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Kaieteur News
Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Friday March 22, 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
Speak no ill According to an online article by the Washington Examiner datelined March 20, Republic Senator Johnny Isakson of Georgia, has had enough with presidential attacks on dead war hero, Senator John McCain. The senator plans to condemn the President of the United States. For a senator to be readying to criticize publicly-definitely unambiguously, and perhaps harshly--his president says a lot. For any senator to be compelled to take such a rare step, when it is a president from his own party, then something is terribly wrong, and possibly sacred and unforgivable lines have been violated. It helps to provide an abbreviated context to identify the tone and an appreciation for what transpired. The chronology starts in 2017, when the departed Sen. John McCain (R-Az), did not join with fellow Republicans to repeal the Affordable Care Act, that was in effect, compliments of former President Obama. Last Tuesday, the incumbent American president labeled the dead senator’s opposition from 2017 as “disgraceful.” The man is dead and gone; it is not necessary, not relevant. The US president did not stop there. From the White House on the same Tuesday, the president also said that he has “never been a fan of John McCain, and I never will be.” Sometimes anger and rancor get the better of even the best; there will forever be questions and contentions that that entire diatribe was a far cry from anything resembling what is better, wholesome, and constructive. Moreover, what was spewed on Tuesday represented the fourth day of presidential attacks against a dead man. There is a Latin phrase that has been traced to Chilon of Sparta, which goes like this “de mortuis nil nisi bonum.” It translates roughly in English to, “of the dead speak only good.” Nothing but good. This is what men and women of class and caliber do. Perhaps, it is the reverence for that final, awesome passage from this pale. If ordinary citizens hold themselves to such a commendable standard, then presidents must be held to a much higher one. And this is not a run of the mill president, but the leader of the world power. How low should a leader be allowed to sink? And how low is too low? Surely, the assaults would pass neither unnoticed, nor unchallenged, nor unpunished. Well, they didn’t. Republican Senator Isakson has indicated that he will assume that onerous task and bear that heavy burden. He will confront and castigate his president in the open. Sometimes some things just have to be done; somebody has to face the Komodo dragon and challenge it (say it). Senator Isakson has provided an early warning as to where he stood on matters involving McCain. According to the Bulwark, Senator Jackson has already said, “America deserves better…nobody is above common decency and respect for people who risk their life for your life.” Disrespect sets the wrong tone for kids, according to the senator. And, “Nothing is more important than the integrity of the country than those who fought and risk their lives for all…” Apparently, a public scourging it is going to be. The point here is that leaders are held to a higher bar, they have to establish an impeccable cadence and rhythm to the national discourse, since their every word and posture are probed and scrutinized for the hidden message, ugly incitation, and descents into the gutter. Guyana has had more than its share of inflammatory rhetoric and abusive practices by political players and leaders. Those instigate and incentivize. Better sense must prevail. Certain lines not crossed.
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.
The Fabric of Guyana...Woven Together In Time DEAR EDITOR, A few days ago I shared a story of a 30-year-old man who had been abandoned by his relatives at a hospital in Berbice. An accident 10 years ago left him paralyzed and abandoned at the age of 20 in a hospital that he now calls home. In the Tracy Khan story, the man recounted his life before the accident, his reality now and his zeal to get better and walk again. What followed in the timeline were comments of support and prayers for him to be better and for him to do better. Those prayers and well wishes and thoughts came from a wide cross section of Guyanese. In that moment, his race did not matter, his religion did not matter, his background did not matter. What mattered was our humanity to reach out to a fellow human who is hurting, someone we don’t even know, and to be his shoulder and his strength and his will to be better. A few weeks ago, a speeding car plunged overboard into a trench. The injured were pulled out and among them was a young girl who appeared lifeless.
A man rushed forward and began CPR. He pumped on her chest, breathed into her mouth, and continued the procedure over and over and over until there was a cough and movement in her young, frail body. You could see he was raw with emotions and many around him were teary-eyed. It was as if they were all staring at a miracle. Life had just been blown into this young girl and it happened before their eyes. In that moment and in that time, her race and his race did not matter. In that time, her religion or his, did not matter. What mattered is that there was a person in need and there was someone there who, without a second thought, threw himself forward and never budged until he was sure there was life again. My fellow Guyanese, all we truly have is each other. We might agree at times and disagree many times, but we must never, never allow our differences and our disagreements to tear away at our humanity and to damage the fabric of who we are, the fabric of being Guyanese, the fabric of being Guyana.
My 20 years in the media have taken me across this dear land of ours. I have seen the rivers and plains, I have turned my face and smiled at the sunshine and I have also enjoyed the cover that became lush by the rains. I have witnessed the best of Guyana and I have also had some glimpses of a tired nation at its worst. But in all of this, I have seen the fabric of Guyana, woven majestically by different people, with different beliefs and different cultures, but all holding on to the one humanity. I have turned my hands curlingly to beats of the Indian tassa and I have closed my eyes and moved my shoulders to the beating of African drums. I have enjoyed the metagee and kanki of Victoria and the curry and dhal of Mahaica. We take these for granted at times, but when blended together, they become knitted into an even stronger fabric of Guyana. Many days I wake up tired and wounded and deep in thought about this nation of ours. Honestly I worry about whether we are praying enough for her, building her
up, breathing new life into her and doing our best to take good care of her. I worry that we have not been doing enough. But as the sun goes down on every day, it rises over a new one. And that gives us the opportunity to do better, to be better, to grow up and to take better care. I have no doubt that this nation’s best days are ahead. I have no doubt that we will stand together and smile together, and walk and talk and laugh and gaff together, and we will see a wounded and tired nation get better. But as we await those best days that are ahead, we are living in the now. As we live in the now and as we face each new day, let us remember that we are woven into a beautiful fabric that sits on our shoulders, a beautiful fabric that has made us free, a beautiful fabric we must care for, a beautiful fabric, we call Guyana. Don’t allow anyone to tear that fabric apart. The colours of that fabric are always better Together than they will ever be Apart. Yours truly, Gordon Moseley
5 dates, 2 adversaries, 1 elections prize DEAR EDITOR, After all the malingering, mongering, and mismanaging (of truths and expectations), this could be a case of 5 dates, 2 adversaries, and 1 election(s). The latter two are known; the first is like estimated childbirth: could be premature or overdue; since elections are involved being right on time is out the window. Care has to be exercised so that any baby does not follow the same path. That would be we, the people. For starters, the opposition was proud to deliver the now historic March 21st, and then that sandy line in the sand of April 30; that combination of trial balloon and smoke signal are counted as two dates. At the far end of the date spectrum, came Gecom with its own calculations and a time horizon that stretches to November. False labour pain that one is. In the next instance, and serenely sailing along has been government, which has its still unknown ideal point somewhere on the calendar
(this one or the next) on which it has been deliberately vague, if not intricately cagey. Taken together, these far apart dates are conflicting second and third opinions, but representative of breech birth and Caesarian situation fused into one. Indeed, the world of Guyanese elections is that complicated and upside down. Add one more possibility from the Court and there is a quintuplet of dates that creates the quintessence of the normal Guyanese elections quagmire. Truly, fixing an elections date in this country has deteriorated to the equivalent of struggling to hold mercury in the palm of one’s hand. There is looming a slight hiccup in this elections arithmetic. While eagerly awaited, it would be presumptuous of the Court of Appeal to specify a date; any casuistry employed and advanced would fail to convince that it did not overreach. The best the court could be expected to do, as a public service and
with an eye to social and environmental urgencies, is venture to recommend a sober, practical range within which to execute what is like threading a needle in the middle of a tornado. More practically, and in adhering to form and limits, the COA will offer some sophisticated sounding blandishment that leaders must commit to finding a resolution as expeditiously as possible, and as current circumstances can tolerate. Leaders must do so for the greater good. This would be safe, appear unbiased and unforced, as well as even be considered objective and sagacious. Any such judicial deliverance would project shades of the diplomatic corps, the wider international community, and narrower domestic societies (some altruistic, some not so). It would be more akin to the rapid distancing of the Speaker of the House (the Guyanese one, not the Commons). Those looking for the Solomonic from the halls of jurisprudence should
be prepared to settle for the Pontian in that masterpiece of scriptural evasion. From the hive-and jiveof five dates, there is occasion to take the tactical offensive and high ground. For as everyone knew it was neither March 21st nor April 30th; and now November is the hard sell of a harder unpalatability and unacceptability. The hour is now for leaders to settle for something equidistant to the two extremes; the high ground of statesmanship over partisanship, and the national as opposed to the tribal. There are those oilrelated schemes and priorities, too. This opens the door for the naming of a date in late July or early August a la the timely recommendation of international salvagers and rescuers in the body of the Carter Center. No one group gets everything desired; but everybody gets something. Both warring political groups, as personified by their leaders, run one great (Continued on page 5)
Friday March 22, 2019
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I urge our thinkers and leaders to unite to craft a better education system for every Guyanese DEAR EDITOR, I want to comment on an ongoing discussion on education reform, specifically in Guyana, and what lessons could be derived from the Caribbean region. I will begin by briefly examining what the conversation is like in the country of Barbados regarding reforming their education sector. I will then show why Barbados has the right perspective on education reform which Guyana can incorporate into their education reform efforts. During her speech in the House of Assembly, the Prime Minister of Barbados, the Honourable Mia Mottley, advocated for a “comprehensive reform” of Barbados’ education system, which has not been thoroughly examined since the time it was inherited from the former British Empire. In an article featured on the news media website of Barbados Today, titled ‘Comprehensive education reform’, Mottley declared “too many children leave school without certification, and too many children are leaving school because they have become superannuated. We have to pause and get our education system right.” The message is profound
since too often reformists and decision-makers resort to knee-jerk reactions when addressing problems affecting the education sector. However, as much as getting an education system “right” is important, equally important is for Government to ensure that the job market is ready for recruitment. Furthermore, as each generation fades, the job market landscape changes due to the advancement of the global technology industry and new sociopolitical challenges that emerge. So, job availability by skill-type must be taken into consideration in the reform process. Of course, there are skilled jobs that are in high demand, but little workforce available to fulfill that demand. Therefore, Prime Minister Mottley exclaimed that the education system needs to fill this demand by “training artisans like joiners, plumbers, mechanics and masons.” Now, some may be concerned about children who do not aspire to become plumbers, mechanics, and masons. But the Prime Minister assures that child autonomy remains intact— they remain free to choose what careers they want. However, good guidance is
The public welcomes this price reduction and PR initiative DEAR EDITOR, The Guyana Oil Company employees who have been represented by a Union, the workers and public applaud the Ministry of Finance and Guyana Oil Company for recently announcing a reduction in prices for motor gasoline and gas oil. The employees are the ambassadors of the company and are the primary source of
information about the company to their friends and relatives. Employees’ morale is important and a good communication strategy. Enlightened company policies do much to maintain high productivity and employees’ retention. The Company’s customer service, in many ways, is on the frontline to the public. (Continued on page 6)
necessary. In her statement, she said “we need to help them to decide which subjects they like, such as sciences, languages, commerce, auto mechanics, carpentry and the like, so they can choose the areas in which they want to specialize.” Currently, most schools in Guyana and the Caribbean have various ‘streams’ of academic concentrations by subject or technical matter. So, for instance, we have the ‘Science’ stream which consists of subjects that aim to equip the student with foundational knowledge and some amount of hands-on basics of laboratory use. The same approach is seen in other streams, such as the ‘Technical’ and ‘Agriculture’ streams. But these streams do not teach kids about the work life in any real sense, nor do they offer an elementary course in entrepreneurship to learn about creating industries of their own and innovating existing ones. What the current framework lacks is the inclusion of an actual realworld educational package that students can use to be able to seamlessly integrate into the workforce, especially the jobs they aspire to. How, then, do we apply this within Guyana’s national education reform efforts? If we follow the approach Prime Minister Mottley has in mind, we can come up with a viable alternative to make High School graduates integrate more efficiently into the workforce. Perhaps by tailoring job potentials by industry, followed by listing job title possibilities under each
industry heading with an outline of what ‘stream’ or subjects would need to be pursued to be qualified for that desired job. For instance, Information Communications Technology Services is an industry. Under this heading, various job prospects are proposed such as System Analyst, Network Engineer, and Software Engineer - with a brief description of responsibilities and scope of work, then followed by the required subjects or courses, to suitably qualify. We keep intact the demands of society while affording some degree of autonomy onto the student. Education reform in the 21st century is important. Societies are rapidly evolving with new demands, while those of yesteryear are left dormant. We have access to incredible tools and once unimaginable opportunities than ever before in this transformational age Guyana is presently undergoing. If we aspire to have a competitive, professional, and innovative society, then we must find ways to inspire children to pursue their aspirations or dreams without hindrance. Therefore, I urge Guyanese thinkers and leaders to take these points into consideration, and to unite to craft a better education system for every Guyanese. Yours faithfully, Ferlin Pedro
5 dates, 2 adversaries, 1 elections prize... From page 4 risk: the perfect list, the most helpful list, the list dreamed of for different purposes, could be a wee bit on the short side: short of names; short of comforting numbers; and possibly short of success goals. It is time to put rancor and conjecture to sleep. Sound pragmatism and wisdom must take over. First and foremost, one final date is the peoples’ business, welfare, and future. It is not the secret prerogative of two leaders or their two groups. Close out this thing about a date. Time to move forward. Sincerely, GHK Lall
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Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
The ERC’s Report is devastating and humiliating for GECOM DEAR EDITOR, The ERC’s Report on hiring practice is devastating and humiliating for GECOM. Although the ERC did not explicitly said it, their description of the behaviour of GECOM’s high officials exposes a scandalous, shameful, disgraceful example of political malfeasance. Clearly, GECOM had something very sinister to hide. They stonewalled the ERC by a total refusal to submit evidence. Their noncooperation was nothing but an inability to defend themselves from the charge of Commissioner Robeson Benn that GECOM is practicing bias and discrimination in its hiring practice. One thing is clear, senior officials of GECOM violated the law - cooperation with the ERC is not an option, it is required under the law. Failure to meet with the ERC and failure to submit documents requested by the ERC is unlawful. ERC is a constitutional, statutory body and it is not, never was envisaged to be, another talk shop. It is a body with powers to reprimand. GECOM’s officials must be charged for not complying
with the ERC’s requests for interview and for submission of documents. Whether people are hired or not hired because of their ethnicity or because of their perceived political belief, it is equally reprehensible and it is unlawful. In this context, therefore, was Vishnu Persaud denied the job of Deputy Chief Elections Officer for either of these or any other reason? The ERC report is unequivocal - Mr. Persaud’s non-renewal of his contract or his non-hiring had nothing to do with his qualifications, his experience, his previous performance at GECOM, particularly in the relevant job or his behaviour and inter-personal relationships. Even as GECOM abrogates the constitution and refuses to prepare for elections as mandated by the constitution, it is caught redhanded in the scandal of bias and discrimination. Even as the ERC tried its best to be generous and not ascribe ulterior, ugly motives on GECOM’s part, GECOM is guilty of discrimination and bias. The facts are incontrovertible. GECOM
rejected the most qualified, most experienced and the highest-scoring, highestranking candidate for the position of Deputy Chief Elections Officer. GECOM never had a problem with Persaud’s previous performance as the PRO and as the Deputy Chief Elections Officer. The ERC Report stated as follows: “Dr. Surujbally was quite vocal. He described Mr. Persaud’s performance as PRO and as DCEO as very good. Persaud “held the fort as CEO on several occasions” and was “an excellent scribe for the commission for 12 years. Further, apart from his very good work-related performances, Persaud was described “as being of good character, who employed tact, prudence, wisdom and honesty” in the discharge of his duties. Dr. Surujbally posited that Persaud has “vast institutional knowledge and memory” of the works of the commission and could vouch for his academic qualifications.” But the ERC report did not only provide the exact words of Surujbally praising Persaud’s work, the report cited the testimony of Keith
An unfit and improper government that is now illegal DEAR EDITOR, It is the mother of all ironies that this Coalition Government which is addictive to the use of the term ‘fit and proper’ has proven beyond any reasonable doubt that it has now dived into the dark abyss of the ‘unfit and improper’ to the point of no return. The time has passed for any type of salvage operations unless directives and interferences into the operations of GECOM are brought to a screeching halt. It is now conclusive that the country has been set on a premeditated course to delay elections close to the 2020 Elections due date in order to buy the PNC time. The former DCEO of GECOM, Mr Vishnu Persaud has stated that it is not possible for elections to be held by November since
the house to house registration will take at least 68 weeks or 17 months. This will take us to September 2020. In other words, the original due date for the 2020 Elections. Moreover, the courts cannot direct GECOM to call an Election and the President has bowled the election ‘preparedness’ spin to GECOM which swallowed it hook, line and sinker, and added it to its repertoire of excuses and trickeries. The Coalition is fully aware that should an election be held any time soon they will be voted out of office. This is an option they can illafford. This means that they will lose the billions of oil dollars which would be available in the near future to perpetuate their good life status. The PNC cannot
simply afford to lose the next election. The ‘fit and proper’ Coalition piloted by the PNC has not only failed to deliver on its campaign promises but has eroded the economic gains made by the PPP/C Government who had inherited a bankrupt economy from the same PNC in 1992. Hordes of the Coalition’s own supporters have now rejected them and in just over three years the PNC’s partner in crime, the AFC, has all but completely disintegrated. We must be unrelenting in our quest to ensure the eviction of this illegal Government by all means peaceful and legitimate! Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf RDC Councillor- Region 6
The public welcomes this.. From page 5 Customer satisfaction is important for building loyalty and telling others about the products and the reputation of the company. Yours faithfully, Sherwood Clarke General President Clerical and Commercial Workers Union
Lowenfield, the present CEO: “In summary, the CEO described Persaud in good terms, good, interpersonal relationship, good work performances and job in his capacity as DCEO and undertook varied responsibilities associated with other jobs. The CEO concurred to the expression by the former Chairman that Persaud was “his best man, bright young fellow, best man for the company” and “yes, best for the benefit of the agency”. In spite of his qualifications and experience and his excellent job appraisals, vouched for by Persaud’s senior bosses, GECOM , instead, appointed a candidate that had no experience in elections. The rejected candidate happens to be an Indo-Guyanese and he has had no history of being close to any political party. The appointed candidate happens to be an AfroGuyanese and is known to be closely-associated with the
PNC. So why did GECOM choose that candidate over Vishnu Persaud? Some say, it is because of politics, others say it is because of race. Whichever it is, each as equally a potent poison pill, each is equally reprehensible and, in Guyana, either one is a crime. The ERC Report chooses to leave the conclusion up to people. But the report is filled with disgusting, scandalous, shameful examples of misbehaviour and political malfeasance by GECOM. One of the clear messages in the ERC Report is the unequivocal noncooperation by senior GECOM officials. The Chairman of GECOM promised to address concerns and bring documentation to a meeting with GECOM. He never showed up and he never delivered most of these important documents. The person who was appointed as Deputy Chief Elections
Officer, never showed up for an appointment with the ERC. Importantly, the Human Resources Director refused to meet with the ERC. Not only did these officers not show up, they promised to deliver documents and never did. In addition, to these officers not submitting documents, the government commissioners made spurious allegations about the qualifications and job performance of Mr. Persaud without any documentation of their claims. They promised they would submit the documentation. The ERC never received those documents. The fact is, even if the ERC did not feel inclined to state the obvious, GECOM discriminated blatantly against Persaud. GECOM can pick its poison pill - race or politics - either way it is guilty of bias and discrimination and must be held accountable. Dr. Leslie Ramsammy
Plans of all Guyana governments…What are they? DEAR EDITOR, There is no Government anywhere that exists without a plan of sorts, notwithstanding bureaucratic Standard Operating Procedures. Obscurantism does not preclude an absence of plans. It is absolutely obligatory that Governments declare or report whatever plans or intentions are in the offing regarding any subject matter as a natural output of their actions. On this basis the overall population can see and understand the scope of actions to be pursued by said population. This Oil & Gas dimension to the economy has brought to light a peculiar shortcoming in the style of management of the nation’s assets. There is much talk about the vast resources that abound in Guyana with little benefit to show for it. This deficiency is partly historical and no need for details here. There has developed a political myopic view on how to manage the rather large economic sector merely from a Govt. office or department. We have here a buyer approaches the seller (Govt.). Sale is conducted and workers receive taxable wages. The result from this scenario leaves the population without participation of benefits from country’s assets. Govt. revenue is sprinkled thinly among their
many objectives. If this methodology was satisfactory there would be no requirement to seek loans and grants from any possible source. What is missing here are specialized entities to interface with Buyer and Product source. By having specialized business entities ( LL Companies, Public Share Companies, Joint Venture Companies, Contract Companies, Etc.). These all have public participation in every respect. Citizens are now in a position to feel and enjoy the wealth of their country. All of these locallybased enterprises should be granted Capital Assets from the newfound wealth to initiate their business ventures. The sectors can be listed in a subsequent essay. We cannot continue to have faceless or headless industries which basically empty our country’s assets. It must be emphatically understood that our Oil & Gas must be governed by export limitations. National businesses handling transactions in our interest is the only option to establishing an esprit de corps of Industrial business acumen suitable for our purposes. It must be obvious to all and sundry that the country must cease disposing the nonrenewable finite treasures of our resources and other precious material. The advent
of industries foreshadowed here would convert our struggling AgriculturalIndustrial economy into a fullfledged multi-faceted vertically integrated productive society. Procrastination will only allow the past to predict the future. At this fortuitous time, every contender for political office must present their full plan to enhance a new thrust of modern 21st century development of the Nation. All parties past, present and future are obligated to show a Parliament fully representing all ethnicities in decision-making. The Constitution itself should be revisited to restore a Senate with Powers to Restore and Remake Legislation. This elected body of 12 must be seen as the ultimate Guardians of the Nation. Is it too ambitious for the population to expect agendas of parties to list their elimination and diminishing of petty and nuisance taxes as being unnecessary in the new order of things? What would justify this not being so? Guyanese ought to realize and believe that the Greener Grass is right under their feet. We do not sing about the Green Land of Guyana for nothing. Enlightenment must prevail. Guyana has no time to play political Ping Pong. John De Barros
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Friday March 22, 2019
Police on high alert for disruptions - Jagdeo insists people have a right to protest “illegal” administration
P
olice Chief, Commis sioner Leslie James, has announced that the force has placed police stations in all regions on high alert amid reports of intentions to disrupt the calm. The warnings come ahead of this afternoon’s rulings of the Court of Appeal on the no-confidence vote of December 21 in the National Assembly. That vote heralded the fall of the Coalition Government. The government has challenged the legality of the vote. There were calls for protests as the 90-day deadline for holding early elections, according to the Constitution, elapsed at midnight. Ye s t e r d a y, C o m missioner James, in expressing Holi greetings, implored
that the current calm, peace and tranquility remain throughout the nation. He said that this should be even as the decision of the Court of Appeal is pending. “The leadership and members of the Guyana Police Force have noted on social media, notions of a seeming intention to disrupt the current calm in our society. May I warn that anyone found in breach of the law will be dealt with in a condign manner.” In the police statement, James said that Force’s membership throughout the 10 administrative regions is on high alert and endeavours to prevent and respond to any eventuality. The commissioner also said that contrary to what was reported in the press yester-
The police force is on high alert ahead of possible protests ahead of today’s Court of Appeal’s decisions on the no-confidence vote in the National Assembly. day, that the Guyana Police Force has been renamed the Guyana Police Service, this is not so. “It should be noted that the name change was proposed only at the meeting of the Police Reform
Father of one dead, two others hospitalized after accident A 29-year-old father of a three month old is now dead while two others are hospitalised following an accident at Number 43 Village, Corentyne, Berbice. Dead is Kenrick Matheson, a truck driver of Phillipe Village. According to reports, the car in which Matheson was travelling veered off the road and slammed into a bus shed situated along the Number 43 Public Road some time after midnight, yesterday. Driving the car was a cousin of Matheson while their friend was in the back seat of the car.
They both received injuries and were admitted at the New Amsterdam Public Hospital. Matheson was first taken to the Skeldon Public Hospital and transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital. He was subsequently rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he died. They were all reportedly under the influence of alcohol and the driver was reportedly speeding when they crashed. Kaieteur News understands that Matheson nearly missed death in 2014 when he crashed his car. His car was
badly mangled but he only sustained minor injuries.
Granger’s timeline for election unacceptable ... (From page 3) the fortunes of a party that lost elections in 2015 after 23 years of continuous reign. The international community, worried by the impact of the political fallouts, has been urging that a solution be found soonest. The Carter Centre, which brokered the conditions for the 1992 elections which saw the People’s National Congress losing after 28 years in pow e r, i s h e r e again attempting to broker an arrangement where elections can be held soonest. Jagdeo has been appealing for the international community to place sanctions on the Granger-led coalition to force elections. However, there has yet to be a definitive statement in which the Government has activated what it says is its right to have a judicial review of a flawed vote. The Opposition has accused GECOM of colluding with the Government to stall
elections, an accusation that has been denied.GECOM itself, comprising six commissioners- three from each side along with the chairmanhas been divided.Government commissioners have been insisting on house-to-house registration, which could take months, to sanitise the list.
The Opposition, on the other hand, has been objecting to any such exercise, saying that there are other ways to sanitise the list and to register new voters. In any case, there is no provision that dictates that a house-to-house exercise must be held, the opposition contends.
Change Board (PRCB). Such name change will require, among other things, wider consultations and legislative amendments.” Meanwhile, Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, in a Facebook post yesterday, s a i d that the people of Guyana have a right to peacefully protest the “usurpation of the constitution” by an administration that would be illegal as of midnight last night. “I have learnt of reports that there are a few officers who are repeating to the ranks of the Guyana Police Force the lies, emanating from the
APNU+AFC camp, that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) plans violent protests. I urge those doing this to desist from doing so and to continue to act professionally,” Jagdeo said in his post. The Opposition Leader said that he has sought to contact the Commissioner of Police, to inform him of these reports and to “reiter-
ate the party’s full support for the Guyana Police Force, in dealing condignly with anyone who is involved in any act of violence, including damage to property.”
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Former murder accused gunned down on birthday -killer ID’d as prisoner with a vendetta murder accused, Collis Collison, called ‘Juvenile’, was gunned down around 14:26 hrs yesterday in Barr Street, Albouystown, allegedly by another ex-con with whom he had a vendetta. The 26-year-old of William Street, Kitty and South Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, was shot in the chest while he was preparing to celebrate his birthday with friends, who had gathered for Phagwah festivities. He succumbed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. Police sources said that the suspect, who is still at large, has been identified as a 22year-old former murder and robbery accused. Kaieteur News understands that the two men had a recent altercation in prison, during which some of the suspect’s teeth were knocked out. There are reports that the suspect had threatened Collison a few days ago. A police release stated that Collison was standing on Barr Street, Albouystown, when the suspect approached with firearm brandished and shot him. The gunman then fled. Collison was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he succumbed around 15.26 hrs. Collison was just 18 when he and others were charged for the murder of Linden businessman. Albert Joseph, called ‘Bolo, who was shot dead at his Sunflower Street, Linden, business place in January 2011. The suspects were all freed. He was also charged with robbing two other Linden residents of cash and jewellery.
Friday March 22, 2019
GGMC, other Govt. agencies struggling to keep up with rapidly emerging oil industry -Financial Analyst
Collis Collison In 2015, Collison was charged, then freed, of robbing a policeman Prem Narine and his family, who were allegedly trailed from the airport to Kitty. At the time, he was suspected of being a member of a gang that targeted persons who arrived at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri. Collison was also said to be one of the key players in the March 2016 prison riots in which 18 inmates perished after a prison block was set on fire. A Commission of Inquiry revealed that the riot started shortly after Collison resisted being searched for contraband.
The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission By Kiana Wilburg Even though some strides have been made since the giant Liza discovery to establish or improve the institutions and regulatory processes that govern the petroleum industry, Guyana’s agencies are still struggling to keep up with the rapidly emerging oil industry. This is according to a report that was produced by Financial Analyst, Jenny Xenos, of Canaccord Genuity Corporation which is based in Canada. Canaccord Genuity is a boutique investment banking firm that offers financial advisory services. The firm provides initial public offering, private placement, financial restructuring, fund raising, and mergers and acquisitions advisory services. It caters to metals and mining, energy, technology, financial, real estate, and healthcare sectors. In a 2019 Industry Update report, the author noted that generally, there is a lack of specialized knowledge, expe-
rience and manpower needed to put the required frameworks in place. She highlighted that the Petroleum division of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has been established, to monitor exploration in Guyana. However, as of a few months ago, Xenos said that the GGMC and the Ministry of Natural Resources had a mere nine technically trained people responsible for regulating the oil and gas industry. The Financial Analyst noted that Guyana’s petroleum industry institutions remain young and inexperienced, poorly equipped to address the challenges they face. She said, “The good news is, recognizing their limitations, the Guyanese have been reaching out for help. They have sought advice and support from the US State Department and the IMF (International Monetary Fund) to draft legislation for environmental regulations, fiscal re-
gime and government oversight.” Also, Xenos said that the Commonwealth organization, of which Guyana is a member, is assisting in creating the regulations, policies and legislation for its new petroleum industry, by working closely with Guyana’s Ministries of Natural Resources and Finance. She said that these laws and policies will govern the exploration and production of hydrocarbons, the taxation of the petroleum industry, and manage the revenue that comes from it in a way that would contribute to sustainable economic and social development. Furthermore, Xenos noted the creation of a Natural Resource Fund which will allow funds to be managed transparently, according to good governance values. She said, “It is envisioned that public spending will not be linked to volatile petroleum revenues and hence, would not drive up the value of Guyana’s currency, cause severe inflation or a loss of economic competitiveness.” Additionally, the Financial Analyst noted that Guyana has been trying to learn from the countries that have suffered from the “paradox of plenty” and those who “beat the curse” by studying their cases and involving international organizations to advise and support it. She said that the government has also engaged the Mexican Petroleum Institute to help train oilfield service workers, addressing the shortage of local skilled labor. While the way ahead for the young oil province is likely to be challenging, Xenos said she believes the country is making steps in the right direction in order to ensure that the wall of oil revenue that is coming its way will benefit generations to come.
It defies reason why the PPPC and the APNU+AFC, both of which have expressed concerns over the loss of revenues from fuel smuggling, would wish to slacken the controls on the importation of fuel by granting licences to private individuals and associations. What is even more perplexing is why such licences were granted to individuals and companies which did not have the requisite storage capacity and infrastructure normally associated with fuel importation. Fuel, as readers will recall, is the largest contributor to import taxes. In 2017, it raked in $21B, which is far more than what was earned by any other commodity. Last year, it pulled in an additional six billion dollars for the State. The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) believes that billions of dollars are being lost to fuel smuggling each year. At Eteringbang, where the Guyana Defence Force has a base, the Guyana Revenue Authority estimates a loss of $20M per week or about one billion dollars per year. A fuel marking scheme was introduced under the PPPC to reduce fuel smuggling. The scheme was originally intended to be administered by a multi-agency task force but unfortunately has found itself being exclusively administered by the Guyana Energy Authority. The fuel marking scheme has been dogged by contro-
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Friday March 22, 2019
versy with reports of fuel markers finding themselves into the open market. This newspaper was even able to obtain fuel markers, showing how loose the system was. The APNU+AFC has taken no steps to revert to the original idea of having more than one agency administer the fuel markers so that each can act as control over abuses by the other. Nor has the government seen it fit to tighten up on the importation of fuel. In fact, it has liberalized the grant of licences, issuing licences to known supporters of the ruling coalition. Fuel taxes are prohibitively high. This makes it highly attractive for fuel smugglers.Safety concerns also dictate the need for controls. Fuel is highly combustible. Bulk storage of fuel requires bulk storage facilities which should be constructed in accordance with international safety standards and located away from residential and business premises. This infrastructure is not cheap. It is costly but necessary for human safety. Yet, licences have been issued to firms which have not invested in bulk storage infrastructure. They are merely trading in fuel, something which was once reserved only for the big oil companies – Shell, Esso, Texaco and GUYOIL, now Sol, Rubis and GUYOIL. The large foreign multinationals have rigorous international accounting systems
which guards against illegality. They are not likely to want to harm their international reputations by engaging in fuel smuggling or avoiding the payment of fuel taxes. Five weeks after coming to office, the APNU+AFC granted a fuel licence to a company which was only registered three months prior to the May 11, 2015 general elections. The grant of another licence months later, ignited a stinging rebuke from the Mirror newspaper which pointed to the speed with which these licences were granted considering that an importer is normally required to have bulk storage tanks, obtain an environmental impact assessment and at least four other permits concerned with storage, transportation, safety and importation. Recently, it was reported that even RUSAL was granted a licence to import fuel. This company enjoys duty free concessions on fuel and there is no reason why, like companies such as OMAI did in the past, it could not have sourced fuel from the major oil multinationals operating in Guyana. There is no reason why also the trawlers association could not have been given concessions on fuel while purchasing from these same multinationals. It would have allowed for greater controls on the importation of fuel and less work for the revenue officers. The GRA in recent times has launched investigations
against some of the new companies which were granted fuel licences. The reports in the media have provided details of some of the allegations but there have been no reports about the penalties, if any which were imposed for any violation. Yet this is the same GRA if when a businessman brings in a container it is found to have a few extra items, is bound to descend on that
person and extract the payment of the additional duties plus huge penalties. What is good for Peter must be good for Paul. The same system should be applied for any persons found smuggling fuel. The penalties must be equally severe and not simply a slap on the wrist or no slap at all. The government must tighten up on fuel importation. It must insist on proper stor-
age and safety infrastructure by licencees. It should not issue licences strictly for trading purposes, without the requisite infrastructure. It is time to relook at the conditions under which fuel licences are granted.
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Kaieteur News
Friday March 22, 2019
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
However the court rules today, Patterson still has to explain
S
hould the Court of Appeal today turn down the decision of the Chief Justice (CJ) that the no-confidence vote (NCV) on December 21, 2018 was constitutionally valid, then the elected APNU+AFC regime remains legal until elections are due in 2020. The PPP will no doubt go to the Caribbean Court of Justice. If the court upholds the
CJ’s decision but positively responds to a request for the doctrine of necessity then the status quo remains. The political leadership of the government (APNU+AFC) is in mountainous trouble if the appeal is rejected and no stay is granted. What it means is that both lower and higher courts have ruled that the NCV is constitutionally binding and there
must be elections before March 21 (which passed yesterday). What the APNU+AFC leadership will do is anyone’s guess if it loses but win or lose today, the decision either way will not dissolve the controversy that has canopied the GECOM chairman, Justice James Patterson since the ERC released its report on the employment practice of
GECOM. Before we analyze the situation with Patterson, some notes about why the framers of the constitution put preference on a judge for the post of GECOM chairmanship. It no doubt has to do with an understanding of manmade laws, constitutional laws and natural law. The feeling is that judges are more familiar with what the laws entail and what constitute proper legal procedures and how and why natural law is relevant to the dispensation of justice. The concept of justice no doubt was the clincher for the framers of the constitution who wanted the GECOM chairman to be either a sitting judge or a former judge. They believe judges are more familiar with the complexities and depths of the meaning of justice and how justice must be dispensed. In my Thursday column, relying on the section of the ERC’s findings on the employment practice of GECOM with regards to what was attributed to Patterson, I concluded that Patterson was not fit and proper to be GECOM’s chairman. I have since read that section and I am accepting what it said about Patterson unless I read where Patterson is rejecting what was published on him. For those not familiar with the ERC report and who didn’t peruse my Thursday column, a brief recap is necessary. Here are the words of
Patterson when he appeared in front of the investigating team of the ERC speaking about the application of Vishu Persaud for Deputy Chief Election Officer, “What I saw was the written evidence; he said he had Y and he didn’t… one candidate (Persaud) seems shifty, the other candidate wasn’t.” Patterson went on to tell the researchers; “I found him (Persaud) shifty on the paper trail.” The researchers requested Patterson to provide the written evidence from which he arrived at his conclusion about Persaud. He didn’t provide it and according to the ERC, it did disregard his testimony. Here are the words of the ERC on the attitude of Patterson; “Failure to produce the documents on which he based his conclusions that Persaud was unsatisfactory has grossly discredited his (Patterson’s) findings of Persaud’s shiftiness, unreliability, dishonesty.” Think of the adverb “grossly” the ERC used to describe how untenable was the submission of Patterson who did not supply the evidence. But what is disturbing is that Patterson painted Persaud as dishonest because the ERC attributed that word to Patterson and the ERC found no evidence of the negatives Paterson attributed to Persaud. James Patterson is a former judge who must be deeply familiar with the rights conferred on humans through natural law (adumbrated more than 2000 years
Frederick Kissoon ago by the Roman philosopher Cicero). Persaud was entitled to a fair hearing by Patterson who had to carefully assess who said what about Persaud and also interview Persaud himself. But Patterson told the ERC he never saw Persaud. Patterson was the reason why Persaud was not accepted as Deputy Chief Elections Officer. In a tie vote of 3 versus 3, Patterson sunk Persaud’s prospect by voting against him. Now the onus is on Patterson to explain to this nation what and where is the documentary evidence on which he based his characterization of Persaud as dishonest and lying. James Patterson holds one of the most precious and important constitution offices in the land. He should be subjected to the highest standards because of the nature of his job. If his conduct can be proven to be egregious then this nation must demand his resignation. I am not asking for that as yet. He should be given an opportunity to respond to the ERC’s report. He should do it ASAP.
DEM BOYS SEH
Dem boys bracing fuh jail every coalition and PPPC politicians When people mek statements you does have to wonder if some of dem does talk fuh talk sake. De whole of Guyana believe that from today, Soulja Bai and he government illegal. Jagdeo tell dem suh and dem believe. Jagdeo even plan protest from today because he seh de government ain’t got right remaining in office. De biggest thing is that nobody should call Soulja Bai president because he illegal. Up comes de Carter Centre and all of a sudden Soulja Bai is still legal today. A foreigner had to come from de States fuh tell Jagdeo that because yesterday was a holiday it don’t count. But dem boys don’t have
sympathy fuh none of dem. When Soulja Bai and he team been in de Opposition dem talk big and bold how dem gun jail Jagdeo and he kavakamites fuh all de corruption wha dem do. Nearly four years pass and not a soul ain’t get jail. Dem boys believe that nobody ain’t get jail because Soulja Bai and he people believe that if dem lose de election Jagdeo will jail dem. Dem boys wukking fuh get a party that gun jail all three of dem. Is one thing fuh talk. Since you miss, dem politicians talking bout everything. Dem talking bout wha dem know and wha dem don’t even understand. De smart ones talking bout
money and how dem gun mek poor people rich. Soulja Bai talk bout de good life. Jagdeo peep ee card and seh de good life is fuh de Ministers. Dem boys peep and dem see only poverty. Dem hear when one presidential candidate seh ho w h e g u n p r o v i d e 50,000 jobs. He don’t understand de job market. Dem boys seh if he tek all dem cane cutters wha get send home and he tek all dem old age pensioners he might get 50,000 people. Perhaps is dem old people he gun give jobs. But that is wha elections is about—Promises; Promises; Promises. And that is a famous song by Shirley Bassey.
Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Friday March 22, 2019
National Assembly should convene to extend timeline GECOM commissioners recognized voters list bloated - Carter Center says
T
he Carter Center has issued an official statement following Wednesday’s meeting with officials of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on the current political situation. Among other things, the Center called for the immediate convening of the National Assembly to extend the 90-day timeline for elections which ends today. The Center also said that GECOM commissioners have recognized that the current voters list is bloated. The Center has been working with Guyana to ensure free and fair elections since 1992.Its founder is former US President Jimmy Carter who has visited Guyana on a number of occasions, including for the 2015 one. Below is the full statement as issued by the Center last evening on the political situation: A Carter Center delegation led by Jason J. Carter, chairman of the Carter Center’s Board of Trustees, has been in Guyana this week
meeting with key stakeholders to learn about the current challenges facing Guyana and to assess whether the Center could assist Guyanese going forward.The Center’s visit comes at a critical moment. Guyana could move into a time of constitutional uncertainty after March 22, which marks the end of a three-month period following a contested vote of no confidence and the deadline to hold elections, unless there is a political agreement about the way forward and either a National Assembly vote or a court decision to approve an extension of the electoral timeline. From its conversations with senior political leaders on both sides, the GECOM secretariat and commissioners, and a variety of other stakeholders, the Carter Center provides the following comments: - President David Granger and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo have a shared desire to have elections in the shortest possible time, consistent with law and
pending judicial decisions. - Because March 21, 2019, is a national holiday, under Guyana’s Interpretation and General Clauses Act, the constitutional three-month period following the noconfidence vote would expire on the following day, March 22, 2019. - The Carter Center reiterates its support for Guyana and urges all sides to find an agreed-upon way forward to establish an early election date. The Carter Center hopes the National Assembly is able to convene no later than March 22 to authorize an extension of the election timeline and to avoid a period of constitutional uncertainty. -GECOM commissioners recognize that the current voters list is “bloated.” A primary concern is the likely inclusion of significant numbers of Guyanese living overseas. GECOM commissioners hold different views about whether or not to conduct a new house-tohouse registration exercise to address this concern. -GECOM’s chief electoral
officer has prepared various scenarios for election timelines, and in the event that a new house-to-house registration is not required, elections could be organized in July or August. Conducting a new house-to-house registration would mean an election would not be possible until late November. -Give the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the vote of no confidence and the constitutional requirement for early elections, there are several steps that could be considered to try to mitigate concerns about the voter list while scheduling elections as early as possible, including: -Using data from the Ministry of Immigration, GECOM could prepare a reference list of Guyanese who are currently overseas (for three months or longer) and also included on the voter registration list. The voters on the reference list would not be removed from the registration list (other than through already existing legal procedures like, for example, the claims and objections process). But the reference list would be made available to party agents and scrutineers to facilitate enhanced review of these
names during the electoral process, both during the claims and objections period and on Election Day, serving as a deterrent to multiple or substitute voting. -The reference list would supplement safeguards already in place in Guyana’s electoral administration to protect against multiple voting. As The Carter Center has recognized in the past, Guyana’s existing safeguards are strong and consistent with international standards for democratic elections. - In addition, GECOM could consider providing resources to expand the number of political party agents and scrutineers who can monitor the electoral process before, during, and after Election Day. These efforts could be complemented by a strong presence of international observers and domestic citizen observers to enhance transparency. -The Carter Center is aware of pending decisions from the Court of Appeal and that these decisions may be appealed to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). In the event that final court rulings invalidate the vote of no confidence, elections would
Jason Carter, Chairman of the Carter Center’s Board of Trustees not need to be held this year. Prior to the delegation’s visit, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter spoke with President David Granger and opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo, both of whom indicated they would welcome a Carter Center team. The delegation is led by Jason J. Carter, President Carter’s grandson and the chairman of the Carter Center’s Board of Trustees and includes David Carroll and Brett Lacy of the Center’s Democracy Program.
Regional Chairman gives support to Region 10 CPCE students
Some students of the Linden CPCE Centre.
R
enis Morian, Regional Chairman of the Regional Democratic Council [RDC] of Region Ten, has stepped forward to lend assistance to students of the Cyril Potter College of Education [CPCE] within the Region. The assistance came in the form of much needed electrical fans among other items. The Regional Chairman after a request by a number of students to visit the CPCE facility took a team of Regional Councillors with his Regional Vice Chairman, Elroy Adolph, along with him. After a tour of the facility and listening to a number of concerns raised by the students, the Regional Chairman not only pledged to assist the students with the fans but also a computer and other equipment to aid their learning process. “I must confess that as soon as I stepped into these classrooms I am wondering how you students can learn in these conditions. It is very hot in here and this is no environment for proper learning,” Morian said. He added, “I cannot at this time commit to
From left: Regional Chairman, Renis Morian; Lecturer Mark Allicock; Regional Vice Chairman, Elroy Adolph, and Head of the Centre, Stephanie St. Clair.
air conditioning systems which I think you students need urgently but I am prepared to make a number of fans available, shortly, to you so that at least you can have a much more comfortable learning environment,” the Regional Chairman told the students who expressed appreciation for his readiness to assist. He told the students that although they do not fall within his budget, as they are still the responsibility of the Ministry of Education, he is prepared to help in any way possible owing to the fact that at the end of their training the people and Region Ten will be benefiting from their services. “You are not yet my responsibility but sooner or later you will all be working within the Region and as such, our students, parents and residents will benefit greatly from your service, thus I feel obligated to assist,” he said. The Regional Chairman spoke to some of the lecturers and also had a discussion with the Head of the Centre, Ms. Stephanie St. Clair,
during which he requested that she put together a list of other things that he and his council may be able to assist with. He also pledged to provide at least two computers to the CPCE office in the Region. Morian said, too, that if there is any other way that the students or lecturers require his assistance they should contact him immediately as he is pleased to be empowering and promoting the skills and abilities of residents within his Region. St. Clair in expressing appreciation to the Regional Chairman thanked him for visiting the centre. There are a number of challenges and difficulties facing the (college). She said that while they are cognisant of the extreme heat staff and students face, they are unable to alleviate it owing to the fact that finances are limited, thus the gesture of a number of fans is highly appreciated. The head of the Centre pointed out that the students in their efforts to enhance the centre, engage in a number of communityoriented projects with the view to raising
needed finances to help. This, she said, has been very successful. “We have the computer room, for which the students bought a small air conditioner. The air conditioner has been installed and it is working well so I must also commend the students who continue to play a valuable part in improving the centre,” St. Clair said. She added that while they are cognisant that the Regional Chairman cannot provide all the things that they are in urgent need of, they are thankful and equally grateful for whatever assistance and support he can give. Another lecturer, Mark Allicock, said that he hopes that other individuals, companies and or organisations would follow the Regional Chairman’s lead and lend some support. “There are things that we need because in having 77 students in such a small building is not going to be easy but we are nonetheless grateful that the students recognise our limitations and are understanding of the situation,” he said.
Friday March 22, 2019
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St. George’s students given wake-up tour of Juvenile Holding Centre On March 5, last, Assistant Superintendent Kevin Das and Inspector Abbigail Ali along with other ranks from the Brickdam Police Station hosted a tour of the Juve-
nile Holding Centre. According to the police, participating were students of the St. George’s High School. A total of 34 students from the various grades
within the school were given the opportunity to tour in and around the building and to observe the various areas including the dormitory, cells, sanitation block, and the class-
rooms. The tour was conducted with the aim that the students may become knowledgeable as to what may happen to someone who chooses to become a ‘recalcitrant’. They also had the opportunity to ask questions about sleeping conditions and the absence of television. According to the po-
lice, the visit was to encourage change, and to build self-esteem. The intervention is one of many conducted within
‘A’ Division, which covers the city and environs, with the aim of reducing youth crime and making communities safer.
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Friday March 22, 2019
81 minibus operators told of appearance and conduct
The police have awakened to the lawlessness involving the operation of minibuses. Earlier this month, 81 bus operators on the Route 40 to 48 areas participated in a workshop on appearance and conduct. This came after the Ministry of Business and the United Mini-bus Union (UMU), on January 4, 2019 approved the long-awaited Code of Conduct for Minibus Operators. On March 7, the police force’s Brickdam Traffic Department concluded a three-day lecture session on appearance and conduct of mini-bus operators.
The lectures were conducted by Assistant Superintendent, Forbes Browne; Inspector Gavin Boyce and Sergeant Wickham, along with other ranks of the department. Among the topics raised were overloading; loud and degrading music; driving under the influence of alcohol; speed limits; racing on the roadways and the courtesy by drivers and conductors to passengers. The other areas also include personal hygiene; solicitation of passengers; maintenance and cleanliness of the vehicles; clothing; documentation and assistance for the elderly and the differently-abled.
Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
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“Stay calm and carry on” - Min. Hastings Williams tells Kitty North residents Amidst the Opposition’s cries that a constitutional crisis is ensuing in Guyana beginning March 21, 2019, Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams is telling Guyanese not to panic. Instead, she is advising that everyone “stay calm and carry on” living. “President David Granger remains the president, Today…Tomorrow…Next Week, Next Month and NextYear, if the election is called till then.” Minister Hastings-Williams accompanied by the Director of Public Information, Imran Khan, on Wednesday conducted a walkabout of Constituency Two, Kitty/Subryanville, Georgetown as part of larger Ministerial Outreach around the city. The journey which began at the National Congress of Women (NCW) Headquarters in Public Road, Kitty, ended with a public meeting at the J. E Burnham Primary School. While there, the minister allayed the fears of the residents
being fed by the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo’s narratives that once General and Regional Elections are not held by March 21, 2019, as required by the Constitution following the December 21 vote, the country will slip into a deep constitutional crisis. In helping the residents to better understand the political situation following the December 21 vote, Minister HastingsWilliam explained that the validity of the vote is still being contested in the courts and cannot be interrupted. She further explained that in keeping with the Constitution of Guyana, the opposition cannot and will not stop the Coalition Government’s work of bettering the lives of Guyanese. According to the constitution, elections must be held within three months, or at a later period approved by a twothirds majority of the National Assembly, upon the passage of a No-Confidence Motion.Article 106 (7) of the constitution spe-
cifically states that the government remains in office and the National Assembly may pass a resolution to extend the time for elections beyond the threemonth period within which elections are required to be held. Additionally, the Constitution provides that GECOM, an independent, autonomous agency be responsible for the administration of elections in Guyana including naming a date for those elections. GECOM, soon after the December 21 vote, indicated that it was not possible for elections to be held by the constitutional deadline, noting too that it lacks the finances to hold free and fair elections. Sections of the media on Tuesday reported that GECOM Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson, dispatched a letter to President David Granger, advising him that the earliest General and Regional Elections can be held is in late November. (DPI)
Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams, during the walkabout in the Kitty/Subryanville area on Wednesday.
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Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
Scent of a crime-The Canine Section of the Guyana Police Force
The Canine Section (K-9 unit) of the Guyana Police Force is one of the most significant departments within the Force. It plays a significant role in assisting in the
reduction of crime in the country. It is currently under the command of Second-in-Command ‘Operations’ Assistant Superintendent Ronald Ali,
who is assisted by Inspector Narine Lall. The Canine Section, which is located in the Mounted Branch Compound at Barrack Street, Kingston,
Eve Leary, was established in the early 1960s. In its crime fighting role, the canine section assists with the detection of explosives, illegal arms and ammunition, blood, illegal drugs and contraband. The ranks also conduct canine patrols in crime prone areas and at key ports of entry. At the beginning, Corporal 5083 Williams was in command of the K-9 unit with one dog at that time named Rio, which soon became a household name. Rio was referred to as the “Wonder Dog” owing to the capture of many criminals, both local and in law
enforcement cooperation overseas. Rio was part of a police operation in one of the largest manhunts in Montserrat and played a role in the successful recapture of the fugitive William Bramble also known as “Fine Twine” who was wanted for several crimes in the Caribbean. Emphasis has been placed on the training of ranks both locally and overseas, including a comprehensive programme which was conducted locally by British Police Sergeant Robert Ling, aimed at enabling ranks to
become more efficient Canine Handlers. Following this training programme, the Canine section acquired four dogs Byron, Vince, Ross and Warren; they were trained for one year by the British expert. The Section has also benefitted from additional animals that were received following the attendance of ranks on Canine Training Programmes in the United States of America. Between 2006 and 2013, 16 police ranks from the Criminal Investigation Department (Continued on page 26)
Friday March 22, 2019
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Friday March 22, 2019
Deputy Commissioners conferred 7th Annual Phagwah
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n Tuesday, the Commissioner of Police conducted an historic engagement where his four Deputies obtained their Instruments of Appointment as Deputy Commissioners. During the ceremony, each Deputy took the statutory Oath of Office as is required under Section 14 of the Police Act Chapter 16:01. Despite the late handing over of the Instruments, the appointments are in keeping with the period of 2018 when the Force's new administrative team was installed.
Festival showcases ethnic harmony
T
he annual Phagwah Festival is a much anticipated event by many. This year it certainly showcased a high degree of ethnic harmony among the people that attended. This year, as has always been the case, it was quite obvious that people had come out in full appreciation of the observances. Phagwah 2019 was well celebrated in Albouystown , Georgetown. Residents and visitors participated in large numbers in the customary street styled festivities hosted on an annual basis. This year around even Buxton, East Coast Demerara, was in full swing as villagers began their joyous celebration in great festivity since in the early hours in the morning. Surprisingly however, A l e x a n d e r Vi l l a g e , Georgetown, which was always a hub of activity on this day, seemed lacking with just a sparse few celebrating the Phagwah festival at a few shops and street corners. National Stadium was a hivet with activity‌ It would appear as though all Guyana attended that seventh Annual Phagwah Festival at the National Stadium, judging f rom th e h u ge cr ow d reveling there. The event was hosted by Inspire Inc. in collaboration with the Mahadeo Foundation, and Hindus Unite for Guyana, fully supported by Dr. Amarnauth Dukhi one of the organisers. And this year's theme 'Foster Peace, Love and Unity', was a perfect choice. It resonated in the sea of smiling faces of almost every ethnic race in Guyana, thoroughly enjoying the
festivities. This year according to organizers the event was attended by people from the Caribbean, New York, and New Jersey, USA. Mr Yog Mahadeo, the founder of the Phagwah Festival, was pleasant and smiling as he greeted the media and special invitees. Attendees reveled and frolicked as the popular Shakti Strings Banks belted out pulsating tunes that were familiar to the entire audience. The Ishara Dance Trope was quite a crowd stealer as they presented a dance piece that had the crowd clambering for more. Then the Jeet Hai Dance group (from the Philadelphia Mandir) took things to a crescendo as they too presented an upbeat dance presentation. AW Ly r i c a l , a n entertainer from the West Demerara District, presented well, captivating the audience with his songs and raunchy dance moves. The cultural aspect of the festival certainly reeked of top class presentations and this was evident in the thunderous applause from the very appreciative audience. It was quite satisfying to see that the lineup of presenters was both local and foreign, and big names like international act, Terry Gajraj (Trinidad), Braina Lutawan (New Jersey), 'Marissa' (New York), and Queen Zana of Canada. Other performers included local act Randy Ramdin, and Chutney King, Steven Ramphal. The feature address was presented by founder of the event, Dr. Yog Mahadeo. (See photos of Phagwah celebrations yesterday on centre)
Friday March 22, 2019
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Friday March 22, 2019
Education Ministry among entities to benefit from humanitarian mission “I'm always happy to be associated with any project that will be beneficial to my Guyanese people” said Minister of Education, Ms. Nicolette Henry, as she affixed her signature to an agreement in the boardroom of her Brickdam, Georgetown Ministry. The NEW Horizon 2019 Implementation Agreement is between the United States Security Cooperation office, the Guyana Defence Force, and several Government Ministries.
This marks the third sojourn for the mission to Guyana to execute humanitarian, engineering and medical activities. Henry noted that aside from helping Guyanese this will also assist the US Military even as they engage in benevolent work to garner the necessary practice in their various fields. The New Horizon Project of Guyana is a humanitarian effort that covers Medical and E n g i n e e r i n g
interventions/activities that incorporate three community centres as well as a women's Health Centre. The mission will also include the execution of medical outreaches within the Linden community and its surrounding villages in Region Ten as well as in New Amsterdam, Region Six. The Ministry of Education is providing support for the success of the activity by providing spaces and outreaches. According to US
Military Captain Solomon Bannister, attached to the US Embassy, the engineering related construction projects commenced in February while the actual exercise is scheduled to begin in May and continue through August. At present, there are 65 ranks from both the US and Guyana Military working on the project. The New Horizon is considered the largest Humanitarian and Civic exercise in the Western Hemisphere and this year it will take place in Guyana. The exercise has been in the planning stage for more than a year with comprehensive involvement from the Ministry of Education as well as other stakeholders.
Education Minister Nicolette Henry signing the 2019 New Horizons Agreement The signing of the agreement formalises the careful negotiation and planning process that has taken place and it is a crucial part of the overall preparatory process. “This is important and I want to thank all stakeholders for the work being done in Guyana by the
US Government in collaboration with Guyanese and I look forward to hearing good things coming from the project and certainly I know that it will benefit lots of Guyanese,” said Minister Henry. New Horizon previously completed missions in Guyana in 2004 and 2009.
Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
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REGGAE SUPER STAR
BUJU BANTON to perform in Guyana on
Friday March 22, 2019
THE
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THE REVIEWS ARE IN!!!
May 25
Thor: Ragnarok: Less keen to play by Marvel rules
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eggae Super star Buju Banton is confirmed to perform in Guyana on May 25, 2019 as part of the Guyana Independence Carnival Celebrations. Over the past couple days, much excitement has been generated after a few popular social media sites leaked information that Buju Banton is expected to perform in Guyana in May. Well, now it is coming directly from the horse's mouth, he is coming. After seeing how excited Guyanese were to see Buju, High Frequency Entertainment in collaboration with King Leo Promotion and the Guyana Carnival Committee decided that it is a great opportunity to make Guyana a part of the 'Long Walk to Freedom' tour. Buju Banton, who's 'Long Road to Freedom' tour was announced late last year, listed many countries in the Caribbean, such as,
Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Kitts, Suriname, Grenada and his home country of Jamaica; finally, Guyana is on that list. Banton, who has always referred to Guyana as one of his favourite countries to perform in the Caribbean, has not performedhere for over 12 years, however, he will return with his full band to give his Guyanese fans a long overdue and highly anticipated concert. The reggae superstar is known for hits such as, 'untold stories', wanna be loved', 'champion', 'deportees', 'not an easy road' and much more. Tickets for this event will go on sale online and at ticket locations locally in the coming days. Stay tuned to social media sites @guyanacarnival and our website www.guyanacarnival592.com for more details.
Entertainment POLICE THE
E P STAG brand takes on social issues through multimedia campaign
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oncerns relating to domestic violence, lack of respect for women and fatal motor accidents due to drinking and driving, are issues ANSA McAL Trading Limited plans to take on. Through its Stag Beer brand, the company over the next three weeks will be focusing on these social issues. The multimedia campaign called '#LiveRight' will be done via print, radio, television and social media. As part of the company's corporate social responsibility, it's the vision that this will significantly help reduce instances of problematic behaviour in the society. Much international research suggests credible evidence to support the notion that general education can play a leading part in promoting beneficial behavioural change.
During the campaign stories of citizens who already 'LiveRight' in their respective communities simply by making a daily difference will be highlighted. The six commercials developed by the company are going to be aired on all sponsored radio and television programs during prime airtime, targeting the general population with effective messages. In addition, seven impactful messages were also captured on posters that will be disseminated via the company's Facebook and Instagram pages. ANSA McAL Trading Limited, like its parent company in Trinidad and Tobago, maintains the position that investing in initiatives like these can merely create a ripple effect transformation in our ever-changing society.
ne of the more valid criticisms levelled against Marvel's films is that for all its claims of being filmmaker-led and tonally diverse, they're increasingly unimaginative productions. Slick action scenes, a smattering of Whedonesque quips and the occasional fanservicing cameo are all staples of any movie with the Marvel logo, and while that formula might prevent another (relative) failure like Thor: The Dark World, it also robs audiences of the chance to be truly surprised. Enter Thor: Ragnarok, which gives proof, just as we need it, that Marvel Studios will still give movies the chance be surprising. The film is directed by Taika Waititi, a filmmaker made famous by his eccentric, genre-lampooning horror mockumentary What We Do In The Shadows. There's no mistaking his fingerprints all over Ragnarok, with its constant action-bathos and frequent juxtaposition of the mundane against the fantastic. The movie skewers Marvel's own tropes so frequently that, like Iron Man 3 (aka the best Marvel movie) it threatens to leave the playground an unusable mess for anyone that follows. As a viewer, that's exciting. There's a genuine sense in Ragnarok that anything could happen to anyone – that the rules no longer apply. Paired with Waititi's technicolour visuals and speed-prog soundtrack, the movie is a sensory delight. When you're not being dazzled, it's because you're laughing: this is as close to an outright comedy as Marvel has ever dared allow. Struck against its prequels - the slightly undercooked Thor and the decidedly limp Thor: The Dark World – Ragnarok comfortably obliterates them. It is, by some distance, the most enjoyable Thor movie, and the first that even gets close to realising the true scope of these characters. Unfortunately, you have to take the rough with the smooth. What Thor: Ragnarok gains in charm and comedy, it loses in story. Individual character arcs are vague, characters themselves are borderline unrecognisable, and more than a couple of film's big twists are accompanied by quick leaps of logic that it'd really prefer you didn't dwell on. Waititi's genius undoubtedly lies in the movie's technicolour aesthetics and sheer tonal poise. It seems like he isn't that interested in much else. If you squint, the movie has discernible themes, but they're way, way in the background. The problem, if you consider it one, is that everything comes second to the jokes even established character. The Thor of
Ragnarok, though heroic, is clumsy and petty. Banner's intense sadness and selfloathing is replaced with jumpy, rabbit-like neuroses and slapstick. The returning actors clearly love stepping into twisted versions of their roles - but if some audience members came out feeling robbed or cheated, you'd really struggle to begrudge them. Waititi clearly finds it funny to tease the headliners down to their very DNA. Gods help you if you don't agree. That's not to suggest the film is completely incapable of playing it straight. Hela is a formidable villain, easily top three for the MCU, and with the operatic brilliance that Asgardians demand. Blanchett is perfect in the role, with a sneer that looks like it could destroy the world. Many of the other supporting players get the kind of genuine, unqualified moments of triumph that are repeatedly ripped from the grasp of the bigger names. As a director who has stayed away from action blockbusters, one senses that Waititi's movies have had the luxury of being a little meandering or unusually paced. Over in blockbuster world, this is a movie that starts dialled up to 7 and, over the course of two hours plus, manages to hit the dizzying highs of 8 or 9. For all its Spinal Tap bravura it doesn't get anywhere near 11 (with the exception of Goldblum's performance, which is clocking somewhere close to 900). The peaks and troughs – that rollercoaster feeling of watching a great blockbuster – are all but absent. It's a string of sketches and skits, rather than a single epic. In that sense, by any technical assessment a movie that completely disowns a lot of the criteria by which you'd judge a standard blockbuster. It's so weird and idiosyncratic – like an indie movie scaled up to Marvel-size that it's almost tough to know what to make of it. Personally, I can't wait to see it again, partly to catch the jokes I missed, and partly to try and untangle what it's actually doing with itself. Unlike Marvel's last few movies which have, more often than not, been examples of the kind of unspectacular and inoffensive pictures the Marvel house style can produce, this seems like a movie destined to live in the extremes of opinion. If the studio is to keep itself fresh as it heads towards its second decade of existence, Thor: Ragnarok is exactly the type of movie it should be producing: visually unique, narratively unpredictable and tonally audacious. But if you come out hating it…? Well, there's a sporting chance too. http://www.denofgeek.com.
Kaieteur News
Friday March 22, 2019
PAGE 25
Lake Mainstay to host Car & Bike KFC Link Show Show, After Party on Easter Saturday returns to NCC on March 23, 24
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uyana's most popular annual satirical review, the KFC Link Show 34, which has been entertaining Guyanese audiences by the thousands for the past 33 years, will be back at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) on March 23 and 24. KFC Link Show 34 speaks to the current political and social situation along with political and topical personalities in a very funny and entertaining manner. Audiences can look forward to an evening of relaxation and lots of laughter. The production which premiered in November1981 has been thrilling audiences from Charity to Linden to Corriverton and New Amsterdam and between 1997-2001, in the USA and Canada over the years. The cast will comprise of both experienced actors and some promising newcomers. Link Show stalwarts like Sonia Yarde, Michael Ignatius, Mark Luke Edwards, Mark Kazim, Sean Thompson, Randy Critchlow, Simone Persaud, Simone Dowding, Rajan Tiwari,Nirmala Narine, Paul and Sean Budnah will be joined by other seasoned actors like Sheron Cadogan, NathayaWhaul, Melika Edmonds, Nelan Benjamin,Makini Thompson, Troy Parboo, Raymond Persaud and newcomers on the scene will be Zoya Moore, Tamepha Rodney, Rovindra Persaud, Lee Leung, Joshua Persaud, Yohance Koama and Nalini Narishwarie. Patrons are advised to be there early as the show starts promptly at 20.00hours (8.00p.m.). Security will be provided for vehicles. Patrons are also being asked to adhere to the NCC dress code. The KFC Link Show 34 is produced by GEMS Theatre Productions and The Theatre Company, directed by Ron Robinson. Tickets are $2000, $1200 and $1000 and are now on sale at the National Cultural Centre, KFC Mandela Avenue and Regent and King streets outlet.
HOTTT
this weekend!!! 704 Sports Bar to host the ultimate De-stresser weekend for the ladies
The legendary Destiny's Child famously said, “Ladies it ain't easy being independent.” And at 704, the management and staff understand just how hard the ladies work to take care of themselves hence the reason
this unique establishment is inviting all ladies to head on over to the 704 bar to indulge in their simply tantalizing Destresser cocktail. The first 30 will get this signature cocktail for free. See you there!!!
704 Sports Bar presents Build Your Bucket every Wednesday and Friday
It's Heineken Fridays at 704 Sports Bar
At the 704 Sports Bar, there will always be an opportunity to evolve your choices. And every Wednesday and Friday, party-goers will get a chance to build their bucket. This interesting concept allows you to pick any combination of six beers to Build Your Bucket (BYB) and get it at a special price. This offer is available from 5pm to 7pm! See you there.
Aura Bar and Lounge at Pegasus Hotel pres. club night Saturdays Every Saturday, the Management at Aura will be providing an ambiance filled with quality service, delicious food and great music. Every Saturday should be a party to remember and the Aura is determined to give you that experience. The Lounge will be open from 8pm. Music will be provided by Guyana's most popular DJs. For reservations, you can make contact with management on: 225-2853 or 600-6912.
If you are a die-hard fan of the Heineken brand then 704 Sports Bar is where you need to be this and every Friday. According to management, fans can get six Heinekens for just $2800 between 7pm and 9pm. Be sure to take advantage of this offer guys!
Massive discounts now available for Guyana Carnival Backline Costumes The Management of the Guyana Carnival is now giving you a chance to get your Backline costume now if you pay 50% down with $100USD Off the original price. This promotion starts from March 19th and ends March 30th. Log on to www.guyanacarnival592.com to see all costumes and register now or head down to their office at 206 Lance Gibbs Street, Queenstown for more information. Guyana Carnival's grand Independence Day Parade is set for May 26, 2019.
Lake Mainstay Resort will be hosting its 10th Annual Car & Bike Show and After Party on Easter Saturday, 20th April, 2019 at the Resort's Beach in Mainstay/Whyaka Village on the Essequibo Coast. The gates will be opened from 15:00 hrs. (3 pm) and the show commences at 18:00 hrs. (6:00 pm). For those persons interested in partaking in the show you can download the application form from the resort's Facebook page @ www.facebook.com/lakemainstay. The registration deadline is April 18th, 2019. Over $1M in cash prizes and trophies will be up for grabs. Admission: Adults - $1,000.00 and Children - $500.00 (under 10 years old). See you there.
The mesmerizing history of Indian music and their accompanying instruments From last week However, the design of sarangis varies from region to region (1982.143.2). For example, the Nepalese sarangi is generally much smaller than its Indian counterpart, and not all sarangis have sympathetic strings. SAROD The sarod is a relatively new instrument to South Asia, having been around for less than 200 years. The sarod is a plucked stringed instrument with a skin-covered resonator and sympathetic strings. Like the sitar, it is primarily used in Hindustani music and is accompanied by the tabla. SETAR The word setar means “three strings.” Other instruments in this family include the two-stringed dutar and the single-stringed ektar. As Indian musicians adopted the setar, they added more and more strings. Early sitars, which evolved from the setar, have six strings, while more contemporary ones include six playing strings and thirteen sympathetic strings. A Persian setar in the Museum's collection is a miniature that was made primarily for the purpose of decoration. Many such instruments exist in India. SITAR The sitar is easily India's most famous musical instrument overseas, having been popularized in the West by George Harrison of the Beatles, who studied with Ravi Shankar, one of the greatest sitarists of the twentieth century. The sitar has its roots in both the Persian setar as well as in the vina. Like many stringed instruments used in classical Indian music, the modern sitar (1999.399) has sympathetic strings that sound only when one of the primary strings is struck on the same note. These strings, which are never played by the performer, resound in sympathy with the playing strings, creating a polyphonic timber that many have come to associate with India through the popularity of this instrument. It is interesting to note, however, that the addition of the sympathetic strings is a relatively recent development in Indian music starting in the late nineteenth century (89.4.1586). The use of sympathetic strings is known to have existed in other parts of the world prior to their initial use in India. TABLA The tabla is actually two drums played by the same performer. Both drums have
compound skins onto which a tuning paste, or siyahi, is added to help generate the wide variety of tones these drums can produce. The bayan is the larger of the two drums and is generally made of metal or pottery. The siyahi on the bayan is off-center, which allows the performer to add variable pressure on the skin, changing the pitch of the instrument with the palm of his or her hand while striking it with the fingertips. The smaller drum is called the dahini, or sometimes referred to as the tabla. Dahini are usually made of heavy lathe-turned rosewood and provide much higher pitch sounds than does the bayan. TAMBURA The tambura is a long, stringed instrument made of light hollow wood, with either a wooden or a gourd resonator. It is typically used in accompaniment with other instruments, providing a drone pitch. Some of the tamburas in the Museum's collection are not full-sized instruments, but rather miniatures created for their aesthetic appearance. The artistic craftsmanship on the inlay in these objects is beautiful. India has a long history of creating musical instruments as decorative objects, and that tradition is represented in the Museum's collection. VINA Along with the pakhavaj, the vina is one of the most commonly depicted instruments in Indian iconography. The vina has taken many forms in both South and North India. In North India, it was called the bin or the rudravina, and was the predecessor of the sitar. It was often built of two large gourd resonators connected by a piece of bamboo, with frets held on with wax. Most of the vinas depicted in iconography are rudravinas. In the South, the vina—or saraswati vina—continues to be the most popular stringed instrument in classical music. In its basic shape, the vina is a hollow wooden stringed instrument with two gourd resonators (though there can often be more than two or sometimes only one gourd resonator). The gottuvadyam, or chitravina, is another important instrument in Karnatak music. Unlike the rudravina and the saraswati vina, the gottuvadyam has no frets and is played with a slide using a method similar to that of the Hawaiian slide guitar. (https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/indi/hd _indi.htm)
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Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
Venezuela detains top aide to Guaido in move U.S. calls ‘big mistake’ CARACAS (Reuters) Ve n e z u e l a n o p p o s i t i o n leader Juan Guaido said yesterday intelligence agents had detained his chief of staff during a predawn raid, a move by President Nicolas Maduro that the Trump administration said would “not go unanswered.” Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume the interim presidency after declaring Maduro’s 2018 re-election a fraud. He has been recognized by the United States and dozens of other We s t e r n n a t i o n s a s t h e country’s legitimate leader. Maduro, who has overseen a dramatic collapse of the OPEC n a t i o n ’s e c o n o m y, h a s c a l l e d Guaido a puppet of the United States and said he should “face justice,” but has not explicitly ordered his arrest. U.S. President Donald Trump’s national security a d v i s e r, J o h n B o l t o n , called for the immediate release of Roberto Marrero.
“Maduro has made another big mistake,” Bolton said on Twitter. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said earlier yesterday that “we will hold accountable those involved.” Top U.S. officials have repeatedly warned Maduro not to touch Guaido and his inner circle, but it is unclear what more they can do. They have threatened ever harsher sanctions intended to further isolate Maduro and cut off his administration’s sources of revenue, but the humanitarian and political costs of further blanket measures could be high. Millions of Venezuelans are already suffering shortages of food and medicine. Guaido said the raids by agents from the SEBIN intelligence service on the residences of Marrero and another opposition legislator, Sergio Vergara, showed Maduro’s “weakness” and that attempts to intimidate him would not derail the
opposition campaign. “As they cannot take the interim president priso n e r, s o t h e y s e e k o u t people closest to him, threaten relatives, carry out kidnappings,” Guaido told a news conference. Marrero recorded a voice message as SEBIN agents were trying to enter his home in Caracas’ upscale Las Mercedes neighborhood, which Guaido’s press team forwarded to reporters. “I am in my house and the SEBIN is here. Unfortunately, they have come for me. Keep up the fight, don’t stop and look after (Guaido),” Marrero said. Ve rg a r a , M a r r e r o ’s neighbour, said some 40 armed SEBIN agents forced their way into their homes and spent three hours inside. The SEBIN left with M a r r e r o a n d Ve rg a r a ’s driver, the legislator said in a video posted on his Twitter account. Guaido said that Marrero had told Vergara that agents had planted
two rifles and a grenade in his house. Venezuela’s Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Since January, Venezuelan authorities have arrested over 1,000 people in connection with anti-government demonstrations, most of them arbitrarily, rights groups say. United Nations human rights chief Michelle Bachelet said on Wednesday that Venezuelan security forces, backed by progovernment militias, have quashed peaceful protests with an excessive use of force, killings and torture. The UN human rights office yesterday tweeted its concern over Marrero’s detention and urged the
government to respect due process and reveal his whereabouts. The Lima Group regional bloc also denounced Marrero’s arrest and said Maduro was responsible for his safety. Maduro has said his government is the victim of an “economic war” led by his political adversaries and blames U.S. financial and oil sector sanctions for the country’s situation. Venezuela is reeling from annual inflation topping two million percent, which has fueled malnutrition and preventable disease and spurred an exodus of more than three million citizens since 2015. While Trump has said all options remain open, there appears to be little
support in Washington or regional Latin American capitals for any military intervention. Guaido traveled around South America in February to drum up diplomatic support, defying a travel ban imposed by the pro-government Supreme Court. He later entered the country via Venezuela’s principal airport without being detained by immigration officials. Venezuela’s chief state prosecutor, Tarek Saab, last week asked the Supreme Court to open an investigation into Guaido for alleged involvement in the “sabotage” of the country’s electrical network, after the longest nationwide power blackout in decades.
Scent of a crime-The Canine... From page 16 and Canine Section were trained overseas in different areas when it comes to the handling and commanding of police dogs. Those courses include narcotics interdiction and tracking, dog handler courses on narcotics and explosives detection. At present, the Criminal Investigation Department has five “explosive, narcotics and firearm detection” dogs- Molly, Niko, Ben, Brenda and Ace. Ace was critical in a major find, recently. Based on intensive intelligence gathered, on November 16, 2016, ranks of the Guyana Police Force conducted a search of a taxi driver of Tuschen, EBE, and his motor vehicle at the Brickdam Police Sta-
tion. The initial search by ranks came up empty handed and it was decided to use one of its sniffer dogs trained in the detection of firearms and explosive devices. Ace arrived with its handler, Lance Corporal, Dwayne Mc Pherson, and in the presence of the driver and other ranks, led them to the left front door panel, which when opened revealed an unlicensed .38 S m i t h a n d We s s o n r e volver with five live matching rounds. In its current crime fighting initiative, the department is combating drug trafficking throughout the country especially at the ports of entry. Dogs such as Rambo and Kazan who were
trained by Sergeant Carl Saul have performed outstandingly in tracking ‘human scent’. The canines are housed at Mounted Branch Compound and the Criminal Investigations Department Headquarters, Eve-Leary. The breeds include German Shepherds, Belgium Shepherds, Doberman, Labrador Retrievers, Belgium Tavern Shepherd, Springer Spaniel and a mix breed of German and Belgium Shepherd. In addition to its crime fighting role, the Canine Section is playing a meaningful role in the Police Force’s Community Relations programme with crowd thrilling performances at Police Gymkhanas and pet shows a r o u n d t h e c o u n t r y. (Guyana Police Force)
Friday March 22, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Regional Chairman tours Region Ten RDC bond - expresses concern over lengthy storage time of items The protracted period that some items are being kept in storage is of concern to Regional Chairman of the Region Ten Democratic Council [RDC], Mr. Renis Morian. He highlighted his concern during a tour of the RDC’s bond which saw him being accompanied by Councillors and the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Orrin Gordon. The tour which was done shortly after the Council’s most recent statutory meeting was geared at examining the bond and seeking to ascertain what items were there and whether they are distributed in a timely manner. “What we are seeing is that some of the items were being held in the bond a bit too long. This can and may pose a challenge to the various departments. As such, I would be holding an urgent meeting with the Regional Executive Officer [REO], the Regional Health Officer [RHO] and the Regional Education Officer [REDO] so that a more aggressive and effective system can be implemented so to ensure that items are not held at the bond too long,” said Morian.
and actions of anyone. “Throughout my statutory meeting I had already planned to visit the bond but held back from revealing this to the REO and DREO as I wanted to be assured that no one had any prior knowledge. As such, while I am not overjoyed I am somewhat pleased that the situation there is manageable,” he reasoned. He said that there is certainly a need for more aggressive systems to be implemented and hopefully this will be done with the assistance of the REO. He said that REO Gordon is one who is determined to ensure that the systems are enhanced and further
Regional Chairman [backing camera] and Regional Executive Officer Orrin Gordon examining a pump in the bond. The Regional Chairman went on to point out that he has some additional concerns but stopped short of identifying these. He instead stated that at the proposed meeting he intends to have these and other concerns ironed out. “There are some concerns and issues that I would like to address. However, I would
rather wait until I would have met with the officers identified before going into details,” he said. Morian said that the decision to take a spontaneous tour of the bond came after he had instructed the Regional Education Officer, Mr. Rabindra Singh, to have a number of items that were
being held in the bond distributed to the respective schools for which they were intended. He said that he wanted to be assured that the instructions that the Council had issued were acted upon to ensure that the students in Region Ten do not suffer because of the tardy behaviour
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developed. As such, he stressed that the education, health and agriculture committees will be harder at work this year. He noted, too, that efforts will be made to visit a number of places with the view of improving, implementing and further developing what is already there. According to Morian, the visit to the bond forms part of a more in-depth 2019 plan which will see the Councillors accompanied by him and the Deputy Vice Chairman going out into the fields more often as they seek to better understand and monitor what is happening.
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Kaieteur News
Friday March 22, 2019
Companies resisting release of tax information for Guyana’s EITI report ...Laws must be amended to improve By Kiana Wilburg The tax payments of natural resource companies are crucial to the comprehensive production of Guyana’s first report which has to be submitted to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) next month. But Rached Maalej who has been hired as the Independent Administrator to prepare the report, encountered major challenges in trying to access such information. During an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News, yesterday, Maalej who works with UK accounting and business advisory firm, BDO LLP, revealed that the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) by law is constrained from releasing the tax data. In trying to find a solution, Maalej said that 34 companies which are believed to contribute the bulk of the revenues from the sector were asked to sign a document granting the Administrator permission to access their tax information. Unfortunately, less than half of the companies were willing to comply. On a positive note, however,
Maalej said that the eight active oil firms in Guyana readily signed the waiver. The Tunisian said, “GRA has a point in saying that it cannot disclose anything so we tried to come up with a legal solution and we needed to, otherwise, we will not be able to comply with the EITI Standard. Looking to amend the laws right now might take too long so we tried to have what we call waivers of the confidentially constraints and GRA accepted this. “We tried to collect waivers from the private companies but not all of them signed... It was not perfect...We need from GRA, all the information.” The Administrator continued, “We got the information from those who signed the waivers. (They were) around 10 or 14 but these are the biggest which is a good thing. All eight active oil companies signed and GRA was able to give us but we need information even for the small ones. “We are still trying to come up with the right solution for GRA to disclose the tax payments.” Maalej added, “The objective is to have a complete report...GRA is
compliance- Independent Administrator
EITI Independent Administrator, Rached Maalej working on those who did not sign the waivers. Maybe they would be able to disclose the information without the names. But it depends. They are still seeking legal advice about it but it should be feasible and we hope so... “If we don’t get the information disaggregated then let us get it ag-
gregated. It is better than nothing.” In the meantime, the Independent Administrator who has six years’ experience in this field advised that the Multi-Stakeholder Group which comprises representatives from Government, civil society and the industry, work on getting the laws amended from now. He said that the amending of the laws would support the commitment Guyana made to meet all the EITI Standards. In some nations, like Madagascar, Maalej said that leaders have found solutions to the very issue Guyana currently faces. Maalej noted that the Prime Minister would sign a decree on an annual basis stating that 60 companies for example must have information on their tax payments submitted to the nation’s EITI body. In other nations, provisions are placed within the licenses of companies to ensure that their tax information is accessed from the relevant authorities. Failure or resistance to adhering to the said provisions could see that very licence being revoked, explained Maalej.
The Independent Administrator explained why all of the companies in the extractive sector will not be included in Guyana’s first report which is due next month. He said, “We have thousands of operators in Guyana’s extractive sector, especially in mining. In order to do the reconciliation of the numbers, it is not possible to cover all of the companies; otherwise the report would take five years to be ready. “So what we do is a scoping study. That study takes three things into consideration: we have a list of payment flows that should be reconciled, the list of government entities and agencies that should be part of the reconciliation and the list of companies which should be part of that.” The Administrator added, “And how do we select the companies? We look for the biggest based on the revenues collected by the government...So sometimes for 80 percent of the revenues collected from the sector you may sometimes recognize that it is only 34 companies which contribute to that. So that is how we select...”
Another Brazilian ex-president , minister arrested in corruption probe Rio de Janeiro (AFP) - Brazil’s ex-president Michel Temer was arrested yesterday, an official said, as part of a sprawling anticorruption probe that has already claimed dozens of political and corporate scalps. Police arrested Temer, the 78-year-old predecessor of current far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, in Sao Paulo, a spokesman for the federal prosecutor’s office in Rio de Janeiro told AFP. Former mines and energy minister Moreira Franco was also detained along with six others, including business people, G1 reported. Temer, Brazil’s most unpopular leader ever, faced a number of corruption accusations on leaving office last year. Launched in 2014, the Car Wash investigation uncovered a vast graft operation involving Petrobras and major construction companies and bribes to politicians of several parties. Temer is just the latest former president caught up in the probe that has rocked Brazil’s business and political elites. The center-right politician took over as a caretaker figure after the last Workers Party president, Dilma Rousseff, was impeached and
Michel Temer removed from office in 2016. Former leftist president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is serving a lengthy jail term after being found guilty in two corruption cases. Far-right leader Bolsonaro campaigned on a hard line against corruption and crime and his victory in October’s election was in part attributed to the Car Wash investigation.
Police investigating fatal accident in Rupununi
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olice are investigat ing a fatal accident which occurred on Wednesday around 17:30 hrs on the Wowetta Main Road, North Rupununi, The incident evolved motor pickup with registration number GTT 5401, driven by a Central Rupununi resident, and pedal cyclist Jennifer Williams, 40, (now deceased) also of Rowetta Vil-
lage. Police reports indicated that the pickup was proceeding east along the Rowetta Main Road when the cyclist made a sudden dash as she attempted to cross the road. As a resulted the front left side of the pickup collided with the rear wheel of the bicycle, causing Williams to be flung to the road.
She reportedly received injuries about the body, and was taken in a conscious state to the Annai Health Centre, where she was treated and referred to the Lethem Regional Hospital where she succumbed whilst receiving treatment. The driver is in police custody helping with the investigation, according to reports.
Friday March 22, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Parika Ferry Stelling to be Rehabilitated
Continued from Wednesday edition Repairs to Revetment at Endeavour, Leguan, Region 3
Ministry of Public Infrastructure - Construction of Diamond Car Park
Rehabilitation of Laluni Road, East Bank Demerara, Region 4
Construction of Bitumen Shed at Central Workshop, Lamaha Street, Georgetown
Upgrading of Kent Dam Road, Parika Back Area, East Bank Essequibo, Region 3
Geometric Improvement and Rehabilitation to Houston Bypass, Georgetown, Region 4
Rehabilitation of Onverwagt Access Road Extension, West Coast Berbice, Region 5
Rehabilitation/Construction of Miscellaneous Roads, Region 6 Lot 43 - First Cross Street, Section B Grant 1651, Crabwood Creek Lot 44 - Rehabilitation of Pepper Street, East Bank Berbice Lot 46 - Middle Walk Dam Letter Kenny, Berbice Lot 47 - Main Entrances (North & South) Glasgow Housing Scheme, EBB
>>>> Continued on page <<<<
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Jay’s Welding Est specialized in: Grills, Gates, Rails, Fencing, Razor wire, Repairs etc. Tel#698-0501 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIR CONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINE, FREEZER, SALE OF AC’S. TEL#629-4946,225-4822 I N S TA L L AT I O N S , REPAIRS AND PARTS FOR AC, FRIDGE, WASHING MACHINE, STOVE ETC. CALL NICK 627-3206, 6301600 Eagle’s re-gas AC, Fridge, Washing machine & computer repairs, Gas stove, Plasma flatscreen, Electrical installation & more. Call: 6972969/646-0966
1 CAT 215 Excavator, 1 Honda 450 Atv, 2 8-cu yds Mack Mixer Truck, 1 Pneumatic 9 wheeled tryre roller #2750367/683-7225 1 Double Steel Wheel Roller, 1 CAT 428 Back-hoe, CAT 215 Excavator spare parts, 2 Bitumen spray kettle. #2750367/683-7225 New 26 Gauge 42'’ normal corrugated pre-painted red roofing sheets. 3x15ft, 2x25ft, 3x12ft, 2x17ft, 1x22ft Tel#2254106/643-0333 LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/6912561
FOR RENT
VACANCY
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Wanted for Soesdyke area. One headmaster as team leader. Good remuneration package. Call 612-1848
One bedroom apartment Middle Rd La-Penitence. Contact# 666-9534 WANTED 1 Heavy duty mechanic with logging industry experience. Must know to weld. Contact 218-2393 between 9am to 7pm 1 welder to work in the interior, interested persons contact tel# 625-5136 Monday-Friday from 8am-4-pm Porters. Apply with written application @ Best Buy Food Supplies, Lot 1E Dennis & Middleton Street, Campbellville We buy residential house lots. Tel#651-1969/648-1635 Live-in/live out person, mechanical experience, van & car license necessary, welding etc an asset Tel#227-1830/ 227-1813 (1) Manager to work @ a hotel, restaurant & bar located in Charity on the Essequibo Coast. Contact 665-6082 Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665/6493750 1 domestic between 35-40 yrs. Must know to cook and wash. Contact 673-1131
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Minibus Driver for Route 42 #664-0802
House and land available at Parfaite, Tuschen, Diamond etc. Contact Pacific Development Inc. 223-6035/ 604-4909
(1)Diesel Mechanic to work in the interior. Interested persons can call cell#625-5136 Monday-Friday 8am-4pm
House for sale, Eccles Housing Scheme. 7 bedrooms, 3 toilets and bathrooms enclosed. $28.5M. Call 6420391/ 001447587233657 VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Toyota AT-172 in excellent condition. Reg# PGG7037. Price 1,200,000 Neg. Please contact 624-1372
Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
Drivers for Taxi #646-8748 CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL:225-7126/ 2263 6 9 3 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL @YAHOO.COM/ WWW.D OLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM
1 Minibus VVT-I engine gas automatic series BPP. Price 1.9million. Excellent condition. Tel#225-6567, 693-9498
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL:643-5122/6560087, ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM
Honda SUV PTT series. Contact 225-1005, 225-9230, 623-0368
Fabs Rental, Beterverwagting ECD Cars from $4000 #604-0883
Security Guards to work with Private Firm in G/town & Interior, must have Military Background. Contact#665-6082 1 Tree spotter, basic GPS knowledge required. 1 Tree feller. 1 Skidder operator. Contact 218-2393 between 9am to 7pm HEALTH HERBAL REMEDIES: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, Enlarged prostate, Kidney,Gall stones & Arthritis etc. Call Sparman #676-5924
Experienced salesgirls with 2 yrs experience. CXC maths & english. Apply @ Christine’s Variety, Lombard St. Contact: 227-8529
New features for annual Portuguese Day Arrival observances
Senior Accounts Clerk, 2 years experience, Apply to info@bettencourtsfoods.com or call #231-1368/223-1938 One experienced cook and one chef. Apply to the manager Herdmanston Lodge, Peter Rose & Anira Cashier. 2 Shift - 7am-3pm & 3pm-11pm. Apply to: Shell Service Station Providence or Shellramsburg@gmail.com 1 Salesgirl for snackette Tel#226-5793/666-3569/6984288 Vacancy exist for the following. 1 Maid. 1 Office assistant. Attractive salary offer. Whatsapp 603-2590 for further information
A scene from a prior Portuguese Arrival Day observances
This year around, the annual Portuguese Arrival Day celebrations 1 Live in domestic. Salary will be hosted with much $75,000. Call 683-1606 pomp and fanfare, according to Director of Hotel cleaner at Crimson Bat C u l t u r e , To m i k a B o a t Hotel. 633 Industrial Area swain. Mckenzie Linden. Tel#444In a brief interview 2102 yesterday, Boatswain informed that while in One male Janitor, Apply at times gone by they had Alabama Trading 65 Robb held a simple ceremony, Street, Bourda this year observances set for May 3, will see the inOne experienced salesclerk. troduction of more presenBasic computer and accounts t a t i o n s r e l a t i n g t o t h e knowledge an asset. Apply event, and a lavish exhibiMike’s Pharmacy, Bel Air tion showcasing Portuguese culture and the conIndustrial Sales tributions to Guyana. Representative, 5 Subject The event will also see CXC Age 25+ Experience in a feature address by PresiSales, must own vehicle, email dent David Grainger. r e s u m e : According to Boatvacancy@josarltd.com swain the exhibition will showcase Portuguese fashLAND FOR SALE ion, delicacy, crafts and information to educate the Parfaite Harmonie $1.6M public on the Portuguese Dairy- with Foundation & culture and customs. SevFence $2M Schoonard $4M e r a l p r e s e n t e r s a r e Farm (East Bank) $3.5M c a r d e d t o s p e a k a t t h e Tel#656-0701/651-1969 function, each detailing in retrospect, the arrival Foundation and column of Portuguese, how they completed. Land size 40x80, adapted to Guyanese culstructure 30x24. Price $6.5M ture and shared theirs as Diamond Scheme. Contact well. Ganesh Tel#669-9539, 693In late 1834, a small 5096 group of Portuguese recruited from the povertystricken Portugueseowned island of Madeira, arrived in Guyana to work on a sugar plantation in Demerara. Then on May 3, 1835, 40 indentured peasants arrived from Madeira on t h e s h i p , “ L o u i s a
40
Baillie”. The arrivals were brought in through the private enterprise of the planters who were made aware of the great poverty and political instability in the island. The hard-pressed Madeiran peasants were most likely eager to seek their fortune in a land being referred to as “El Dorado”. By the end of the year, 553 others arrived and were contracted as indentured labourers to various sugar plantations. From the time of the abolition of the slave trade in 1807 and, particularly, during the period of the campaign to end slavery, the planters of the Caribbean and Guyana were aware of the acute need to find a substitute labour force that was both cheap and reliable to fill the ranks of the soon-to-be-liberated Africans. They initially were interested in seeking a labour force from Europe since they realised that there was a decreasing proportion of Whites in the colony. They felt that this imbalance could be remedied by recruiting indentured labour from European countries. In addition to strengthening their own security, they wanted to have an alternative labour force to compete with the exslaves for plantation jobs after emancipation and thus forcing down employment costs.
Friday March 22, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Police to address bullying of elderly drivers on ‘short drop’ car park- Traffic Chief Police are to address the issue of bullying of elderly drivers by their younger colleagues, particularly on the Stabroek, Georgetown short drop car parks. This is according to Traffic Chief, Superintendent, Linden Isles. Police have already implemented an ‘order in line’ system to ensure order is sustained to ensure each driver gets a fair turn at soliciting passengers. However the younger drivers have been allegedly disregarding this system, thus intentionally cheat-
ing the older drivers out of their rightful turns to load their vehicles. Older drivers are very angry at this situation, noting that they depend on their trade for a daily bread, some of them citing that the actions of the younger drivers continue to ‘put a dent in their pockets’. Lancelot Barker, an elderly driver, was quite ready to voice his protest, with hope that the police can intervene into the matter. “I have been working at this park for almost ten years now and
have never experienced (anything) like this since these young drivers arrived here. They have now invaded our car parks and using their ‘shine cars’ to every advantage. They do not wait their turns and they deliberately ignore the turn system the police have put in place. Sometimes they even bully passengers attempting to enter our cars, enticing them with options of choosing their shiny cars against our older models… We have to eat and survive just like them too.” Some elderly drivers plying
the Stabroek to Ramp Road locations revealed that sometimes they have to wait for lengthy periods to make one load, during which time the younger drivers would have made sometimes three or four return trips, by bullying tactics Fifty-six-year-old Mootilall Ramroop shared similar sentiments, noting that any attempts to reprimand the younger drivers would often result in ‘steamy cuss outs’ most of it fuelled and executed by their younger colleagues. “Dese young drivers really
going on reckless. Dem ain’t waiting dem turn, and sometime when yuh catch yuhself dem done full four, five times before we even get de first load. Dis ain’t fair…And yuh can’t tell them nutting… “De minute yuh open yuh mouth dem ready fuh yuh. De authorities should really get some police ranks on the car parks to see how ole people suffering. De police can’t just pay attention to the minibus drivers alone. We car drivers gat problems tuh.” In times gone by, mostly eld-
erly drivers were plying the Stabroek/Ramp Road route, but lately several very young drivers have began using much more attractive vehicles to operate along the same route. That coupled with their reportedly arrogant attitude have put the older drivers in a very uncomfortable situation apparently. The elderly drivers are calling on their younger associates to exercise discipline by complying with the ‘turn system’. It should be adhered to thus ensuring order is restored to the Stabroek car park.
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Friday March 22, 2019
Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
U.S. team heading in positive direction from dark place, says Biles London (Reuters) Simone Biles believes U.S gymnastics is moving in a positive direction after the “dark place” it found itself in a year ago following a sexabuse scandal. The Texas-based 22-yearold, winner of a recordequalling four gold medals at the Rio Olympics, was one of more than 100 gymnasts who say they were abused by former Gymnastics USA doctor Larry Nassar who was jailed last year. Gymnastics USA was criticized for failing to safeguard the welfare of its athletes and the subject of dozens of lawsuits by victims of Nassar. Speaking ahead of the Superstars of Gymnastics
event taking place in London on Saturday, Biles, who said next year’s Olympics in Tokyo will “definitely” be her last, said she was encouraged by their response. “We are all very hopeful that they (Gymnastics USA) are making the right decisions so that we can kind of get out of that dark place,” Biles told Reuters close to the O2 Arena which will host tomorrow’s event. Biles received widespread admiration when going public about being abused by Nassar and was, along with other victims, awarded the Arthur Ashe Courage award. “The response has been good and encouraging, knowing that its kind of
relateable in a way,” she said. “But you know, you have to pick and choose your battles wisely. “I think my actions have given other athletes a way to know that they are not alone and (abuse) does happen, so they don’t have to be in the dark about everything.” Biles, heralded as the greatest gymnast of all time, will perform exhibition routines at the Superstars of Gymnastics event, with her role chiefly as part of the judging-panel that will use an “out of 10” scoring system. It will be a light-hearted distraction before the serious business of the countdown to Tokyo. She admits to tough times since returning to action
from a two-year break although her four golds at the world championships in Doha showed she was back to her dazzling best. “The muscle memory is there, but it was a little bit difficult to keep up at times,” she said. “There were times I wanted to give up. In the end I knew what the goals were and it paid off. Biles will be 23 in Tokyo, relatively old for female gymnastics, but feels the age demographic is changing. “Even after the Olympics we had the oldest American team with an average age of 19, but we were also the most successful,” she said. “So I feel the age is changing just a little bit, so hopefully the
Icon Latapy lands to... Friday March 22, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A friend from far away could contact you by phone, email, or even in person, Aries. This person might bring great news that suddenly turns your life in a new direction. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You might try to learn a new computer program today, Taurus. You could find it a little confusing at first, but as you continue to learn, you will find that it makes things easier for you. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today you may stumble into an unexpected new friendship, Gemini. This could come as the result of a social event or an introduction by a close friend. CANCER (June 21–July 22) A group meeting of some sort, perhaps job related, could take place in your home today, Cancer. Whatever business the group has planned should be taken care of quickly LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) A phone call from a close friend or love partner could bring a thrilling surprise your way today, Leo. An event has occurred that you either gave up on long ago or never dreamed of. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) If you own property, you might discover that its value has increased far beyond anything you dreamed of, Virgo. This might involve real estate, but it could also involve other resources like stocks, bonds, or family heirlooms.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) A surprising phone call or email could come your way today from a friend you haven't heard from in a long time. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today you may discover that you have a previously untapped talent for the occult sciences. This might involve astrology, numerology, alchemy, or using oracles. A class or workshop could be involved. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) There's someone you've wanted to meet for a long time, Sagittarius, and today you might have the opportunity to introduce yourself. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Do you feel helpless in the face of problems with technology? If so, you might surprise yourself today. Some software that you use a lot could go haywire AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) If you've been thinking about studying astrology, numerology, or other occult sciences, Aquarius, this is the day to start. There may be a school or teacher that you've been considering. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A woman you meet at work might point you in a new direction, Pisces. You should investigate all possible options. This could be a new intellectual interest, a technological skill, or possibly a new and more lucrative source of income. It may involve an unusual field, but don't worry about that.
From page 37 he was appointed T&T head coach in 2009, succeeding Colombian Francisco Maturana. Latapy also boasts a glittering club career, winning league titles with top Portugese side FC Porto before also turning out for Boavista. In Scotland, he played for top sides Rangers and Hibernian, along with Dundee and Falkirk, before winding down his club career. Latapy said he was looking forward to imparting his extensive knowledge to the Barbadian players. “I have spoken to the technical director watching the game they played a few weeks ago, and I am happy to say that we have a bunch of players who are talented and not only talented, but they are prepared to work very hard,” Latapy said. “And I think for any coach if you have a team that is willing to work hard then that is half of the battle done.” He continued: “I would do my best to improve the level of the team and whatever I can do to assist in the improvement of Barbados’ football, and that would improve football in the region in general.“That is one of our main goals to help improve football in this region which gives the young players the opportunity not only to play professionally but to improve their standard of life, because this is what football has done for me and I would like to pass on some of this experience and give some of the younger players the opportunity to do the same.” Latapy replaces Ahmed Mohammed who will now oversee the FA’s youth programmes.
Simone Biles smiles during warm-ups at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships in Boston, Massachusetts, U.S., August 19, 2018. REUTERS/Brian Snyder peaking age is not 16 anymore!” “I hope I make the team,”
she said. “This time it will be smaller with just four in 2020 so that’s more difficult.”
Friday March 22, 2019
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Kaieteur News
NBA roundup: Grizzlies top Rockets in OT despite Harden’s 57 Jonas Valanciunas’ offensive rebound and free throw with 0.1 second left in overtime helped the host Memphis Grizzlies topple the Houston Rockets 126-125 on Wednesday. Valanciunas paired a career-high 33 points with 15 rebounds and teamed with Mike Conley (35 points, eight assists) to help Memphis fend off James Harden and the rallying Rockets. Valanciunas corralled a miss by Conley before absorbing a foul from Houston center Clint Capela on the game’s deciding play. That followed an MVPcaliber stretch from Harden, who scored 18 of his gamehigh 57 points in the fourth quarter before adding eight points during a 28-second stretch in overtime. Memphis averted a four-game season series sweep against Houston, which lost for just the third time since the AllStar break. Former Rockets forward Chandler Parsons drilled two 3-pointers in overtime to keep the Grizzlies in control despite Harden’s efforts. 76ers 118, Celtics 115 Joel Embiid collected 37 points and a career-high 22 rebounds to go along with a late key block on Kyrie Irving as host Philadelphia averted a season sweep by Boston. Jimmy Butler scored 15 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter for the 76ers, who have won six in a row overall. Irving scored 16 of his 36 points in the first quarter for the Celtics, who fell short against Philadelphia for just the third time in the teams’ past 20 regular-season
Memphis Grizzlies center Jonas Valanciunas (17) defends against Houston Rockets center Clint Cappella (15) at FedExForum. Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports meetings. Al Horford scored 22 points and Terry Rozier added 20 points off the bench for Boston, which saw guard Marcus Smart receive a flagrant-2 foul and an immediate ejection less than a minute into the third quarter following a two-handed shove into the back of Embiid. Raptors 123, Thunder 114 (OT) - Pascal Siakam scored 33 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Toronto to an overtime win at Oklahoma City. The Raptors dominated the extra session, outscoring the Thunder 13-4 after letting a 19-point, second-half lead slip away. Oklahoma City didn’t score in the extra period until 31.5 seconds remained. Kawhi
Leonard scored five of his 22 points in overtime, and Fred VanVleet finished with 23 points for the Raptors. Russell Westbrook, returning from a one-game suspension and coming off a 2-for-16 shooting performance Saturday in a loss to the Golden State Warriors, helped lift the Thunder with 42 points and 16-of-29 shooting, including 5-of-10 accuracy from behind the 3-point arc. Cavaliers 107, Bucks 102 - Collin Sexton scored 25 points, and Jordan Clarkson added 23 off the bench to lead host Cleveland over shorthanded Milwaukee. Coming into the game, Sexton had been the first rookie to score at least 23 points in six
consecutive games since Tim Duncan did it twice for the San Antonio Spurs in 1998. Sexton now has accomplished the feat in seven straight games. Milwaukee dressed only nine players and was without Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Mirotic. Antetokounmpo missed his second straight game with an ankle injury. The Bucks announced Wednesday that Mirotic will be out two to four weeks with a thumb injury. Khris Middleton led Milwaukee with 26 points. Heat 110, Spurs 105 Goran Dragic scored 22 points off the bench, and Dwyane Wade had a big basket and a steal in the final
minutes as visiting Miami outlasted San Antonio to snap Spurs’ nine-game winning streak. After trailing by as many as 18 in the third quarter and by 13 with 9:50 to play, San Antonio charged back, pulling within 106-103 with 2:05 left. With Miami on top 108-105, Wade stole the ball from DeRozan with 9.1 seconds left. Kelly Olynyk then converted a pair of free throws to cement the win for the Heat. Dion Waiters scored 18 points for the Heat, who hold a 1 1/2-game lead on the Orlando Magic for the Eastern Conference’s final playoff spot. Patty Mills, Marco Belinelli and Aldridge scored 17 points each for the Spurs. Magic 119, Pelicans 96 Orlando led from start to finish, pounding visiting New Orleans for its third consecutive win. Evan Fournier scored 22 points for the Magic, and Aaron Gordon had 20. Nikola Vucevic contributed 15 points and 17 rebounds. Frank Jackson was the only Pelicans starter to score in double figures, netting 14 points. Reserve Stanley Johnson scored a team-high 18 points off the bench. Pelicans star forward Anthony Davis did not play due to a family matter. Bulls 126, Wizards 120 (OT) - Kris Dunn atoned for a late miss in regulation with a pair of 3-pointers in overtime, and Lauri Markkanen added a back-breaking trey with 32.3 seconds remaining to send Chicago to victory over visiting Washington.
The loss assured the Wizards (30-42) of a losing season and cost them a key game in their desperate quest to move up from 11th place in the Eastern Conference standings. Markkanen, the game’s leading scorer with 32 points, also collected a gamehigh 13 rebounds. Dunn had 26 points and 13 assists for the Bulls, who won their second straight after a fivegame losing streak. Jabari Parker scored 28 points for the Wizards against his former team. Trail Blazers 126, Mavericks 118 - Damian Lillard scored 33 points and handed out 12 assists as Portland knocked off visiting Dallas. Six players scored in double figures for the Trail Blazers, including Seth Curry with 20 off the bench. It was the fifth win in six games for Portland. Luka Doncic scored 24 points and Justin Jackson contributed 21 for the Mavericks, who have lost 14 of their past 16 outings. Jazz 137, Knicks 116 Donovan Mitchell scored 30 points in three quarters and Utah easily ran its winning streak to five games by rolling over host New York. Mitchell helped the Jazz get their latest win by shooting 12 of 20 and hitting five 3-pointers. Utah matched a team record by hitting 20 3-pointers. Rookie Kevin Knox scored 27 points for the Knicks, who lost for the 10th time in 11 games. Mario Hezonja added 23 points for New York, which was without Dennis Smith Jr. (sore back), Allonzo Trier (strained left calf) and Noah Vonleh (ankle).
Tennis: Venus shines as sun returns to Miami Open
Venus Williams of the United States hits a forehand against Dalila Jakupovic. Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Miami (Reuters) - Threetimes Miami Open champion Venus Williams lit up center court by easing past Slovenian qualifier Dalila Jakupovic 7-5 6-3 in the first round as the sun and fans returned to the tournament on yesterday. After two days of almost constant rain Williams’ match on the 13,800 temporary stadium court kicked off a busy day as organizers scrambled to get back on schedule after rain washed away three of the first four sessions. A move from cramped quarters at Crandon Park on picturesque Key Biscayne to the wide open spaces provided by acres of parking lots that surround the tournament’s new home at Hard Rock Stadium aims to give the Miami Open a bright new future. Finally some of that
potential shone through as people filled the spacious fanzone, generating some badly needed buzz. Williams did her part to get the party rolling by overcoming a sluggish start to book her spot in the second round. Trailing 5-4 in the opening set Williams stepped up a gear to sweep the next six games, breaking her opponent three times to claim the first set before jumping ahead 3-0 in the second to wake up a sleepy crowd. Playing in her first WTA premier event, Jakupovic, 27, provided Williams with some early resistance, taking advantage of the 38y e a r- o l d A m e r i c a n ’s misfiring serve. But the former world number one, making a record 20th appearance at the Miami Open, did not panic, breaking Jakupovic with
the help of a challenge call that brought a smile to her face to seize control. “She really plays the angles well and is definitely a real competitor,” said Williams summing up her 80th-ranked opponent. “I was just trying to get a feel for what her shot selection is like. That’s always really challenging as a new opponent.” On an outside court, another tennis sibling, Mari Osaka, older sister of world number one Naomi, was not having the same success, falling 6-2 6-4 to American wildcard Whitney Osuigwe. Osaka, ranked 338, will now have to content herself with being a cheerleader for her topseeded sister who received a first round bye and will open her account against Belgian Yanina Wickmayer, a 3-6 6-3 6-1 winner over American Sachia Vickery.
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Sammy says Windies successes nothing to do with Cameron, urges change Castries, St Lucia, CMC – Former West Indies captain, Darren Sammy, says the Dave Cameron administration could not take credit for the region’s three World Cup titles in 2016, nor the recapture of the Wisden Trophy last month, as those successes were solely down to the hard work of the captains and management staff involved. In a strongly-worded video on his Facebook page Wednesday, Sammy said Cameron had performed poorly throughout this three terms in charge but had erroneously sought to portray his administration as the architect of all West Indies major accomplishments during his tenure. West Indies captured the men and women’s titles at the Twenty World Cup in India, while the Under-19 side won the ICC Youth World Cup in Bangladesh in the same year. “The fact remains over the last six years as an administration, we’ve done poorly. That’s a fact,” said Sammy, who led the Windies to T20 World Cup titles in 2012 and 2016. “You try to take credit for the three World Cup wins in 2016 which is wrong. We won despite. In spite of all the difficulties we faced from your administration, the team won.” West Indies players and the board were at loggerheads over pay issues in the lead-up to the World Cup in India. Cameron’s allies have also pointed to the recent 2-1 series over England as further evidence of the We s t I n d i e s p r o g r e s s under the current CWI administration. The Caribbean side produced a sterling performance to trounce the visitors in the first two Tests in Barbados and Antigua, to regain the Wisden Trophy for the first time in a decade. However, Sammy said the series win was down to the exemplary leadership of all-rounder Jason Holder and the preparatory work by former coaches. “I also heard recently that the team is moving in the right direction … I believe the team won that series against England because of the hard work of Jason Holder as captain and the work done by St u a r t L a w, Corey Collymore, Floyd Reifer building up to that series,” Sammy argued. “In 2010 when I became
Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
Darren Sammy captain, it took me two years to understand all my players I was working with, and if you put a group of men together over a period of time and they play c o n s i s t e n t l y t o g e t h e r, success is bound to happen around the corner. “I think over the last two years, Jason Holder, working with the group of men he has had, has improved especially in the Test arena, has improved tremendously as a captain, a tactician and a performer. The way Jason has led the team, he deserves all the credit and not the administration. “He’s grown into his role as a leader. Leaders empower those around him and you can see what he’s doing with the team. That’s leadership, not what’s happening at the top with the administration o f C W I , t h e r e ’s n o empowerment there. There’s just one man with his own agenda looking to dictate where the tide goes. We have to put an end to that.” Sammy is the the latest former player to come out against Cameron and vicepresident Emmanuel
Nanthan, in their bid for a fourth successive term at CWI elections in Jamaica on Sunday. Over the last week, legends Clive Lloyd, Sir Vivian Richards and Sir Andy Roberts have all thrown their support behind presidential challenger, Ricky Skerritt, and running mate Dr Kishore Shallow. Sammy, axed as captain and dropped from the T20 squad just months after presiding over the 2016 World Cup win in a move widely believed to have stemmed from his controversial criticisms of Cameron, said the time had c o m e f o r We s t I n d i e s cricket to change course. “I have worked under the leadership of both Dave Cameron and Emmanuel and I can honestly say for sure these two do not have the cricket at heart,” Sammy said. “And for this reason, I am asking the CWI voters to do the right thing this coming Sunday in Jamaica and vote for change. Twelve years in leadership is enough to see what Cameron can do, or has not done. And that is why I am supporting Ricky Skerritt and Kishore Shallow as they look to make the change, the well-deserved change in West Indies cricket and its administration. “Do the right thing. It’s time for change. Cameron, your time is up. Vote Skerritt and Shallow. Do the right thing.”
Police Commissioner Birthday Inter-Division T20
B & G divisions unbeaten after two matches; Play continues today at Eve Leary
Leon Crawford
Trevor Benn After four days of pulsating action in the Commissioner of Police Birth Anniversary InterDivision and Branches T20 cricket tournament, the afternoon game between defending Champions President Guards and ‘B’ Division from Berbice at Eve Leary on Wednesday was deemed ‘the match’ of the tournament so far. A large, vocal crowd watched under a cloudless sky as ‘B’ Division won an exciting game by one run on a dry dusty pitch with unpredictable bounce; last year ’s winners could not get one more run to tie the game off the last ball of the final over.
Kemol Savory works one past mid-on during his fifty for G division on Wednesday. ‘B’ division batted first and made 126-9 off their 20 overs with Philbert Wilburg making 33 and Kareem Mentore 21. Kareem Naughton captured 4-27 and Jermaine Semple took 2-26 for PG, which made 125-7 when their 20 overs expired. Paul Tyndall made an enterprising 72 in a losing effort but only Police second division Captain Keston Hardcourt with 18 offered any support as Paul James 2-18 and Viewing Mitchell took 2-21 to bowl the Berbice unit to their second win in as many games. In the morning game, ‘G’ Division, led by a well-
GBTI/BCB/RHTY&SC Inter-Secondary U-19 Cricket
Berbice High and Port Mourant Secondary advance Play in the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) organised Rose Hall Town Yo u t h & S p o r t s C l u b / Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) Region Six InterSecondary School cricket tournament continued recently with several schools victorious. The tournament is being played between 17 Secondary schools in the region and forms part of t h e B C B ’s s t r u c t u r e d development programme for youth players. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club (RHTY&SC) is also using the tournament to promote its Say No to Drugs, Suicide, Crime, A l c o h o l a n d To b a c c o
Message in Schools. This tournament started five years ago but was limited to teams in the Lower/Central Corentyne area. This year, the tournament has been expanded to all Secondary Schools in Region 6 and hopefully in 2020, would include schools in Region 5. Scores from matches played: 1. Berbice High School defeated Lower Corentyne Secondary by 6 wickets. Lower Corentyne scored 85-6 in 20 overs. Tameshwar Mahadeo made 20, with Leon Cecil and Neil Tilkaram scoring 12 each. Rajendra Beharry took 313. Berbice High responded with 86-4 in 17.5 overs. Abdul Ramsammy made 25 and Zeymul Ramsammy 23, Leon Cecil took 2-16.
2. At Port Mourant Ground Corentyne Comprehensive High defeated Black Bush Secondary by 153 runs. Corentyne Comprehensive batted first and posted 211-4 in 20 overs. Gourav Ramesh smashed 71 and Tyrese Sealey 57. Latchman Chandradeo took 2-33. Black Bush in response were sent packing for 58 all out in 12 overs; Gourav Ramesh grabbed 4-9 and Tyrese Sealey, 4-13. 3. At Albion Ground Lower Corentyne Secondary defeated Winifred Gaskin Secondary by 112 runs. Lower Corentyne posted 1784 in 20 overs with Leon Cecil 50, G. Harris 23 and Neil Tilkaram supported with 23 apiece. Winifred Gaskin Secondary were bowled out
for 56 in 12.4 overs. Dwayne Matheson led with 21 and D. Hunte 10. Leon Cecil and Neil Tilkaram each took 3-18; Vijay Gopilall had 2-14. 4. At Port Mourant Ground - Port Mourant Secondary created a huge upset by defeating Corentyne Comprehensive High by 4 wickets. Corentyne Comprehensive were bowled out for 100 in 18.2 overs. Mahendra Gopilall made 22 and Hemendra Gurdyal 18. Matthew Pottaya had 3-18 and Rampertab Ramnauth 21. Port Mourant Secondary responded with 101-6 off 17.3 overs. Rampertab Ramnauth hit 50 not out, Jai Tika 24 and Naresh Veersammy 12 not out. Mahendra Gopilall took 2-17 and Darren Brijadder 2-20.
constructed 53 (6x4 1x6) from left-hander Kemol Savory and 3-10 from Fazer Khan, beat FATC by 76 runs for their second win from two games. Jason McCalmont (21) and Thameshwar Dhanpaul (20) supported Savory as G Division made 195-7; fast bowler Placid Edwards bowled with pace to bag 4-25. FAT C i n r e p l y w e r e restricted to 119-7, Skipper Rocky Hutson, batting with a shoulder injur y , struggled to find the boundary in his painstaking 34 while Siddiq Mohamed s u p p o rted with 20 before he was brilliantly stumped off a leg-side wide. O n Tu e s d a y, L e o n Crawford hit an entertaining 80 (9x4 1x6) while Lennox Andries made 34 as F Division, chasing Officers’ 131-8, registered an emphatic eight-wicket win by getting to 132-2. Stephon Harris (49) and Paul Simboo (20) scored most of the runs for Officers, Pacer Trevor Benn, a former member of G u y a n a ’s First-Class squad, took 3-10 from 4 overs while Raul Haynes and Delon Joseph (2-28) had identical figures. In the other game played on Tuesday, A Division beat D Division with Odemal Hill scoring (29) and Vishal Peters (26) leading ‘D’ Division, Richard Leacock had 2-19 for ‘A’ Division which was led by 47 from Shemroy Kendell and 36 from Kevin Christian, Rowdya Ward had 2-13. Action continues today at Eve Leary from 09:30hrs with two matches.
Friday March 22, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Colonial Medical Insurance Female Super50 Tournament
Gajnabi, Mangru spearhead Guyana to first win; Leewards lose by 131 runs at Enmore By Sean Devers A Player of the Match performance from 18-year-old Shabika Gajnabi who made 77 and a useful all-round display from 19-year-old Mandy Mangru spearheaded Guyana to their first win in the Colonial Medical Insurance Female Super50 Cricket Tournament when they beat the Leewards by 131 runs at the Enmore Community Centre on the East Coast, Demerara yesterday. In brilliant sunshine on a National holiday for the celebration of the Hindu festival of Phagwah, the righthanded Rosehall Town batter reached the boundary seven times in her classy 78-ball 77 from 109 minutes as Guyana, asked the bat on good track and fast outfield reached 2409 when their 50 overs expired. Openers Sheneta Grimmond, who hit six fours in her 36-ball 37, added 72 with Mangruwho providing the
glue that stuck the Guyana innings together in her responsible 35 from 87 balls, 131 minutes with three fours while fast bowling all-rounder Tremayne Smartt smashed run-a-ball 21. Medium pacer Saneldo Willett, the sister of Leewards’ at Tonito Willett and daughter of Elquemedo the first player from the Leewards to play for the West Indies, was the best bowler for the Islanders with 3-30. She was supported by Melicia Clarke who had 2-22. Mangru returned with her off-spin to capture 4-22 and was backed up by Grimmond (2-26) and Akaze Thompson (2-26) as the Leewards were dismissed for 109 in 34.5 overs despite a 17-ball 21 from Amanda Edwards, who reached the ropes three times and a patient 20 from opener Malesia Howard, as the Leewards slipped to their third straight loss. Chasing a daunting
target, Leewards quickly lost Jenisan Richards for duck as West Indies left-arm pacer Erva Giddings, for third match in a row, struck in the first over of the innings, at 5-1. It was soon 17-2 when Jamella McClure (2) was bowled by Smartt before Grimmond dismissed Willett (7) at 26-3. Edwards was not afraid to go after the bowlers but her little cameo soon ended when she fell to Grimmond at 57-4 before the Leewards lost three wickets with the score on 67 as they were wobbling on the ropes. Mangru trapped the stubborn Howard LBW, Thompson disturbed the stumps of Terez Parker (2) and Mangru got rid of Shawnish Hector (0) without a run being scored. Mangru, who bowled with teasing flight and extracted turn from the track, sent back Rozel Liburd for 12 with two boundaries at 878 while Clarke (13) fell to Thompson at 100-9 before
BCB/Hetmyer Intermediate Cricket
Leon Swammy’s 6-4 against Edinburg highlight’s latest play The Shimron Hetmyer sponsored Berbice Cricket Board/Hetmyer Intermediate 40-Overs Cricket tournament continued recently with several matches across the Ancient County. Over 40 teams started the knockout tournament which is being used as a bridge between the First and Second Division competitions as part of the Board’s Developmental Programme. West Indies player Hetmyer is sponsoring the tournament as part of his commitment to the sport in Berbice. The highlight of the latest round was Leon Swammy of Tucber Park Cricket Club 6-4 against Edinburgh Cricket Club. Scores from the matches played: 1. At Whim Ground - Rose Hall Town Pepsi trounced Whim National Cricket Club by 130 runs. Rose Hall Town Pepsi 2168 in 40 overs; Kevlon Anderson 59, Jonathan Rampersaud 42, Kevin Sinclair 36, Junior Sinclair 26. P. Vankenic grabbed 4-46 and Mahendra Charran 2-34. Whim National were sent packing for 86 in 20 0vers; Mahendra Charran 29, Kevlon Anderson 5-20, Kevin Sinclair 2-11.
2. At Tain Ground Courtland Cricket Club thrashed Tain Block Four Cricket Club by 261 runs. Courtland Cricket Club piled up 316 all out in 30 overs with F. Crandon slamming 80, Troy Mathieson 64, Levi Thomas 60 and Joel Johnson 33. M. Rabindranauth had 453 and M. Mangal 2-68. Tain Block Four Cricket Club could only muster 55 all out off just 16 overs. John Percival had figures of 4-15 and Wesley Crandon 3-28. 3. At Betsy Ground Tucber Park Cricket Club defeated Betsy Ground by 9 wickets. Betsy Ground Cricket Club 87 all out in 26.3 overs. S. Sanicharran 19, O. Emandin 13. Kwesi Mickle 514. Tucber Park Cricket Club 88-1 off 13.2 overs. M. Mickle 29, Abdul Ramsammy 23* and Garfield Benjamin 21*. 4. At Edinburgh Ground Tucber Park Cricket Club defeated Edinburgh Cricket Club by 149 runs. Tucber Park Cricket Club 205-8 in 40 overs. Kwesi Maltay 55, Garfield Benjamin 38. C. Hope 3-27, S. Nicholson 2-30. Edinburgh Cricket Club 56 all out in 20.2 overs. J. Henry 18, A. Drepaul 18. Leon Swammy 6-4. 5. At Scottsburg Ground Skeldon Titans Cricket Club
defeated No. 70 Spartans Cricket Club by 6 wickets. No. 70 Spartans Cricket Club 86 all out in 30.1 overs. C. Singh 21, A. Persaud 14*. Totaram Rajaram 4-22, Faoud Bacchus 3-14 and Sherwin Murray 226. Skeldon Titans Cricket Club 87-4 in 20.2 overs. Sherwin Murray 38*, N. Yacoob 2-18. 6. At Cumberland Ground - Young Warriors Cricket Club defeated Guymine Cricket Club by 21 runs. Young Warriors 236 for 6 off 40 overs. Linden Austin 49, Alex Algoo 49, Seon Hetmyer 48, Suresh Dhanai 26*. Kevin Ramoutar 2-43, Michael West 2-47. Guymine Cricket Club 215 all out in 39.4 overs. Martin Singh 45, Rocky Hutson 51. Linden Austin 3-23, Sanjay Khan 333, Seon Hetmyer 2-26. 7. At Paradise Ground D’Edward Cricket Club defeated Paradise Cricket Club by a mere two runs. D’Edward 170 all out in 33.4 overs. E. Abel 38, R. Boodram 33 and A. Khan 26. E. Fordyce 4-35, F. Wilson 2-15 and T. Miller 2-30. Paradise Cricket Club 168 all out in 32 overs. D. Phillips 37, T. Miller 33, E. Carmichael 31. H. Lalsa 5-35 and H. Harilall 2-31.
Sheneta Grimmond on-drives Tynetta McKay for four during her 72-run opening stand with Mangru. Mangru finished the onesided contest when she bowled Tanya Martin. Earlier, a raucous crowd urged the Guyanese lasses on as Mangru got going with a pull past backward square off pacer Hector as she Grimmond laid a solid foundation for their team. Grimmond was the aggressor and went after the bowling with contempt while Mangru buckled down for the long haul as their partnership flourished. But with the score 72 in the 14th over, Grimmond, who favoured the on-side, tried to clear mid-on and was caught as Richards, whose father (no relation to Sir Viv) played football for Antigua, made the break through. Skipper Shemaine Campbell with scores of 45 against Trinidad and 111
against Jamaica, was the Leewards’ main threat. But when on five the West Indies batman played slightly around a ball that did not bounce as much as she had anticipated and was LBW to Rozel Liburd and the Leewards celebrated the capture of the ‘big Fish’ in the 19th over at 94-2. But one Berbician replaced another as Gajnabi put on batting exhibition with several entertaining shots on both sides of the wicket. While Gajnabi played her shots Mangru, who stroked the ball sweetly but had problems finding the gaps, was content to play the sheet-anchor role before was removed at 143-3. Thompson (10) and Gajnabi, willing to use her feet to the bowlers, carried the score to 178 before Thompson was LBW to
Willett who got rid of Melani Henry (2) five runs later to leave Guyana on 183-5. Smartt hit an aggressive 21 and added 48 for sixth wicket with Gajnabi who was beginning to tire in the sweltering heat. With three overs to go Gajnabi tried to ‘up the tempo’, missed a big swing and was bowled by Clark, who also removed Smartt after Cherry-Ann Fraser (2) was run out as the home team slipped from 2255 to 231-8. Willet, from the Island of Nevis, struck again when she bowled Giddings for a duck at 231-9 before Kaysia Shultz (5) and Lafona Gilgeous (1) remained unbeaten when the overs ran out. Guyana play their next game against the dominant defending Champions Barbados at Providence tomorrow from 09:30hrs.
Concacaf Nations League qualifiers heads for dramatic conclusion The 2019/20 Concacaf Nations League Qualifiers resumes this week with a dramatic slate of matches that will have our Concacaf family on the edge of their seats. At stake will be a top-10 finish and a place in the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup, plus teams looking to nail down their respective places in League A, League B and League C. There is no shortage of pivotal clashes on the docket for Week 4: El Salvador, 14th in the table, will be seeking a Gold Cup berth when it hosts undefeated and fifth-place
Jamaica, while a battle of second versus fourth will be set when Haiti hosts Cuba. Also of note will be 10th-place Dominican Republic welcoming in seventh-place Bermuda in which the winner could potentially clinch a first ever Gold Cup appearance. Week 4 of CNLQ will also provide some of C o n c a c a f ’s best international rivalries. Guadeloupe would like nothing more than to try to spoil Martinique’s Gold Cup chances when they host their nearby neighbors in Les Abymes, while island bragging rights will be at
stake when Sint Maarten squares off against Saint Martin in Anguilla. There will be individual battles as well, with CNLQ leading scorer Rongelo Janga of Curacao (6 goals) looking to add to his total and fend off the challenge from Haiti’s Duckens Nazon (5) goals. At the other end, Curacao’s Eloy Room will try to become the only GK in CNLQ to complete all four matches with a clean sheet. It should all make for a thrilling end to what has been a memorable four weeks of football in the Concacaf region.
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Friday March 22, 2019
Kaieteur News
Ireland to host West Indies and Bangladesh for tri-series in May Ireland will host West Indies and Bangladesh for an ODI tri-series in the first half of May, with a double roundrobin phase followed by a final. The tri-series will begin on May 5, with Ireland facing West Indies, and conclude with the final on May 17. All the matches will take place in Dublin, at Castle Avenue, Clontarf and The Village, Malahide. The tournament will serve as preparation for West Indies and Bangladesh ahead of the 2019 World Cup that begins in England on May 30. West Indies play their first match on May 31, against Pakistan, while Bangladesh open against South Africa, on June 2. The tri-series will not prevent some of the premier West Indies players from featuring in the IPL, including Chris Gayle, Evin Lewis, Andre Russell, Carlos Brathwaite, Shimron Hetmeyer, Nicholas Pooran and Oshane Thomas. ESPNcricinfo understands
that those players will be considered for selection only if their respective franchises fail to make the playoffs for the IPL, which are likely to begin from May 7. Cricket West Indies is looking at the Ireland triseries as a means to give some of their fringe players exposure before the World Cup, and have them ready to deal with English conditions should they be required during the World Cup as replacements. Bangladesh only have Shakib Al Hasan playing in the IPL. Tri-series schedule May 5: Ireland v West Indies, Clontarf May 7: West Indies v Bangladesh, Clontarf May 9: Ireland v Bangladesh, Malahide May 11: Ireland v West Indies, Malahide May 13: West Indies v Bangladesh, Malahide May 15: Ireland v Bangladesh, Clontarf May 17: Final, Malahide
Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond Schools U-18 Football
Linden Foundation Edge Wisburg; Mackenzie High beat Harmony Linden Foundation Secondary won for the second time when they edged host Wisburg Secondary by the lone goal of the match while Mackenzie High won their first match, 2-0 over Harmony Secondary when the 11th Edward ‘Screw’ Richmond Linden Schools Under-18 football tournament continued on Wednesday at the Wisburg Secondary School ground. Shedrack Mackenzie was the player to net the lone goal for his side Linden
Foundation Secondary in the 25th minute. LeBron DeFlorimonte and Zidaine McIntyre were the scorers in the 23rd and 51st minute respectively to seal Mackenzie High’s win over Harmony. Meanwhile, action will continue this afternoon with two more matches at the same venue. From 14:45hrs Mackenzie High and Linden Technical Institute will face each other, this would be followed by a clash between Wisburg Secondary and New Silvercity Secondary.
We can’t lose, says... From page 37 Cameron pointed out. “Luckily we were able, with relationships we have internationally and regionally, to fund those losses, short term, albeit and we are now trying to put proper finances in place for the medium to long term, while we now go to try to change the economics of world cricket.” He continued: “We are looking to take the Windies public in two years. That, we believe, will bring in some equity, but more importantly, it will get the people in the region owning a piece of something that is very dear to their hearts and emotionally attached. “We have a massive gap in our balance sheet. When we took office in 2013, we had a deficit of about US$6 million. We erased that in the next couple of years and built up an accumulated balance of US$5 million.”
Kaieteur News
Friday March 22, 2019
Concacaf Nations League
Guyana vs Belize - Clash of the Jaguars tomorrow at Leonora Stadium All roads will lead to the National Track and Field Center (NTFC), Leonora, tomorrow night when Guyana’s senior men’s football team; the Golden Jaguars, clash with the Belize Jaguars from 18:30hrs for a spot at the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup, which is the most prestigious football tournament in the region. Both teams are poised on six points from their three games played and a win by either side will ensure that they finish within the top ten of the Nations League which will automatically see them qualify for the June 15th to July 7th Gold Cup that is being hosted at 17 venues across 16 cities in the United States of America (USA) and a Caribbean destination, yet to be decided. In the standings, Guyana Jaguars are currently ranked eight with a goal difference (GD) of +10 while Belize’s GD of +4 and sees them ranked at 13th. Five teams Curacao, Haiti, Canada, Cuba and Jamaica have nine points each and have virtually booked their flights to the Gold Cup so mathematically there are five certain spots still up for grabs. Belize Jaguars qualified for the Gold Cup for the first and only time in 2013, however, the Golden Jaguars have never reached this prestigious tournament but the ball is in Guyana’s court and with a massive turnout of fans expected to flock to the West Demerara facility coupled with the exuberant
Golden Jags’ Skipper Samuel Cox (left) and Woodrow West of Belize pose for a photo-op yesterday ahead of tomorrow’s clash. confidence of the entire Guyana Football Federation (GFF), a fantastic finish to the nation’s ‘Road to the Gold Cup’ campaign is predicted. Yesterday at the GFF’s official hotel and partner, Guyana Pegasus, a media brief was held with both the Belize and Golden Jaguars. Skipper and Goalkeeper of Belize, Woodrow West, posited that, “We don’t know much about the Guyana team… It’s an exciting game and opportunity to qualify for the Gold Cup.” However, it was reported in Belize media that the team has had access to footage of the Guyanese playing and they are preparing a plan to stop the Golden Jaguars. In contrast of Guyana’s team that is made up of predominantly overseas based players, Belize are composed of five overseas based footballers, “While
there is an ideal mix of experience and youth players”, according to head coach of Belize Jags, Palmiro Salas. G u y a n a ’s S k i p p e r, Samuel Cox, expressed disappointment in his side not being able to go the distance in the past after coming close, “We missed out by goal difference against St. Vincent then we lost to Jamaica after being two goals up”, and he called for his troops to keep their nerve and come out victorious against Belize tomorrow night while expressing confidence in his teammates’ ability to defeat the opposition. Tickets for the game cost $1500 and will be available at the venue. In addition, the GFF has partnered with the Minibus Union to provide transportation to patrons to the game. (Calvin Chapman).
We can’t lose, says confident Cameron Kingston, Jamaica, CMC – Incumbent Cricket West Indies president, Dave Cameron, does not believe he can lose Sunday’s elections, especially with three territorial boards already in his corner. So much so, the Jamaican says he has refused to do extensive campaigning in the lead up to the heavily anticipated meeting here, as he seeks a fourth term in charge of cricket’s regional governing body. Windward Islands, Barbados and Guyana have already pledged their two votes to the Cameron ticket which includes vicepresident, Emmanuel Nanthan, leaving the pair with six of the seven votes required to win the elections. “If you noticed, I have not been campaigning,” the Gleaner newspaper here quoted Cameron as saying. “We have three of the territorial boards coming out and clearly saying that they are in support of the plans and
the way forward. That means we have six of the possible 12 votes. “My understanding is that this means that we can’t lose.” Cameron is up against challenger Ricky Skerritt, the former St Kitts and Nevis cabinet minister, while Nanthan is being opposed by St Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association president, Dr Kishore Shallow. The challengers have already gained support from Trinidad and Tobago and Leeward Islands, leaving the Jamaica Cricket Association – who are yet to declare their support – as the critical votes in the election. Cameron said he was seeking re-election on the back of a successful record over his six-year tenure, and was already focusing on plans to further West Indies cricket. “The focus for us is how do we do business. We lost US$22 million last year as a business,” (Continued on page 38)
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Bartica FA Leagues (U-15, 17 & Senior) off to resounding start Potaro Strikers FC Under-17 Team.
W
ith support from the G u y a n a Football Federation (GFF) and its partners, the Bartica Football Association (BFA) on Saturday, March 9 last kicked off three leagues at different age categories, namely the GFF/BFA Male Seniors, GFF/Namilco Flour Power Under-17 and the GFF/Pele A l u m n i / F r a n k Wa t s o n Under-15. Following a decade of the absence of a senior league in Bartica, local football clubs and other stakeholders are welcoming this new initiative with enthusiasm, sparking high expectations for the 2019 season. In the opening match, Rivers View defeated Rising Stars, 2-1; sixteen year-old Cleavon Murray opening the league scoring in fine style for Rising Stars. In other matches that followed, Potaro Strikers sunk Beacons 3-0; Lazio defeated Mil Ballers 2-0 and Wolves United came back from one
Rozornie La Cruz and Nicholas Collison – Lazio FC down to overcome Agatash United, 2 -1. Lazio and Rising Stars contesting their second match saw the former triumphing, 2-0. In Under-17 action so far, Lazio and Mil Ballers drew 1-1 in the opening fixture while in subsequent matches, Potaro Strikers defeated Beacons 3-1 and Rising Stars thumped Rivers View, 3-1. Frank Watson Memorial Under-15 games also got off to a great start with Potaro Strikers overcoming
Beacons 3-2 while Rising Stars swamped Rivers View, 6 -1. Play in this category will intensify this weekend. Meanwhile, a system of rotation has been worked out for the use of the Bartica Secondary School Ground while the BFA awaits the completion of the Bartica Community Centre Ground, which is currently being transformed into a multipurpose Sports Complex. Works are expected to be completed sometime in the latter half of April.
Icon Latapy lands top Barbados job Bridgetown, Barbados, CMC – Barbados have hired legendary Trinidad and Tobago midfielder, Russell Latapy, as Head Coach of the senior men’s national team on a two-year contract. The 50-year-old Latapy, a previous T&T head coach who has also had spells as assistant coach at Boavista in Portugal and Inverness Caledonian in Scotland, will oversee his first match in charge when Barbados hosts Nicaragua in a crucial CONCACAF Nations League qualifier here Sunday. “Mr Latapy and I have
been talking for the past two years about the possibility of him working in Barbados,” Barbados Football Association president, Randy Harris, told a media conference. “Mr Latapy and I have been talking for the past two years about the possibility of him working in Barbados,” Barbados Football Association president, Randy Harris, told a media conference. “It is not just a situation of Russell looking for a job; he has been very interested in our team and its development. He is happy
with the talent that we have in Barbados, and he believes that he can take it to the next level. “I think that he has convinced me early a clock that he would play a significant role in the successes of Barbados’ team now and in the future.” Latapy was a member of the famous Strike Squad which narrowly missed out on qualification for the 1990 World Cup but was part of the historic side which qualified for the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Following his retirement, (Continued on page 34)
Kaieteur News
PAGE 40
Friday March 22, 2019
Guyana Jaguars received prizes for fifth straight triumph Members of the Guyana Jaguars cricket team were honoured on Wednesday night last at a dinner and awards function held at Grand Coastal Hotel, East Coast Demerara for winning the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Professional four-day franchise league for the fifth straight year. The players with the exception of S himron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul and Sherfane Rutherford, who are in India to compete in the Indian Premier League, and management were given medals while the championship trophy was also presented to skipper Leon Johnson. Speaking at the ceremony which included Chairman of West Indies Senior Selection panel Courtney Browne and former player Gus Logie, Deputy Director of Sport Melissa Dowe-Richardson congratulated the players and spoke on the importance of discipline in order to achieve success. She singled out Anthony Bramble, Romario Shepherd, Veerasammy P e r m a u l , Ta g e n a i r n e Chanderpaul for special
Members of the victorious Guyana Jaguars team with CWI Director Anand Sanasie and chief selector Courtney Browne (sitting left) and Melissa Dowe-Richardson (sitting 3rd from left). mention. She added that the Jaguars have reinforced the winning ways of Guyana in the Caribbean, noting the fact that Guyana has a solid foundation in cricket. Dowe-Richardson said the decision to have Dr. Shivnarine Chanderpaul on the Jaguars coaching staff is certainly a move in right direction and pledged the Government continued
commitment towards the development of cricket and sports in Guyana. Selector Browne lauded the players for their hard work, adding that he was impressed with their discipline throughout the tournament. He urged the players to continue working hard and keep repeating so that the opportunity will present itself. Browne pointed out that
the chopping and changing of players is not the way to go rather players need to be given a fair opportunity to prove their worth. Dr. Chanderpaul, in his remarks endorsed CWI President Dave Cameron on the upcoming CWI elections. He made reference to the tremendous work administrators have to do behind the scenes to get the
game organised in a timely and successful manner. Dr. Chanderpaul briefly recalled his boyhood days when he found it difficult to travel to Georgetown for cricket and had to be accommodated by friends in the city. He added that players now have contracts and must be thankful, stating that cricket has improved in the Region despite the
challenges. Skipper Johnson said his players performed well consistently which was one of the reasons for their triumph in addition to hard work and discipline. He expressed gratitude to the Guyana Cricket Board and players for their support as well as the fans. Jaguars finished the season with 154.2 points. (Zaheer Mohamed)
Matthews powers Barbados to eight-wicket win over Jamaica; T&T triumph
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kipper Hayley Matthews struck a belligerent century to guide Barbados to an 8 wicket victory over Jamaica and further cement her team’s stranglehold on the tournament when the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Colonial Medical Insurance Regional Women’s Super 50 continued yesterday. Set 215 to win, Matthews anchored the chase as she shared in useful partnerships with Danielle Small and Kycia Knights to lead Barbados to 219-2 in 25.3 overs at Bourda. Earlier, Jamaica opted to bat on a good pitch and lost their first wicket with the score on 33 when Natasha McLean was removed by Shanika Bruce for 14 in the eight over. Bruce struck again in the 12th over when she had opener Rashada Williams lbw for 17. Stephanie Taylor and Chedean Nation added 92 for the third wicket with sensible batting to steady the innings. The pair
accumulated runs well on both sides of the wicket with nudges and pushes and picked up boundaries off the wayward balls before Nation was caught and bowled by Shamilia Cornnell for 31 with one four. Taylor continued to play her shots and counted four fours before she was bowled by Cornell for 80 off 117 balls. Matthews then sent back Jodian Morgan (11) and Chinelle Henry (04) before Karla Cohen (00) was run out as Jamaica lost 7 wickets; Bruce claimed 2-32, Cornnell 2-34 and Matthews 2-36. The right-handed Matthews started the chase with a flurry of boundaries and along with Small brought up her team’s 50 in 42 balls before Small (05) was run out for with the score on 52. Matthews timed the ball well as she played a number of attractive drives on both sides of the pitch and was very strong square of the wicket favouring the cut shot which she executed to perfection. She added 132 for the
Ann King collects her award from Match Referee Hayden Bruce. second wicket with Knights before she was bowled shortly after reaching her century for 108. Matthews clobbered 14 fours and two sixes and faced 101 balls. Knight struck seven fours off 79 balls in an unbeaten 55 and added 35 for the third wicket with Deandra Dottin
who made 23 not out with two fours and two sixes off 13 balls to see their team home. Matthews was named player-of-the-match. At Everest Cricket Club, Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o notched three wins in as many matches with a 51-run victory over Windward
Hayley Mathews accepts her prize from Match Referee Reon King. Islands. Batting first, Trinidad and Tobago posted 257-5. Stacy-Ann King struck 79 including six fours while Rachel Vincent made 59 with nine fours; Reniece Boyce scored 43 and Britney Cooper 23. Pearl Etienne claimed 2-46. Wi n d w a r d I s l a n d s
responded with 206-6. Stacy-Ann Adams made 59 with five fours, Afy Fletcher scored 57 including six fours, Akiera Peters got 26 and Cordel Jack 24. Karishma Ramharack captured 2-31 and Leandra Ramdeen 2-47. King was voted player-of-the-match.
Kaieteur News
Friday March 22, 2019
PAGE 41
GMR&SC Drag Championship
Hand-in-Hand confirms sponsorship
Drivers were briefed on security regulations and other protocols during the race meeting on Wednesday at the GMR&SC office. Local insurance company Hand-in-Hand says that its investment in motorsport is for the long term after confirming its sponsorship for this Sunday’s first round of the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) Drag Championship. The company, through Marketing Coordinator Shafeena Juman, contended that they are interested in the development of motorsport. “On behalf of the board of directors, the management and staff of Hand-in-Hand, we would like to say that we are happy with everything that GMR&SC has been doing and we are proud of the initiatives that they have been taking,” she said. Juman added that, “We are extremely excited to see what is going to go down with the new strip and the new Nissan GTR.” Meanwhile, the club had a briefing on Wednesday evening for all drivers, specifying that all competitors for both cars and bikes must be registered with medicals. Cars were seen testing on the venue yesterday ahead of Sunday’s meet and the feedback on the traction of the recently installed launch pad was satisfying. The interest by international competitors in Drag racing locally has been
Shafeena Juman
given a boost with the installation of the pad and with the extension of the strip from 1000 ft to a full quarter mile and in addition to competition from Suriname, the next drag meet may see an invasion of competitors from Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) and French Guiana. Ticket prices for fans desirous of witnessing the action will cost $1000 for adults and $500 for children.
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Other sponsors include Mohamed’s Enterprise, BM Soat Auto Sales, Motor Trend Service Centre, Delco Ice Factory, Trans-Pacific Motor Spares, Supreme Ventures, Air Services Limited, PowerLine Auto, C y r i l ’s Ta x i , O m e g a Brokers, E-Networks, Prem’s Electrical, Miracle Optical, Choke Gas Station and Super Bet, R. Kissoon Contracting Services and Top Brandz Distributors.
t r o Sp Colonial Medical Insurance Female Super50 Tournament
Gajnabi, Mangru spearhead Guyana to first win; Leewards lose by 131 runs at Enmore Star of the show Shabika Gajnabi goes on one knee at the water break yesterday (Sean Devers photo) Mandy Mangu about to sweep during her responsible 35 before taking 4-22 at Enmore yesterday.
Concacaf Nations League
Guyana's Golden Jaguars celebrating Phagwah yesterday at the Guyana National Stadium.
Guyana vs Belize - Clash of the Jaguars tomorrow at Leonora Stadium Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.