Kaieteur News

A recent Freddie Kissoon column disappointed me DEAR EDITOR, I have a great admiration for Freddie Kissoon. Indeed I save many of his columns. However, every so often he writes a column which disappoints me. His continued defence of those who stayed behind in Guyana and sacrificed versus those who migrated is one such topic. Yes, Mr Kissoon, only 25 Guyanese may have been admitted to the UWI Law Schools. And yes, there are more law places in UK law schools. But there are over 66 million people in the UK. Guyana has 781,000 according to the UN estimate for 2018. The UK is also a highly developed country with a wide range of needs for lawyers of varying specializations. Guyana is not. But, Mr Kissoon, even in the UK not all students who apply are admitted to law school. There are rejections, just as there are in Guyana. But Guyana, like many of our West Indian neighbours,

still has many people who continue to think that if you are “bright” then the only appropriate further education must be in law or medicine. I myself was asked which of the two I planned to study, and not much seems to have changed since then, as I still read of students who do well at the primary-leaving assessment stating that they want to be a doctor (or a lawyer). But even more important than that is the assumption that I see in Mr Kissoon’s articles that those who stayed and sacrificed should somehow be rewarded by being given the important jobs now becoming available. Mr Kissoon, the only reason anyone should be given a job is that he/she is qualified and suitable for the job. Note that I add “and suitable”. I know many people who have the certificates, but who seem never to have learned what a University is supposed to teach - to reason, to analyze, to look for facts to sup-

port any decision. I know two senior lawyers who sat on a constitutional commission where they agreed to a preamble to the proposed constitution which stated “marriage is a union between one born biologically a male and one born biologically a female”. I asked if they were not aware that there can be babies born with ambiguous genitalia. This, mind you, was after the furore over a South African female Olympic athlete who was tested and found to have an XY chromosome, and had undescended testicles in her abdomen; which meant that she was biologically a male. However her birth certificate stated that she is a female, and she grew up considering herself a female, going through all the rites of a female in her ethnic group. According to that preamble, she could not marry a male, because biologically (Continued on page 6)

APNU+AFC Govt. determined ... From page 4 squandered it. The economy has stagnated since May 2015, with 2017 growth being just 2.1%, kept afloat by the continued success of rice. This is only about half of the projected GDP growth of 3.8% that Minister Jordan and APNU+AFC promised the Guyanese people. Against that backdrop, taxation has significantly increased since May 2015, with either increases in existing taxes or newly introduced ones. Guyanese are now being taxed like never in the history of our country, taxed even for water and electricity, donkey carts, house-front vending and backyard cash crops. APNU+AFC even has the temerity to boast that it has increased its tax intake by more than $8B in the first quarter of 2018. We know that the foreign debt today stands at about US$1.6B, a significant increase from the $1.1B in May 2015. We know also that the government, through NICIL, has borrowed $30B (US$150M) to invest in GuySuCo. Given all the borrowing, the foreign debt will undoubtedly surpass the

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

PNC-led debt. It will move Guyana again towards the category of one of the most indebted nations on earth. As it is today, the debt to GDP ratio has already increased from about 44% in 2015 to above 60% today and the debt servicing has increased from about 4% in 2015 to almost 10% today, above the debt-sustainability target 7.7% that the government agreed with the IMF. The remarkable turnaround from the PPP era in managing debt and in establishing a viable and envious macro-economic management scheme, one of the most favorable in CARICOM, in the Commonwealth and among developing countries is presently being squandered, courtesy of the Granger-led APNU+AFC. This government obviously has not learnt the lessons from the late 1980s when Guyana was moved towards debt disaster. This worrisome debt story

has menacing consequences and impact on the economic and social welfare of our country and our people. Oil cannot bail us out of the quagmire that APNU+AFC is sinking us into. Having visibly experienced the tragedy of high debts in the PNC-era, with some of the architects of that tragedy being major players in this APNU+AFC government today, one would have imagined that lessons were learnt. APNU+AFC promised the people change. But given a chance since May 2015, it has pursued a perverted path - to outdo the PNC as an authoritarian “tax, borrow and spend” government. Given the evidence of the last three years, Granger and APNU+AFC will succeed in this endeavour. The problem is that the Guyanese people’s bold struggle to leave poverty behind is suffering another setback and oil will fail to bail us out. Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

Shifting the historical norm in our political system DEAR EDITOR, After Guyana’s 50-plus year history, the politics of the nation has an opportunity to move from politics based on race to politics focused on Economic Development. There are a number of reasons why the state of the economy and economic development will be more of a prominent feature as we continue to develop as a nation. The principal one being the nation’s opportunity to experience an accelerated increase in growth in coming decades if properly handled. Hence, it now becomes more important to go beyond who benefits economically while a particular party is in office, to an orientation which asks and addresses whether the party that will be voted into power is capable of maximizing the economic benefit for the nation as a whole.

This orientation becomes vital as our population continues to remain small and the personal development of each successive generation progresses. Government’s role is to provide the correct balance of investment in both the productive sectors that generate income for the nation and the non-productive support and enabling sectors of the economy, such as health care, infrastructure, schooling and the legal system. Poor governance and corruption will hinder the nation’s ability to achieve this developmental balance efficiently as determined by debt levels, transparency in fiscal governance and the strength of economic growth. In addition, the social indicators of criminal activity and citizen satisfaction will be leading indicators as to where the na-

tion will place internationally in its progress towards first world performance as measured by various international organizations. Good economic management is the order of the day as Guyana continues to compete on the international stage for resources and foreign direct investment. We must ensure that each citizen has a promising outlook for the future and the limited capital resources we have must bring clear returns that allow for long term sustainable development that can capitalize on our limited human resource capabilities. In the productive sectors some of the key considerations going forward are the following: 1. Will sugar rebound and reduce unemployment while (Continued on page 6)

There is now a move to shut down decency in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, After consecutive Governments would have been exposed and confronted for their shortcomings, by the people, via a platform that is not under their utmost control, and one that has a wide viewership and mechanisms that allow for discussion, education and even persuasions, there is now a move to shut down decency in Guyana. The time has finally come when the people will no longer be allowed to voice their dissatisfaction, and that is clear in this Government’s adjustments, and tabling of legislation that the previous administration would have created. The laws tabled by this Government come with a twist, and one that makes everything that led up to this time, become clear. It started with the colour Green, and then the naming and renaming of things after

individuals, instead of using inclusive methods. The methods deployed here were not at all a surprise to me, as a free thinker, I just looked at the comparisons with North and South Korea and knew which direction a PNC-led administration was heading. What I did not expect is the support they received and from whence that support came – yes, it was supposedly by the PPP. These draconian and dictatorial laws that are being forced on the people are in my opinion as a result of a collaborative effort of two Governments – yes, I say two Governments. You expect me to believe, after crying at everything and anything that is done by this Government under the sun, that the PPP just allowed this Government to bring laws like this without noticing it. If it weren’t for one of the

PPP MPs mistakenly exposing this on social media, the people would not have known of the deceit that was afoot, and yes it was a mistake on the MPs part, obviously that individual was not in the loop. The blunder is a classic case of what Governments fear - that there is no control of information even from within. Every individual is essentially now a media entity, and this allows for the administrators’ blunders and mistakes to be seen by the masses at a moment’s notice - in some cases, creating irreparable damage, which Government’s with ignoble (Continued on page 6)

PAGE 6

Kaieteur News

Are we looking at it wrong? DEAR EDITOR, For me, I don’t condone or justify anything bad, but I try my best to at least understand the perpetrator’s perspective. For instance, when a suicide bomber blows up innocent or guilty persons, I feel it for the innocent just as much as I do for the suicide bomber. For me, I try my best to understand how painful a situation that person was going through for them to think that blowing themselves up into pieces is the best way out of whatever it is. I understand the oppression they must be under. I mean, most persons might say they are bad, it’s their religion or culture, or place they’re from. For me, nay, I try to understand that maybe, this person is oppressed. And oppression is worse than death. So in that sense, maybe their only peace is through dying, however they feel to kill themselves, that’s totally within their heads. Not saying it is the right thing to do or wrong thing to do, I’m saying, I understand. Or at least try to understand that level of pain. It is the same for Domestic Violence. It is so easy for us to come up with slogans saying “stop killing our women” or like Mr. Harris’s headline Sunday “Domestic

Violence is so unnecessary.” I personally do not believe in hitting women. I don’t think it’s something to do. I’ve never grown in a home seeing a man hit at my mom, or in no house where the man was hitting a woman, so I can’t say that it’s something I condone. My problem with domestic violence is how no one focuses on the man. How nobody turns to the guy and says, let’s just try to understand his perspective, so we can take a holistic approach to combat this phenomenon. Let’s not shy away from the fact that the men who are being abused by their women literally have no one to turn to. And we can argue that all day, but I don’t write from a professional standpoint that sounds all good and nice, I write from personal physical experience. People literally laugh at the man in this situation - especially some of the police ranks investigating the matter, who turn that entire probe into a worse situation, where the person is made to look like a terrible guy, so that they (investigating ranks) can become intimately involved with the victim. I’ve seen that with my own two eyes. I can go on and on. Some women are out there doing whatever they feel with whoever they feel like while

dragging us along and have us looking like fools. A friend of mine had to pay his wife to end a story in court where he put his hands on her. Let me tell you it. The brother explained to me that he works in the interior, he and his wife got kids and his salary is close to a million dollars. He sees none of it. His boss pays his wife the money. Added to that, he has three cars - one of which is rented, so his wife gets money there too. Upon coming home after his usually six weeks stay, they always take a trip to any Caribbean island of her choice. She was cheating on this husband. I won’t go on to tell you the end of this story; I can tell you that their issue didn’t make the news. But I’ll tell you this, when the guy is punished for this, has to pay fines, lawyer, etc. and the woman is made to walk out of the court with her head held high, then the men aren’t the problem, society is. And until we admit this, we maybe can start a real conversation about combating domestic violence. Let me reiterate, I don’t condone domestic violence in any way, shape or form, but I believe we always give the women the easy road out of things. Jafar Gibbons

Shifting the historical ... From page 5 fostering growth in the economy? 2. Will the nation choose and develop with international business partners who provide healthy and stable levels of return on our investments? This is a question that impacts the oil, rice and bauxite industry directly in the near and medium term. 3. Will regulatory strength be added to the fishing, mining and forestry sectors that allow for long term sustainable investment and the continued development of the sectors? This is also another immediate concern. 4. How well diversified is each revenue stream and how much risk has been reduced during the nation’s development? Our nation’s ability to access international financial markets at low rates will help clarify progress made in this area and will reflect the perception of the level of country risk associated with Guyana. In 2020, a national debate amongst Presidential candi-

dates covering such key economic areas of development (both productive and enabling non-productive sectors) should be required, thus allowing the nation’s citizens to better understand the ability of each candidate and their team to govern effectively. Also, it will make clear what each candidate’s approach to these pressing issues have been and will be going forward. Candidates should also have the opportunity to address new special circumstances such as national security in such a public debate. This will allow the country as a whole to hold each subsequent administration clearly accountable for their actions and performance while in office. The vote of the nation in 2020 should grab the opportunity to transition to a clear competitive structure where each political party will be judged not only on their historical performance, but also on what they plan to do and how they plan to responsibly accomplish their goals while

eliminating corruption. Measuring an administration’s performance while in office using such unbiased economic and social measures will show clearly what they have and how they have accomplished the nation’s development. By using such an open and transparent forum, citizens will also be able to better determine the strength of new political parties and those parties’ ability to set a clear vision for how they will govern. This is becoming more important as more citizens become independent voters with less traditional party bias. Thus shifting the historical norm in our political system and making the electoral process more competitive going forward. With such an increased electoral competitive landscape, the citizens of Guyana will benefit from improved governance and improved economic development. Best regards, Jamil Changlee

Tuesday May 01, 2018

GuySuCo unconscionable to its pensioners DEAR EDITOR, GuySuCo’s Public Relations Officer, Ms Audreyanna Thomas in responding to a picketing exercise by the pensioners of the Corporation at the LBI Community Centre is quoted in the April 28, 2018 Stabroek News as having said that the company’s moves relate largely to “…an increased security measure for both the corporation and as well as for the pensioners”. The GAWU finds Ms Thomas’ expressed rationale not only disingenuous, but that it says a lot about the Corporation’s concerns for its employees, past and present. To date, dismayingly, the Corporation has not seen it fit to engage the pensioners and to get a better understanding of the real challenges they have in going in

the direction the company is foisting on them. Apart from the mental and physical anguish that the Corporation is imposing on its pensioners, no one should in any way discount the financial implications of now going to the banks some distance away from where the pensioners would normally receive their payments. For some pensioners, the cost of travelling to the bank really exceeds the sum they receive from GuySuCo. Then we cannot forget the threat of criminality as we exit the banks. Just weeks ago, the nation would recall the recent shootout between the police and persons on the seawall who allegedly were intending on robbing someone who had just concluded business at a bank.

The Corporation should not look only at serving its self-interest and completely ignore the constraints the pensioners have and would have. It would be wise, in our view, for the GuySuCo to climb down from their perch atop their ivory towers to meet with the pensioners and to listen, with a caring ear and an open mind, about the several difficulties they would have. The intransigent attitude adopted by GuySuCo to these retired workers - some who contributed over four decades of their life to the sugar industry - in their twilight years, to say the least is unconscionable. Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

There is now a move to shut ... From page 5 intentions would prefer not to have. There are issues that have made many supporters of the present Government question the ability of Ministers to effectively hold and perform in office, and causing many to question their allegiances to party. The AFC has lost most of its credibility as a result of persons being afforded a firsthand opportunity to see their true colours and where they continuously fail the people. The AFC, more than anyone, would love to add these laws to the mechanism being put in place to counter dissent. The party has more to lose, due to the constant loss of trust that comes as a result of exposure on social media. Governments that wish not to be accountable have a great fear of social media. It is a platform that changed the way information is shared and allows for the wrongs to be duly exposed. Dictators would prefer for

things to be left the way they are, because with change, persons who previously were infused with propaganda and carried grudges all their lives, could now be re-educated and showed how they were shamelessly deceived. You would wonder why the word Governments comes up so many times in this letter; well, I am speaking here about both the current and previous governments. The PPP still sees itself as a Government out of Power rather than an Opposition representing a people. There is no other reason for them to be part of this for more than two years now, and not bring this most blatantly and dictatorial act of this Government to the People’s attention. For the record, the PPP has four of its MPs sitting on the Special Select Committee. It can only be concluded that the PPP would love to have access to similar laws if it regains power; hence, the

hope that it passes unnoticed. Unfortunately this backfired with the aforementioned blunder on Facebook and they had to kick into high gear to repair and pretend to be representatives of the people… but the damage was done. The people saw them for what they were — a similar type of group waiting to shuffle themselves to the other side of the house. What I can leave with you, the Governments of Guyana, is that anytime those laws are enacted, it will be the beginning of the end of conventional party politics in Guyana. The young open minds will be more receptive to a third force than ever. This tyrannical act, can only serve to solidify the thoughts of the masses who feel the time has come for unhindered freedom of expression and thought, and a meaningful existence. Guyanese Critic Social Activist

A recent Freddie Kissoon... From page 5 she is a male; and she could not marry a female, because her birth certificate, and her whole life, said she is a female. But neither lawyer appeared to have followed the very public discussion on this case, as neither objected to that wording. My point is, if you have the highest degrees available, and if you have made the greatest sacrifices for your country, but you have never acquired the love of learning as you proceeded through the various educational

stages, and you do not read extensively, not just in your degree subject, and not just your home newspapers, you are unlikely to know what new knowledge is available. So Mr Kissoon, if an applicant for the job made sacrifices, I would not consider that a reason to appoint that person. Of far greater importance is whether or not the individual has the knowledge required for the job and, of even greater importance, if that individual has been keeping up with developments that relate

to the job. If someone who stayed home and faced the difficult years, meets those requirements, then yes, by all means appoint that person. If the individual is one of those who acquired a qualification for the status it gives, and has done precious little to stay up to date, then no, I would not like to see that person in a senior position, however many degrees he or she has. And that applies to both the stay at home and the migrant. Pat Robinson Commissiong

PAGE 7

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Jury to decide fate of Pritipaul security guard charged with murder The murder trial of Marlon Callender is set this week, for summing up before Justice Sandil Kissoon, at the Georgetown High Court. Callender , 27, a former security guard attached to Pritipaul Singh’s Investments Inc. (PSI), is indicted for the murder of Envil Pollard called “Elvis” or “Rastaman.” The 45-year-old fisherman and father of eight was said to been fatally shot by Callender, during a confrontation at PSI Wharf, McDoom, East Bank Demerara. Pollard was reportedly shot to the neck and groin with a shotgun. The incident occurred on January 9, 2015.

At the commencement of his trial in the High Court, Callender pleaded not guilty to the charge. The accused further denied the allegation while leading his defence, yesterday. Giving an unsworn testimony, Callender stood in the prisoner’s dock and told the judge and jury that he is innocent of the crime for which he has been charged. He recalled that on the day of the shooting, he did not intend to harm anyone. The accused told the court that when he reported for duty at Pritipaul Wharf, he received a radio message from another security officer that Pollard, called “Rastaman”,

was behaving disorderly. He said that he ventured to the wharf to provide assistance and possibly diffuse the situation. However according to Callender, when he arrived at the area of the wharf, he met with Pollard, who continued to exhibit disorderly behaviour. The accused noted that he was on duty and was armed with a 12-gauge shotgun, which contained rounds of ammunition. Callender claimed that during the confrontation, Pollard who was in fishing boat, continued hurling abusive and threatening language towards him.

Guyana looking to Interpol for DNA testing support - Crime Chief

G

uyana could soon be gaining DNA testing support from Interpol. This is according to Crime Chief, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Paul Williams, who disclosed during a Press Conference yesterday that he has personally solicited support in this regard.A move in this direction was warranted, Williams said, since “we still need to embark upon overseas assistance out of Brazil, the US and so on.” He revealed that last month during his attendance at an Interpol Conference in Argentina, he decided to express Guyana’s interest to gain the much needed support. “During our discussions that is one of the things that I raised in terms of DNA assistance and they said that would be possible,” Williams shared. In this regard, he added, “We will embark on that avenue now through Interpol to see what assistance we can have as it relates to DNA and how fast that can be done to help us solve some matters. Indeed when I went to the CID, I learnt that there are still some matters that are pending, waiting DNA results.” However, Williams’s remarks comes a mere few months after this publication was told with assurance that with a matter of months Guyana’s DNA capabilities will be efficient. It was Director of the Guyana Forensic Laboratory, Mr. Delon France, assured during an interview in February that within four months’ this should become a reality. According to France, “We have already got approval from the Government and the Inter-America Development Bank (and) a supplier (for the equipment) has already identified. We are at the final stage, where the documents have been signed for the equipment to be supplied to do DNA testing.” Mr. France estimates that Guyana will have DNA testing capability by June. Training of staff will also be completed by then. The

Crime Chief, Paul Williams equipment will have the capacity to conduct test on eight samples at a time. DNA evidence was first collected here and sent overseas in 1993 for the still-unsolved Monica Reece case. DNA samples tested overseas also helped to confirm the identity of Babita Sarjou, whose skeletal remains were found behind her husband’s Lot 51, Seaforth Street residence in May 2016. Similar samples sent to an overseas lab also helped confirm the identity of secondary school teacher, Nyozi Goodman, whose remains were found at Pattensen, Turkeyen, in 2016. But the prohibitive cost, and the lengthy time that they have often had to wait for results, has always presented a challenge to investigators. It costs Guyana an estimated $1.75M to have just one DNA sample transported and tested overseas.”This includes air fare; someone has to take the samples and also bring them back,” France said.He estimates that it will cost an estimated US$400,000 to have Guyana’s DNA unit set up. But he predicts that “it would be cheaper in the long run,” for the tests to be done locally.

Cop shoots self A Police Subordinate Officer is now a patient at the Mabaruma Hospital, Region One, after reportedly shooting himself. According to a police release, the wounds appeared to be self-inflicted. From investigations, he sustained the gunshots when he attempted to put an unlicensed firearm in his pants waist about 10:30 hours at a location called Whitewater, Region One. The firearm which was retrieved by an army

lieutenant at the location, had no serial number. Police said that five live rounds and a spent shell were also found. The Subordinate Officer and a Constable are part of a joint police/army patrol presence in the area. ”Arrangements are being made for a Senior Detective from Criminal Investigation Department, Headquarters, to proceed to the area and commence investigation,” the police said.

Dead: Envil Pollard

Accused: Marlon Callender

He said that he cautioned Pollard to desist from behaving disorderly but the man continued. The accused said that several minutes into the confrontation, the accused climbed on to the wharf with a knife in his hand. At this point, Callender told the Court that he again warned the man to remove from the wharf but he refused. It was then, that the accused claimed that the man began advancing towards him with the weapon. He said he felt threatened and he fired a warning shot but the man did not back down. He said he therefore fired another shot; this time it hit Pollard and stopped him in his tracks. Callender told the court that he was only trying to

protect himself while performing his duties. He expressed regret that it cost a life. During his closing address to the jury, Attorney-atlaw, Everston Lammy-Singh, essentially stated that his client (Callender) was acting in the execution of his duty when he fired the shot, which unfortunately lead to Pollard’s death. The lawyer told the court that based on the evidence” it is clear” that his client did not intend to kill or cause any grievous bodily harm to the fisherman. State Prosecutors Lisa Cave, who is presenting the case in association with Attorney Mandel Moore, dismissed the defence as rubbish. The Prosecutor noted

that the defence account of what happened on the day that the fisherman was shot, “just does not add up.” Cave noted that the fisherman was a significant distance away from the accused, when he shot him. She noted that based on the evidence, the shooter was standing on the wharf and the fisherman was in a boat which was some distance away in the river. “Members of the jury, did you ever hear of the saying, you don’t take a knife to a gunfight? Well that is exactly what happened here. “Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, this accused expects you to believe that he was threatened by man who had a knife in his hand. That man was in a boat, which was several feet away from where he was standing with a shotgun in his hand.” The Prosecutor pointed out that it was impossible for the fisherman to have been on the wharf because his body was recovered nowhere close to the wharf, but in his fishing boat. Cave therefore contended that the “trigger happy accused” would have intended to shoot and cause grievous bodily harm to Pollard. The Prosecutor asked the jury to take all the factors into consideration when determining the fate of the accused. The case will be placed before the jury for deliberation, when the matter resumes on Wednesday.

PAGE 8

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Getting answers from accounting officers is like pulling teeth - PAC Chair …Plans to have the officers take are deliberate in their withThe Public Accounts oath ersholding Committee (PAC) is moving to of information. It implement a plan to have accounting officers take an oath when they appear before the committee to be questioned about Government funds. PAC Chairman, Irfaan Ali, told reporters at the end of another grueling session, yesterday, that from time to time the committee encountered difficulties where accounting officers deviate from the wholesomeness of answers and they change their answers when pressed in different corners. “The oath will remind accounting officers and all those who are giving evidence before the PAC. It would remind them of the seriousness of the information they are presenting. “They way they are presenting the information and the truthfulness of the information and answers they give to PAC. In this regard, the oath will serve as a reminder as an enforcement mechanism as it relates to the information that is provided to the PAC,” Ali explained. During the hearing, Ali repeatedly reminded officials from Region Ten, Upper

PAC Chairman, Irfaan Ali Demerara-Berbice that they were before the PAC and warned about the answers they were providing to the Committee. Asked if getting answers was like pulling teeth, Ali replied, “Sometimes, it takes a lot of probing.”He added, “Sometimes it takes a lot out of the members because to prepare for a meeting is not just turning up. You have to read the report; you have to understand the issues. “Sometimes accounting offic-

takes a lot of probing and that is what takes up a lot of the time.” He stated that the PAC would like accounting officers to share information in a wholesome way and with general honesty that is required in answering questions, According to Ali, the Standing Orders of Parliament provide for persons coming to give evidence before the PAC that they subscribe to an oath. “An oath is just like any other oath that you take in a court of law and anywhere else. The same conditions that govern an oath there governs an oath that you take when you come before the PAC. “You have repercussions for an oath. An oath is an oath whether it is taken in here or in a court for example. The oath has the same weight and consequences,” Ali noted.According to Ali, the next PAC report, which will be tabled in the National Assembly will include the recommendation for the accounting officers to take an oath going forward.

Gunmen open fire in Leopold Street

Police officers on the scene in Leopold Street after the shooting.

A

round 10:00am yesterday, gunfire erupted in Leopold Street, Work-enRust after gunmen opened fire on a security guard who was transporting cash. However, residents in the community are saying that the incident is said to have occurred as a result of a brawl which stemmed from an old grievance. Around 12:00pm yester-

day, officers from ‘A’ Division were searching an empty lot close to where the shooting occurred for what persons said may have been a gun that was used in the shootout. As usual, residents in the area were tight-lipped about what transpired. However, one person familiar with the matter revealed that the shooting occurred because of an incident, which

happened on January 17, when a woman was left wounded after she was shot during a drug-related drive-by shooting. The resident said that the shooter refused to pay after the matter was settled out of court, but persons insisted that she be paid her money. The resident said that there is also a fight between (Continued on page 24)

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 22

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Crime Chief... FOR RENT

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK;Guyanapassport application. G r a p h i c s design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6004212: We create A/works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Installations, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc call Nick 627-3206, 630-1600 Budram’s Landscaping Services. Free advice, Free designs, Free after care follow up Tel#626-1044 Farmers and foodmakers, showcase your product for export for free, log on to www.foodformouth.com

EDUCATION CSEC 2018 special offer, Diploma in computers, 9 courses $40,000 computerized accounting $40,000. MicroGraphics Vreed-en-hoop #264-3057 Study in Canada/US 100% acceptance limited space, MicroGraphics #264-3057 Register your child for after school classes for slow learners in Mathematics, Reading, Phonics, Spelling, etc. Call: 675-4379 Jos-el Educational Institute Solicits: Day care, Nursery, Primary G1/G5 Business teachers. Call: 226-7794/6780652

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Cottage house, 2 bedroom, living room, kitchen, dining room located @ Fourth St Pearl, EBD Tel# 219-5462, 625-3981 Organic potting soil $700 Supari palm, Foxtail, Sugarcane palm @ $1000 Ashoka trees, Crotoons. Tel#626-1044

Lamaha Gardens, unfurnished 3 bedroom US$1200. Contact:641-0819 Fully furnished 2 & 1 bedroom apartment Diamond/ Providence for rent. Whatsapp only +12468339739 or after 5 pm #660-7716 Apartment to rent at 138 Garnett Street, Kitty. Tel#2262421 Prime Office on Camp Street, next to Shell gas station #6447724/639-4499/622-9560. Space to rent, display rack, computers and office Antiques, single beds, centre furniture for sale. Contact: tables, divider, 3 pc suite, 624-6783/664-1070 Office space to rent at 43 Croal plants etc. Tel# 662-9832 St, Stabroek. #225-3269/6728599 LAND FOR SALE Parfaite main road $1.5M $2.3M $1.3M $1.7M Eccles $6M Providence $3.5M Tuschen House $5.5M $3.5M. SALON Call: 666-2326 Make-up Courses with Mac, Diamond $4.5M (50x100) Bare Minerals, etc. Uivlugt $2.6M Schnoord - Cosmetology Courses: $90,000 - $2.6M Zeelugt $1.4M Nail Technician Course: $35,000. Stuartville Public road $10M Call: 647-1773/688-0009 $20M Tuschen $5M Call:6662326 PEN PAL PROPERTY FOR SALE Male seeking female friend. Call: 684-3613 Lot 15 Public road #2 Village. West Coast Berbice. 49ft by 10,314ft. $18M. Contact:6487109/686-4818 Two Family house located at 8th street, Tuschen, East Bank E s s e q u i b o . Price:$13,000,000(Thirteen Million) Call: 675-1430 CAR RENTAL Mon Repos (Melsha Road) PROGRESSIVE CAR $7.8 Million. #647-2303/616RENTAL: CARS FROM 1195. $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER TO LET DAY- CALL:643-5122/ Furnished House in AA 6 5 6 - 0 0 8 7 , Eccles. Tel# 629-0636/623,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO 7731 RENTAL@YAHOO.COM VACANCY If you need a job or training, we can help www.jobfairworldwide.com Call: 233-6997, 622-1957

VEHICLE FOR SALE (1) 2006 Toyota Premio, Excellent condition, very low mileage. Call: 698-1134

TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620

Nissan Laurel Classic Car and Nissan Pathfinder JeepSuperb condition, Great deals. Call : 660-3415/225-8427 FOR SALE/RENT American Pool Table Tel#277-0578

Cook or chef to work at Xenon Hotel in Charity, Essequibo. Kindly contact: 223-5273/74 Surveyor must know to use a GPS. Contact: 223-5273/74 Labourer/Porter to work in Georgetown. Call: 618-2020 (1) Supervisor for farm. KuruKuru Linden, Soesdyke Highway, must have experience, literate & physically fit. Age 30 & over. Tel#219-0468

WANTED Wanted experience hire car driver at Ramada Princess hotel, Providence. Contact: 616-5419/265-7076 Hire car owners to work at GR taxi (lots of work available). Contact Ganesh: 614-6202 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic- Call: 223-7500 Monday to Saturday 8:15am4:15pm 1 cook wanted #226-0554/6238654 Dishwasher. Apply @ Shanta’s 225 Camp St. Legal Secretary/Typist must have CXC English and be Computer Literate. Tel#6009030 Mangal Vulcanizing Est & Tyre Mart, 68 Herstelling Public road EBD. Tel#6918430/265-4016. Tyre Shop workers. Responsible hire car drivers. Tel#231-7200 Experience workers for land dredge. Tel: 672-3359 Plantation Friendship CDC is hiring residents in Friendship Village EBD to clean drains. Contact: 662-5133 (1)Electrician apprentice #6177493/682-2971 Wanted urgently1 experienced Industrial electrician must have knowledge of motor rewinding.Please call: 6449084 or 664-9635

VACANCY Desk staff, Room attendant, temporary washer, ages 25-45 years old. 233 South road #225-0198 Articulated dump truck & excavator operators,cook & cleaner for interior location. Call: 618-2020 Experienced male sales attendant, stocktaking knowledge, computer literate, excellent service attitude, able bodied. Key Food McDoom Village. (1) Manager to work on a farm in Pomeroon. Accomodation provided, Agricultural background is an asset. Contact: 500-5923 Experienced Handyman/ Porter ablebody all-rounder, apply with written application/ recommendation @ Keyfood McDoom Village.(Age 20-30) Office clerk Senior/Junior CXC English/Mathematics, Computer knowledge an asset, Call: 223-7500

From page 14 has taken us around a journey, finally he sustained and maintained a particular location.” But the location in question has not yet been thoroughly searched since, according to Williams, “We have encountered some challenges because of the weather but we are going to pursue that location again.” Williams did not divulge the precise location, which he described yesterday as “a crime scene.” Shortly after Savory's disappearance, the police issued wanted bulletins for Patrick Bannister and his wife, Ritesha Rahaman. Savory and Rahaman were said to be best friends. Just after the wanted bulletins were issued, investigators went to the couple's home at Belle West and dug up the concrete floor of the one-bedroom shack after they were informed that Savory might have been buried there. However, nothing was found. According to Williams, yesterday, “Those two persons, I have learnt from the detective, are still persons of interest.” The detective who Williams was making reference to at the time was Detective Prem Narine, who along with two others, Devon Lowe and Suraj Singh, has been tirelessly working the Savory case. Despite regarding the case as “solved”, Williams yesterday said that investigations are ongoing. But it is believed that the matter could have been in its current stage even before Williams assumed the position of Crime Chief. Williams was appointed to act in the capacity towards the end of 2017 but was confirmed to the position in January. He, however, tactically responded to a question which sought to ascertain what hindered detectives from solving the case last year. Williams's response was, “I wouldn't want to go back there. Believe you me...I'm not here to hit at no body, I am here to go forward and whatever may have happened then to cause any reluctance or delay, I overlooked that. I am now sitting in the chair as the Crime Chief and whatever matter comes to my attention, I will ensure that it moves apace.” Also taking the spotlight yesterday with the Crime Chief and the detectives, was Ms.

Dianne Madray, of 'Let the Women Speak' movement formerly 'Caribbean America Domestic Violence Awareness' [CADVA]. Even as she stressed the need for more persons to take action when it comes to domestic violence, Madray asserted, “It is not just the government's responsibly but all of us...taking action including our families; [if] you say nothing and you do nothing, you will get nothing. Therefore don't complain, it is not the government's responsibility.” According to Madray, who was also in the forefront of a similar [Babita Sarjou] murder case which police solved in 2016, the lending of support and partnership to the Major Crimes Unit has been a key factor in realising the desired result. She especially lauded Crime Chief Williams for adopting an open-door policy that allowed for the necessary actions to be taken. “Upon meeting Mr. Williams, I saw a man who was open to listening and providing any assistance from his team to open the Shanett Savory case.” “This case did not begin under Mr. Williams's watch but from April 16, 2018, less than two weeks, suspect Devindra Ramdiah was apprehended and provided a confession.” Madray revealed yesterday too, “This suspect went unnoticed despite the family's plea and statements that this individual should have been a person of interest back in 2016.” It is believed that Savory had shared a relationship with the accused. According to Sarjou, the investigating team worked non-stop, even on the weekends, despite their heavy workload and lack of resources to get investigations done in a timely, efficient and effective manner. In tears, mother of the still missing woman, Dhanrajie Murray, who resides in the United States, expressed hope that the police force's impending search would unearth her daughter's remain. This, the woman believes, will help her to find closure. She disclosed yesterday that when given an opportunity to face the accused, he begged for her forgiveness, a development, which might have further helped to solidify the Police Force's case.

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Today, we at Kaieteur News join the working class of our nation to observe Labour Day, a day set aside to truly recognise their contributions.Also standing in solidarity with the workers of our nation are the following organisations:

Guyana Agricultural And General Workers Union As we celebrate Labour Day 2018, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is pleased to extend militant greetings to all our workers, indeed, to all Guyanese. Labour Day is one of the few holidays observed internationally and is always a reminder of those of the working-class who have made invaluable contributions to better workers lives. It is also the occasion for the working-class to acknowledge its common objectives and recognize the need for solidarity in their ever-sharpening struggles for a peaceful world and a better life. Our Union is pleased to take part in this year’s activities, which are being held unitedly by the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) and the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC). The main rally in the city is one of the several activities, which have resulted from the improved collaboration and co-operation between the two (2) workers’ bodies. We are optimistic that this positive development in the relations between FITUG and the GTUC will be strengthened in the period ahead. Labour Day offers another appropriate occasion to

express our concerns over some policies being pursued of recent and their effects on the working people of the country. Here we refer to the uncalled cessation of the Education Grant to school children; the removal of subsidies from Old Aged Pensioners; the significant increases in licences and other fees; the increase in certain taxes as well as the introduction of new taxes. These and other things should be reviewed with a view to restore those benefits and rescind those measures, which will certainly further raise the cost-of-living. As we celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of workers, we cannot fail to take note of the state our workers find themselves in today. From the recently released Guyana Labour Force Survey, we see a very discouraging picture. Apart from telling us that less than half of the working-age population is actually employed, it provided some very worrying statistics concerning youth and female unemployment and the disparity in earnings between men and women. For us, it is very vexing that notwithstanding a national 40-hour work week, workers are working beyond the stipulated time which serves to indicate that low rates-of-

pay are being offered and the workers must work the extra hours in order to make ends meet. The report also pointed out that about 50 percent of those employees who work in the informal sector. The ILO has generally warned that such situations should not be encouraged as workers tend to be exploited and such precarious forms of employment tend to lend to increased impoverishment. On this score, we were very surprised, and at the same time upset, to learn that 8.8 percent of public sector employees appear to have an informal job. If this is indeed the reality, it is sad that our Government is encouraging such employment relations and should take every step to formalize the situation. The Trade Union Movement, indeed, the working-class and other working people have a number of matters to reflect on, discuss and seek to resolve. With the unity being enforced, we are optimistic that we can give, in a principled way, the necessary leadership to meet the challenges before us. The GAWU is sure, that together, in our unity, we can overcome obstacles in our way and the Trade Unions can make a major contribution towards a new day and a better society for our people.

Grieving family baffled over Better Hope contractor shooting

T

he grieving family of 39-year-old Daniel Nandlall, a Better Hope contractor who was gunned down last Saturday in a suspected robbery said that they are baffled over what may have caused someone to want to kill him. Still searching for answers, a family member said she has no idea who the persons are that went to Daniel Nandlall’s home last Saturday and shot him since they were wearing “hoodies.” She said that the family still has not heard anything from police officers about the matter. Meanwhile, one officer familiar with the case told this publication that no one has been arrested and that the matter is being investigated.Three days ago, Nandlall, a 29year-old construction worker was gunned down around 23:15 hours at his Better Hope, East Coast Demerara home, allegedly by two men who fled the scene on bicycles. Nandlall was shot in the lower back shortly after a relative heard him conversing with someone at the gate. Nandlall’s cousin, Alisha Douglas, said she, Nandlall and some other family members were sitting outside conversing at around 23:15 hrs. While she did not hear what the

People’S National Congress Reform THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) joins all Guyanese workers in celebrating Labour Day 2018. This is usually the occasion when the workers of the world and the organisations, which represent them, take stock of their situations and conditions and resolve to take strong and determined actions to ensure that their gains are preserved, and that the fight continues for a better future. On this occasion, the PNCR recognises the critical role that Trade Unions have played in the political, economic and social

development of the country and asserts that such a role can only continue if the Trade Union Movement as a whole remains united and protect the interests of the workers of this country. The Party also admonishes the Trade Union Movement to recognise that the current era demands that Trade Unions must make necessary adjustments to cope with the existing and emerging challenges, so that they can survive and remain relevant.The PNCR salutes the workers of this nation as we work together to create a more cohesive and prosperous Guyana where all

can achieve the promised “good life.” The PNCR asserts that such a society can only come about if the Trade Union Movement as a whole is united and protect the interests of the workers of this country.The PNCR started as a working-class Party and will never give up fighting for the workers. The PNCR most of all remains committed to achieving national unity and to building bridges to all communities, organisations and groups which are interested in the well-being of our citizens and the progress of our country. Solidarity forever!

People’S Progressive Party for Labour Day 2018 The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend warmest greetings to all categories of workers and labour leaders throughout the nation on this the occasion of International Workers’ Day or Labour Day, as it is commonly known here. This significant day, which celebrates the important resource of human labour, allows for workers to rally in solidarity with each other and to further highlight their invaluable contributions to development to Guyana, as well as highlight their gains and challenges in their quest for advancement. The contributions of workers, which have been the bedrock towards the many struggles for the betterment of lives of our countrymen and women, sometimes go unheralded. Had it not been for their selfless efforts, it

would have become difficult for our achievements over time. The PPP therefore salutes their resoluteness, dedication, innovativeness and forthrightness for the hard work and sacrifices they continue to perform and make each day for their families and all the people of our country. Our Party is not oblivious of the numerous burdens they are now made to carry; as a result of the inept management of the national economy and the harsh measures meted out to them. With the implementation of a plethora of new taxes, a contracting economy and rising costs of living, our nation’s workers are now made to experience tremendous difficulties to provide for their families. This harrowing situation is even more heart-wrenching for the thousands of sugar

workers who lost their jobs following the callous closure of some estates. The economic hardships that they are now saddled with have led to them being humiliated and an exacerbation of social ills with numerous negative impacts. As workers march in solidarity on this Labour Day, their plight and that of their compatriots will no doubt be foremost through their voices. The PPP will continue to stand in solidarity with workers in every stratum in our society and to robustly and fearlessly represent their cause. The PPP, mindful of the difficulties that our workers are now enduring, hopes that in some way, the observances of this May Day will be rewarding.Once again best wishes to our workers on this their day.People’s Progressive Party

Contractor paid $3.2M after ... From page 21 terminated in November, 2017. According to Peters, about 70% of the work has been completed. “So you proceeded to pay the contractor after the bond would have expired. We have just established that the Region proceeded to pay the contractor after the bond was expired. I don't know how we deal with this, but this makes the issue very complicated for

Daniel Nandlall person was saying, she heard Nandlall say, ”Come back tomorrow, the man ain’t deh home.” She added that she then heard a loud explosion. The woman said when she looked outside, she saw her cousin lying on the floor with blood gushing from his lower back. Daniel Nandlall later succumbed at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) while receiving medical attention.

us,” Ali stated.It was revealed that the contractor remained on the job beyond the contract extension. “Mr. Chair, as with the bond, it was an oversight,” Peters explained. This drew a strong rebuke from the Ali. “An oversight that the contractor remained on the job after the contract would have come to an end. The first thing you have to do is get approval

for the extension of the contract. Something does not seem right with this one,” Ali stated. He then adjourned the meeting, telling the Regional officials that they will have to reappear before the Committee. Other Regional officials who appeared before the PAC included current REO, Orlin Gordon, and embattled former REO, Gavin Clarke.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Pensioner loses home in Crabwood Creek blaze The blaze yesterday.

A 79-year-old pensioner is contemplating his next move after the building he once called home went up in flames. Reports are that Lalman Bhola, of Lot 89 Grant 1802 Crabwood Creek, Upper Corentyne left a stove alight

and unattended while cooking when the fire erupted approximately 1:30 pm. A resident from the area disclosed that Bhola told them that he was cooking but left the contents boiling which “dried out” and later caught

fire. The two-storey wooden structure was completely destroyed. Fire fighters who were summoned arrived shortly after but by the time they arrived, the blaze had already ripped through the building.

Car batteries tied to crewmen’s legs... From page 3 heard that my son was missing. I cried all night, and keep crying. I want to see my son. The family in Guyana, among whom his father and brothers are crying,” says Joan Parris. She wants to know news of her 21-year-old son Glenroy Jones, who is miss-

ing. The De Ware Tijd reported that the search involved officials from the Coast Guard, the Maritime Police, the Navy and fishermen. This has not been the first case of a pirate attack. In the past, fishermen from both Guyana and Suriname have been accusing each

other of piracy. A joint task force between the two countries, including security officials, was able to crack a number of pirate gangs forcing incidents down in the last two years. This particular attack would by any level be one of the worst.

Gunmen open fire in Leopold ... From page 8 gangs as to who can sell drugs in the area. Despite suspicions of a robbery, the resident refuted that there was any; she said that specific persons were targeted because of a drug-related matter. The shooting is reportedly gang-related and stemmed from an argument between two men a few hours earlier.It was reported that after the argument, one of the men came back with a group

of men and dealt several chops to his aggressor and then opened fire.The woman who was struck by the bullet was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where she was treated. However, the Police, in a release said investigation revealed that around 9:30hrs yesterday at Leopold Street, an alleged robbery under arms was committed on Wendel Maynard, a 35-yearold security guard of South

Ruimveldt.The release stated that initial investigations reveal that the victim was about to escort cash from a business location when he was pounced on by three armed men, who gun-butted him and demanded the cash. A licensed firearm holder discharged a round at the suspects.The suspects, in their haste to escape with the cash on motorcycles, discharged several rounds. The matter is being investigated.

PAGE 25

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Stringent policing needed to protect Guyana from oil companies’ excessive debt financing - GRA Boss

Y

esterday, Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Godfrey Statia, acknowledged that the road ahead is no easy one as the Authority gets ready to police the oil industry. However, he said that it is always easier to get where you are going if you have direction. The Commissioner General said that his agency has direction; it knows what are the things needed to be done to help Guyana secure its right share of revenue from the oil industry. Statia said that one of the major things that his agency needs to do is to develop capacity to protect Guyana from excessive debt financing. The Commissioner said this at an informative session on oil and gas for private sector members held by the Consultative Association of Guyanese Industry at the Marriott Hotel. Statia said that the oil

industry has a lot of good to offer Guyana but there are also some risks. He pointed to several other countries that are worst off with oil. Statia said that it is not unusual for multinationals to incur legitimate costs in the form of business overheads for services such as accounting, human, marketing, procurement, IT etc. He said that these costs, however, should be fair, reasonable and in line with arm’s length principles. The Commissioner said that excessive debt financing, and recoverable interest should also be subjected to scrutiny and be subjected to limitations especially so when the loan transactions are between affiliated or associated companies. Statia said that thinly capitalized positions in the absence of rules aimed at limiting interest claims will be challenging and will require stringent policing efforts by the GRA. Guyana has committed to

GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia

paying all the interest on loans secured to fund operations at the Stabroek Block. The 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that Guyana signed with ExxonMobil states that ExxonMobil will be able to recover the cost of “interest, expenses and related fees incurred on loans raised by parties comprising the contractor for petroleum

operations and other financing cost provided that such expenses, fees and costs that are consistent with market rates.” Similar provisions are in other contracts that Guyana has with various oil companies. The provision is very broad and covers any cost that a company may incur for petroleum operations and even “other financing.”

IMF thinks that this provision can prove to be disadvantageous to Guyana. The international body said that the treatment of interest expenses in the ExxonMobil/ Guyana contract appears to be generous. The fund said that the treatment of interest expense is important because “excessive or abusive use of debt can have a detrimental impact on the amount of profit oil to be shared between the government and the contractor. “The mission understands that in Guyana, PSA interest expenses, irrespective of the source of financing, are permitted to be recovered provided that such expenses are consistent with market rates.” IMF noted that interest payments are exempt from withholding taxes, providing yet another incentive for contractors to finance their costs with debt. Further, IMF said that it is quite common to have

limitations on interest deductibility. Some countries disallow interest expenses or limit the amount of debt permitted for cost recovery purposes through caps on debt to equity ratios or earning stripping rules. The international body said that other countries may prescribe that interest may be deductible only on borrowing to fund development costs or a maximum percentage of such costs. IMF pointed to Uganda’s model PSA, which allows interest on loans (from any source) to finance development operations only up to 50 percent of the total financing requirement. Interest on loans to finance exploration is not allowed. In many cases, oil companies, which form a consortium for a project, would borrow from their parents companies. And there are innumerable case studies which show that it is in these instances, corruption takes place.

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Tuesday May 01, 2018

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

Dominant Rafael Nadal Closing In On FIFA names 13 World Cup VARs; Roger Federer In Money Rankings nine from UEFA, none from England APR Sports Money Rafael Nadal is closing in on Roger Federer as the season’s top earner on the men’s tennis tour after the Spaniard won his second straight clay-court title in Barcelona. The 31-year-old Spaniard has been in top form this season on his beloved red clay, winning his eleventh title in Monte Carlo just over a week ago, followed by an easy defeat of young Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas in the finals of B a r c e l o n a o n S u n d a y, where he dropped just three games on the way to his eleventh crown. The 36-year-old Federer, who started the

season by successfully defending his Australian Open title, is skipping Roland Garrros, which starts at the end of May, to rest and prepare for his title defense on the Wimbledon grass in July. Here is a look at the top 5 money earners in 2018 on the men’s tour (as of April 30, 2018): 1. Roger Federer, Switzerland: $4,336,500 2. Juan Martin Del Potro, A rg e n t i n a : $2,199,566 3. Rafael Nadal, S p a i n : $2,117,558 4. Marin Cilic, Croatia: $1,911,739 5. John Isner, US:

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) If you happen to be training for a new trade, learning a new technique, or perhaps you're being evaluated after an internship period, you can expect these pursuits to conclude on a high note.

ESPN - No English officials will be among the 13 video assistant referees (VARs) taking part in the World Cup this summer, with FIFA citing a lack of preparation and experience as the main reason why they were not selected. FIFA said the criteria for selection as a VAR was based upon experience as video officials in national associations as well as their participation in preparatory seminars sponsored by the organisation. Nine officials were appointed from European g o v e r n i n g b o d y U E FA , with three from Italy and two each from Germany and Portgual — countries whose top-flight leagues have implemented the technology. The other two European officials are from Netherlands and Poland, which have adopted it for cup competitions. Three other VARs were chosen from South America — one each from Bolivia, Brazil and Argentina, with the last coming from Qatar. The VAR system has generated lots of debate in its worldwide trials, with some arguing it has created additional controversy rather than reducing it. FIFA has selected 36 referees and 63 assistant refer-

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Although you might find the day ahead somewhat stressful, it's a key day in your professional evolution. Since you've lacked inspiration lately

James Harden...

$1,705,25 S o u r c e : AT P Wo r l d Tour With a whopping $7 million in prize money on offer this clay-court season from five of the biggest events, including $2.2 million for a successful defense of his tenth French Open title in June and a c o m b i n e d $2.6 million for next week’s Madrid Masters and the Italian Open the week after, the top-ranked Nadal is likely to have overtaken the secondranked Federer as the 2018 top earner in the men’s game by the time the clay season draws to a close.

Tuesday May 01, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today's planetary energies will be very demanding, Aries. As you agonize over whether or not you're up to “standard," the planets, in a very cheeky way TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You seem to want to become old and wise before your time, Taurus. Today's aspects will take you by the hand and lead you back into the heat of the action GEMINI (May 21–June 20) There is some probability that you'll want to escape from reality today, Gemini. You aren't anxious to face a situation that demands that you commit yourself. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You face a day of some conflict. Nevertheless, the discord will prove quite useful. This is probably one of the best opportunities in recent weeks to become aware of some family matters.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Today the celestial energy will be trying to teach you something, Sagittarius, specifically, how to share with others. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today's energy will be making you think only about your relationships, Capricorn. It isn't easy to have relationships with others, as you may have noticed.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) If you admit you've made a mistake, people are more likely to forgive you. You have a confrontational day ahead, Leo.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Some of your demons may come back to haunt you today, Aquarius. You could find yourself battling some of those same old doubts and insecurities that you thought you'd left behind.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may have been wishing for some recognition and appreciation lately. Perhaps you had your eye on a promotion at work. The day ahead will show you which path will be the most productive.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) It might seem like you no longer completely believe in what you're doing, perhaps because you've been going a little too quickly in your quest to get what you need. It's very possible that your social life has slowed down

From page 28 head of the field for the second with the Ferrari behind and Hamilton third. The German overcooked an attempt to pass Bottas at the second re-start, with Hamilton and Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen going through as he went wide. Bottas retired with a puncture three laps from the end.

Winter, Raekwon... From page 33 breaststroke in 1:35.81. Zara Crane bagged the girls 9-10 200 SC M IM in 3:24.15 and the girls 9-10 100m breaststroke in 1:39.32. GASA has expressed gratitude to Banks DIH, Bounty Farm Ltd., Chris Auto Sales and Spares, Dapper Technology, Fair Field Rice Inc., Hose and Bolt, Maggie’s Snackette and Catering Massy Distributor, Umami and Dolphin Swim Family. (Zaheer Mohamed)

The FIFA World Cup trophy ees — 10 referees and 20 assistants are from UEFA — and some officials will also be given VAR appointments prior to matches. The VAR team will be located in a centralised video operation room in Moscow and has access to all relevant

broadcast cameras and two dedicated offside cameras, FIFA states on its website. There will be one VAR and three assistant VARs for each match at the tournament, which begins when hosts Russia play Saudi Arabia in Moscow on June 14.

PAGE 28

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Kaieteur News

Guyanese Badminton players attend Players Camp in Guatemala Many of the best badminton players in Central America and the Caribbean enjoyed a training camp, organized by Panam Sports and the Badminton PanAmerican Confederation ( B PA C ) , i n G u a t e m a l a 2018. More than 20 athletes from Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Cuba, Barbados, Guyana, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Venezuela and host Guatemala, shared, for about a month, an arduous training run by an experienced coach BWF. Days before the camp, the Panam Sports General Secretary, Ivar Sisniega, stressed that “we seek the benefit of athletes, especially those who come from small countries and who often have difficulties to improve.” We believe that this camp will help the athletes to improve their level to compete in the next Central American and Caribbean Games, or the S o u t h American Games, and thanks to their effort they can achieve a clas-

Some of the best badminton players in Central America and the Caribbean who were involved in the camp. sification and have a good performance in the Pan American Games Lima 2019. “

The Official Opening of the Badminton Camp, led by José Del Busto, BPAC Chair of Development, Ger-

Hamilton says Vettel broke the safety car re-start rules BAKU (Reuters) - Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has accused Ferrari title rival Sebastian Vettel of failing to play by the rules when leading behind the safety car in Sunday’s chaotic Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The Mercedes driver told reporters he would seek a clarification from race director Charlie Whiting ahead of the next race in Spain. Hamilton, who won in Baku and now leads Vettel by four points after four races, was on the receiving end of a famous “road rage” incident in Azerbaijan last year when the roles were reversed. Then, the Briton was leading the German while the safety car was deployed and was accused of “brake testing”, with the two colliding and the Ferrari driver angrily pulling alongside to bang wheels. Vettel later apologized for his behavior. “The rules are that when the safety car goes (in), you’re not allowed to start and stop, start and stop,” Hamilton said. “You’re not allowed to gas and then brake. You’re not allowed to fake the guy behind. “Because naturally if there was not that rule, that’s what you’d do because even-

man Valdez, BPAC Develo p m e n t D i r e c t o r, a n d Donald Paiz, representative of the Guatemala Bad-

dent, so that means everyone leading a grand prix under a safety car can start and stop, start and stop,” he said. “I need to get that rectified when I have the briefing next because clearly they don’t care about it, and if that’s the case then we will see more of that. And I will expect that from him next time I am racing with him.” Sunday’s race had two safety car periods due to crashes, with drivers weaving to keep heat in their tires in cold and gusty conditions. Vettel was leading from pole position at the first restart, with Hamilton’s team mate Valtteri Bottas at the (Continued on page 27)

Priyanna Ramdhani and Jonathan Mangra are representing Guyana at this event.

James Harden, Houston Rockets make easy work of Jazz in Game 1

James Harden (right) put up 41 points in the Rockets’ 110-96 win over the Utah Jazz on Sunday afternoon in Houston. (Getty Images)

Lewis Hamilton, left, and Sebastian Vettel. (Reuters/Brandon Malone) tually you’d catch them sleeping. You’re not allowed to do that. “Every re-start I’ve done...I’ve abided by that,” the Briton told reporters. “In Australia, Sebastian accelerated and then braked and I nearly went up the back end of him. And today he did it like maybe four times.” Hamilton said he believed Whiting had passed the matter on to stewards for their consideration but they had decided not to take action because the other cars were doing it. The four-times world champion said that was because of a domino effect. “That now sets a prece-

minton Federation, highlighted the preparation of athletes for Barranquilla 2018.

Yahoo Sports - James Harden dropped 44 points in Houston’s Game 1 win against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and has been a dominant force for the Rockets ever since. Now, after winning the opening series 4-1 and advancing to the Western Conference semifinals, things are no different. Harden dropped 41 points in a performance reminiscent of his opening playoff game this season on Sunday afternoon at the Toyota Center in Houston, leading the Rockets to a 110-96 win over the Utah Jazz in Game 1. The Jazz, fresh off a 4-2

series win against the Thunder, simply couldn’t keep up with the Rockets on Sunday. Utah’s only leads of the game — both just a two point advantage — came in the opening minutes of the contest. By the end of the first quarter, they had fallen into a 13 point hole. Just before halftime, the Rockets had pushed that lead to 27. Thanks to an 11-2 run to end the half, and shooting 10-of-16 from the 3-point line, the Rockets were in complete control. While the Jazz cut the lead to just 13 points with just more than three minutes left in the

game, Harden’s 13 points in the final 12 minutes kept Utah at bay. H a r d e n ’s 4 1 p o i n t s marked his sixth 40-point playoff game in his career. He went 7-of-12 from behind the arc, reached the free throw line 11 times and added eight assists in his 36 minutes on the court. Chris Paul added 17 points for the Rockets, shooting 50 percent from the field. Clint Capela and PJ Tucker finished with 16 and 15 points, respectively. Donovan Mitchell and Jae Crowder each finished with 21 points for the Jazz on Sunday.

Tuesday May 01, 2018

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

Watson, Dhoni muscle CSK to the top

Then it was time for the MS Dhoni show ©BCCI ESPNcricinfo - Chennai Super Kings made as many as four changes, separated a successful opening combination, gave the new ball to two debutants, saw their frontline legspinner watch the others bowl and yet walked home to their sixth win and the top spot at the halfway mark of the tournament. The vanquishing of Delhi Daredevils yesterday wasn’t down to just these factors though. Two tournament stalwarts - Shane Watson and MS Dhoni - blitzed their way to half-centuries, together accounting for 129 of Super Kings’ 211 for 4 after being put in to bat. This was 13 too many for Daredevils, despite contrasting half-centuries from Rishabh Pant and Vi j a y S h a n k a r. T h e y slumped to their sixth loss in eight matches, with a playoff berth increasingly looking distant. Watson hits top gear After surviving a close lbw shout off the first ball of the match against Trent Boult - one that lost Daredevils a review because there was no conclusive evidence of ball hitting pad first - Watson took full toll on Liam Plunkett. The England fast bowler was smashed for back-to-back sixes in two consecutive overs that went for 35 as Watson raised a 25-ball half-century in the ninth over; only one of his 15 previous half-centuries came at a faster clip. By the end of that over, he had smashed seven sixes, a majority of those on the leg side. Super Kings’ score after the first half read an imposing 96 without loss. All this even as Faf du

Plessis, who replaced Sam Billings, struggled to make a run-a-ball 33. Iyer fills up Plunkett void Shreyas Iyer, the Daredevils captain, then introduced Shankar, who had bowled just 2.3 overs in the tournament prior to this game, to make up for Plunkett’s poor start. The move paid off as Shankar removed du Plessis off his fifth delivery to break only the third 100-plus opening stand (102) this season. Off the next over, Glenn Maxwell struck first ball to send a heaving Suresh Raina for 1. That would be the first of two wickets to spin in the innings, Watson would fall to an ungainly heave off Amit Mishra for a 40-ball 78, after leaving Super Kings a platform at 130 for 3 in 13.5 overs. Dhoni, vintage Dhoni D h o n i ’s b a l l s p e r boundary against the short ball this season is 3.3, among the best. Nine balls into his innings - he came in to bat in the 14th over he received the first short ball from Boult. Dhoni’s ferocious bat speed allowed him to swat that for six. Then Boult went full, but it didn’t make a difference as Dhoni’s strong bottomhanded whip sent the ball soaring over long-on. The over would cost Daredevils 21, and would be the trigger for another explosive finish. Dhoni would bludgeon two more full tosses to finish with five sixes and a 22-ball half-century laced with some luck: Colin Munro put down a sitter at deep midwicket when Dhoni was on 31. All along, Rayudu

played the perfect foil, contributing 28 in a 79-run fourth-wicket stand with Dhoni. Walking out at No. 4, he forced bowlers to alter their lines and lengths with premeditated movements. Daredevils have taken the most wickets in the last five overs - 21 - this season. Here, they managed just one, off the penultimate delivery when Rayudu ran the entire length of the pitch for a quick single, only to be sent back by Dhoni, but not before making a 24-ball 41 that took him to the top of the run-scoring charts with 370 runs, 48 clear of second-placed Kane Williamson. The last five

Watson then went into see-ball-hit-ball mode ©BCCI overs fetched 74, and Super Kings had their third 200-plus score this season. CSK’s brand new newball pair impresses Lungi Ngidi had Colin Munro beaten for raw pace thrice as his first IPL over conceded only a single. With the new ball at the other end, KM Asif, an MRF Pace Foundation trainee who impressed in the domestic T20s for Kerala with raw pace, also cranked it upwards of 140 clicks. He was rewarded off his fourth ball when Prithvi Shaw mistimed a pull to a leaping Ravindra Jadeja at mid-off. Munro, who took seven balls to get off the

mark, would then take Asif for two fours and a six in h i s s e c o n d o v e r, w a s beaten for pace as he mistimed a pull to deep midwicket in the fifth over. Two overs later, Iyer would see Pant turn his back on him to be run out, Daredevils in strife at 64 for 3 in eight overs. Maxwell fails, Pant fires With the chase quickly running out of steam, the onus was on Glenn Maxwell to play a blinder. But he was bowled attempting a wild heave off Jadeja to leave Pant with too much to do. Pant tried, along the way giving glimpses of his big-hitting prowess to

make a 34-ball half-century; his falling-over legside heaves and muscle earning seven fours and four sixes. After an early struggle, Shankar used his height and reach to wallop missed lengths for sixes to inject artificial excitement. At one stage, a last-over six that earned Shankar a 28-ball fifty, reduced the equation to 19 off four, but all it managed to do was reduce Daredevils’ margin of defeat. Scores: Chennai Super Kings 211 for 4 (Watson 78, Dhoni 51*, Rayudu 41) beat Delhi Daredevils 198 for 5 (Pant 79, Shankar 54*, Asif 2-43) by 13 runs

Pant struck 11 boundaries, including one that came off an eye-catching sideways knee-drop ©BCCI

PAGE 30

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Kaieteur News

Peter Norman: Sprinter involved Who will play for the national in Black Power salute given playoffs automatic berths? posthumous Order of Merit -this question will be answered this evening in Mackenzie Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition

Part of the action in this year’s Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition. Defending champions Dave & Celena All Stars will tackle Quiet Storm in the opening fixture of quarter-final action as play in the Linden segment of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition resumes tonight, at the Mackenzie Market Tarmac. The champs who started off the defence of their title with a loss rebounded nicely to reel off two wins in as many matches to book their spot in the last eight and they’ve shown much improvement over the past two games and will obviously start as favourites to progress.Quiet Storm, however, has looked clinical in their three previous encounters and remained unbeaten, topping their group in the process, but could find the ‘big’ occasion too much to handle.The game to follow between NK Ballers and Silver Bullets is too close to call, but a betting man might be

tempted to place a wager on the former by virtue of their recent form, finishing undefeated in their group. Comprising most of the players from the reigning champions, the Ballers have driven fear into every opponent to date and should be favoured to advance. Silver Bullets, who closed out the group stage with a second place finish, are an experienced side and should not be taken lightly. In the third game, dark horse Assassa Ballers collide with High Rollers and this encounter too promises to be a sizzling affair.In the final quarter-final matchup, veteran ballers Amelia’s Ward Russians go up against another ‘old hand’ in Swag Entertainment and the rivalry between these two teams has always been keenly contested so another close encounter is envisaged. It’s a holiday night and

fans in the Linden community will no doubt be eager to close the Town Week celebrations with their presence at the most popular venue to host the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition in the Mining Town.Immediately following the end of quarter-final action are the semi-finals to determine which two teams will vie for the title on Sunday and the available spots in the national playoffs. Quarterfinals fixtures: (1)Dave and Celina’s vs Quiet Storm-19:30hrs (2)NK Ballers vs Silver Bullets-20:10hrs (3)Assassa Ballers vs High Rollers-20:50hrs (4)Amelia’s Ward Russians vs Swag Entertainment21:30hrs Semifinals Winners (1) vs Winner (4)-22:30hrs Winner (2) vs Winner (3)23:15hrs

Cummings Lodge Secondary triumph Cummings Lodge Secondary won the Royal Tapeball Academy Schools cricket competition which was contested on Saturday at Durban Park Tarmac. The competition, which attracted 12 teams, saw Cummings Lodge defeating Institute of Academy of Excellence (IAE) in the final. IAE batted first and managed 35-6 off their allocation of six overs. Cummings Lodge knocked off the target in 4.5 overs with I. Dearm scoring 20. IAE beat Sophia Special School, while Cummings Lodge overcame RBI in their respective semi final matches.

Tommie Smith (far right) claimed gold in the 200m, with Peter Norman in silver and John Carlos taking bronze. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - Peter Norman, the Australian sprinter involved in the Black Power salute at the 1968 Mexico Olympics, will be awarded an “overdue” posthumous Order of Merit. He stood alongside Americans Tommie Smith and John Carlos on the 200m podium as the pair protested against racial discrimination. Smith and Carlos bowed their heads and raised a fist clothed in a black leather glove, while Norman wore a badge supporting human rights.Norman, who died in 2006 aged 64, was punished for his role at the time and did not compete at another Olympics.Campaigners have called for a statue to be built in Melbourne in his honour. An Order of Merit is given by the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) to an athlete who has achieved “remarkable merit in the sporting world”. “This is an overdue award - the respect for Peter and his

actions is still enormous to this day,” said AOC president John Coates. “We lost Peter in 2006 but we should never lose sight of his brave stand that day.” In 2012, the Australian Parliament apologised to Norman for the “failure to fully recognise his inspirational role before his untimely death”.Who was Peter Norman? Norman’s father borrowed a pair of running spikes for his son and he developed into a talented sprinter. At the 1968 Olympics, he broke an Olympic record in the 200m heats and won a silver medal in the final. Gold medallist Smith and Carlos wanted to wear black gloves on the podium in protest at racism in America, but Carlos left his pair at the Olympic village. Norman suggested Smith and Carlos wear one glove each and asked a member of the United States rowing team if he could borrow a badge

that read ‘Olympic Project for Human Rights’, a project set up to oppose racism in sport. Smith and Carlos raised their fists during the American national anthem but the International Olympic Committee took away their credentials and told them to leave Mexico within 48 hours. Following the protest, Norman continued to race but, despite being ranked fifth in the world, he was not selected for the 1972 Olympics in Munich.He retired soon after without winning another title and was not invited to the 2000 Olympics in Sydney. The AOC denied it excluded him, and the US athletics team invited him to stay with them during the Games.Norman remained friends with Smith and Carlos - the two were pallbearers at his funeral and gave eulogies, when they announced the US Track and Field Association had created the ‘Peter Norman Day’ in recognition of his actions.

Brazilian Koxa handed ‘world record’ for riding 80-foot wave (Reuters) - Brazilian Surfer Rodrigo Koxa was named a ‘world record holder’ at the weekend after the judging panel at the World Surf League (WSL) big wave awards decided he had ridden an 80-foot (24.38m) wave in Portugal last year. Koxa won the “biggest wave” award for successfully managing the huge swell off Nazaré on Portugal’s silver coast on November 8, his ride

adjudged to have bettered American Garrett Mcnamara’s record of 78 feet at the same break in 2011. “I try to surf big waves all my life and I had a huge experience in 2014 where I almost died at Nazare,” Koxa told www.worldsurfleague.com. “Four months later, I had bad dreams, I didn’t travel, I got scared, and my wife helped me psychologically. Now, I’m just so happy and

this is the best day of my life.” Andrew cotton might be forgiven a few bad dreams after his spectacular wipeout at Nazaré on the same day as Koxa nailed his big ride. The Englishman, who was left nursing 12 broken vertebrae in his back and is only now almost ready to get back into the water, was awarded the “wipeout of the year” at the ceremony in Santa Monica, California.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

CFU Women’s Challenge Series

Late goals relegate Lady Jags to 1-3 loss to Soca Ladies

G

uyana’s Lady Jags, the f l a g s h i p women’s team put a wrap on their Caribbean Football Union Women’s Challenge Series quest in Trinidad and Tobago by falling 1-3 to the home team on Sunday evening at the Ato Bolden Stadium, Couva. This series of matches was a precursor to this m o n t h ’s C O N C A C A F Qualifying Championships with Guyana set to host matches on May 23 – 27. Prior to the T&T sojourn, Head Coach Dr. Ivan Joseph had stated that the focus would have been on rebuilding the Lady Jags brand with a focus on development: “I’m really concerned with whether our players can execute the established systems. The outcome and the results of that game are irrelevant,” He noted. The Lady Jag’s fell behind after 12 minutes when T&T’s Shenika Paul converted. The exchanges between the two nations which have also qualified for the previous two CONCACAF finals, the Lady Jags having the distinction of being the only Guyanese outfit to have achieved such a feat, kept going at each other with the

Guyanese ladies holding their own. The neutralising goal for Guyana was scored by the experienced Mariam EiMasri in the 64th minute. Two unanswered goals from the Twin Island Republic in the 75th and 88th minute off the boots of Karyn Forbes and Jonelle Coto carried the home team to victory and their third win in as many matches to end as the top team in the group; Guyana ended third. Despite T&T being a touch above the rest of opponents in the group, Grenada and Suriname, Coach Joseph believes that Guyana played well. ”I really do think our young ladies came to play, they had a lot of heart and determination and although we didn’t get the result we wanted we are further in the process and that’s really the important piece here.” The main tactician also believes that progress was made in the three matches that were played by the Lady Jags noting that many chances were created and the players responded appropriately to the game plan. ”In May, again we‘re going to be bringing in some new bodies, we’re still going to be looking at building

relationships and connections. May is one step along our long term plan and so we’ve got to figure out how we can get some information Bermuda, Barbados and Suriname.” Meanwhile, President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde commented that the Lady Jags would have done well throughout the tournament and he is proud of them. ”I am joined by the rest of Guyana to say a heartfelt congratulation. Enjoy every precious second of this moment with your new family, the exciting journey we will all take together, has only just began. A young girl in some corner of Guyana, Canada, USA and beyond - will pick up the papers and be inspired by what you lovely ladies have accomplished, and that is priceless and matters most.” Lady Jags starting X1 Aneesa O’ Brien - 01 (Goalkeeper), Brittany Persaud - 09 (Captain), Rylee Traicoff (23), Nailah Rowe (04), Jade Vyfhuis (06), Mariam El-Masri (10), Calaigh Copland (11), Lakeisha Pearson (13), Tiandi Smith (16), Jessica Myers (17), Sasha James (20).

Caroline Wozniacki Tops 2018 Prize Money Rankings - For Now

A

PR Sports M o n e y Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki remains the topearner in terms of prize money on the women’s WTA Tour this season. Wozniacki has earned almost all of her 2018 prize money in the first month of the year, when the Danish player took home A$4 million ($3.11 million) for winning her first grand slam singles title at Melbourne Park.Although the secondranked Wozniackis hasn’t reached a title match since then, she is still leading the 2018 prize money list on the WTA Tour. Naomi Osaka of Japan, and Sloane Stephens, the reigning US Open champion from the US, both entered the top 4 after winning tournaments in Indian Wells, California and Miami

respectively during the US hard-court swing in March and early April. Here is an overview of the top 10 money makers so far (as of April 30, 2018): 1. Caroline Wozniacki, Denmark: $3,344,879 2.Simona Halep, R o m a n i a : $2,260,298 3.Naomi Osaka, Japan: $1,624,038 4. Sloane Stephens, US: $1,479,111 5. Elina Svitolina, Ukraine: $1,447,453 6. Angelique Kerber, Germany: $1,404,485 7. Daria Kasatkina, Russia: $1,204,305 8. Jelena Ostapenko, Latvia: $1,021,281 9. Elise Mertens, Belgium: $952,412 10. Karolina Pliskova, Czech Republic: $950,730 (Source: WTA Tour) With the clay-court

swing now under way in Europe, and in the knowledge that 23-time grand slam singles winner Serena Williams of the US and former top-ranked Vi c t o r i a A z a r e n k a o f Belarus are both on the comeback trail, expect this list to change over the course of the next six weeks as the red dirt season ends with the French Open in Paris. Two weeks into the claycourt season, Czech Karolina Pliskova is the big winner in the money stakes after beating American CoCo Vandeweghe 7-6(2), 6-4 on Sunday to lift her 10th career title at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart, Germany. That victory earned her a cheque of $140,193, plus a red 718 Porsche Boxster GTS — even though she has yet to pass her driving license.

PAGE 31

Baksh returned as BCCC President

Shabeer Baksh (3rd from left sitting) with Executives and members after the Elections. Blairmont Centre Cricket Club held its eighth Annual General Meeting last Thursday at the Blairmont Estate Community Centre in the Roy Fredericks Pavilion. Businessman Shabeer Baksh is a former Assistant Treasurer for Berbice Cricket Board and returned as President unchallenged. Mohamed Razack is the new Vice President, Vejai Farhad was returned as Treasurer unopposed, while Omesh Prashad will serve as his assistant. Retired Head Mistress Zolika Ishahack was elected as Secretary with Ameer Rahim serving as her assistant. Other council members elected are Anil Sukra, Shizad “Greens Massive” Ali, Jerry Karim, Radesha

Persaud, Tony Tageram, Mark Singh and Selena Sipchand. Baksh was enthusiastic and looked forward to working with the newly elected executives for a bright and better 2018-2019 period. He said the club’s work will not go unnoticed and welcomed the female administrators. “Since being resuscitated in 2010, it’s the first time the council will have female members. One of my personal goals is to make Blairmont Centre Cricket Club the best in Guyana,” Baksh promised. The executive and council are scheduled to meet on Thursday May 3 at the same venue to form various committees and plan for the working year 2018-2019. (Sean Devers)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 32

35th Défi sportif AlterGo

Phenomenal support propelled me to the gold medal – Grant-Staurt Despite competing in conditions that he is not accustomed to, Guyanese Differently Able cyclist, Walter Grant-Stuart landed this nations first ever medal at a Para-Cycling event when he took the gold medal at the 35th edition of Défi sportif AlterGo, a UCI C1 Para-Cycling sanctioned event held last Sunday at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, Montreal, Canada. The determined Grant-Stuart said he was focused from the time he received the invitation to compete and worked hard ever since by training continuously which resulted in him taking the top podium spot in the MC5 Class. From his base in Canada, Grant-Stuart commented on his historical achievement: “Being successful truly doesn’t happen without support. I would first like to thank God for everything he has done for me. He has touched the hearts of all the sponsors, all my supporters and my family. The support from you all was phenomenal. Your support made my participation in this event not only possible, but totally a success. I am very proud and blessed to be representing my country Guyana. At this moment words cannot describe how I feel.” The Continental Cycle Club members informed that the competition was very different and difficult in conditions. ”It was 8°c with freezing rain, my fingers were numb, and my legs were numb. It was

Tuesday May 01, 2018

Raj Nanan ends another successful T&T season Royston Crandon scores 2 tons

really cold. Nevertheless I still made it to complete the race.” The event also afforded Grant-Stuart the opportunity of accumulating points towards his being ranked in the world. Grant-Stuart informed that he would be competing in another race on Sunday before returning to his homeland. He also noted that last weekend’s events were the ice breaker on his international career. He would now be focusing on the UCI Para-Cycling Road World Cup in Emmen, Netherlands, July 6-8, next. Grant-Stuart said he would like to express sincere gratitude to the following companies and individuals for their support which helped to fuel his success. The National Sports Commission, Power Producers & Distributors Inc., Guyana Cycling Federation, Mr. Horace Burrowes, Continental Cycling Club, Ansa McAl, Grace Kennedy Remittance Services (Guyana) Ltd., John Fernandes Ltd., Guyana Fire Service, Farfan and Mendes Group of Companies, Fitness Express, North American Cycling Association, Full Throttle Cycling Club- Wayne Henry and family, Bicycle Depot - Rick and Rob Din, Courts Guyana Inc., DHL, Mr. Victor Mecedo, Mr. Oliver, Mr. Lawrence David, Mr. Nigel Anthony, Mr. S. Lutchman and family, Mr. Victor Rutherford, Mr. Steven Fernandes and Mr. Keith Fernandes. (Franklin Wilson)

Raj Nanan in action in T&T

F

ormer National under-15 left-arm spinner Raj Nanan might have a rough time making the senior National team due to the emergence of Veerasammy Permaul and Gudakesh Motie but the 24year-old, whose batting has improved tremendously continues to enjoy a successful season in Trinidad and Canada. Nanan, who recently returned from playing in Trinidad’s domestic season, says he still wants to participate in the local Franchise league after not being selected last season. The GCC spinner who born on September 14, 1993, ended the Premiership 2 two day competition with 50 from seven matches for the

BFL Sports Club in the Twin Island Republic. Nanan also made 197 runs from seven innings with a highest score of 41 after enjoying his best season with 60 wickets in his fourth season last year. In the T20 league Nanan had 2-23 from his four overs against Victoria CC and had 1-18 from four overs and an entertaining 51 with five sixes against Powergen, which included Samuel Badree, Jason Mohamed and Kavesh Kantasingh. Nanan disclosed that this year he would be going back for a third season in the Canadian League in which had he had the most wickets. Ryan Ramdass, who played a single Test match in Sri Lanka in 2005 and Royston Crandon who

missed out on a Regional Super50 this year, were the other Guyanese in the BFL Sports Club. While Ramdass is now r e s i d i n g i n Tr i n i d a d , Crandon, who played for Lower Corentyne in the local Franchise League, still harbours hopes of regaining his place in Guyana’s Regional Super50 team. Crandon, the younger brother of National Head Coach Esuan Crandon, batted nine times and scored 459 runs with the highest score of 171. He scored two hundreds and took 15wickets in the seven two-day games. In the T20 matches this season Crandon made five against Victoria and 45 against Powergen. (Sean Devers)

Hand-in-Hand Inter-County 50-over U-19 Cricket

Final now set for Friday at Stadium The Final of the third annual Hand-inHand 50-overs U-19 Inter-County cricket tournament, originally set for Saturday and was postponed to the reserve day (Sunday) were both washed out without a ball being bowled after rain left the Lusignan ground waterlogged. The GCB has now set Friday as the new date for the twice postponed final which will now be played at the Providence Stadium from 09:30hrs which has much better facilities and drainage system. Rain should not be a major concern since the Stadium is one of the fastest drying

International venues if it rains and stops then at least a 20 overs contest should be guaranteed. Three-day Champions Berbice were set to oppose last year’s 50 overs finalists the National U-17’s in Friday’s final. The U-17s finished second in the preliminary rounds, while Berbice won all three of their games to finish on top. This tournament is being used to select the National youth team which will participate in the 2018 Regional 50-over U19 Tournament which will be contested in Barbados from July.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday May 01, 2018

PAGE 33

Winter, Raekwon, Persaud, Seaton shine at GASA Goodwill Games trials L i a n Wi n t e r, N o e l Raekwon, Aleka Persaud and Leon Seaton turned in outstanding performances when the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) held its Goodwill games trials last weekend at the National Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal. Winter was in fine form as she proved too much for her rivals winning the girls 13-14 50m freestyle in 31.23 seconds ahead of Latisha Blair in 31.97 and Amber De-Goes in third place on 32.29. Aleka Persaud won the girls 11-12 50m freestyle in a time of 30.08 while Jaden Edwards took the boys 9-10 50m freestyle in 43.05. Leon Seaton took the top podium spot in the boys 1314 50m freestyle in 25.60 while Aleka Persaud carted off the girls 11-12 100m breaststroke in 1 minute 27.53 seconds. Shareefah Lewis won the girls eight and under 50m

butterfly in a time of 48.97 while Ariel Rodrigues claimed the girls 9-10 50m butterfly in 37.05. Jeron Sookram claimed the boys 910 50m butterfly in 41.91 while Aleka Persaud took the girls 11-12 50m butterfly in 31.67. Raekwon captured the boys 11-12 50m butterfly in 31.81 while Winter grabbed the girls 13-14 50m butterfly in 33.29. Seaton took the boys 13-14 50m butterfly in 28.78, while Safiya Foster won the girls 15-17 50m butterfly in 41.62. Ethan Gonsalves claimed the boys 11-12 50m freestyle in 28.65 ahead of Noel Raekwon in 29.16 and Paul Mahaica in 30.95 respectively. Daniel Scott emerged victorious in the boys 15-17 50m butterfly in 27.49 while Ariel Rodrigues claimed the girls 9-10 200m freestyle in 2:51.26. Jeron Sookram took the boys 9-10 200m freestyle in 2:52.41; Aleka Persaud

continued her fine form winning the girls 11-12 200m freestyle in 2:27.70. Raekwon was again in winners’ lane when he claimed the boys 11-12 200m freestyle in 2:17.69 before Winter continued her winnings ways in the girls 13-14 200m freestyle in 2:33.61. Seaton took the boys 1313 200m freestyle in 2:10.43 while Daniel Scott won the boys 15-17 200m freestyle in 2:01.98. Antonio Rodrigues won the boys 15-17 200m freestyle in 2:19.23; Rhea Winter claimed the girls 8 and under 25m kickboard event in 30.90 and Daniel Gordon won the boys equivalent in 34.50. Timothy Souvenir and Naveah Brower claimed the boys and girls 9-12 25m kickboard in 26.02 and 26.80 respectively. De Shawn Williams and Kevin Dean claimed the girls and boys

Sion Jeffers 13-17 25m kickboard in 29.38 and 32.33 in that order. Shareefah Lewis grabbed the girls 8 and under 50m backstroke in 51.91 while Dean Spencer won the boys 8 and under 50m backstroke in 1:01.48. Ariel Rodrigues claimed the girls 9-10 50m backstroke in 41.31 while Jeron Sookram took the boys 9-10 50m backstroke in 42.30. Aleka Persaud carted off

Lian Winter (left) and Amber De-Goes t h e g i r l s 11 - 1 2 5 0 m backstroke in 34.73; Raekwon emerged victorious in the boys 11-12 50m backstroke in 32.72. Winter overpowered her rivals in the girls 13-14 50m backstroke in 34.41 before Sekhel Tzedeq won the boys 13-14 5m backstroke in 33.08. Winter crowned fine day with victory in the girls 1314 100m butterfly in 1:17.05 while Leon Seaton who had

another good outing claiming the boys 13-14 100m butterfly in 1:05.86. Aleka Persaud was victorious in the girls 11-12 100m butterfly in 1:14.64 while Scott captured the boys 15-17 100m butterfly in 1:03.02. S i o n J e ff e r s s w a m brilliantly to win the boys 13-14 50m breaststroke in 37.78 while Amber De-Goes took the girls 13-14 100m (Continued on page 27)

rt o p S CFU Women’s Challenge Series

P. 31

Late goals relegate Lady Jags to 1-3 loss to Soca Ladies

Guyana’s Mariam El-Masri challeneges for the ball against T&T on Sunday at the Ato Boldon Stadium.

Walter Grant-Stuart with the silver and bronze medalists during the presentation ceremony.

Lady Jags scorer, Mariam El-Masri (#10) focused as she tracks down this T&T player.

35th Défi sportif AlterGo

Phenomenal support propelled me to the gold medal – Grant-Staurt

P. 32

Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the P. 30 Streets’ Competition

Who will play for the national playoffs automatic berths? -this question will be answered this evening in Mackenzie

Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.