Kaieteur News

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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

A MICROCOSM OF SOCIETY In Guyana as in other countries, schools are considered a microcosm of the wider society, in that they reflect what is going on in the various communities. Schools are important for imparting knowledge to children and to teach them the values of society. Schools are where the formal education of children takes place. Informal education of children takes place in their environment, which is reflected in their behaviour, mannerisms and language at school. At school, children cannot be expected to divorce themselves from their environment and from their social and the cultural influences of their upbringing. It has been an accepted fact that children learn what they live. Across the country, obscene language has become a normal component of conversation by adults, sometimes in the presence of children. At a very tender age, some children are exposed to adults engaging in conversation in the home that is flowered with obscenities. This type of indecent behaviour unfortunately seems to be normal. A society that cannot protect its children from abusive and vulgar behaviour is doomed to fail. Children tend to reflect the behaviour they learn at home in their conversations at school, because they have been informally educated into thinking that it is the custom. This aspect of their acculturation is socially unacceptable. While some may argue that this is not a new social norm, it has grown in magnitude with the advent of social media, with its anonymity and absence of standards as a communication medium. It has made children the innocent victims of a dysfunctional social order. Children can learn a wider range of words to express themselves if their exposure to social media is restricted and if parents refrain from using expletives in their presence. Parents owe their children a responsibility to set and maintain high standards of socially acceptable behaviour. The level of moral decay that currently permeates the society makes it extremely important for schools to address it. Schools should not accept such lewdness by children. It runs counter to the overall objective of producing respectable citizens. And even though many believe that it is the responsibility of schools to undo such unacceptable social behaviour, there are limitations. Studies show that it is difficult for schools to change such behaviour, especially when parents, guardians, extended family members and neighbours continue to use foul expressions in their everyday vernacular in the presence of children. Further, interactions between teachers and parents reveal that children are merely reflecting a behaviour that is practiced around them in the outer environs. In the past, children used obscenities to express their anger and frustration at each other, but recently this has become casual conversation among peers. At times, children unconsciously will use foul language when they are speaking to teachers, for the simple reason that they have become accustomed to its use in their informal conversation. Even more disturbing is the extent to which the problem exists at the primary level. Parents, guardians and community leaders must do more to elevate the standard of social dialogue. The vocabulary of children can only be widened by listening to edifying conversation and not obscene language in their home environment. It is important for parents to model good behaviour for children to learn and emulate. Society cannot continue to remain silent on such an important issue. And while many religious leaders have not voiced their concerns in the public domain about the behaviour of children, there is an urgent need for them to be more proactive and help students strive towards developing a culture of righteousness. This will create a positive environment for students and put them on the right path.

Thursday March 23, 2017

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

An unfair comparison between two different men DEAR EDITOR, I refer to a letter in the Sunday, March 19 edition of the Kaieteur News with the heading, “He is the best person to lead a third party in 2020.” The writer, Deonarine Karran compares the qualities of Freddie Kissoon and Ralph Ramkarran to lead a third party in 2020 and he chose Mr. Ramkarran over Freddie Kissoon. My letter here is not a defence of Freddie Kissoon. God knows, Freddie Kissoon does not need any one of us to defend him but Mr. Karran’s letter was an unfair comparison between two outstanding Guyanese who are quite different from each other. I cannot see for the purpose of leading a party and running a government how you can compare Freddie Kissoon and Ralph Ramkarran. They are two dissimilar personalites. I see Freddie Kissoon as a philosophical maverick. He is like a Socrates who walks up and down the streets of Guyana to save souls. Academics do that. Freddie is made of that stuff. I think that is the world he

belongs to. Ralph Ramkarran on the other hand, is one of Guyana’s most experienced politicians and a well respected one at that. I agree with Mr. Karran that the cream of the society will find someone like Freddie not to their liking and will not trust him with the reins of power. That goes for activists like Freddie all over the world. Bernie Sanders would not have received any votes from America’s rich and wealthy. But he would have beaten Trump. If Freddie Kissoon goes up against Ralph Ramkarran, he would pull more votes than Mr. Ramkarran; but yes, I agree a candidate should get votes from all over his country and not just the down trodden. Mr. Ramkarran would get votes from every sector but I come now to the main point of my letter. If Freddie would not get the votes of the business people and the middle class why would that put Mr. Ramkarran in front of him? I am not sure Mr. Ramkarran would get the votes of Black people. I believe only one Indian

in and outside of Guyana could find acceptance among Black Guyanese voters and that is Freddie Kissoon. I take the liberty of saying that Freddie Kissoon may even stand up against strong Black opponents in the Black community. If I read Mr. Karran’s point correctly, he is saying Mr. Ramkarran would pull votes from every corner of Guyana but Freddie would falter because the middle and upper classes would be unhappy with him in government and would not trust him, therefore they would not vote for him. Point taken! In as much as you admire Freddie Kissoon, and I am one who does; I concede his radicalism and idealism would not find traction among practical people. But Mr. Ramkarran will be hard pressed to secure a majority because that would entail a good percentage of Black votes which will not be easy to collect. I hope Mr. Ramkarran does not misinterpret what I am saying. Mr. Ramkarran is an upright citizen and one that is best suited to lead that third party. I certainly respect him.

I am in agreement with Mr. Karran’s letter that if he decides to run he will be a tough challenger to beat. My letter here is not a condemnation of Mr. Ramkarran or a defence of Freddie Kissoon. The intention as I mentioned in my opening line is to cite the unfair comparison of two men that belong to two different political worlds. My second intention is to point out the stumbling block Mr. Ramkarran faces, which the letter writer overlooks, and a stumbling block that Freddie Kissoon does not face. It is the problem of getting Black voters. All in all, I agree with the letter writer that Freddie Kissoon will not make a good third party candidate because that is not the world he belongs to. I agree again with the letter writer that Ralph Ramkarran has to be the person to lead any third party which is being formed. I hope Mr. Ramkarran accepts the challenge and leads that third party. I welcome your entry Sir. Guyana needs it. Raymond Mc Rae Berbice

A brief history of my involvement in animal protection DEAR EDITOR, I read in the Kaieteur news of Friday 10, February 2017, an interesting article titled; “Government tables bill to licence three or more animals….” Readers were informed that the House has voted to send the bill to a Select Committee for fine tuning. I paid particular attention to the fact that some sections of society have reacted to the provision which stated that breeders of three or more pets should be registered. It is interesting to note that Guyana still has municipal laws which cater to these very issues; however, the

municipality was never allowed to function properly, hence the impending surprise. I was trained as a professional dog handler in 1982, and quickly discovered that Guyana lacked sufficient animal welfare provision. To this end, I approached the Guyana SPCA only to discover that they had gone dormant over 12 times to that date. We at the National Guard Service had the largest collection of working dogs in the developing world; around 75 adult dogs and puppies of various ages. These were

based at Chateau Margot and at the Ogle Intelligence Unit where selected canines were being socialized as bomb detection dogs for absorption into the presidential detail of president LFS Burnham, my last point of contact with the governmental system. Even at that level we were constrained to perform most of our emergency veterinary treatment on dogs ourselves because of the skewed policy to dedicate the services of the Ministry of Agriculture to the treatment of livestock first, and anything after, hence many companion animals suffered and died horrible deaths

for the want of urgent veterinary attention during normal working hours. In 1985, I founded the Guyana Canine Club, however owing to the death of President LFS Burnham, we became functional only in April 1986. Recognizing the need for an animal welfare organisation, the Canine Club again approached the Guyana SPCA and offered to spearhead its resuscitation, and opened its doors to the public in April 1990. When I went to solicit funds from Banks DIH Continued on page 6

THE PLIGHT OF AGE AND THE LENDING AGENCIES DEAR EDITOR, I pen this letter out of frustration with regards to ownership of a home and the situation with the lending agencies when you are over 50 years of age. Firstly, I applied to the Ministry of Housing for a piece of land in March 2003. I did receive an acknowledgement sometime later in the year. However, after constant checks for years with this Ministry I was told there was no land available but to my dismay there were persons who applied long after and

got through. It was not until about four years ago I was subsequently granted a piece of land after making some noise. Even though I was given same and paid half of the total cost I had to wait for about two (2) more years for the installation of infrastructure before the land was officially shown to me. The contention of this matter is that when I applied in 2003 I was young enough to acquire a loan from the bank to build. Now that I am over 50 years and close to retirement

my options are limited. I approached my bank at which I am a customer for many years (Republic Bank, Diamond) and the treatment I received from the mortgage officer leaves much to be desired. It was like age is a crime. I was turned away. Most banks told me that because of my age I cannot access this facility unless I can show that after retirement I will be employed. This situation is a very frustrating one for me. It is my opinion that the Ministry of Housing should take people’s age into consid-

eration when granting house lots. When they keep your document on file for years this will happen and I am sure many persons are faced with the same dilemma. Most agencies give about 15-20 years to repay except for NBS who gives more time. So when they take years to give you a piece of land and age catches up with you the repayment is very high since you will be given less time to repay or like in my case be turned away. I can only say that indeed age is an honour but the options are limited. Frustrated Nationalist

Thursday March 23, 2017

Region 8 administration under fire DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me some space in your newspaper to raise a burning and very troubling issue that has been severely affecting residents in Region 8. There is an urgent need for the Minister of Communities, the Hon Ronald Bulkan to launch an urgent and immediate investigation into the actions of Regions 8’s administration some who have assumed the positions after the 2015 General and Regional Elections continue to operate as though they running their own business, answerable to no one and are permitted to use tax payers monies whenever they feel like. This administration spends taxpayers’ monies with little or no care while evidently rewarding their close associates with contracts. One senior spends on average six (6) working days per month in Madhia and can be seen on numerous occasions spending time at the a particular place in Georgetown while openly boasting that he doesn’t need to sit in an office to work in the region. Meanwhile a number of contractors and service pro-

viders are at an odds to receive monies owed to them for projects completed and services rendered. A number of reports and complaints have been communicated to the Ministry of Communities with no action thus far. Mr. Editor despite the Auditor General’s report highlighting several discrepancies and burning issues in the region the administration continues to operate as an unaccountable regime. Should the residents of Region 8 continue suffering because these people campaigned for Minister Bulkan who was assigned to Region 8 during the elections campaign; or should we accept their word as they openly boast about their very close friendship with the very minister? This is very unfair to residents who voted for this Government and seek no special favours; but rather a fair and just performing Minister. If Minister Bulkan truly and seriously cares about the residents of this region then he will act as a Minister of the people instead of acting like a politician representing a

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particular political party. There was much hooray and cry in removing Carl Parker as REO of Region 9 and Minister Bulkan was swift to act, however, we the residents of Region 8 deserve equal and accountable leadership as the party-placed people cannot continue running this region like a ‘fish shop’. The government campaigned on the promise of eradicating corruption and ending massive ills that were plaguing Guyana thus ensur-

ing that there is transparency in how things are done. Unfortunately many are still trying to ascertain what has become of these promises made. Mr. Editor a simple check at Air Services Limited (ASL) for the many chartered flights that some seniors took and a review of the many persons who are still owed millions for contracts and services for 2016. Check the visitors’ book for Signature Inn in Georgetown and asked the Continued on page 6

An open letter to the President This is an open letter to President Granger Dear Mr. President, it would be much appreciated if you address the economic plight of families being affected by this Parking Meter Fiasco than preaching in church about Family Structures that are already broken down. We the people would like to hear our President take a strong stance and stick with it free of interference from Ministers who appear to tout superiority. Mr. President, the People

who voted in your favor are getting frustrated. Life is not as was promised in pre-election time, and we would appreciate greatly if our President takes a stand on our behalf on this parking meter matter which reeks of a certain type of deal. The M&CC has become a national embarrassment. A highly dubious parking meter deal is being allowed, thanks to legal fumbling of those you have delegated. SHAMEFUL! Frustrated and disappointed Citizen

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The past of the PPP leaders is catching up with them DEAR EDITOR, I have a problem when pretenders of knowledge try to camouflage reality. I am not a political analyst, thus much of what Mr Vishnu Bhandu wrote in Kaieteur News (19th March, 2017) and has written about in the past I ignore. However, to say that President Granger’s, and by extension the coalition’s, mode of governance is the reason for Burnham’s seeming popularity is preposterous in the least. Burnham, The Caribbean Man of the 20th Century, did not have to wait for the APNU-AFC coalition to become popular. The wheeling and dealing that took place in and around the nation’s coffers and resources during the last twelve years of the PPP/C administration, seemed not kosher at times. Thus it was incumbent for the current administration to restore a level of trust in state organs and actors that investigations be done to determine what really took place during the years of the PPP/C in office. The evidence unearthed to date indicates that many who were placed in positions of responsibility while the PPP/C was in government were involved in activities which can only be considered criminal. The transfer of wealth from state to private individuals were at a scale never before seen in the Car-

ibbean, some say in South America. Yes Mr Bhandu, the people under investigation by the government are criminals who have committed crimes against the state. To those reading this, the above dealt with some aspects in Mr Bhandu’s letter that I consider erroneous. The areas where I am in agreement with him are where he speculates what could happen to the party visa-vis governance of Guyana, in the near future. While Bhandu speculates that the leadership of the PPP/ C would be too exhausted from defending themselves to successfully launch a campaign to get back in office. I am of the opinion that if the government is successful in proving to the Guyanese people through the courts that indeed many within the PPP/C leadership ran criminal enterprises while in government, the people simply would not have faith to give them the mandate to govern Guyana again Mr Bhandu would want us to believe that the undoing of the PPP/C chances in 2020 shall be due to perceived machinations of the PNC and the ABC countries, but what is becoming evidently clearer is its leadership’s past is catching up with it, and definitely poised to hurt it again in 2020. Elton McRae

A Lethem resident’s take on the parking meter controversy DEAR EDITOR, It is a total shame, and disgrace for our policy makers, and leaders to introduce, and implement parking meters in Georgetown. There are so many Caribbean countries made up of over one million people which can fit into our Dadanawah Ranch in the Rupununi and do not have any parking meters. I have been travelling to Boa Vista in Brazil, for over forty years, which has over one million people in the city, and have not seen any parking meters. We have eighty three thousand square miles, less than one million people, and cannot find parking space. SHAME! It was argued, that the parking meters will bring economic benefits to enhance Georgetown. I do want to believe that some of our land policy makers study economics in Sunday Schools. How can economic benefits enhance Georgetown, when eighty percent of the total money collected from our tax payers for parking is going into the pockets of a foreign company who cares nothing about our city, country or people? I do not believe that parking meters can ever enhance Georgetown. The many, many millions of U.S dollars spent on parking meters could have been spent to enhance Georgetown. If that money was spent wisely in the city, to clean up

all those useless parapets, and other wasted space in the city, we would all have enough space to park, employment created, and our money would remain in the country, thus making everyone happy. If those fifty odd nonproductive people called city police can be diverted to prevent crimes and robberies in the city, Georgetown will then look beautiful. Think about the amount of money spent on those city police, and what are they saving the city on a monthly basis. Someone said that a lot of people pay much more to park in private parking areas, than smart city solution fees; that may be true. Let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons. A person goes into a commercial bank in Georgetown pays two hundred dollars for one hour, thinking that is enough time. When he enters the bank, he is faced with a very long line. He joins the line hoping to finish in time; unfortunately, he spends more time than planned to complete his business. All the time worrying about parking meters. When he exits the bank, he finds his vehicle clamped, more stress. He has to get another vehicle, or call a taxi to take him to the competent authority, pay a hefty fine, get a release for his vehicle, get another taxi to take him back to his vehicle. That is what I call a total waste of productive time; waste of money, and a bundle of STRESS.

Zoning can create public order in Georgetown DEAR EDITOR, The Mayor and City Council, earlier this year, cited their intent to reintroduce zoning in the City of Georgetown. To me that is an unenviable task and a valiant effort to restore order within the Capital City. Guyanese, at home and abroad, like to boast and impress others about their visits to other cities in the world where public order is evident. It is obvious that such developments did not occur by mere wishes in those countries. So, it is timely that we move beyond admiration of others and seek to realize similar standards at home. The need for public order

is indeed overdue, something zoning can ably correct. It will require massive adjustments and may not be as easily attainable unless the citizenry and business community fully comprehend and endorse the M&CC’s ultimate objectives. What the M&CC should consider, however, is the mood and intellect of Citizens as it pursues this initiative. We do not need another ‘Parking Meter’ type fiasco. There is a whole new generation of citizens who seem out of touch with internationally acceptable norms and modern urban standards. Some do not even understand what a Residential Area is. I can say so unreservedly be-

Thursday March 23, 2017

cause in almost any area one can find people placing large sound systems in their vehicles or on their verandas to blast-off melodies at decibels that would literally crack the walls of neighboring buildings, not to mention the ears and chests of living creatures within proximity. With a generation that seems to enjoy the free-forall of living however and wherever, without the basic recognition or regard for such areas as “silent zones” honking their vehicle horns near hospitals and Courts of judicature, or playing music carts near churches and schools, the efficacy of zoning by-laws would be more than welcome. It will, however, require consistency in its implementation and effective policing to ensure that there is public adherence to relevant by-laws. The M&CC, therefore, will need to embark on mam-

moth public consultation and education. They must also ensure that zoning implementation do not create undo contentions or violation of property rights. The M&CC, through its twinning and collaborative relations with other Cities, can present ‘Best Practices’ as ‘buy-ins’ to posit their initiative for zoning, and create awareness of the benefits associated with such standards . Zoning will not only restore order and civility within the Capital but will, by extension, be the catalyst for urban expansion with the creation of new industrial areas particularly for those types of businesses that present environmental and safety hazards within traditional residential areas, or those that may need to be relocated for violation of operational regulations within the City. Orette Cutting

Please remember, stress reduces your immune system, which can make you SICK. Private parking is different. An attendant is present, you leave your car, the time is checked; when you come back out , your vehicle is safe , you pay on the spot for the time your car was left in the park; you drive away and go about your business immediately. No stress, waste of money or time. Let’s look at fixed pay parking: For many years during the PPP rule, we paid $200 to park our vehicles at the Timehri Airport Park. During the last twenty months an increase by one hundred and fifty percent, no one complained. You wait at the airport, until your family or friends arrive; you drive away, no clamping, no fines, and no waste of time. Remember shortly after the 2015 elections, we were asked to pay, a one hundred percent increase, on fitness, and licences to use our roads; not to mention the many millions of dollars government is collecting on import duties and taxes on every vehicle, except for few special people. Also on every gallon of fuel consumed, taxes are collected. Smart City says that the contract was signed

before the feasibility studies were done; are we to believe that Smart City and the City Council did not fully know what they were signing for? Smart City is a business company. Their main focus and interest is to full their pockets to the MAX and safeguard their business. City Council and our Leaders are there to protect our city, our people, and our country. But this contract seems to be a disgraceful sell out of our city, and people, because Smart City is given all the leverage on the contract, and City Hall and our people are left holding the sword by the blade. I do hope this is not a kickback deal, because when you witness our supposedly intelligent policy makers, giving all the leverage to foreigners and disreagrding their own taxpayers, something is not right. My dear leaders and councillors my advice to you is to tighten your belts, cut your losses, and send those parking meters back where they came from, before it’s too late. Our people seem to be very desperate defending their rights. Ed. Singh Lethem

A brief history of my involvement ... From page 4 Limited during 1990, I recalled providing Messrs Clifford Reis, Jerry Gouveia and George McDonald the assurance that this time around I will ensure that the Guyana SPCA does not go defunct again, they were not very impressed. The same sentiments were expressed by Central Garage also a longstanding supporter of the SPCA. Thankfully, the Guyana SPCA has remained open to this very day as is the case with their counterparts in Nairobi Kenya, Belmopan Belize and St. Johns Antigua, all of which I have assisted through advice on how to overcome operational challenges. Back then, the SPCA was being assisted by several young veterinarians notably among them my long standing friend Dr. Emanuel Cummings, the current Dean of the faculty of Health Sciences at the University of

Guyana. Given the prevailing state of affairs, I assisted as supernumerary personnel to treat companion animals at the clinic during the days until volunteer veterinarians arrived some evenings or on weekends. While I did not make a fortune my work put me in contact with the Chief of Staff of the GDF, the Prime Minister, President, and even the leader of the Opposition and members of the diplomatic core; all of whom were equally affected by the lack of emphasis being placed on the welfare of companion animals, which had a number of negative drawbacks; the main one being that few veterinarians had developed the knowledge base and experience to effectively threat companion animal ailments, as a consequence there was a high mortality rate. I will continue this discussion in another issue. Clairmont Featherstone

Region 8 administration under fire From page 5 officials who stayed there what their business was in Georgetown. The Minister in defense of what is happening may claim ignorance but he should be cognizant about the significant number of persons who either resigned or requested to be transferred last year from

Region 8, owing to the behaviour of a certain person and if the Minister is still unaware then the President may need to reconsider his choice for Minister of Communities as certainly this is no way for tax payers’ monies to be spent and the affairs of such an important ministry be managed. Richard Bernard

Thursday March 23, 2017

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Guyana can become an EITI Candidate by year end - Nat’l Coordinator - says citizens will be able to play more active and meaningful role in management of nation’s natural resources By Kiana Wilburg It is very possible that Guyana could become a candidate country within the fold of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). This is according to the National Coordinator of the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GEITI) Secretariat, Dr. Rudy Jadoopat, who provided the media yesterday with an update on Guyana’s application. EITI is an international body that was established in 2003 with the aim of making it harder for governments and companies to hide the truth about the proceeds garnered from the extractive industries. The companies in the extractive sector report on what they are paying the government and the government reports separately on what it received from the companies in the sector. A report is then prepared

by a Multi-Stakeholder Group. The document, among other things, will highlight whether the number data collected from the two add up or if there is an irregularity. At a briefing held at the Cara Lodge Hotel, Jadoopat explained that Guyana must be praised for intensifying its efforts in recent years, to satisfy EITI candidate sign-up requirements. The official noted that the Government of Guyana had announced its commitment to implement the EITI Standards since May 2010. He said that Guyana and EITI even signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 2012, which paved the way for Guyana to be assisted with its preparation of EITI candidacy. He added that the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), the World Bank and the Carter Center provided assistance to the Government and

supported its efforts towards EITI candidacy. Jadoopat said it is expected that this will continue. Jadoopat also asserted that Guyana has stepped up in achieving meaningful progress towards eligibility to apply for EITI candidacy. He pointed out that the coalition government has since reaffirmed the country’s commitment to EITI and announced the establishment of the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. Following this was the appointment of a National Coordinator and a Deputy Coordinator on February 1, last. A Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG), which is one of the requirements of EITI, was officially launched on February 15, last. Jadoopat explained that the MSG G-EITI comprises 12 members, nominated by Civil Society, the Extractive Indus-

try and Government in the ratio 4:4:4. He said that there are also 12 alternates - one for each member from the respective sectors. Additionally, the National Coordinator said that the MSG G-EITI has agreed to hold regular meetings, at least once a month. He noted that SubGroups have been formed to actively engage in finalizing Terms of Reference, a Confidentiality Agreement and a Work Plan. Jadoopat also said that focus will soon be shifted to the preparation of the application for EITI candidacy. He said that the MSG hopes to submit its initial candidate application by June/July, 2017. “Barring any unforeseen obstacles, The Cooperative Republic of Guyana can become an EITI candidate before the end of 2017. Additionally, in order to set the stage to implement the EITI Standard nationally, measures will be taken to assist the MSG in making decisions on how the EITI process should work in Guyana,”

Toddler killed in Tuschen accident…

Cops awaiting DPP’s advice to proceed with charges Traffic ranks are awaiting the advice of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack to proceed with charges regarding the death of four-yearold Ramkaran Mohan known as “Ram,” who was struck down by a car at Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, two Tuesdays ago. The female driver of the vehicle, a silver Toyota Premio bearing registration number PVV 5084, was released on station bail.

Mohan, his seven-yearold brother and an uncle, Michael Plass were heading to a shop opposite their Lot 1088 Tuschen New Scheme home when he was struck down by the vehicle. Reports are that the car struck the child and dragged him several feet from the point of impact. He died at the West Demerara Regional Hospital, hours after he was transferred from the Leonora Cottage Hospital. At the time of the accident, the trio was waiting

to cross the road. The child’s grandmother, Bibi Khan said that Mohan was holding his uncle’s hand when the car dragged him away before coming to a stop. The woman said that the driver on realizing that she had struck down the child transported him to the hospital. Khan said that she made contact with the investigating rank in the matter but was not given any information on the status of the probe.

Dead: Ramkaran Mohan

National Coordinator of G-EITI, Rudy Jadoopat Jadoopat expressed. He said that other measures will see moves being made to embark on comprehensive data and information compilation on the governance of the extractive sectors of Guyana, preparation of regular reports and issuance of recommendations for improving sector governance. The National Coordinator said that efforts will also be geared towards the design of a comprehensive public awareness campaign to promote and explain the work of the Guyana EITI and also inform public debate and seek recommendations. Jadoopat also explained that the Multi-Stakeholder approach is central to the operation and philosophy of the EITI, as it reflects on how the G-EITI is governed and implemented. He said that the G-EITI Multi-Stakeholder Group, like in other EITI countries, has been established to oversee EITI implementation. “The MSG is the main decision-making body responsible for setting objectives for EITI implementation, producing EITI Reports, and ensur-

ing that the findings contribute to public debate. A fully functioning MSG is essential for Guyana to be accepted as an EITI Candidate country and for the successful EITI implementation thereafter,” the National Coordinator asserted. He continued, “The EITI Standard contains some minimum requirements related to the role, rights and responsibilities of the MSG that can help ensure efficient MSG oversight of the EITI implementation process.” Jadoopat added that the government, as stipulated in the International EITI Standard 1.4, has committed to working with Civil Society and Companies. The official said that the government has been instrumental in ensuring that the preconditions for EITI candidacy are satisfied. “It has unequivocally and boldly announced its commitment to work with civil society and companies. Also, the government has agreed to ensure that there are no obstacles to civil society’s participation in the EITI Continued on page 11

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26 cases of leprosy already recorded for 2017 – Programme Director Although Guyana has achieved leprosy elimination at the national level, a number of cases have still been arising over the years. In fact the National Leprosy Programme has already recorded a total of 26 cases for this year. “This has been something that has been trending since last year,” says Director (ag) of the National Leprosy Programme, Dr. Nikita McKenzie, who is concerned about the numbers rising, if keen efforts are not made to detect and treat the disease. Leprosy is a chronic disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium leprae. The disease mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and also the eyes. Although leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT), it is sometimes not easily diagnosed. But according to Dr. McKenzie, “It is one of the diseases that often go misdiagnosed, because it is confused with a lot of other diseases, and physicians are sometimes genuinely not thinking about leprosy.” Dr. McKenzie made this disclosure as she delivered a

- says misdiagnosis can cause disease to fester presentation during a Neglected Diseases Stakeholders meeting on Tuesday at the Regency Hotel, Georgetown. According to the Leprosy Programme Director, efforts to educate persons, including health personnel, about the disease has included raising awareness about the fact that the disease could manifest by a hyper-pigmented spot that remains intact for years, despite the use of some treatment. She added, “It can be confused with ‘lotta’ and also it can be confused with ringworm; it looks a lot like ‘ringworm’ lesions. Physicians can also confuse it with an allergic reaction because oftentimes it looks like that…but with allergic reactions you will have some amount of pain, inching and burning, which doesn’t happen in cases of leprosy.” Compounding the misdiagnosis situation is the fact that the disease is known to have a long incubation period. While its incubation period could last five years, Dr. McKenzie disclosed that it has been known to extend to

as much as 10 or even 20 years. And according to her, prolonged symptoms of leprosy without treatment could lead to disfigurement and impairment. Among the known symptoms are: appearance of skin lesions that are lighter than normal skin and remain for weeks or months; patches of skin with decreased sensation (touch, pain and heat); muscle weakness; numbness in the hands, feet, legs and arms; eye problems; enlarged nerves, especially in the elbows or knees; stuffy nose and nosebleeds; curling of the fingers and thumb, caused by paralysis of small muscles in the hand and ulcers on the soles of the feet. “It’s one of these diseases that patients would come in and say ‘oh I have this tingling or numbness to my feet’ and doctors might say ‘oh it’s because of your diabetes or it is because of your hypertension’. But they never think of leprosy and this is also one of the reasons why this disease often goes misdiagnosed,” Dr. McKenzie explained.

Added to this, she pointed out that there are some forms of leprosy that require medical personnel to examine the nerves rather than merely check for spots usually associated with the disease. According to Pan American Health Organisation’s Technical Officer, Dr. Jean Alexandre, despite the fact that leprosy is no longer a global threat since it was eliminated in 2000, and Guyana has achieved leprosy elimination at the national level, efforts are still being made to combat it at the sub-national level. In fact, Dr Alexandre considered that “its elimination is still a target in some outlying regions.” Dr. Alexandre, who also addressed the recent meeting, underscored that the three strategies for elimination are diagnosis, accurate treatment and stigma reduction. The PAHO Technical Officer also highlighted that mass drug reduction (MDA) is known to reduce the density of the parasites and the prevalence of infections in the community.

Thursday March 23, 2017

Housekeeper accused of ‘cleaning up’ $400,000 in cash, jewellery

Released on bail: Shabana Asgar Shabana Asgar, 36, of 145 Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, was yesterday arraigned before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, on a charge of larceny from the person. The charge stated that on March 20 at 199 Duncan Street, Lamaha Gardens, Asgar stole a quantity of the jewellery valued $100,000, $180,000 in cash and a quantity of household appliances valued $133,000 from the dwelling house of the Luann Fowler who resides at the aforementioned address. According to information, Asgar worked as a housekeeper at the said location and over a period of time she would remove articles from the house. The mother of five was placed on $50,000 bail and will make her next court appearance on April 12.

Thursday March 23, 2017

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

The Minister doesn’t have the authority to revoke the by-laws The parking meter contract may be back sooner than we think. The Movement Against Parking Meters should therefore not be too congratulatory of the government for the action which it is said to have taken, to suspend the parking meter by-laws. A legal quagmire exists over the so-called Suspension Order allegedly issued by the Minister of Communities, who has responsibility for local governance. The government had adopted a course of action with respect to this controversy. The government has decided to introduce a force majeure, so as to allow the City Council to avoid facing legal action for breach of contract. The City Council will certainly become bankrupt if it has to pay Smart City Solutions compensation for terminating the parking meter contract. It is hard to imagine why anyone would sign a contract

with such harsh punitive measures, but the Council did. The government has decided to come to the rescue of the Council by introducing a force majeure which means a situation beyond the control of a party to the contract. The force majeure would be the suspension of the parking meter by-laws by the government for three months. The force majeure would, in the government’s opinion, allow the Council to have an excuse to walk away from the contract, by claiming that it was the government’s action which annulled parking meters and not a breach of contract by the Council. The matter has however been presented by the propagandists within the media as a case in which the Cabinet has instructed the Council to suspend the parking meter contract. The government, however, issued an Order which was interpreted by the Council as asking it to suspend the by-laws.

The Council, rightly, sought advice on this matter, because it recognized that if it, the Council, executed that Order in its name, then a force majeure cannot be claimed as a defence against any legal action taken for breach of contract by Smart City Solutions. The legal advice received by the Council was allegedly to that effect. The government saw this as a case of Council flouting the orders of Cabinet. It issued a new Order suspending the parking meter by-laws. The question which should concern the Movement Against Parking Meters - which has been fighting for the end to the parking meter contract - is whether the Minister has the authority to suspend the by-laws which were approved under his hand earlier this year. Section 305, paragraph 6 of the Municipal and Districts Council Act provides for bylaws, prepared by the Coun-

Dem boys seh...

Jagdeo getting blame fuh terror in Britain Old people always got a saying that when a dog got a bad name it does get blame fuh everything. Jagdeo has to be a dog wid a bad name because he get blame fuh de terror attack in London yesterday. A man jump in a car and decide to drive over couple people before he go to de equivalent of Public Buildings. He jump out de car and jook up a policeman and kill him. He ain’t satisfy; he decide to go inside de Parliament. He get shoot but by then five people done dead. When de news reach Guyana dem boys seh somebody tell dem that is Jagdeo send de man because he still vex. A British expert, Sittlington, did come to Guyana and mek Jagdeo get arrest. Jagdeo didn’t mind if de rest of he people did get arrest. He claim that he untouchable because he got immunity. Anyhow, Sittlington mek SOCU arrest him and he get vex. Now dem boys seh that he had to get even wid de British government and Sittlington that he send a bad man. Dem Chinese people who wuk pun de Marriott start trying to get even wid Jagdeo.

Dem start to squat because dem claim how Jagdeo and Brassington owe dem. Soulja Bai get in de mix and now dem same people vex wid him, so vex that more people now squatting. It start off wid fifteen people who claim that Brassington and Jagdeo owe dem US$5 million. Soulja Bai tek over and he tell de squatters that he gun do an audit to see exactly how much who owe who. Dem boys seh that de next thing dem hear is that de audit show that de Chinese people owe de Marriott US$180,000. Is start de madness start because de contractor done gone so he don’t have no money to pay back. Dem boys seh no Guyanese can go to China and squat pun any land. If any of dem was wukking pun de Olympic stadium and dem didn’t get pay dem couldn’t dream fuh live in de stadium. But Guyana is Guyana and de government should lock dem up. Dem can’t come here and encourage eyepass. Talk half and wait to see if de British gun question Jagdeo.

cil, to be subject to the approval or rejection, with or without amendment, by the Minister. The same Municipal and Districts Council Act does not provide for the Minister to revoke by-laws which were issued under his hand. The Minister can accept or reject, with or without amendments, but there is no provision for him to revoke. The Council’s lawyer, therefore, is in the right by asking the Council to be cautious in terms of what it does. Council cannot be seen as suspending the by-laws, since this would open it to a legal challenge from which the Council will never recover in a hundred years. Nor does it seem as if the Minister has any power, under the law, to revoke by-laws which he had approved. So we are in a legal quagmire which will have to be resolved by an approach to the Court. In the meantime, if the Minister does not have the power to suspend the bylaws, Council would be act-

ing outside of its own laws if it refuses to enforce these laws. Another legal puddle! The government must explain to the people where in the law it has the authority to revoke the by-laws. This authority is not implicit, because the law expressly states that the Minister can either approve or disapprove, with or without amendment. That is the law. It nullifies the argument of an implicit power to revoke. If the government has no

power to revoke the by-laws, then the by-laws still stand and there can be no suspension of the parking meters by the government. The police force had better get legal advice before it ends up enforcing an Order which has no legal effect.

Guyana can become... From page 7 processes. It agreed to refrain from actions which may result in narrowing of, or restricting public debate in relation to the EITI implementation.” Furthermore, Jadoopat took the opportunity to encourage all to consider it their civilian duty to actively participate in the activities and work of the G-EITI. He stressed that all stand to benefit from improved governance of the country’s natu-

ral resources. With this in mind, he reiterated that better informed citizens can play an active and meaningful role in the G-EITI. “The value of your role has been given pivotal prominence in the EITI standard. This is a great opportunity for you to have a say in the management and governance of your natural resources, the natural resources of your native country,” Jadoopat concluded.

PAGE 10

Thursday March 23, 2017

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

I’m calling on the President to help this aging Amerindian fellow To say that I live in disgust of how poor people are treated in this country would be an understatement. I believe people like President Granger, Vincent Alexander and many others, if pressed to bare their soul about the Walter Rodney/Forbes Burnham confrontation, would say that Rodney went too far in trying to remove the Burnham Government that for all intents and purposes was a pro-working class administration, therefore Rodney’s passion was misplaced. Looking back at events long gone, we make interpre-

tations of moments that we were not part of, therefore our conclusions are not based on experience. I was part of the Walter Rodney landscape as a youth, and I would make the incontrovertible statement that Walter’s purpose towards Burnham was the creation of a revolution to remove Burnham. It is when you live in the moment of the life of an episode that you embrace a perspective that the historian, writing from a distance, cannot grasp. I have no regrets at being

part of the Walter Rodney phenomenon. I participated in Walter’s revolutionary activities because I saw wrongs committed by the Burnham regime that I could not be silent on. The list is virtually endless. You are there inside the moment and you do have an existential choice – to rebel or not. I chose the former as did hundreds of others. Walter lost his life in the process. But you chose to rebel because wrongs must be righted. Yes, looking back, when we compare Burnham to every other president gone

by, Burnham stands out. But Burnham stands out in the negative sphere too. And once leaders commit viola-

Frederick Kissoon tions, maybe there is no existential choice but only one choice. This has been a long preamble to the caption above, the relevance of which is that I am admitting that if I was as young in 2017 in Guyana as when I was young during the Rodney era, maybe I would have reenacted my Rodneyite instincts. I refer readers to a KN letter on Tuesday last, by an aging Amerindian gentleman, who gave his name and address. In that sad missive, he recounted how he worked for one of the super-rich family businesses in Guyana for 32 years, only to find that over

those three decades, six contributions the NIS have for him. Is he lying? Well he gave his name and location, so he could be identified and be reached. He said there is an ongoing correspondence on his missing contributions with the NIS. He also named the Human Resource Director of the company that gave him a statement of his working status. If he is lying then the NIS should issue a statement. The company official should also deny what he wrote. He also pointed to four visits from the interior where he lives, to the NIS. I may be wrong, but this does not sound like a man who is out to make mischief. If this man’s story is true that in a period lasting 32 years, only six contributions were paid on his behalf, then we have criminal action that needs to be investigated. But there is a but. Suppose the head of the family business did not know that the contributions were not paid, then you can’t charge him/her. But surely, the finance people in the business are culpable. Then the law has to come into play; not only the law, also the voices of Guyanese.

Can one imagine what goes through the mind of a sixty-one year-old person who gave half his life to a company, only to find that he will not get an NIS pension as he grows older? This is not only heartbreaking, it is inhuman. Of course here comes my cynicism – who in Guyana cares about the inhuman existence in this long forgotten land. So are all our radical women folk who write letters and protest with their pickets, ready to come to this gentleman’s assistance? Are all those nice people with whom I picketed in the antiparking meter protest willing to help this poor, Amerindian man? I have asked you the question. Now I will ask myself the question and answer it. Trump will be long gone from the US presidency; we will long go past the 2020 elections; people will fly in their personal drones in the next ten years; Scotland will have its Independence from the UK, and we will still wait for those voices in Guyana to help this Amerindian man. And why is this so? Read two philosophers - Arthur Koestler and Thomas Hobbes - and you will know why.

Thursday March 23, 2017

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

Squatting continues at Marriott…

Engineer’s report claims Chinese contractor owes hotel US$900,000 Almost eight months after moving in and setting up camp in an unfinished section of the Marriott Hotel, over outstanding monies, a number of Chinese workers are still there. But it appears that the situation is far from resolved. This is because government is claiming that it owes the contractor nothing. Instead, it says, the contractor owes the hotel US$900,000. A new Board of Directors of Atlantic Hotel Inc., the state-owned company of the Kingston property, is expected to make the issue a top one on its agenda. The workers are from Shanghai Construction Group (SCG), a company owned by the Chinese government. That company had received a contract in 2011 to build the hotel, which on paper, cost over US$51M. However, estimates by critics of the project, had tagged real costs to be over US$80M. The hotel was opened in early 2015, weeks before general elections that saw a new government under David Granger taking office. SCG was insisting that it was owed between US$4-5M for works done. Government in January insisted that the figure was more likely over US$800,000.The year-long defects reporting period ended in April last year. AHI and its parent company, National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), had been attempting to make the hotel work. It was unable to meet payments to creditors, including one major commercial bank, forcing Government to step in. While the administration had initially signalled intention to sell the hotel that has not yet materialized. Business has improved considerably with a number of events as a major boost to revenues and its restaurant section doing better. To further its prospects, the previous AHI board, headed by Ansa McAl executive, Beverley Harper, had announced plans to complete an adjoining part of the hotel that was designed to be an entertainment complex. It is in this part of the ho-

tel, which is blocked off from the rest of the property that the Chinese construction workers have taken up camp, after abandoning their temporary accommodations located in the compound. SCG has been arguing that it owes contractors and others in China, and a number of companies there have threatened to sue. Kaieteur News was told that late last year NICIL commissioned an engineer from CEMCO, a consultancy firm, to oversee works. A final report found faults and reversed the US$800,000-plus that Government had claimed it owed. Rather, it was the Chinese contractor that was assessed. That bill is for almost US$900,000. NICIL reportedly wrote the SCG last week asking for a meeting to have the matter settled once and for all. NICIL’s CEO, in response to questions in January by Kaieteur News, had disclosed that the workers were requested to cease their “illegal” occupation of the site on several occasions. They also received notice from the Chief Fire Officer that their occupation constituted a fire hazard. “SCG occupies the site in breach of the contract,” the response from NICIL had said. There are at least four storeys that have been left unfinished. Under the contract, SCG is supposed to complete the shell. They insist that this has been done. The unfinished section is a mere storage area now, of millions of dollars in equipment and building materials. A number of air-conditioned makeshift rooms were converted to bedrooms for the Chinese workers. The hotel was heavily pushed by the successive government of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/ C) as an improvement to the quality of accommodation in Guyana. However, the financing structure saw the hotel, in terms of square footage, becoming one of the most expensive in the world. While the Government of Guyana spent almost US$30M, it is last on the list to receive any returns or profits.

The unfinished, western section of the Marriott Hotel.

The section on the second floor where it was planned that the casino would have been located.

Materials still stored at the Marriott’s unfinished section.

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Thursday March 23, 2017

After 30 years at helm of GPSU...

Yarde gets Executive Council support for upcoming election

GPSU members picketing outside the union’s headquarters last Monday (File Photo). Despite calls being made for President of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), Patrick Yarde to step down after serving at the helm of that organisation for 30 years, he may once again be elected President at the Union’s upcoming elections slated for April 24 this year. During a press conference hosted at the Union’s Head-

quarters at Regent Street and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, GPSU’s First Vice-President Mortimer Livan, disclosed that during the entity’s Statutory Meeting which was held less than a month ago, the Executive Council unanimously requested that Yarde contest the Presidency. Livan said that the Council has pledged to support

Yarde. Over the last few days, Yarde has faced some heat after protestors took to the street calling for him to step down. The protestors also indicated that they are contemplating taking Yarde to court. One of the protestors, former GPSU Official, Jermaine Hermanstyne said that they plan to challenge

Yarde on two fronts in court; that he is 72 years old, and that he has been at the helm of the GPSU since 1987. Hermanstyne explained that Yarde being 72 goes against the union’s Constitution and he is clearly over the required age to be president. He also made known the protestors’ intentions to challenge the transparency of the elections process that selects the GPSU president. Yarde was not present at the news conference yesterday; much to the disappointment of media operatives who would have preferred to ask Yarde to personally comment on these criticisms instead of him appointing the GPSU’s Executive Assistant, Indira Thakurdin to speak on his behalf. It was disclosed that Yarde had other pressing matters to deal with and could not be present at the press conference. Livan postulated that the

GPSU President, Patrick Yarde picketing exercise by protestors, which includes associate members of the GPSU, is a scheme to embarrass the Union. He posited that the ‘main instigators’ of the protest action have no locus standi in the affairs of the GPSU and are creating nothing but distractions – a “camouflage and a smokescreen to bring attention to themselves,” He condemned the notion that Yarde was too aged to be President and stated that there is no age limit for one to hold, or vie for such a position. Livan added that Yarde’s presence for so long at the helm of the Union is a clear indication that GPSU and its members have faith in him and hinted that this confidence will most likely be manifested once again at the upcoming elections. He also condemned comments made about younger persons not being able to

progress due to the apparent ‘stagnation’ of leadership roles at the higher level of the Union. The election for the leadership and the Central Executive Council is held every four years. It was revealed that the Council has already appointed an Elections Officer and the advertisements and circulars to the general membership of the elections were already done – in accordance with rules of the Union. It was stated that only persons who are ‘fully paid up ordinary members’ with effect from May 1 of the year prior to the elections shall be eligible to exercise their ballots. Further, members have a right to challenge the election process if there is a departure from the procedure as stated in Rule 30 of the GPSU’s rules. The Union’s current membership is approximately 5,000.

GPSU’s First Vice-President Mortimer Livan (Centre); Second Vice-President, Dawn Gardener (left) and Executive Assistant, Indira Thakurdin at the Press Conference yesterday at the union’s headquarters

Thursday March 23, 2017

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

As Iraqi forces fight to take Mosul, car bomb in Baghdad kills 23 people had been killed and Iraqi forces were trying to recover the bodies. Islamic State has a record of torturing and mutilating captives - civilian and military - so the incident will weigh heavily of the minds of the government troops in the street-by-street fighting for western Mosul, now in its second month. In the capital, Baghdad, a car bomb killed at least 23 people and wounded more than 45 in a mainly Shi’ite southern district, police and medical sources said. The blast occurred on a busy commercial street in the Amil neighborhood, the sources said. There was no claim of responsibility, but

A federal policeman carries his weapon as he stands near buildings destroyed in clashes during a battle against Islamic State militants, in Mosul. (Reuters) Islamic State militants captured an Iraqi police colonel and eight other officers on Monday after they ran out of ammunition during a skirmish in the battle for western Mosul, an Iraqi Interior Ministry official said. The official, who declined to be identified, said the incident took place as Govern-

ment forces closed in on Islamic State fighters in the Old City and other districts, in an offensive intended to crush the hardline group in what was once the de facto capital of their self-proclaimed Islamic caliphate. A media officer for the Interior Ministry’s Rapid Response units, Lieutenant

Colonel Abdel Amir alMohammedawi, denied that any police officers had been captured when asked for comment. But the Interior Ministry official told Reuters the nine men were seized in the early hours of Monday in the Bab Jadid district. Federal police sources later said the officers

Islamic State has carried out similar attacks in Baghdad and other cities as their hold on Mosul weakens. Federal Police and Rapid Response units backed by helicopter gunships pressed their cautious advance on the al-Nuri Mosque in western Mosul’s Old City on Monday. The battle for Iraq’s second city is expected to last several more weeks. The offensive was launched in October with support from U.S. artillery, air strikes and advisers, and the eastern side of the city on the Tigris river was secured in December. The campaign for the western side is harder. The area is more densely populated, the streets are narrower and the houses closely

packed together. RESIDENTS FLEE Attention has focused on the Old City and the al-Nuri Mosque, from where Islamic State leader Abu Bakr alBaghdadi proclaimed the caliphate after his forces had seized swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria in 2014. Baghdadi and other Islamic State leaders have fled Mosul, their whereabouts unknown, but the militants still hold several other western districts beyond the Old City and are defending them with sniper and mortar fire and suicide car bombs. U.S. officials estimate that about 2,000 Islamic State fighters remain there.

Local Govt. Commission still dormant From page 20 Bulkan had said. From all indications, Bulkan has still not received any clarification. Guyana voted on March 18, 2016 at the LGEs – which was hailed as a historic election. It was the country's first Local Government Election in 23 years. This would come after promises were made by the coalition parties to reinstate the election. It was the intention of the Administration

to reduce the influence of the central government by placing the oversight of local democratic organs under the purview of a Commission and not a government Ministry. The objective was to allow for the management of towns and communities, free from central government's control, which in the past frequently proved “oppressive or suffocating”. Further, it was done to ensure that Guyanese got the opportunity to decide who their local representatives should be.

PAGE 22

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Thursday March 23, 2017

Kaieteur News

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FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Lot 14 Croal & Longden Street: 4 Storey building (infront Demico). Call: 6631876 Vreed-en-Hoop Junction: office, storage bond, lesson place, church -$20,000 per month. Call: 603-6400 Bottom flat house @ 25 North Road & Oronoque Street, fully furnished/ air condition/ residence /business.Call: 226-7012 1 Bottom flat 2 bedrooms @ Diamond E.C.D – Call: 6641030/ 654-7081 Three bedrooms bottom flat @ Lamaha Gardens. Call: 2255084/ 689-6001 Fully furnished three bedrooms, top flat, opposite Georgetown Hospital School of Nursing. Call: 225-3756/ 662-0973 1 Bedroom apartment well secured for working person $35,000 monthly, light, garbage included. Call: 638-8858 Bottom flat for rent @ Diamond Scheme. Call: 6792928/678-3388 Upper flat for rent 3 bedrooms in Atlantic Gardens- Call: 2274377/227-0613/624-6013 1-One bedroom apartment located at Nurses Section, ‘C’ Field Turkeyen. Call Lisa: 697-8867 2 Bedroom Executive furnished Apartment in residential Area, close to Ogle Airport with all modern amenities.Call:622-5725/6641070

LAND FOR SALE 1 Lot of land @ Yarrowkabra -$950,000. Call: 672-5876 Transported land for sale size 37X270 @ Coglan D a m , Vr e e d - e n - H o o p , W.B.D. Call: 650-5644/6779938 Transported corner lot with approved building plan @ 90 Garnett & Republic Streets, Newtown Kitty. Call: 601-6000/227-3305 Continued on page 23

Thursday March 23, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Civil Society Group to aid in return of financial and environmental accountability By Kiana Wilburg A civil society group, Policy Forum Guyana (PFG), is on a mission to aid in the return of financial and environmental accountability, especially as it relates to the extractive sector. This is according to its Convener, Mike McCormack. The Human Rights Activist provided the media with an update of PFG’s work yesterday during a briefing with the media at the Cara Lodge Hotel. McCormack explained that the forum started its work before the 2015 General and Regional Elections. He said that it represents a network of civil society organizations whose focus is on accountability and transparency issues related to natural re-

sources, climate change and the extractive industries. In this regard, the PFG is promoting Guyana’s application to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). Policy Forum Guyana’s current activities include creating public awareness of the EITI, an international organization that Guyana is currently preparing to join. An important part of PFG’s aim has been to hold outreach engagements with a range of different civic and religious sectors of the population to publicize the importance of the EITI as a vehicle for promoting transparency and accountability in the extractive sector. Such events have been conducted in several regions of the country.

In his opening remarks, McCormack said that EITI is a major concern of the forum, and from this perspective, it has collaborated with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Government on promoting the EITI process. He shared that the forum’s interest will be on the contribution EITI will make, which will be providing transparency in the extractive sector and allowing citizens to have a clear picture of what the government has received from companies in the sector and what the companies are giving the nation in return for its resources. Furthermore, McCormack said that the forum intends to focus on other issues such as tax justice and beneficial

Strategies to save ailing sugar industry to be devised at regional meeting Guyana’s Agriculture Minister Noel Holder will be heading a delegation to Jamaica where he is expected to attend a high level Caribbean Sugar Policy Workshop in Kingston from March 23 to 24. The event has been organized jointly by the Sugar Association of the Caribbean, CARICOM and other partners from inside and beyond the region. The meetings will focus on challenges and risks facing regional sugar producers in light of changes to the European Union (EU) sugar regime. Participants will listen to the experiences of sugar producing states including Guyana, and suggest possible mitigating actions. Issues that will be addressed during the first session of conference are: the 2017 EU sugar reform and short-term threats on the Caribbean sugar industry; the ways in which countries can access new markets; managing the politics of transforming the industry; and ways in which the industry can respond to the trends as it relates to sugar consumption. The second day will see participants developing policy responses by addressing trade and tariff policy options open to Caribbean policy makers and policy measures that Caribbean policy makers can adopt to support a viable sugar industry. The third day is scheduled to facilitate a high level ministerial sugar stakeholders group meeting, to address what can be done at that level to influence a positive change in the industry. While Minister Holder is expected to be present on the final day of the conference, the Guyana Sugar Corpora-

tion (GuySuCo)’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Errol Hanoman, will be making presentations on the challenges facing Guyana’s sugar industry and government’s planned interventions by way of diversification. Jamaica, Belize, Guyana and the Dominican Republic are listed as top producers in the Caribbean. However, many other nations are directly impacted by a number of debilitating factors, chief among which is the removal of the preferential quotas to the EU. These changes are set to take effect in October this year. The abolition of national sugar production quotas for Europe is expected to result in a reduction of the price paid for sugar from the African Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP), while causing the overall volume of EU sugar imports to fall as Europe becomes self-sufficient. Caribbean sugar producers will now be forced to sell their sugar on the world market, competing with beet sugar producers, at prices significantly lower than what was formerly enjoyed with the preferential EU market. This combined with the existing problems facing Caribbean producers, could jeopardize the industry in the region, provided urgent interventions are not devised in the short term. This meeting in Jamaica seeks to provide an opportunity for sugar producing Caribbean nations to present their cases outlining the unique challenges facing them individually, while devising strategies to collectively move forward. Between July 2015 and December 2016, the Government of Guyana would have provided GuySuCo with $23

billion in support. GuySuCo has advised that should the industry remain as presently structured, it would require subsidies from the Government in the sum of $18.6 billion and $21.4 billion for the years 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Convener of the Policy Forum Guyana, Mike McCormack ownership. With respect to tax justice, McCormack said that the forum will be playing its part to ensure that companies in the extractive sector are paying their fair share of taxes. As for the matter of beneficial ownership, which relates to anyone who enjoys the benefits of ownership of a security or property, while it is in the name of someone else, the Human Rights Activist said that this must be

addressed. He insisted that it is a national issue, while emphasizing that Guyanese have a right to know who the true owners of companies in the mining and forestry sector are. McCormack said that another area that will become more important as oil and gas picks up, is the imbalance of development across the nation. In this regard, he noted that resources are being extracted from various parts of Guyana, yet many are still left to question how the people of the respective areas have benefitted, or how have their communities been transformed. He commented that this can be asked in the area of forestry, bauxite mining and gold and diamond production. The official also pointed out that while the forum is trying to broaden its member base, it is important for all to be familiar with what goes on in the extractive sector. He insisted that it is everyone’s business. The Human Rights Activist was also adamant that citizens need a more educated understanding of what is going on in the sector. In this respect, however, he said that the PFG is hoping to be of service.

From page 22

VEHICLE FOR SALE 1-Leyland DAF GRR Series; excellent condition. Call: 6804101 Dwayne Stephen Auto Sales! New Shipment of Vehicle: Rush, Blue Bird, Note, Axio, Allion. Call: 665-2330/ 6486869 Tractor Foreign used Massey Ferguson 165$1.7M, MF 135- $1.2M, MF 265-$2.2M, MF 165 Loader Tractor -$2.4M. Call: 6825230, 628-9596 2005 Tacoma from Canada $2.4M ford 150 sports -$1.6M, Ford Ranger Sports - $1.5M. Call: 682-5230, , 628-9596 Not working Vehicles: 1 Surf, 2 Pathfinders, 1 Bobcat, 3 Toyota Cars, 1 Canter, 1 Fiber glass boat. Call: 227-4377/ 624-6013

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Thursday March 23, 2017

Kaieteur News

Man accused of killing acquaintance in 2011 freed A man who was accused of killing an acquaintance of his five years ago has been freed of the charge of murder. Twenty-eight year-old Ronald Fraser, 28, yesterday walked out of the Berbice High Court in New Amsterdam a free man after a 12-member mixed jury returned with a unanimous verdict of not guilty of murder. Fraser called ‘Alay’ of Liverpool village, Corentyne, Berbice, was accused of murdering 26year-old Quacy Gray, of Manchester village. The incident occurred on De-

cember 16, 2011 at Liverpool. Fraser who was represented by Legal Aid, state-appointed attorney at law Sasha Roberts, was on trial before Justice James Bovell Drakes. The state’s case was presented at attorney at law Orinthia Schmidt. During the trial the state called seven witnesses. Fraser had given a confession statement in which he claimed self-defence. He had stated that during the night in question, following an argument, there was a fight between himself and Gray. During the

time he (Fraser) took out a scissors and stabbed Gray, who subsequently died. The two men were reportedly in-laws. A Post Mortem Examination had revealed that Gray died from shock and haemorrhage due to stab wounds. The murder weapon was recovered. However it was not tendered in court, since it was misplaced. Earlier Justice Bovell Drakes had summed up the evidence to the jury. The jury then returned with their verdict just after deliberating for over half an hour

Jamaican farmers to benefit from multi-million-dollar British funded project

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Jamaican farmers are to benefit from a multimillion dollar grant that will fund the development of an irrigation system, which will supply water to approximately 700 hectares of agricultural land in from the parish of St. Elizabeth. The Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) said Wednesday that the farmers in Essex Valley will benefit from the £35.5 million (One British pound =US$1.24 cents) from the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF), which is administered by the CDB.“Jamaica’s agriculture sector is an important contributor to socioeconomic development, and provides important sources of employment. However, irregular rainfall, prolonged droughts and the possible impacts of cli-

mate change all affect agricultural production. “This project is intended to reduce the water-related challenges faced by farmers in Essex Valley, and enhance agricultural production and productivity,” said Andrew Dupigny, head of Infrastructure Partnerships at CDB. The CDB said that agriculture is the most dominant sector in St. Elizabeth, employing 40 per cent of the population. It said the availability of water is considered a major challenge, and the Essex Valley area is characterized by low rainfall with frequent droughts. Some 55 per cent of farmers depend exclusively on rain for irrigation, 18 per cent use tank water, and an additional 18 per cent purchase water from trucks. As such, this project is expected to significantly improve the

social and economic prospects of Essex Valley and its environs. In addition to improving irrigation systems, the project includes other components to boost agriculture in Essex Valley, including enhanced Agricultural Production and Marketing Facilities and Systems (EAPMFS), training for farmers and other stakeholders in food safety standards and climate smart agriculture practices. It will also provide financing for a climate vulnerability assessment study to enhance the sustainability of the systems developed under the project; the development of guidelines to support the participation of men, women, youth, and persons with disabilities and an Operational Plan to enhance the viability and sustainability of the facilities and services

Thursday March 23, 2017

Kaieteur News

Opposition calls on diplomat to keep promise and return money ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – The leader of the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP), Harold Lovell, is calling on Ambassador Casroy James to do as he promised a few months ago and return the funds related to the Brazilian multinational, Odebrecht SA, and the energy company, Petrobras scandal. James, the Antigua and Barbuda’s diplomat to the United Arab Emirates, has denied being involved in corrupt activities but admitted to receiving payments from Meinl Bank which he said were based on his work as an independent consultant. He also denied knowing that his client was involved in any alleged illegal activity “nor did I have reason to believe, that Meinl Bank was in any way affiliated to Odebrecht”. But Lovell said that James “has been heard since then to offer several explanations regarding the reported three million Euros (One Euro=US$1.29 cents). “He has said he received money for services rendered and that it was intended for use in a CIP (Citizenship by Investment) project. He has

Harold Lovell even assured the public that he would have returned the money. ‘Since then we have been reliably informed that the money, those funds continue to sit right here in an off-shore bank in Antigua and Barbuda, and we call on Mr. James to explain whether or not those funds have indeed been returned “ Lovell said. Antigua and Barbuda became embroiled in the scandal after US court documents revealed that a high-level

Government official accepted millions of dollars in bribes. The revelation was made as the investigation continued into corruption at global construction conglomerate, Odebrecht, based in Brazil, the same company which court documents show acquired Meinl Bank Antigua in 2010 Last December, Prime Minister Gaston Browne dismissed the Honorary Consul to Brazil, Luis Franca, and also asked James to explain his involvement in the scandal. Odebrecht reportedly purchased Meinl Bank allegedly to pay bribes to Government officials in about a dozen countries. Last December, James issued a statement indicating that he is the sole principal of Global residence and Advisory Services Ltd as well as an authorised and licensed CIP agent, said he attended a meeting in Miami in that capacity and “not as an agent of the Antigua and Barbuda Government or an agent for any Antiguan Government official. Lovell said that he was prepared to personally buy a ticket for James to travel to the United States.

Four killed, several others injured the incident and who are still communities further away from in explosiontoworking tirelessly … at the site the blast, called state radio sayCASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – At least four people were killed, more than 20 injured and at least four others airlifted to the neighbouring French island of Martinique as police launched an investigation into an explosion at a construction site in Cul de Sac, east of here on Tuesday evening. Prime Minister Allen Chastanet has called on the nation to pray for the families of the victims. “Our hearts go out to those who lost loved ones and those who are still waiting to find out information about their family members. You are all in our prayers in this difficult time. We must all support each other at this time and pray for our fellow St. Lucians,” Chastanet said. “We must say thanks to the emergency personnel, the police and fire officers, who responded

to find persons. The staff, the nurses and doctors, of the Victoria Hospital, who responded, some without being called and who are working overtime to attend to the injured must be thanked for their selfless dedication in the wake of this crisis,” he said, adding that the incident has taken the nation by shock. The explosion was heard miles away, shattered glass windows and doors of nearby businesses, and destroyed offices and several pieces of heavy duty equipment on site. It remains uncertain as to what caused the explosion but a supervisor told reporters that it may have been triggered by workers engaged in a welding operation in close proximity to a container loaded with explosive material, including dynamite. Initially, many persons in

ing that they mistook the explosion for an earthquake, as another section of the capital engaged in a major regional tsunami response exercise referred to as “Caribewave 2017”. The exercise held across the Caribbean and Latin America stimulated a widespread tsunami watch and warning situation throughout the region requiring the activation of local tsunami response plans. According to health officials 22 persons had been brought to the Victoria Hospital (VH) with four people, including three at the site confirmed dead. The officials said that four persons had be airlifted by military aircraft to Martinique and that one person is reported missing following the incident that occurred at Rayneau Construction.

Belizean tops GDF Cadet Officers'... From page 18 task of commanding units and replacing those who would have retired from the defence force. The course had begun on Monday April 11, 2016 with a total of 36 cadets; three from the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force and three from the Belize Defence Force. For the duration of the course, a total of 24 students withdrew from the course or would have failed to achieve the minimum standards.

The first stage of the Officer Cadet training was conducted at Base Camp Stephenson. Cadets were trained in Open Country Warfare at the Section and Platoon Commander levels, at the Colonel John Clarke Military School at Tacama. The cadets were also trained in jungle and small boat operation, at the Colonel Robert Mitchell Jungle and Amphibious Training School at Makouria.

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Thursday March 23, 2017

Thursday March 23, 2017

Kaieteur News

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IOC’s Fredericks to remain on IAAF council during probe: Coe NEW YORK (Reuters) Frank Fredericks will stay on the IAAF Council while an ethics board reviews allegations that he accepted payments before the awarding of the 2016 Olympics to Rio, Sebastian Coe, the organization’s head, said on Tuesday. Fredericks, an International Olympic Committee member, stepped down two weeks ago as head of the team evaluating bids to host the 2024 Olympics and has also removed himself from the IAAF task force looking into doping in Russia. Despite the allegations, however, he will remain a member of the IAAF council while the ethics board determines if an investigation is necessary.

“We are speaking with Frank; he has stepped aside from the Russian task force so he has stepped aside from his functions within the council,” Coe told Reuters following a presentation at the Leaders Sport Business Summit on Tuesday. Doping and votes-forpay controversies continue to haunt athletics as Coe desperately tries to push away the dark clouds by implementing reforms he hopes will put the spotlight back on the track. Asked if he believed other IAAF council members could be caught up in the scandal, Coe said he had no idea. “We are just getting on with delivering sport,” said Coe. “We are the subject of

scrutiny and investigation but I can’t give you any insight into that at all.” French prosecutors are investigating whether bribery was involved in the awarding of the 2021 world athletics championships to the U.S. city of Eugene and are also looking into several other host city decisions. Despite the distractions Coe told an audience of influential sports business people that he remains focused on restoring confidence and trust in athletics and returning the sport to its former glory. While cleaning up years of scandal have taken up much of Coe’s time it is the future that most concerns him and how to make the sport more attractive to

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fans and viewers. He said some hints were provided by the recent Nitro Athletics Series event in Melbourne won by the Usain Bolt-led team of international ‘All-Stars.’ Coe admitted ‘power play’ events that award double points to winners and gimmicks such as the mile eliminations and mixed distance medleys all played out to rock music soundtrack would leave purists cringing but change was necessary. “You don’t expect everything you see on the catwalk to ending up on coat hangers in retail stores,” said Coe. “I think Nitro gave us some clues. We have to do more to connect. “I saw three nights of full houses. ..most sports have innovative and we have been slow. “It was a breath of fresh air.”

Chairman of London 2012 Sebastian Coe (L) poses for the media with Chairman of the IOC Athletes Commission Frank Fredericks as they lay the last piece of turf on the Olympic Stadium’s field of play, in London, March 29, 2011. (REUTERS/Paul Hackett)

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Thursday March 23, 2017

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Letter to the Sports Editor Dear Sir, It is with total disgust that I have decided to respond to a letter that appeared in your newspaper on Saturday 18th March, 2017. The letter was signed by D. Somwaru and was a response to letters written by Mortimer George about the current situation affecting Berbice Cricket. The response was a libelous attack on me by a man who I had worked with for a number of years and his main intention was to destroy and tarnish my reputation among the unsuspecting and uninformed general public. My name was mentioned over half a dozen times in the letter which was supposed to be a response to Mr. George’s letter which questioned Mr. Somwaru’s motive to elevate himself to the Presidency of the Berbice Cricket Board when an Injunction was granted against the Executive members of the Board by a High Court Judge in March, 2015. I have no personal problem with Mr. Somwaru and as such was totally shocked that he accused me of changing the Berbice Cricket Board’s office lease and to transfer the telephone service in my

Disgusted by that Somwaru letter name. I would like to publicly state that the GTT telephone service is still in the Board’s name and same was never changed to my name. That Berbice Cricket Board paid the telephone charges in January, 2017. After I realised that Mr. Somwaru was not communicating with me I was in the process of sending out letters to changes the Executives and I continued paying the bills on behalf of the Berbice Cricket Board onto the 15th March, 2017. Concerning the lease for the Berbice Cricket Board, the landlord of the building has informed me that he never had a lease agreement with the Berbice Cricket Board but rather a verbal month to month agreement over the years with the rental being paid at the end of the month by the treasurer. The landlord, who could be contacted via phone, gave notice to me in my capacity as the Secretary of the Berbice Cricket Board to vacate and give up possession of the concrete building on or before the 1st February, 2017. He wanted possession for his own use. Having

knowledge and not wanting to be involved in the politics of cricket in Guyana, he approached me and asked what I would do if the situation got worse and possession is given up. I then told him that I want to do my own business; he asked me if I am interested in renting the building to conduct my typing and computer business. I accepted his offer and together we agreed and have decided to enter into an Agreement of Tenancy with an increase on the monthly rental of the building from the month of February, 2017. I am so delighted that Mr. Somwaru has suddenly showed great interest in the development of Berbice Cricket. He should not be attacking anyone who has worked beyond the call of duty lifting the standard of the game. The last two Presidents of the Berbice Cricket Board should be very proud of their contributions because together they have so much to be proud of. Every cricketer in Berbice would know that during the period 2007 to 2015, Berbice Cricket was at

its best and was spearheaded by individuals like Keith Foster, Anil Beharry, Carl Moore, Hubern Evans, Hilbert Foster, Malcolm Peters, Romesh Munna, Shabeer Baksh, Albert Smith and Robby Saywack among others. To my knowledge, no one has ever used the Board in the past or now to make themselves popular or to enrich themselves and it is a shock that Somwaru would make such allegations against hard working administrators. The development that took place in Berbice during that period is unmatched across Guyana and as Berbicians we should be very proud of all our achievements. In closing, I would like Mr. Somwaru to answer these questions for all Berbicians: a) Why you did not answer any of the facts stated by Mr. George in his letter, instead you chose to attack me personally. b) Isn’t it true that your letter to the Editor was sent from an email account of a female employee of the Guyana Cricket Board? c) Did you write the let-

ter yourself or was it penned by the author of destruction of Guyana’s cricket. d) Isn’t it true that a senior official from Georgetown asked on numerous occasions that Angela Haniff be removed as Secretary of the Berbice Cricket Board before funding will be restored to the Berbice Cricket Board. e) Why did you sign as the Secretary of the Chesney Cricket Club when you are not even a Member of that Club on the Request for Special Meeting by Clubs to Ms. Angela Haniff, Secretary, Berbice Cricket Club. f) You are not the Head Teacher of the Berbice Islamic School. Why did you sign as the Head Master? Did you forget to inform the author of the letter that you have resigned that position many years ago? g) Why are the two persons who filed an Injunction against the Anil Beharry’s Berbice Cricket Board Administration, which you were a part of in March 2015, are assisting you with the drafting of letters and

also assisting you to serve letters on behalf of the Berbice Cricket Board to person you felt may be against your idea of development of cricket in Berbice. You have become buddies. h) You stated that you are in the business of producing cricketers not getting popular. Can you please provide an example of a player you have played a major role in developing his career. What have been your contributions to the development of Cricket in “Chesney”, the Club you claim to represent? i) You signed as President of the Guyana Cricket Umpires Association. How has the Association benefitted from your leadership and why no Berbice Umpires have been promoted in the ranks despite umpire Imran Moakan is among the best in Guyana. My hands are clean; I have served Berbice Cricket to the best of my ability and can never be accused of corruption. I refused to be a puppet for anyone. My policy in serving any organisation is “Not what I can gain from an Organisation but what I can put into it”. Yours in Sports, Angela Haniff.

Jamaican duo charged with anti-doping rule violation

Kaliese Spencer of Jamaica. (Action Images / Steven Paston) KINGSTON (Reuters) Commonwealth Games 400 meters hurdles champion Kaliese Spencer and world championship relay medalist Riker Hylton have been charged with breaching anti-doping rules, Jamaican athletics officials confirmed on Tuesday. “We have been advised by JADCO (Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission) that athletes Kaliese Spencer and Riker Hylton have been referred to the Independent Anti Doping Disciplinary Panel for a hearing to be conducted in accordance with Article 8 of the JADCO Anti-doping Rules 2015,” the Jamaica Athletics Administrative

Bronze medalists Allodin Fothergill, Jermaine Gonzales, Riker Hylton and Leford Green of Jamaica (L to R) stand on the podium after their men’s 4x400 meters relay event at the IAAF World Championships in Daegu September 3, 2011. (REUTERS/Lee Jae-Won)

Association (JAAA) said in a statement. “Both athletes are alleged to have violated article 2.3 of the said rules which speaks to ‘Evading, refusing or failing to submit to sample collection’.” Under World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules, “evading, refusing or failing to submit to sample collection” is one of 10 possible ways that athletes or their support staff can be charged with an anti-doping doping rule violation. The maximum penalty is a four-year suspension. Jamaica’s Spencer won gold at the Common-

wealth Games in Glasgow in 2014 and was also a world championship silver medalist in the 4x400m relay in Berlin in 2009. She did not respond to Reuters’ phone calls or text requests for comment. Hylton, who won a 4x400m bronze at the 2011 World Championships in Daegu, told Reuters on Tuesday that he had been notified of his provisional suspension by JADCO. He said the anti-doping body claimed he had declined to provide a sample for testing last year at the Stadium East field.

Hylton, however, said that he had not been properly informed that he had been selected for testing and only found out that he had been accused of declining to provide a sample after he had left the stadium. “Honestly they (JADCO) never did their job properly because they were supposed to make the person know that you were selected to be drug tested and they did not let me know that,” Hylton said. JADCO has not responded to Reuters’ requests for comment.

Thursday March 23, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Petra Organisation / GT Beer Futsal Competition

Enthralling action highlights start of round robin phase

Mercedes look to make early statement in Australia

- Champs held by inspired Braod Street Bullies A capacity crowd witnessed some enthralling action at the start of the round robin phase of this year’s Petra Organisation/GT Beer Futsal Competition on Tuesday night, at the National Gymnasium. Defending champs Bent Street had to come from behind to stave off defeat against an inspired Broad Street Bullies unit, before their exciting matchup ended in a 2-2 stalemate, while last tournament’s losing finalist Sparta Boss were made to fight in their clash against Agricola Champion Boys with Devon Millington’s 20th minute strike separating the two teams. In another bruising encounter, Tiger Bay had to summon a l l t h e i r s k i l l s and exp e r i e nce to avoid what would have b e e n an embarrassing loss to a youthful Back Circle side that should h a v e w on. It took a 30th minute strike from the skilful Deon Alfred for them to draw level just before the final whist l e s o u n d e d and share the points. The night opened with North East La P e nitence, led by a brace from Omallo Willams, beat-

Australian Formula One driver Daniel Ricciardo (L) and his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen from The Netherlands race speedboats on the Yarra River during a promotional event in Melbourne, Australia, yesterday. (AAP/Tracey Nearmy/via REUTERS)

ing Tucville 2-0, while in the game that followed Sophia, who’ve looked

rock solid so far in the competition, easily dispatching Albouystown 4-0.

NBA roundup: Lopez buzzer... From page 28 Whiteside finished with 23 points and 14 rebounds to lead Miami. Whiteside also sustained a cut between his fingers and was getting stitches postgame. The team will know mo r e a b o u t h i s s t a t u s Wednesday, coach Erik Spoelstra said. The win moved the Heat one game ahead of Detroit for eighth in the Eastern Conference. W h i t e s i d e ’s p e r f o rmance surpassed former center Rony Seikaly for two club records. Whiteside has 936 career rebounds, eclipsing Seikaly’s previous mark of 934. His double-double output increased his consecutive streak to 13, surpassing Seikaly’s 12 in 1991-92. New Orleans Pelicans 95, Memphis Grizzlies 82 NEW ORLEANS — DeMarcus Cousins had his breakout game with New

Orleans, scoring a gamehigh 41 points, including nine in a decisive 21-0 third-quarter run, to power the Pelicans. It was the most points Cousins scored since coming to New Orleans in a trade with Sacramento. Cousins added a gamehigh 17 rebounds as the Pelicans won for the fifth time in six games. New Orleans also got 19 points and 13 rebounds from Anthony Davis. Memphis was led by Mike Conley with 16 points, but the Grizzlies saw their four-game winning streak end. Los Angeles Clippers 133, Los Angeles Lakers 109 LOS ANGELES — Chris Paul scored 27 points, J.J. Redick contributed 24, and the Clippers rolled past the Lakers for the 13th time in 14 games. Austin Rivers had 18

points and Jamal Crawford added 15, including a 3pointer from 46 feet to end the third quarter, for the Clippers. Blake Griffin had 12 points and eight assists, while DeAndre Jordan chipped in 12 points and 11 rebounds. Brandon Ingram scored 21 points to lead the Lakers, who lost their sixth in a row and 14th in the past 15 contests. Milwaukee Bucks 93, Portland Trail Blazers 90 PORTLAND, Ore. — Khris Middleton had 26 points and Milwaukee scored the final six points to defeat Portland. G i a n n i s Antetokounmpo added 22 points and eight rebounds for the Bucks, who won for the ninth time in their last 11 games. Damian Lillard scored 31 points for the Trail Blazers, who lost for only the third time in 11 outings.

MELBOURNE (Reuters) Beefier cars and bulked-up drivers will hit Albert Park circuit on Sunday for Formula One’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix where many fans will be hoping at least one team can strike an early blow against dominant Mercedes. Revised aerodynamics and fatter tires are among a raft of technical changes that pundits feel could bring the Silver Arrows back to earth after they swept the drivers and constructors’ championships for the last three years running. Ferrari’s strong performance during winter testing has added to expectations that the sport is in for a shake-up, even as F1’s new American managers seek to rejuvenate a series plagued by inertia. And yet Mercedes, once again, appear primed to ride roughshod over newseason hopes for a changing of the guard. Nico Rosberg vacated his Mercedes seat in a shock retirement from the sport shortly after winning the drivers’ world championship but his old team mate and three-times champion Lewis Hamilton stands poised to take the title back. German Rosberg thwarted Hamilton’s bid for a third successive title and the pair’s heated rivalry took its toll on both drivers. Rosberg’s Finnish replacement, Valtteri Bottas, is not seen as someone who will create as many headaches for Hamilton, who will be going for his third victory in Melbourne and 54th overall after win-

ning the last four races of 2016. “ I t h i n k h e ’s o n e o f those guys who is not going to be that difficult to manage, especially in the battle with Lewis,” Rosberg said of former Williams driver Bottas in a video posting for Formula One sponsor UBS. “I don’t know if he will be able to challenge Lewis or even beat Lewis. That remains to be seen.” Bookmakers have Hamilton a heavy favorite to win at Albert Park, although the Briton has deflected the hype onto Ferrari and fourtimes F1 champion Sebastian Vettel. “I think Ferrari are bluffing and that they are a lot quicker than they are showing,” Hamilton said at testing in Barcelona. German Vettel has been busy playing down expectations of a Ferrari renaissance and has become a master of it since crossing to the ‘Scuderia’ from Red Bull in 2015. Great expectations followed he and team mate Kimi Raikkonen to Melbourne last year after a similarly promis-

ing testing in the leadup but neither driver won a race all season. Red Bull are the other team seen snapping at Mercedes’ heels if they can avoid reliability problems of the past and drivers Daniel Ricciardo and teenager Max Verstappen, seen as a champion-in-waiting, can keep their growing rivalry from spoiling their racing. “We’ve been on six dinners already this week. He brought me breakfast yesterday morning. We don’t share a room ... not yet,” Australian Ricciardo joked to reporters on Wednesday when asked about their relationship. “We try to keep it as amicable as possible.” With bigger tires and more downforce, the new cars are expected to be up to five seconds quicker per lap in Melbourne and drivers have had to hit the gym to be fitter and stronger to cope with the driving demands. There will be plenty of intrigue as to how the drivers and their tires wear, with Melbourne’s changeable weather and the circuit’s tight corners adding to the air of unpredictability.

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UG Inter-Faculty Athletics C/ships on tomorrow at Leonora The University of Guyana (UG) will be hosting its Annual Inter-Faculty Athletic Championships tomorrow at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora, beginning at 9:00am with the Men’s 5000 metres and continuing the sprint heats and field events. “The March Past of participating Faculties will be at 11:30am. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, is expected to take the salute. The competing Faculties include: Agriculture & Forestry, Education & Humanities, Earth & Environmental

Sciences, Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Technology, University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC) and Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). The defending champions are Faculty of Social Sciences. They will be challenged to retain their title since the Faculty of Education & Humanities has thrown down the gauntlet. Also there will be the crowning of a new male ‘Champion Athlete’. In addition, there will be a new sprint machine. This

is so because local distance dynamo, Cleveland Forde and sprinter, Emanuel Archibald, will not be participating. Forde has graduated from UG while Archibald is on scholarship in Jamaica. Meanwhile, Kezia Bess will be the headline of the female competition from the Faculty of Education & Humanities. Osafa DosSantos will also be representing this faculty. There is no entrance fee and an invitation is extended to the public to spend a day with UG Community as they compete and showcase their athletic ability.

Spencer refutes allegations of anti-doping violation

Kaliese Spencer

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The management team of embattled Jamaican hurdler Kaliese Spencer is stridently refuting allegations by the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO) that she has violated any of their rules. In a strongly worded release sent to OBSERVER ONLINE late Tuesday evening, the management team said they would “pursue all legal channels necessary to protect her good name and her reputation as

Thursday March 23, 2017

Kaieteur News

a true ambassador of Jamaica”. News broke yesterday that Commonwealth Games 400m hurdles champion Spencer and former training partner Riker Hylton, then with the Bertland Cameron led group, had refused to be t e s t e d s o m e t imes last year. The allegations are that the athletes “have violated article 2.3” of the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO)

rules that, in effect, says they refused to give a sample when asked to by a JADCO collections officer. The full release from Spencer’s team read: The Management Team of Ms Kaliese Spencer wishes to inform the public that recently Miss Spencer was notified by JADCO of an alleged violation of J A D C O ’s a n t i - d o p i n g rules. Ms Spencer categorically refutes any assertion that she has refused or evaded a drug test. This allegation is simply false, as Ms Spencer has always made herself available to be tested by JADCO. Ms Spencer ’s Management and Legal teams view this alleged violation as entirely baseless and intends to pursue all legal channels necessary to protect her good name and her reputation as a true ambassador of Jamaica.

Edward B. Beharry & Companies display more goodwill to GRFU - Team leave on Sunday In another display of goodwill, Edward B. Beharry & Companies positively responded to a request made by the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) after presenting a cheque for an undisclosed sum to Captain of the Sevens team Ryan Gonsalves for their preparations to participate in the upcoming prestigious HSBC Hong Kong 7s which kicks off on April 7. Following up on support given to the team for their NACRA campaign which saw them clinch their eight title last year in Trinidad and Tobago, the Company’s Brand Manager Monique Tiwari in her brief remarks, disclosed that the sponsorship represents support for the team’s expenses while in North America where they will in-

tensify preparations for the Hong Kong Sevens. Tiwari, who handed over the cheque to Captain Ryan Gonsalves said, “We are pleased to support this team once again and we wish them success in Hong Kong.” Union President Peter Green in response thanked the Company for its continued commitment to the national outfit and challenged the government to provide similar or even better funding than that of the private entities. Gonsalves shortly after extending thanks to the Company said the team will use the time in the USA to “get up to game speed” since the pace of the game in Hong Kong will be “much faster than what we are accustomed to in the Caribbean.”

Coach, Kenneth GrantStuart, who was also present at the occasion, echoed similar sentiments expressed by Gonsalves, adding that they will utilise the time to have a good look at the players and work on their strengths and weaknesses. Guyana is placed in Pool G along with Spain, Papua New Guinea, and Uruguay in the Hong Kong Sevens. The Guyana squad is: Ryan Gonsalves (Captain), Rupert Giles, Vallon Adams, Richard Staglon, Rondell McArthur, Rickford Cummings, Peabo Hamilton, Claudius Butts, Patrick King, Avery Corbin, Ronald Mayers, Dwayne Schroeder and Blaise Bailey along with officials Kenneth Grant-Stuart (Coach), Robin Roberts (Manager) and Physiotherapist, Barrington Browne. The team leaves on Sunday.

NBA roundup: Lopez buzzerbeater leads Nets over Pistons The Sports Xchange Brooklyn Nets 98, Detroit Pistons 96 NEW YORK — Brook Lopez capped a 29-point showing with a buzzer-beating jumper to give the Brooklyn Nets a dramatic 98-96 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night. Lopez made 13 of 24 from the field and saved his biggest shot for the final possession after Detroit’s Tobias Harris forged a 96-96 deadlock with an 8-footer. Caris LeVert added 15 points, K.J. McDaniels contributed 11 while Spencer Dinwiddie chipped in 10 and eight rebounds for Brooklyn. Harris scored 24 points for the Pistons, who are 3-11 in their last 14 road games. Caldwell-Pope added 19 and Ish Smith contributed 16 for Detroit. Toronto Raptors 122, Chicago Bulls 120 (OT) TORONTO — DeMar DeRozan scored 42 points, including the go-ahead basket in overtime, for Toronto. The victory snapped the Raptors’ 11-game losing streak to Chicago, including two losses this season. The game was marred by a fight late in the third quarter between the Bulls’ Robin Lopez and Toronto’s Serge Ibaka. Both were ejected. Lopez finished with 12 points and Ibaka had 16 points. Golden State Warriors 112, Dallas Mavericks 87 DALLAS — Klay Thompson led a balanced attack with 23 points that included going

Brook Lopez capped a 29-point showing with a buzzer-beating jumper to give the Brooklyn Nets a dramatic 98-96 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday night. (File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI) 5 of 8 from beyond the arc as Golden State routed Dallas. Steph Curry recorded 17 points and nine assists to help the Warriors win their fifth straight game. Golden State collected 34 assists on 43 baskets. The Mavericks were led by Dirk Nowitzki’s 16 points and nine rebounds. Seth Curry, Steph’s brother, had a disappointing evening, finishing with 10 points on 4 of 12 shooting. San Antonio Spurs 100, Minnesota Timberwolves 93 MINNEAPOLIS — LaMarcus Aldridge scored 26 points, and San Antonio

overcame a nine-point halftime deficit to top Minnesota. The Spurs swept the fourgame season series with the Timberwolves. Kawhi Leonard added 22 points to supplement Aldridge’s big night, and Pau Gasol scored 11 points off the bench for San Antonio. Karl-Anthony Towns had 25 points and 14 rebounds for Minnesota — his 53rd double-double of the season. Andrew Wiggins scored 22 points for the Timberwolves. Miami Heat 112, Phoenix Suns 97 MIAMI — Hassan (Continued on page 27)

Thursday March 23, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Digicel Regional First-Class Cricket

Jaguars moves closer to hat-trick of titles Face Pride today in historic five days four-day game

Shemron Hetymer

Raymon Reifer

Shivnarine Chanderpaul

By Sean Devers in Barbados In association with Stag Beer & Vnet Communications Leaders Guyana Jaguars (103.2 points) and second placed Barbados Pride (87.4) go head-to-head from today in a historic encounter at the Kensington Oval in the 88th First-Class match between the two sides in the eighth round of their Digicel Regional fourday tournament which will be played over five days. For the first time ever a Regional First-Class game will have a rest day to be taken after the penultimate day of

the contest to accommodate the staging of a T20 International between West Indies and Pakistan on the same. In old days of the Shell Shield tournament Barbados dominated the Guyanese with most of their 34 victories coming during that period but in recent times Guyana has registered the majority of their 16 wins. The other 37 games have been drawn. Jamaica is the only team to make 500 this season, but the Jaguars’ 378 against the Red Force at Providence is the second highest total this season and although 42-year-

old Shiv Chanderpaul has been the only Jaguars batsman to score a century, which he did twice, the South American Franchise has registered three a 300 total in addition to 298 against Jamaica at Providence and 293 against the Leewards in St Kitts in their only loss for the season. The last time the teams met the game ended in a draw in Guyana when Shiv Chanderpaul got an even 100 and Shemron Hetymer clobbered three sixes and six fours in 60 as the Jaguars reached 311 in their first innings.

Adjustments made to $8M Guyana Cup Fever Horserace meet With overwhelming supports being received for the upcoming Guyana Cup Fever 2017 horserace meet, the organisers have made a few adjustments to the programme which was recently released. The meet is organised by the Port Mourant Turf Club in collaboration with the Jumbo Jet Auto sales and racing stables and is set for Sunday 16th April at the Port Mourant (Big Yard) Turf Club. Eight races are listed for the day with over $8M in cash, trophies and other incentives up for grabs. The feature event remains for horses classified B1 and Lower for a winning take of $1M over 1900M. The E class event will now be for -The E1 and lower West Indies bred non earners for 2016 and 2017 and E3 US and Canadian bred non earners for 2016 and 2017 over 1200M.

The first prize is $600,000 and trophy. The distance is 1200M which is the distance for all the other races. The 4 year old West Indies bred and G3 and lower event will be going for a winner’s money of $300,000. There is an event for animals classified H3 and lower for a winning money of $275,000 and trophy. Horses classified 3 years old, bred and born in Guyana and those classified I 1and lower will be competing for first prize of $225,000 and trophy. There is another three year old event; this time for Guyana bred maiden horses. The winning take is $220,000 and trophy. There will be a race for animals classified J2 and K with the pole position taking worth $175,000 and trophy. The final race will see the horses classified L Class Open galloping for a take home incentive of $130,000

and trophy. So far all of Guyana’s top stables have indicated their willingness to be a part of the day’s activity with over 20 horses have been entered for the days meet. Top horses, stables and jockeys will be awarded with trophies compliments of Ramesh Sunich of Bourda Market. A number of added attractions and incentives including free kites will be given away on race day. There will also be bouncy castle, trampoline and other attractions for children. Interested persons can contact Chandu Ramkissoon (624-9063 or 608-9063, 2320633), Jingo Jagdeo on 6187278, Ramnauth on 697-1979 or 333-5311 or Amernauth on 649-8231. The coordinator is Nazrudeen “Jumbo Jet” Mohammed Jr. (Samuel Whyte)

Hetymer hammered nine fours and a six in 67 in his second knock but the Jaguars fell for 137 as nobody else reached 15. Veerasammy Permaul took 4-64 in the first innings. The good news for Guyana is that Shiv Chanderpaul has returned after missing the last match to travel to the USA for personal reasons and Heytmer, who has four fifties, is in great form. Fudadin, in his first match for the season, scored a halfcentury as did Romero Shepherd in his second game at this level. Devendra Bishoo showed all-round ability in a responsible 39 as night watchman, while despite nursing a finger injury debutant teenager Kemo Paul made an unbeaten 27. The bad news is that Permaul who captured nine wickets in the last match including a seven-wicket haul, is unavailable due to West Indies t20 duties, while Leon Johnson, their Captain and best batsman apart from Chanderpaul, has not fired in the last two matches, while Bishoo has been below par with the ball against the Red Force. Chanderpaul (509) is one of four batsmen with 500 runs and could be again the glue that holds the Jaguars batting together and could replace Rajendra Chandrika in the side with Fudadin opening with the pugnacious Heytmer. Johnson, Vishaul Singh, Chanderpaul, Raymond Rifer, who continues to contribute with both bat and a ball, Paul, Anthony Bramble, Shepherd and Bishoo gives the Jaguars a powerful batting line-on paper Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie should come

Devendra Bishoo

in for Permaul with Chandrika and new comer Clinton Pestano being the pair on the bench. The Jaguars only need a draw to maintain their lead before heading home for their last two games and their biggest threat against an attack comprising Refier, Shepherd, Paul, Bishoo and Motie, could be openers Anthony Alleyne (523 runs) and Kraigg Braithwaite. Rolston Chase, Kevin

Stout, Shane Dowrich, Shamarh Brooks and Shai Hope will need to support with the bat. The bowling should be done by Test pacer Kemar Roach, their leading wicket-taker with 23 scalps, off-spinners Ashley Nurse and Chase along with left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican. The Bajans will be without Jonathon Carter, Jason Holder and Carlos Braithwaite, who have been selected for t20 International series .

Frankies claim Hunte dominoes crown Frankies marked 81 games to capture the David Hunte dominoes tournament which concluded on Sunday night at Dynasty Sports bar. Providence finished second with 77 games, while C 6 placed third on 64. Godfrey Samuels made 17 and Terry Boyce 14 for the winners, while Andrew Mendonca and Junior Smith got 16 and 15 respectively for the runner up team. Tessa Isaacs was C 6 leading player with 14 games. Meanwhile, the Bel Air Lions Club/Supligen competition continues at 13:30 hrs on Saturday at the Lion’s Club in Campbellville.

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Kaieteur News

All stars capture V Net Communications dominoes in Wakenaam All stars chalked up 78 games to win the final of the V Net Communications dominoes tournament which was contested on Sunday at the Wakenaam Community Centre ground in Good Success. Quick Pick placed second with 65 games, while Sea Wall Boys finished third on 55. Mohamed Kalam and Khemraj Surujpaul scored 14 each for the winners, while Alex Chung and Nazeer Mohamed got 15 apiece for the runner up team. Mohamed Sheriffudeen of Sea Wall Boys was the lone love bird, while Mohamed Kalam was named man of the match for sharing the only love in the final. All stars stormed back from almost certain defeat to top Melville A and Melville B in the semi final. Led by Surujpaul who made the maxi-

mum 18 games All stars posted 73, while Melville B made 63 and Melville A 60. James Ramnarine and Mohamed Zaman supported Surujpaul with 14 and 13 games respectively. In the first round, Seawall Boys made 89 games to beat Melville A 68 and Melville B 64. Quick Pick won their zone with 87 games ahead of All stars 72 and Eastern Wakenaam 62. Krishundat Hansraj of Melville A, Alex Chung and Khemnauth Persaud of Quick Pick and Andrew Osbourne of Seawall Boys were outstanding in the first round scoring the maximum 18 games each. The top three finishers received trophies while the players expressed gratitude to Safraz Sherrifudeen CEO VNet Communications.

Members of the All star team with their accolades.

Head Coach pleased with Jaguars’ Pestano eager to learn from FC environment performance but concerned with conversion rate By Sean Devers in Barbados Fast bowling all-rounder Clinton Pestano, who turned 24 last November, told Kaieteur Sport that he was caught by surprise when Chairman of Selectors and Manager of the Guyana Jaguars team called from Trinidad to inform him that he was selected as the replacement for the team’s leading fast bowler, Keon Joseph who returned home with a knee injury. “Yeah I was surprised to get that news but I intend to make the most of this unexpected opportunity and feel comfortable with the team here,” said Pestano a former Guyana U-19 player. “If I play in Barbados I hope to claim a five-wicket haul and make some runs on my debut and if I don’t play I will certainly use the opportunity to learn something from being in the First-Class cricket set up and touring with the Jaguars,” added Pestano, the latest player to be selected on a senior National Squad produced by the strong Rose Hall Youth & Sports Club’ cricket System. Back in 2012 the youngster, who born in Skeldon in Corriverton, was selected as stand by for the National 50 overs team after playing for the Guyana U-19s and Berbice at the senior inter-county level the same year. Sporting a long ponytail hair style, the fast bowler who has been playing for Rose Hall Town in Berbice cricket since 2010 and Upper Corentyne in the GCB

Clinton Pestano Franchise League, is using this unexpected opportunity to return to local cricket an improved player with increased confidence. The lively Pestano enjoyed a fairly successful GCB three-day Franchise League last season getting a highest score of 87 and a best bowling figures of 4-41. He arrived in Trinidad on Saturday and had the opportunity to bowl in the nets at the Queen’s Park Oval and work on his fitness drills before arriving here with the team on Tuesday. Both Head Coach Esuan Crandon and Griffith said that the versatile Berbician has settled in nicely with the rest of the team. Pestano, who joins Andre Percival, Royston and Esaun Crandon and Assad Fudadin as players from the RHY&SC who have been selected in a Guyana First-Class Squad, is eagerly looking forward to Barbados leg of the tour for the two times defending Champions.

By Sean Devers in Trinidad In association with Cascadia Hotel, Vnet Communications & Stag Beer Head Coach of the Guyana Jaguars, former Guyana pacer Esaun Crandon says he is pleased with his team’s performance in their emphatic 10-wicket win against T&T’s Red Force Monday to take them to 103.2 points, but the Berbician is a bit concerned with the conversion rate of his batsman with only Shiv Chanderpaul converting a 50 into a three-figure score. “Yes! Defiantly, I am very pleased that we performed the way we performed as a team. We played very consistent and individual cricket in the last two matches,” the 35year-old Crandon said. The Head Coach, who took 90 wickets from 38 FirstClass matches, was also impressed by the batting of Assad Fudadin, who scored a responsible half-century in his first match in this year’s tournament after replacing the injured Tagenarine Chanderpaul for this game. He was also pleased by the performance of the new players in the side; Romero Shepherd and Kemo Paul. “Fudadin played a very good innings in his first match back at this level, but he could have gone on to get a big score. I am a bit concerned that only Shiv (twice) has converted good starts into hundreds. Everyone of the batsmen have scored half centuries but only Shiv, the oldest and most experienced batsman in the side has reached a hundred and that is disappointing,” Crandon said. “Shepherd is young and not only has he bowled well

Esaun Crandon

Leon Johnson

but I was also impressed by his maturity during his fifty here in only his second game. I am also pleased with the fighting attitude shown by young Kemo Paul. This was his first First-Class game. He hurt his hand but insisted that he wanted to bat and he played in an important 50-run last wicket stand with Shepherd before he was left not out,” an upbeat Crandon stated. Crandon was also very impressed with the bowling of left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul who took nine wickets against the Red Force including seven in the second innings to take the Man-of-the-Match award. “Permaul was outstanding with the ball as usual and will be badly missed in Barbados for our next match since he has been selected for the West Indies t20 team,” disclosed Crandon. The bowlers need to be more consistent in line and lengths …Permaul bowled tight and took wickets…but overall the bowlers need to bowl more maidens to build

pressure,” said Crandon. While Crandon said the fielding has improved from the Regional Super50 and is not too bad he wants his charges to work a bit harder on their ground fielding. “(Devendra) Bishoo did not bowl well in this game but we all know his capabilities and what he can do. I am confident that he will step up in Barbados especially since Permaul will not be there and he will be expected to do more work with the ball,” revealed Crandon. “Remember that our fastest and best bowler is out with a knee injury and will be badly missed but his absence gives another young fast bowler an opportunity,” added Crandon, Guyana’s most successful First-Class Coach, speaking of West Indies ‘A’ team pacer Keon Joseph who has 24 wickets this season including 7-53 against Jamaica. Joseph has been replaced by fellow Berbician Clinton

Pestano who arrived here last Saturday. Crandon confirmed Shiv Chanderpaul will play in Barbados after missing this game to travel to the USA for personal reasons and was high in praise for the Captaincy of Leon Johnson. “While Leon is going through a bit of a tough time with the bat I believe that one big score will put him back on track. There is no questioning his ability and he has another six possible innings to be among the leading scorers in this tournament,” Crandon opined. The last time Guyana lost a game was six games ago when they lost to the Leewards in St Kitts in the first half of the season and Johnson has joined Clive Lloyd, Roger Harper and Carl Hooper as Guyana Captains with two titles and the only Skipper to win back-to-back titles. Guyana are three matches away from winning a hat-trick of titles and Crandon was high in praise of his Captain. “Leon continues to lead the team very well and a tremendous knowledge of the game, his players and the players around the Region. Leon is a very intelligent leader and to my mind the best Captain in the Region,” Crandon concluded. Team spirit is very high and the young guns have settled in nicely and confidence in the camp seems high going into Thursday’s game in Barbados. Most of the players celebrated their victory with a ‘lime’ at their Hotel on Monday night, organised by former Berbice all-rounder Luke Latiff and his Trinidadian wife.

Thursday March 23, 2017

Kaieteur News

Page 33

Windies begin preparation Windies series vital for Windies series vital for morale, says skipper Sarfraz for Pakistan series morale, says skipper Sarfraz

West Indies … kicked off preparation for Pakistan series yesterday. BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC — West Indies players will assemble here on Wednesday as they begin preparation for their four-match Twenty20 series against Pakistan starting next Sunday. The 16-man squad, headed by captain Carlos Brathwaite, will undergo training sessions today, tomorrow and Saturday, before being whittled down to 13 for the opening encounter at Kensington Oval. The training group includes newcomers

Jonathan Carter, Jason M o h a m m e d a n d Veerasammy Permaul but missing is superstar opener Chris Gayle along with allrounders Dwayne Bravo and Andre Russell. Russell is serving a oneyear suspension for an antidoping whereabouts violation while no explanation has been given by selectors for the exclusion of Gayle and Bravo. Tr i n i d a d i a n B r a v o recently underwent surgery last January for a hamstring injury sustained in the Australia Big Bash but there

has been no indication about the status of his recovery. West Indies will be looking to rebound after suffering a heavy 3-0 whitewash in the recent one-day series against England in the Caribbean. They will also be looking to make amends for a similar whitewash to Pakistan when the two teams last met in the United Arab Emirates last September. The remaining T20s will be played at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad on March 30, April 1 and 2.

Pakistan leave for West Indies series LAHORE, Pakistan, Mar CMC — A confident Pakistan were poised to leave for the Caribbean on Tuesday to begin their limited overs series against West Indies. The touring side, which will be led by captain Sarfraz Ahmed, will contest fourTwenty20 Internationals and three One-Day Internationals from March 26 to April 11. Head coach Mickey Arthur said his side were upbeat ahead of the series and urged them to adopt a positive style against the Windies. “We need to be brave and play a more attacking and exciting brand of cricket,” Arthur said ahead of Pakistan’s departure. Pakistan have been hurt by the non-selection of the likes of Sharjeel Khan and Khalif Latif who has been provisionally suspended on charges linked to spot-fixing during the just concluded Pakistan Super League.

Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur. However, the group will benefit from the presence of skipper Sarfraz and key players like Ahmed Shehzad and Kamran Akmal. Sarfraz is leading both sides for the first time, taking on the responsibility of the One-Day International side following Azhar Ali’s resignation after losing 4-1 in Australia last January. “I am excited to have a new captain in Sarfraz Ahmed,” Arthur said. Pakistan open their tour

on Sunday when they take on West Indies in the first T20 at Kensington Oval in Barbados, before playing the remaining three games at Queen’s Park Oval on March 30, April 1 and 2. The entire ODI series will be played in Guyana from April 22 to May 14. SQUAD: Twenty20 — Sarfraz Ahmed (captain) Ahmed Shehzad, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Fakhar Z a m a n , I m a d Wa s i m , Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Hasan Ali, Sohail Ta n v i r, Wa h a b R i a z , Rumman Raees, Usman Shinwari. One-day — Sarfraz Ahmed (captain), Ahmed Shehzad, Kamran Akmal, Mohammad Hafeez, Babar Azam, Shoaib Malik, Fakhar Zaman, Asif Zakir, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Asghar, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Amir, Wahab Riaz, Fahim Ashraf, Junaid Khan.

Limited overs series against West Indies will be vital for Pakistan’s morale. KARACHI, Pakistan, CMC — Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed believes positive results on the tour of West Indies starting this weekend, will be important in boosting team morale in the wake of yet another cricket corruption scandal. Five players were recently suspended by the Pakistan Cricket Board on charges related to spot-fixing during the just concluded Pakistan Super League, casting a dark shadow once again over Pakistan cricket. Two of the players — Sharjeel Khan and Khalid Latif — were members of the limited overs side and will now miss the Twenty20 and one-day series against West Indies. “ I d o n ’t w a n t t o

comment on the PSL issue but yes, we are going through tough times and we need to do well in the upcoming series to boost our people,” Sarfraz said prior to the team’s departure for the Caribbean on Tuesday. Latif was in good form last September as Pakistan swept West Indies 3-0 in a T20 series staged in United Arab Emirates. The 27-year-old Sharjeel, a dashing lefthander, was in superb oneday form against Australia last January, scoring three half-centuries in five outings despite Pakistan’s 4-1 loss Down Under. Sarfraz admitted that Sharjeel’s free-scoring style, which has already brought him a century and

six half-centuries in 25 innings, would be missed in the Caribbean series. “It’s saddening when you lose some players who are perfect for the setup,” the skipper said. “Sharjeel was the type of player who we needed as he was perfect for the contemporary run-and-gun style of cricket.” Pakistan face West Indies on Sunday in the f i r s t Tw e n t y 2 0 International at Kensington Oval in Barbados before contesting the remaining three games of the series at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad. The three-match oneday series will be played in Guyana from April 711.

Scorpions make four changes for Red Force clash KINGSTON, Jamaica CMC — Jamaica Scorpions have rung the changes for their eighth round game in the Regional four-day championship against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force starting tomorrow in Port of Spain. Missing will be the trio of fast bowler Jerome Taylor, wicketkeeper Chadwick Walton and allrounder Rovman Powell who linked up with the West Indies squad in Barbados yesterday to prepare for the upcoming Twenty20 series against Pakistan. Batsman Shacaya Thomas has also been omitted reportedly with passport problems. As replacements, selectors have called up the

quartet of John Campbell, Trevon Griffith and Oraine Williams and fast bowling all-rounder Derval Green. Batsman Williams is the only one of the four without national senior team experience. “Three of the players have already represented us, so I am looking forward to them making a return and make a contribution,” captain Nikita Miller told the Gleaner newspaper prior to the side’s departure. “As for Oraine, this is his first senior call-up, so if he gets an opportunity one would hope he grabs it with both hands.” Leaders at the mid-season break for the Regional Super50, Scorpions have found

themselves in a slump, losing their last two games since the restart of the competition. They went down by seven wickets to leaders Guyana Jaguars in the sixth round and by 34 runs to Leeward Islands Hurricanes also at Sabina Park last weekend, and now lie third on 78.6 points. Their last three games of the season will be away fixtures. SQUAD — Nikita Miller (captain), Jermaine Blackwood, Damion Jacobs, Brandon King, Andre M c C a r t h y, M a r q u i n o Mindley, Paul Palmer Jr, Rovman Powell, Devon Thomas, Oraine Williams, John Campbell, Fabian Allen, Derval Green.

rt o p S Petra Organisation / GT Beer Futsal Competition

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Enthralling action highlights start of round robin phase - Champs held by inspired Braod Street Bullies

Sparta Boss’s Solomon Austin (blue jersey) seen on the attack in their clash against Agricola Champion Boys Tuesday night at the National Gymnasium.

Bent Street Dwight Peters (orange jersey) tries to dribble past a player from Broad Street during their encounter on Tuesday.

Digicel Regional Edward B. Beharry & Companies First-Class Cricket display more goodwill to GRFU Jaguars moves

- Team leave on Sunday

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closer to hat-trick of titles P.29

Windies begin preparation for Pakistan series P.31

Spencer refutes allegations of anti-doping violation P.28

Edward B. Beharry & Companies Brand Manager Monique Tiwari Hnads over the cheque to Guyana Captain Ryan Gonsalves in the presence of Union President Peter Green (left) and officials and players yesterday.

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