “ I t ’s a l w a y s a g r e a t opportunity to get the mandatory matches out of the way. I consider them flies, buzzing in your ears I’m going to smash this fly.” Wilder pointed to frustrations in negotiations with both Fury and Joshua by stating he needed “cooperation” if such superfights are to be made. Joshua faces American
Jarrell Miller in New York on 1 June, while Fury’s decision to sign a television deal with ESPN has led to him facing an as yet unnamed opponent before any rematch with Wilder takes place. Breazeale - who has 18 knockouts from 20 wins vowed to capitalise on his window of opportunity. The California-born fighter says he will bring refined skills to the ring under the guidance of new trainer Virgil Hunter, who described overcoming Wilder as a “monumental task”. Breazeale said: “I am a great fighter but there is always something to learn. I’m bringing the excitement of trouble. I will bring pressure. “I am sick of seeing this bum walk around with his belt. People will be in their seat and rising when I knock him down.”
Skerritt ticket gets Lloyd, Roberts backing for CWI leadership... From page 38 the opportunity to project fresh ideas. “West Indies Cricket needs a new direction. We have seen the decimation of West Indies Cricket over a long period of time especially under this administration much to the humiliation of the Caribbean Diaspora.” The outspoken Sir Andy, meanwhile, said Skerritt and Shallow had convinced him they would be unifying figures, and would bring the change so badly required to halt the decline in West Indies cricket. “Over the last 25 years, West Indies cricket has been steadily declining. In the last [five to 10] years the administration has declined rapidly – so much confusions with players, past and present and West Indian-born coaches,” said Sir Andy, a part of Lloyd’s fearsome pace battery of the 1970s and 80s. “We need a change at the top, so that is why I’m endorsing Ricky Skerritt and Kishore Shallow as President and VicePresident of our cricket.
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Kaieteur News
“They have assured me that they will work with all relevant stakeholders in the region to make sure they get the best out of the region, so that our cricket can move forward and back to a position of respectability. At the moment it is not there.” The latest endorsements adds to the groundswell of support for Skerritt and Shallow, who have already gotten the thumbs-up from St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves. However, the pair will need to secure at least seven of the 12 votes up for grabs from the six territorial boards, in order to prevent Cameron and vice-president, Emmanuel Nanthan, from securing a fourth straight term. A l r e a d y, B a r b a d o s , G u y a n a a n d Windward Islands have signalled their support for the incumbents, while Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o a n d L e e w a rd Islands have backed the challengers. The Jamaica Cricket Association have said they will hear from both parties before making a decision on who to support.
BCB/Elizabeth Styles 2019 Under-21
Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets, Albion CC among teams advancing to next round The Berbice Cricket Board organised Elizabeth Styles Under-21 Cricket Tournament continued recently in the Ancient County. A total of 20 teams are participating in the Knockout 50-Overs Tournament which is being sponsored by USA Based Cosmetics brand, Elizabeth Styles. Promising players Kevlon Anderson, Adrian Sukhwa and Marvin Prashad each scored centuries for their teams. The Defending Champions, Blairmont Community Centre, were defeated by D’Edward Cricket Club but still advanced to the Quarter Finals after D’Edward were found guilty of playing an over-aged player by the Berbice Cricket Board. The Berbice Cricket Board would be organising over 30 Tournaments in 2019 for its members. Tournaments for Junior Players would also be organised at the Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, Under19 and Under-23 levels in a well structured developmental programme in Berbice. Anderson blasted 110 in a well timed innings as Rose Hall town Gizmos & Gadgets amassed 349 all out in 48.4 Overs versus Bush Lot Rising Star. He received support from Jonathan Rampersaud 51, Mahendra Gopilall 55 and Nicholas Lawson 23. Latchman Dauna 2 for 28 and Nicholas Shivrattan 2 for 65 were Bush Lot Rising Star best bowlers. The visitors were then bowled out for 146 in 24.5 Overs to lose by 203 runs. Kris Ramnarine 25, Prakash Bharrat 13 and Navindra Prasad 26 were the principal batters as Anderson 3 for 21 and Kevin Sinclair 3 for 29 bowled well for Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets. Scores from the other matches were:
1. At No. 73 Ground: Albion Com Centre defeated No. 73 Cricket Club by 275 runs. Albion Com Centre 343 for 6 wickets. Adrian Sukhwa 110, Jeetendra Autar 54, Kevin Umroa 58, Reyad Karim 38. Ganesh Singh 4 for 71. No. 73 Cricket Club 68 all out. Kevin Umroa 4 for 25, Beesham Surujnarine 3 for 18. 2. At Scottsburg Ground: Rama Krishna Cricket Club defeated Scottsburg United by 7 wickets. Scottsburg United 77 all out in 22 Overs. J. Joseph 11. Naresh Singh 2 for 11, Chitram Singh 2 for 21, Inderdat Singh 2 for 10. Rama Krishna Cricket Club 80 for 3 in 15 Overs. Gavin Chatterpaul 34. Rockeel Gordon 2 for 21. 3. At Edinburgh Ground: Blairmont Community Centre defeated Edinburgh Cricket club by 208 runs. Blairmont Community Centre 282 for 8 in 40 Overs. Marvin Prashad 112, Nigel Deodat 43, Javed Karim 34. S. Nicholius 4 for 43. Edinburgh Cricket Club 74 all out in 26.2 Overs. L. Sanichara 15, Nigel Deodat 5for 14, Seon Glasgow 3 for 7, Javed Karim 2 for 20. 4. At Bush Lot Ground: Bush Lot Rising Star defeated Paradise Cricket Club by 8 wickets. Paradise Cricket Club 49 runs in 10.1 Overs. O. Bharrat 13, Devag Persaud 5 for 14. Bush Lot Rising Star Cricket Club 50 for 2 in 8.1 Overs. Yurendra Budhoo 18 not out. 5. At D’Edward Ground: D’Edward Cricket Club defeated Achievers Cricket Club by 5 runs. D’Edward Cricket Club 84 all out in 22 Overs. Chetram France 27. Andel Milne 15. Vikash Singh 3 for 13, Titus Webster 2 for 12.
Achievers Cricket Club 79 all outin 19.4 Overs. Titus Webster 22, Hemraj Harilall 2 for 5, Shamia Greenidge 3 for 13. C. France 2 for 11. 6. D’Edward Cricket Club defeated Blairmont Community Centre by 2 runs but later lost the match after being found guilty of playing an over-aged player by the BCB Competitions Committee. D’Edward Cricket Club 107 all out in 26.5 Overs. R. Braithwaite 43, M. Marimuthu 19. Nigel Deodat 3 for 14, Seon Glasgow 2 for 19 and Javed Karim 2 for 12. Blairmont Community Centre 105 all out in 16 Overs. Z. Naseer 31, Marvin Prashad 25, F. Subhan 32. H. Singh 5 for 18, H. Harilall 3 for 36. 7. At Albion Ground: Albion Community Centre crushed No. 19 Kendall’s Union Cricket Club by ten wickets. No. 19 Kendall’s Union Cricket Club 22 all out in 13.4 Overs. H. Harris 10. Govraj Ramesh 5for 6. Mahendra Chaitnarine 3 for 10. Albion Community Centre 24 without loss in 3.4 Overs. Reyad Karim 10 and Jeetendra Autar 11. 8. At Port Mourant Ground: RHT Gizmos & Gadgets defeated Port Mourant Cricket Club by 145 runs. Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets Cricket Club 230 for 8 in 37 Overs. Kevlon Anderson 34, Jonathan Rampersaud 40, Chanderpaul Govindan 40, Sylus Tyndall 62 not out. Mahendra Charran 3 for 21, Ashif Ishak 1 for 23, Haresh Deonarine 1 for 21. Port Mourant Cricket Club 85 all out in 19 Overs. Daniel Samaroo 47 not out. Sylus Tyndall 3 for 10, Keith Simpson 3 for 5 and Doorsammy Mahadeo 2 for 18.
2nd London/Lambert Cycling Classic set for tomorrow - Bauxite Flyers Club officials Several categories of cyclists are down to compete when the second annual London and Lambert Classic races come off in Linden tomorrow. The organisers of the event are the Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycle Club and the races are for juvenile, junior, senior and veteran cyclists. The races will begin outside the residence of Pastor Nigel London in Richmond Hill at 7:00hrs, in south Mackenzie go down into central Mackenzie and then on to the Linden Highway to Silver Hill and back to Mackenzie before moving over the Mackenzie/ Wismar Bridge to end at the junction on the Winifred
Gaskin Road before the turn to Wisroc in Wismar. The sponsors for the races are Nigel London and Littleton Lambert who have put up cash incentives and spare parts for cycles to go to the first three finishers in each category of races. According to the organsers, there are two upcoming events, which are the annual Baker’s Memorial 60 Miles Road race on the 7th of April to be sponsored as usual by the Baker’s Family and the Linden Town Week Champion of Circuits Race will be on the 1st of May at the Wismar circuit.
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Cameron says regional PMs can initiate CWI restructuring KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Cricket West Indies president Dave Cameron says Caribbean prime ministers had the power to restructure the regional governing body if they do desired, but it was not solely his responsibility to undertake reform of the organisation. Speaking on SportsMax here, Cameron said any governance restructuring needed to be initiated by the territorial boards which comprised CWI, and pointed out that the regional prime ministers pushing for reform could “instruct” the domestic associations accordingly. “The prime ministers believe that the structure needs to change – the structure is not Dave Cameron’s structure, the structure is West Indies cricket’s structure,” the often controversial CWI chief said ahead of this weekend’s elections here. “For the structure to change, all the territorial boards would have to say ‘this is what we want’ and these prime ministers are
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
prime ministers of these countries. All they need to do is instruct their boards to change the structure accordingly. Why is that Dave Cameron’s problem?” Cameron has come under pressure from CARICOM in recent years to enact recommended CWI reforms, so as to ensure greater transparency and accountability in the organisation. Three prime ministers – Dr Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr Keith Mitchell of Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago’s Dr Keith Rowley – have been especially vocal in their criticisms of Cameron and the organisation. Mitchell, in his previous role as chairman of CARICOM’s subcommittee on cricket, has repeatedly questioned Cameron’s leadership and only last month said he did not think the Jamaican’s “attitude and mindset will take West Indies cricket forward”. Gonsalves, meanwhile, has in the past slammed Cameron’s management style as “extremely poor” and ahead of the 2015 CWI elections, urged territorial boards
to tell the incumbent to “take a break and come back at a later date, perhaps with more mature, renewed skills of leadership”. Rowley, too, has been critical of the CWI leadership, saying West Indies cricket had been “hijacked by a small clique of people”. Cameron, who has been defending his record in the runup to the elections, said contrary to popular belief, he enjoyed a very good relationship with CARICOM prime ministers and it was only “two or three” with whom he did not see eye to eye. “It is not CARICOM – and we keep saying CARICOM. There are two or three prime ministers who have a view,” he contended. “There are a number of other prime ministers who have a contrary view and if you know prime ministers, they are not going to come out publicly and fight against each other and Prime Minister Gonsalves and Mitchell are elder statesmen within the CARICOM setup.” He continued: “But we have excellent relationships (Continued on page 33)
BCB/Spready’s Snackette 100 Balls Cricket Tournament
Rose Hall Town Tigers and Ramnarine Memorial advance after recording victories Rose Hall Town Tigers and Ramnarine Memorial have advanced further in the 2019 Berbice Cricket Board’s Spready’s Snackette 100 Balls Cricket Tournament for teams in the Lower and Central Corentyne Sub-zone. Rose Hall Town Tigers defeated Belvedere United by seven wickets, while Ramnarine Memorial cruised past Chesney by nine wickets. Playing at the Toopoo Ground, Belvedere United were bowled out for a meagre 45 runs from 10-Overs as left arm spinner Rondhall Lewis took eight wickets for six runs in a remarkable spell of spin bowling. It is the best ever bowling figure for any bowler at the Internal zone level in the entire ancient county. Khemraj Mahadeo and skipper Turbhuwan Jagdeo supported with a wicket each. In reply, Rose Hall Town Tigers reached 46 for 3 in 7 Overs with Mark Papannah 19 being the principal scorer. L.
Rondhall Lewis Bisram 2 for 2 and T. Khemraj 1 for 18 were the wicket takers for Belvedere. In the other match played, new comers Ramnarine Memorial defeated Chesney by nine wickets at the Chesney Ground. One of the Tournament’s favourite was restricted to 98 for 9 off their allotted 100 Balls with former National Player Imran Khan top-scoring with 39, while S. Bacchus and S. Khan 15 supported. Paul Tyndall, R.
Pottaya and M. Tyndall took two wickets each for Ramnarine Memorial. Needing to score 99 runs from 100 Balls, the visitors raced to 104 for 1 from just 14 Overs as Paul Tyndall returned with the bat to blast 51 not out with three boundaries and two huge sixes. D. Baldeo supported with 43 not out. Ramnarine Memorial would now clash with Fyrish in the Semifinals, while Rose Hall Town Tigers would play the winner if the Courtland versus Port Mourant 2nd Round Match in the other Semifinals. The Spready’s Snackette 100 Balls Tournament is being organised by the Berbice Cricket Board for teams in the Lower and Central Corentyne Sub-zone. Power houses Rose Hall Town Bakewell and Albion Community Centre have been debarred from this Tournament in an effort to allow other teams an opportunity to win a major tournament.
Wednesday March 20, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Colonial Medical Insurance Female Super50 Tournament
Taylor’s 119 overshadows Campbelle’s 111 as Guyana lose again - Jamaica join T&T with back-to-back wins
Shemaine Campbelle was in magnificent form as she deposits Vanessa Watts for six during her 111 at Everest yesterday. By Sean Devers Under a clear blue sky with a cooling breeze from the Atlantic Ocean blowing across Everest in sweltering heat, Guyana Captain Shemaine Campbelle waltzed to the first century in the Colonial Medical Insurance Female Super50 Tournament against Jamaica in their second round match at Everest yesterday. But a delightful 119 for Jamaica’s Captain Stefanie Taylor overshadowed Campbelle’s effort and powered Jamaica to a six wicket win. Taking advantage of a flat track and fast outfield, the 26year-old Campbelle, with West Indies Test and ODI experience, reached the boundary 14 times and cleared it twice in a masterful 118-ball 111 from 149 minutes of high class stroke-play. Campbelle featured in a 48-run stand with Sheneta Gajnabi who hit three fours in a 35-ball 20 and 98 with fellow Berbician Tremayne Smartt, last out, off of the penultimate ball of the innings for an intelligent 58 from 64 balls, 81 minutes with six boundaries. Off spinner Taylor had 344, while left-arm spinner Alecia Bookal took 2-36 for Jamaica, who took advantage of some ordinary out cricket to win the exciting contest by four wickets. But West Indies Women’s leading batter, Taylor, responded with her ton, a commanding innings of 119 from 118 balls, 160 minutes decorated with 16 fours and a
six to take Jamaica to a second consecutive victory as they reached 244 -4 in 46.4 overs in reply to the 242 all out in 49.5 overs made by the host. Taylor stroked 16 fours and two sixes in her 118-ball and 160-minute knock and shared in 119-run second wicket stand with Rashada Williams, who hit two boundaries in her 47 from 96 balls. Chedean Nation made 30 from 39 balls, while Chenille Henry who finished the game with a flurry of boundaries, was unbeaten on 23 from just nine balls with three fours and a six. Jodian Morgan was the other not out batter with 19 from 16 balls with a six and a four. Left-arm pacer Erva Giddings finished with 3-39. After Natasha McLean was bowled by the impressive Giddings for a duck in the first over without a run on the board, the 27-year-old Skipper Taylor, who has been playing at this level since she was 10, destroyed the Guyanese bowling who got no support from a woeful display from their fielders. Taylor was given a reprieve when on one when Shabika Gajnabi failed to pick up the ball at short square leg with the batsman stranded and she made Guyana pay dearly for a number of lapses in the field. Taylor reached her 50 from 67 balls with six fours and a six when she clobbered Smartt onto the sightscreen. Williams started slowly but her confidence increased as her innings progressed
before she was bowled by Giddings at 119-2, while Taylor square drove Giddings for four and smashed her through the legs of Gajnabi at point for another four. Taylor flicked Giddings for four and greeted off-spinner Mandy Mangru with a scintillating sweep for four while Nation also batted positively as the pair carried the score 201 when Giddings trapped Nation LBW after Taylor had reached her century from 98 balls with 14 fours and a six. After Taylor was bowled by Giddings at 201-4 Morgan and Henry, who hit Akaze Thompson for boundaries, finished the contest with 5.2 overs to spare. Earlier, watched by a decent turn out which included Chairman of the Windies Selectors Courtney Browne, Campbelle got little support from her top order as Mangru (11), Sheneta Grimmond (3), Lashuna Toussaint (0) and Akaze Thompson (2) all perished cheaply as Guyana slipped to 574 after the 50 was posted in 14 overs. Campbelle got going with a sweetly timed extra cover drive off Chenille Henry before punching her to the point boundary in her next over. The little right-hander drove Vanessa Watts past mid-off for four before dancing into the offspinner and lofting her for six. Campbelle continued to flow and audaciously swept Chedean Nation for four before hammering her to the mid-wicket boundary to move to 49. Campbelle soon reached her 50 from 55 balls, 65 minutes with six fours and a six before celebrating by sweeping Taylor and cutting Bookal to the point boundary. But when Gajnabi cut Bookal to point after giving her Captain excellent support Guyana were 105 with half of their team gone. Things got progressively worse when Melanie Henry (0) and Cherry Ann Fraser (1) departed in the space of two runs as the home team slumped to 1147 and Campbelle who was run out for 45 against T&T, was again in danger of being left stranded as wickets fell around her. But Smartt joined Campbelle and the Tucber Park all-rounder cut Henry for four before smashing Taylor for another four as the partnership began to take shape. Campbelle, from Rose Hall Youth & Sports Club in Berbice, lofted Henry over her head for six before blasting her to the cover boundary.
Another boundary off Nation took her to 96 before she slashed Nation for her 13th boundary to reach her hundred which came from 108 balls, 136 minutes with two sixes and 13 fours.
Smartt also played her shots and used her feet to spank Taylor for four, while Campbelle cover drove Taylor for a boundary before she was caught at long-on trying to hit Taylor for six at
212-8. The 33-year-old Smartt soon reached her 50 form 57 balls, 73 minutes with six fours before she lost Giddings (4) at 229-9 and then fell to Henry in the last over.
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Wednesday March 20, 2019
Kaieteur News
Nand Persaud Karikee Rice Stable T and T takes feature event at KMTC Meet - Nand Persaud stable reigns supreme It was T and T of the Nand Persaud stable that whipped the field in the feature F and Lower event when the Kennard’s Memorial Turf
Club held their Phagwah Horserace meet on Sunday at the Club’s Track, Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne, Berbice. The animal, trained by
Mohendra Persaud with the veteran Yap Old Boy Drepaul in the saddle, was in sublime form as it dished out a gate to pole beating on the field to take the $340,000 first prize and the DDL trophy in the seven furlongs event. The fast finishing Settling Star had to settle for second with Goodwill Boy and Isn’t
She Charming being beaten into submission. The J1 seven furlongs race with a first prize of $200,000 and trophy at stake saw Jun g l e P r i n c e w i t h Colin Ross on the perch emerging to take top honours from Miss Olympic and The Rock. There was nothing lucky in the race for the L Open animals but sheer ability as Lucky Lucky trained by R
Gray was too good for the field as it flew away from Secret Flyer, The Rock and He is in Control. Awesome Banner of the Nand Persaud Stable with Yap Drepaul in the saddle was in awesome form as it rode away from Red Weasel and Perfection to take the race for the L non winner’s. Cherish Me of the McWatt stable with Paul Delph riding won the L non earners race
from Rosie, Mark and Magaline. There was a race for animal that did not place during the day and that was won by Indian Colt. The champion Jockey was Yap “Old Boy” Drepaul. The Nand Persaud Karibee Rice Stable was adjudged the champion stable of the day. Best apprentice jockey was Jockey Ramnarain.
Mr. and Mrs. Mohendra Persaud collects their prize for T and T’s impressive win in the feature F and lower event.
Skerritt ticket gets Lloyd, Roberts backing for CWI leadership BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Cricket West Indies presidential candidate Ricky Skerritt and running mate, Dr Kishore Shallow, yesterday received major endorsements from legends Clive Lloyd and Sir Andy Roberts, in another major boost to their chances of toppling the Dave Cameron ticket at S u n d a y ’s e l e c t i o n s i n Jamaica. This follows last Sunday’s endorsement of the pair by another cricketing great, Sir Vivian Richards, the highly regarded legendary former captain and master batsman. Charging that West Indies cricket had undergone a “decimation” during the C a m e r o n administration, Lloyd contended that West Indies cricket was in need of a “new direction” and that Skerritt possessed all the qualities to take the game in the Caribbean forward. “ Wi t h M r S k e r r i t t ’s experience, my personal knowledge of him and his commitment and dedication to West Indies Cricket over the years, I fully endorse his candidacy and firmly believe that with the support of his board, his v i s i o n f o r t a k i n g We s t Indies Cricket forward will bear fruit,” said Lloyd, also
Legendary former West Indies captain, Clive Lloyd. a former West Indies team manager. “The late former President and West Indies opening batsman, Alan Rae, whom I admired greatly was a formidable President who worked tirelessly using his own funds to keep West Indies Cricket at the top of World Cricket. “West Indies Cricket was his first priority. He was a very well respected We s t I n d i a n / J a m a i c a n whom I had the greatest honour and pleasure to work with. His commitment and dedication to West Indies cricket was unquestionable and I believe that Mr Skerritt will emulate those qualities.” A two-time World Cupwinning skipper and former chairman of selectors, Lloyd
pointed to Skerritt’s Cricket First Plan, which he said was “built on inclusiveness, integrity, and development”. In addition, Skerritt and Shallow have proposed term limits on the office of the president, a move which Lloyd also threw his support behind. “We need a fixed term period of office for the presidency of three or four years. In America it does not matter how effective or successful you are, you can only serves two terms,” he said. “By having a rotation policy it inspires other individuals whom are suitably qualified to prepare themselves over a period of time and a chance to aspire to attain such high office also (Continued on page 35)
Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
Guyana Police receives cricket gear form NY Police
Commissioner of Police Mr. Leslie James (centre), Deputy Commissioner Mr. Nigel Hoppie (left), NYPD Rep. Mr. Sheryar Hussain and a team member during the presentation.
O
n Monday last, the Guyana Police Force received a donation of Cricket gear from their counterparts at the New York Police Department. The gear, which was presented by Mr. Sheryar Hussain, was received by the Chairman of the Guyana Police Cricket
Club, Deputy Commissioner Nigel Hoppie DSM in the presence of Commissioner Leslie James DSS, DSM. The Guyana Police Force enjoys unparalleled relations with regional and international Law Enforcement agencies and participates in extracurricular activities such as Cricket, Football and Long Jump to name a few.
WDCA/ Beacon Café Competition Launched The West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA) has launched another competition dubbed the “WDCA/Beacon Café 50 Over competition”. Eighteen teams have entered this competition which will be played in two groups on a round robin basis. The top two teams in each group will then play in a semi with the top team facing off the second placed team in the other group. The WDCA has been using the recent dry season to rapidly finishing off outstanding competition playoffs and has now started this 50 Overs version on a round robin basis allowing clubs to have an opportunity to play continuously over the next two months. Beacon Café of Quamina and Carmichael Streets, Georgetown is in the restaurant and catering
WDCA President Anand Sanasie (left) accepts the cheque from a representative of Beacon Café. business and has been growing rapidly as a Guyanese Creole eatery. Proprietor of the Beacon Café, Mr. Ramdeo Kumar, an ardent cricket fan, expressed his delight at helping youths especially in the field of sports as he is already involved as a sponsor in table tennis. He promised to continue this support. At the launching
ceremony, President of the WDCA, Mr. Anand Sanasie advised that more clubs need to ensure that their grounds are in playing condition so that the competition can be completed early. He also announced that before the competition is over, the SBF Petroleum T20 will be launched. He advised that the games be played in a friendly and respectful atmosphere.
Matthews, Knight, Dottin power Barbados to comprehensive win over Windward Islands Barbados recorded a massive 239-run victory over Windward Islands when the teams collided in the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Colonial Medical Insurance Women’s Super 50 tournament yesterday at Providence. Batting first, Barbados posted a challenging 334-3. Skipper Hayley Matthews blasted 13 fours and one six at the top of the order before she was caught and bowled by Qiana Joseph for 91 off 111 balls. Matthews added 134 for the second wicket with Kaycia Knight after Joseph uprooted
the stumps of opener Danielle Small for six with the score on 35. Knight struck eight fours in scoring 81 off 108 balls before she was bowled by Pearl Etienne. Deandra Dottin hammered 15 fours and two sixes in a robust unbeaten 94 off 50 balls, while Kyshona Knight made 23 as Joseph claimed 2-41 and Etienne 1-82. Windward Islands were bowled out for 95 in 28.3 overs in reply with Afy Fletcher scoring 25, Akiera Peters 21 and Stacy-Ann Adams 13. Connell captured 3-36, Matthews 2-21 and Shanika Bruce 2-23.
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Ramdeen, Ramharack, Mohamed, Walters shine as Trinidad &Tobago register second win Led by a four-wicket haul from debutant Leandra Ramdeen, Trinidad and Tobago registered their second win in as many matches, beating Leeward Islands by six wickets when the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Colonial Medical Insurance Women’s Super 50 tournament continued yesterday. Off-spinner Ramdeen was economical as she conceded 12 from 6.1 overs, while Karishma Ramharack picked up 3-23 off seven overs and Anisa Mohammed 2-15 from five overs in a clinical bowling display as Leeward Islands were bowled out for 76 in 25 overs after they opted to bat at Bourda. Openers Jenishen Richards and Malissa Howard added 23 before they both fell to Mohammed in quick succession; Richards was lbw for eight, while Howard was bowled for seven. Shebani Bhaskar and Saneldo Willett added 30 for the third wicket before Willett was caught and bowled by Ramharack for nine. Bhaskar, who got her innings going with a four, looked solid but received no support from the other
Debutant Leandra Ramdeen (right) and Karishma Ramharack. batters as wickets fell at regular intervals. Amanda Edwards became Ramdeen first victim when she was caught at the wicket without scoring, while Ramharack sent back Terez Parker (00) and Shawnisha Hector (02). Ramdeen then uprooted the stumps of Melicia Clarke (04) and Davanna Claxton (00) and had Rozel Liburd (02) caught to polish off the innings. Felicia Walters and Shania Abdool put 21 for the first wicket before Trinidad and Tobago lost their first wicket when Abdool was
caught off Hector for eight. Trinidad and Tobago lost a few quick wickets-Britney Cooper was caught and bowled by Richards for three, while skipper Marissa Aguilleira (00) was bowled by Liburd without scoring and Stacy Ann King (07) fell lbw to Richards leaving the score on 56-4. However, Walters and Reneice Boyce saw their team home with an unbroken fifth wicket stand of 23 as they finished on 79-4 in 17 overs. Walters stroked four fours in an unbeaten 32, while Boyce was not out on six.
Major development for Region 6 sports facilities - Infrastructural works slated for Scottsburg, Bermine, Rose Hall Town Sports Complex DPI, Guyana - Several sports facilities in East Berbice-Corentyne, Region Six, are expected to receive major upgrades in 2019. This was disclosed by Director of Sports, Christopher Jones, during a recent visit to the ancient county. Jones said from the $35,000,000 allocated to the region via the 2019 national budget, infrastructural works will commence soon at the Scottsburg and Bermine sports grounds and at the Rose Hall Town Sports Complex. The Sports Director noted that his department is currently awaiting the bill of quantities from the regional engineer, for works to be done at the various locations. Once that is achieved, Jones said the warrant for payments will be dispatched to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC). “Essentially the initiative is to have an open space that is complete with lights and the erection of a flag pole for the hosting of the national flag come 2020. But of course, thereafter, the grounds will be accessible for all sports disciplines.” Speaking specifically about the Bermine sports ground, at Republic Road, New Amsterdam, which was neglected by the previous administration, Jones emphasised that before 2019 concludes, Berbicians will be able to utilise a spanking new facility. The move by the Government to construct
an international synthetic Track in Region Six is already making waves in the town of New Amsterdam. The eight-lane, 400-metre facility is being constructed by German company BSW Regupol. Additionally, Jones stressed that these facilities, when completed, must be maintained by residents within the community. “Over the year, ground enhancements have been conducted across the country, but the issue is the maintenance of the facilities… it is enshrined in the Local Government laws that the municipality, NDC or RDC has the responsibility for the maintenance of all grounds, playing space et cetera,” he disclosed. Since taking office in 2015 the Coalition Government has upgraded several sporting facilities to international standards including the Guyana National Stadium and the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora. Over $70Million has been spent to enhance community grounds across the country with several being outfitted with floodlights to facilitate use at nights. The ground enhancement project which was established in 2015 is aimed at ensuring that sports facilities, across Guyana, function effectively and provide a platform for the development of athletes.
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday March 20, 2019
BCB/NBS Second Division Cricket Tournament
Kevin and Junior Sinclair inspire Rose Hall Town Bakewell to another C/ship Three years ago, Rose Hall Town Bakewell became the Runner-up of the Berbice Cricket Board/New Building Society Second Division 40Overs Cricket Tournament when they lost to Tucber Park by a mere six runs at the Albion Community Centre Ground. On Sunday last, they lifted their sixth Berbice-wide Second Division Championship when they easily defeated D’Edward Cricket Club by 71 runs at the Albion Ground Community Centre Ground. Rose Hall Town Bakewell was inspired by brilliant allround performances by skipper Kevin Sinclair and Junior Sinclair, both Guyana Junior National Players. The final was played in front of a noisy fair sized crowd in brilliant and hot sunshine. D’Edward won the toss and to the surprise of Rose Hall Town Bakewell elected to field. The Sinclair cousins started slowly but later blossom to put on 131 for the first wicket in 26 overs before Junior Sinclair was caught off the bowling of H. Lalsa for 43 from 71 balls. Kevin continued to play in his attacking Style and together with Surendra Kissoonlall took the score to 190 for 1 in the 36th over. Kissoonlall scored 25 fluent runs in the 59 runs partnership before he was dismissed, while Sinclair fell after for a brilliant 119 from 112 balls. His innings consisted of eleven sweetly timed boundaries. Rose Hall Town Bakewell ended on 211 for 8 from their allotted 40 Overs as the rest of the batsmen tried to score quickly in the final four overs. Bowling for D’Edward, Keith Fraser took 2 for 23, Romesh Boodram 2 for 20 and Eon Abel 2 for 17. Needing to score 212 to win their third title at this level, D’Edward started like a house on fire as they raced to 33 without loss in the fourth over before Lakeraj Sookhra was run out via a direct hit by Kevlon Anderson for 22. Heeralall Bridgelall was also run out for nought at 48 for 2 before Romesh Boodram was caught off left arm spinner Keith Simpson for one. Opener Altaf Khan
The winning RHT Bakewell Team.
Rana Persaud, NBS Manager hands of winning trophy to Kevin Sinclair of RHT Bakewell.
and Deandranauth Persaud then added 50 crucial runs for the 4th wicket before a tired looking Khan was caught and bowled by Junior Sinclair for a well composed 52 (5x4) at 112 for 4 in the 26th over. With D’Edward needing to score about seven runs per over, the pressure proved to be too much for the other batsmen. Persaud eventually fell for 39 but Devendra Lalsa 00, Jaaipaul Heeralall 06, Eon Abel 02, Keith Fraser 03 and H. Lalsa 01 fell cheaply as D’Edward fell for 141 all out in 34 Overs. Junior Sinclair 4 for 30, Kevin Sinclair 2 for 28, Keith Simpson 1 for 15 and Jonathan Rampersaud 1 for 13 all bowled well for the Champions.
BCB President Hilbert Foster hailed the completion of the 90-team tournament in just eight months as a remarkable achievement and stated that it was the shortest time that the tournament was completed in the history of the twelve years of New Building Society sponsored cricket in the Ancient County. The President hailed the continued support of New Building Society and noted the contributions of Dr. Nanda Gopaul, Anil Beharry and Rana Persaud. Foster also disclosed that the Berbice Cricket Board was expecting to host over 30 finals in 2019. New Building Society Berbice Regional Manager
Rana Persaud noted that the financial institution was pleased to be associated with Berbice Cricket and stated that he was very pleased at the level of cricket played during the tournament. A pleased Persaud also congratulated the Berbice Cricket Board on its outstanding organising of Guyana’s largest cricket tournament and announced that New Building Society would continue to support Berbice Cricket in the future. Kevin Sinclair was named Man of the Final and received $10,000 and a trophy. The Champion and Runner-up received $100,000 and $50,000 respectively along with trophies.
Triple Crown second leg
T&T invasion continues with champion jockey’s arrival Ronald Ali of Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) will be coming to Guyana for the second leg of the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee’s Triple Crown. Ali, a former champion jockey in the twin-island republic, who last won the accolade in 2017 and was runner-up in 2016, will mount ‘Vera’s Finally’ of the Jumbo Jet Racing Stables, who is undefeated at Sunday’s venue for the meet. The venue is the Rising Sun Turf Club which is
Ronald Ali located in West Coast Berbice (45 minutes from (Continued on page 33)
Kaieteur News
Wednesday March 20, 2019
PAGE 41
RFA Champions League continue Alpha Harrison making with male and female matches an early mark in athletics Alpha Harrison, who is a Guyanese by birth, is now the number two in the USA in the 55m and number 6 in the 200m. Alpha Harrison, just like Kunusasha Medas-King, put themselves in the history book for Guyana. Harrison is showing great progress for the one year that he’s here, making headlines in track and field. With the support of his parents and the KMPA Foundation the young Harrison has a great future ahead of him. In an invited comment, Andy Medas-King pointed out that there are many more
The respective Female Captains of the Awarewaunau Snipers and Shiriri Football Clubs shake hands before their match in the presence of the Match Officials.
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ction in the 2019 edition of the Rupununi Football Association (RFA) Champions League which has a total of 47 clubs competing (23 females; 24 males) continued over the weekend with a number of matches. At Shulinab in the South Central/Deep South Zone, Awarewaunau Snipers edged Shiriri 2-1, thanks to goals from Trisha Alfred in the 6th minute and Diana Griffith
in the 78th. Shiriri got their consolation off the boot of Sharon John in the 2nd minute. Shiriri male team then exacted revenge on Awarewaunau Snipers when they won via a similar scoreline on account of goals from Abraham Ignace in the 8th minute and Andrew Lewis in the 79th minute. Snipers got their lone goal from Gonzal Bernard in the 22nd minute.
ITTF Director and Latin American TTU Committee official is Caribbean C/ships Referee
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nternational Table Tennis Federation Umpire Expert and Director of Rules and Umpiring for the Latin American Table Tennis Union Latin America Rules and Judging Committee, Ms Yoanna Ramirez will serve as the referee for the 2019, 61st Caribbean Senior Caribbean Table Tennis championships and Pan American qualification event scheduled for the 23rd to 31st March at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Homestretch Avenue. Ramirez, the Bilingual Colombian table tennis expert who in 2018 conducted an ITTF Umpire Training and Certification Programme in Guyana in 2018 will be arriving in Guyana on the 20th to train umpires taking part in the championships while working with new umpires. Her presence is mandatory given the magnitude of the games. She has been working with Ms Candacy McKenzie National Female Coach of the year Sports awardee and Ms Leona Kyte national
Yoanna Ramirez awardee female Sport, training them to become master trainers for Guyana’s table tennis. Her presence is also part the new ITTF and Latin America Table tennis Union umpire development strategy which seeks to build umpires model on a more practical approach to training, with umpires being given training close to competition to develop their capacity. The training would be from the 21st to 23rd March, the championships start on the morning of the 24th with play in the Pan American Games trials and the Caribbean Championships commence on the 25th at 7:00pm.
Guyana will play host to the named championships, of significance is that this championships has been designated by the International Table Tennis Federation and Latin American Table Tennis Union as the qualification events for the 2019 Pan Am Cup scheduled for September this year in Puerto Rico and the 2019 Pan American Games scheduled for July August in Lima Peru. This championships represent the first time Guyana is tasked with hosting a Pan American Games qualification event and will see teams from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Barbados St Vincent, St Kitts, Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Dominican Republic, St Lucia, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Suriname, French Guiana and Haiti, who has already confirmed their participation. This will result in over 175 athletes and officials coming to Guyana to participate in this prestigious event.
Alpha Harrison kids like Alpha Harrison and Kunusasha Medas-King who have the talent and are
not given any opportunity because of the system in Guyana where less attention is being paid to the young athletes instead of investing more and building on their success. Given that these athletes were in Guyana their true potential would have never been seen and would have been told they’re too young to train, while the rest of the world is ahead of us. The KMPA Foundation would like to make it clear that it is necessary for the Government of Guyana to pay more attention to the youths of today and stop denying them the opportunity to shine.
Dylan Fields is top shot at 2nd GuyanaNRA Recorded Shoot Vice Captain Dylan Fields ended as the top shot when the Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) held its second Recorded Shoot on Sunday last at the Timehri Rifle Ranges, Yarrowcabra, Linden Soesdyke Highway. Shot over three ranges, 300, 600 and 1000 yards, with a maximum Total Score of 105.21 to be attained; conditions were very scorching on the sundrenched day with some unstable winds, which chartered the course of events that followed. There were no possible scores (maximum) of 35.7 shot for the day. However, Fields was able to master the conditions better than his counterparts and emerged winner of the shoot with a
score of 94.07. He shot 31.2 at 300 yards and followed with 32.2 at 600 yards. He then separated himself from the other marksmen by recording 31.3 at 1000 yards, the only score in the 30’s at the range for the day. Veteran shot, Ransford Goodluck won the 300 yards with a score of 32.4 and followed that up with a score of 31.1 at 600 yards before being battered by the winds at 1000 yards and was only able to muster a score of 28.0 for an Overall total of 91.05 which was good enough to land him the runner-up spot on the day. Another veteran marksman, Lennox Braithwaite shot similar scores to Fields at the 300 and 600 yards ranges but the
tie breaker at 1000 yards was by four points, with Braithwaite only mustering a score of 27.0 for an Overall total of 90.04 for the day which earned him 3rd place. Peter Persaud, who stunned his rivals at the first Recorded Shoot, two weeks ago was this time outdone by the switching winds, totaling 89.2 with Retired Inspector Dane Blair shooting 86.5. The shooters felt that they were all outdone by the switching winds which was hard to recognise as it changed from four minutes right wind to six minutes left wind at the 1000 yards. The national marksmen will be competing at the first Spoon Shoot this Sunday at the same venue and are hoping that better conditions would prevail.
Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond Under 18 Schools Football Tournament
Linden Foundation earn 1-0 win over New Silvercity Secondary to start tourney Play in the Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond Linden Schools Under-18 football championship, now in its eleventh year, will continue this afternoon with two more matches at the Wisburg Secondary School ground after there was an opening win by Linden Foundation on Monday. The games set for this afternoon will see at 14.45hrs Wisburg Secondary school, the hosts, will face Linden Foundation Secondary, while at 16.00hrs it will be a clash between Harmony Secondary and Mackenzie High School. On Monday Shedrack Mackenzie netted the tournament’s opening goal in the 33rd minute for the Linden Foundation Secondary when they won 1-0 against New Silvercity Secondary at the Wisburg
S e c o n d a r y - Another double ground. In the header on today other game which was also played at the Wisburg Secondary ground, Harmony Secondary and Linden Technical Institute played to a 0-0 draw.
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NAMILCO outfits Fruta Conquerors for Concacaf Caribbean Shield Championship
Two of the Fruta Conquerors players, President Gittens and Odetta Maxwell display the NAMILCO sponsored uniforms in the presence of Finance Director Fitzroy McLeod (center) and Exco Members of the NAMILCO Sports Committee.
Colonial Medical Insurance Female Super50 Tournament
Taylor’s 119 overshadows Campbelle’s 111 as Guyana lose again
They are off in the feature F and lower event with eventual winner T and T already taking the lead in the centre of the track.
- Jamaica join T&T with backto-back wins
Guyana Skipper Shemaine Campbelle celebrates after reaching the Tournament’s first ton at Everest yesterday.
Skerritt ticket gets Lloyd, Roberts backing for CWI leadership
Nand Persaud Karikee Rice Stable T and T takes feature event at KMTC Meet Champion jockey, Yap ‘Old Boy’ Drepaul receives his trophy from Justice Cecil Kennard.
Nand Persaud stable reigns supreme
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