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Friday May 03, 2019
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
The woes of local political leaders
O
ne thing is now both obvious and undeniable: local political leadership is furiously focused on appealing to and satisfying the passions of
their base. The visions of aspiring to greatness and what could be ever-so-positive for people and country are simply not there; there are only the smug satisfying obsessions with reaching one’s own faithful, and that is that. Job done. Results guaranteed. The circle begins again. It is a crooked circle pretending to be constructed of clean lines; of arcs straight in intents and purposes, and reflective of a combination of pragmatism, idealism, and realism. This society can be made to work. It can work at a different level from that in which it has always languished trapped and useless to itself, and helpless for any bigger, really demanding objectives with national import. Thus, the political family clans have prevailed, with the wider racial tribes waiting to consume the fare that flows outward and downward from benevolent chiefs and elders. There is settled complacency that shows no signs of any interest in being any other way. Attitudes are about the immediate; reactionaries either responding to political stimuli or manufacturing such through energizing an instigated base. An emotional toehold is always guaranteed, and life continues within that narrow band of no movement, nothing new, and the rancidness of the stale and old. This is why Guyanese political leaders experience such inner psychic resistance, when circumstances of success signal that there has mandatorily to occur a transition from campaigning and politicizing to that of administering and governing. They are unable to do so; just cannot happen, and is not, even if leaders were so inclined. They are outstanding and consistent at whipping up racial fidelity and voter loyalty. But after that, there is nothing to recommend. No values or visions, no character or conduct that embodies a national thrust with truly lasting national depth. Anybody with half of a head, and enough cunning and volume can appeal to primeval instincts lurking in the breast; it takes much more to move the minds through sturdy issues and the ready initiative and outlay of political and personal capital. A genuinely interested political leader and political group would condition and compel followers to move away from the narrow partisan, which has stunted thinking, limited growth, and diminished potential. If they were truly committed to the big picture and longer-term visions of what gives less now to one’s own for a greater spread later, with the promise of more increments in the continuous future, then there is so much more that becomes achievable. Guyana should be able to extricate itself from its sick state, and rehabilitate itself into a society that is more equal, more energized, and more zealous to draw closer to its potentials. For any of this to be given a chance to be deliverable, leaders have to lead by breaking away from the norm of the barely passable and the restraints of the pack that agitates against change that threatens their share of the pie. The dining table is fully occupied as it is; why go out of the way to invite those who do not have, and are effectively barred from partaking of the fruits of governance? Leaders have to be bold to the point of daring. Those who aspire to a different vision for a different Guyana will not succeed by being so defensive as to do nothing. Leaders are going to have to be creative risk takers to an unparalleled degree, and with one thing in mind: allow this society to breathe, so it can stand on two feet, not one.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
The U.S. Ambassador’s condemnation demonstrates total disregard and contempt for our independence D e a r E d i t o r, Minutes before I wrote a letter to you, commending the APNU+AFC coalition for rightfully honouring the late Abdul Kadir, lo and behold, they changed their tune after the US ambassador to Guyana issued a stern rebuke. The legal minds in the coalition and all the big time lawyers in this country ought to know that the ambassador was completely out of order to condemn our supposedly sovereign government for their decision to honour the late Abdul Kadir.
The ambassador has the right to register her disapproval, however, the content, intent, tone and language of her condemnation demonstrates a total disregard for our N a t i o n a l A s s e m b l y, a violation of our sovereignty, and contempt for our independence. We are not a colony, although there are many quislings in our midst who would like to revert us to the status of a neo-colony Few among us would openly denounce the ambassador’s transgression,
since they are more concerned about protecting their “sacred” visas, rather than standing up in defence of our right to selfdetermination. There is certainly no shortage of cowards in this country, and real patriots are hard to identify. It is in these times, we remember the courage of the late L.F.S. Burnham. Could any US ambassador have addressed him in such a manner. I think not. Finally, someone needs to remind the good lady that 11 Guyanese were killed
when a Cubana flight was bombed in 1976 by CIAsponsored terrorists. Those responsible for the heinous crime were never extradited or prosecuted. Two of these criminals roamed the streets of Miami freely until they died of natural causes. Therefore, the ambassador has neither a historical nor moral right to lecture us on terrorism. She ought to tread cautiously in this minefield. Gerald A. Perreira, Organization for the Victory of the People (OVP)
Every operator must comply with the requirements set out in OAI’s Land Use Policy DEAR EDITOR, On three separate occasions Kaieteur News has subjectively published biased and hostile reports on the question of land distribution administered by Ogle Airport Inc. (OAI) at the Eugene F Correia International Airport. The publications were on the 7th, 10th and 14th April, and were based on hitherto, undisclosed sources, but never once consulted Ogle Airport for their position on the matter. In publishing these articles, Kaieteur News has consistently and blatantly violated the basic tenets of fair and balanced news reporting essential to the protection of freedom of the press and of information. Kaieteur News is already before the Court for libel for exactly this unprofessional behaviour and, in their defense, was forced to disclose that Ms. Annette Arjoon-Martins, an Executive of Air Services Ltd., is their source of information. For the benefit of the public who are subjected to this irresponsible reporting, Ogle Airport Inc. must emphasise that the company has, strictly, in accordance with its Lease Agreement with the government, established and is implementing a fully transparent process for land distribution for both airside and landside land, which provides access to all aircraft operators regardless of
whether deemed to be small or large, on a fair, equitable and equal basis. OAI wishes to point out that no commercial aircraft operator is automatically entitled to airside or landside land. Every operator must comply with the requirements set out in OAI’s Land Use Policy. Every operator is advised of these requirements after expressing an interest in applying for land. These requirements are for the purpose of ensuring fair, equal and equitable access to meet the Airport’s land development plans. Each application must be specific to purpose. Every operator is required to respect and meet these requirements in their applications which are finally reviewed and decided upon by the OAI Board, strictly on the basis of first qualifying first served. A fundamental requirement for obtaining access to land is that the applicant must be financially capable of meeting the cost of the requested development within the prescribed deadline for the commencement of construction. This requirement is for the purpose of preventing commercial land speculation. While the Airport has been overly flexible to accommodate operators in the past, in this regard, this will no longer be tolerated. In the case of Mr. Emil
Jahan of Hinterland Aviation, interest initiated by that company in 2015 for airside land, by Mr. Jahan’s own admission in his most recent letter of Expressions of Interest of 10th April, 2019, Hinterland Aviation was unable to meet the financial requirements for proceeding with its application. The allegation of Mr. Jahan that small operators are being placed at a disadvantage in comparison with what he describes as “other wealthy companies” is utter nonsense. The aviation business is highly competitive. Whether large or small, operators compete for like customers and business and must be financially capable of complying with their financial obligations to the Airport and, critically, complying with the safety regulations imposed for commercial flying. It is not the responsibility of OAI, or for any airport in the world, to subsidize any commercial airport operator. However, OAI has bent over backward to provide Hinterland Aviation with office facilities at the international terminal at heavily subsidized rates. The Airport has also invested substantial sums in providing a serviced aircraft ramp facility for light aircraft operators, including Hinterland Aviation to assist them with their operating needs. Hinterland Aviation has
renewed its interest in writing OAI for the leasing of a much larger area of airside land than originally requested. T h i s r e n e w e d Expressions of Interest is receiving due consideration under the established procedures. OAI feels that it is being unfairly targeted by Kaieteur News with its bias and unprofessional reporting on matters that are already before the Court Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento Public Relations Consultant On behalf of Ogle Airport Inc. Editor’s note: Kaieteur News met with the OAI management on a previous occasion when the reports first emerged. Others came forward to challenge the OAI claims. Ms. Annette ArjoonMartins readily stepped up to defend Kaieteur News in the lawsuit brought by Michael Correia, Nicole Correia and Kit Nascimento. Kaieteur News was never “forced to disclose that Ms. Annette ArjoonMartins, an Executive of Air Services Ltd., is their source of information.” Mr Nascimento is over-reaching.
WATER WASTAGE
DEAR EDITOR, Without a doubt, over the years I have seen tremendous improvement in our water system by both administrations, and the present administration under the guidance of Dr. Van-West Charles is going the extra mile to ensure citizens get the best quality of potable water. We have a have a society where many of us fail to see the importance of the commitment/works being undertaken and take things for granted, thus we are seeing wastage of water, damaging of mains etc., and as a result, sometimes many are affected. Just over four days ago, GPL staffers changed a lantern post at Uitvlugt Sideline Dam, and during the process, the main was damaged and ever since, water has been gushing out day and night. At Uitvlugt Pasture, the last street, there’s a main running across the drain, and for months now, water is flowing from the connection day and night. GWI have their meter readers, contract workers and their own staffers walking all around and they are bound to see the wastage. Why can’t they make a report or a mental note and have issues like this fixed?Editor, over the years, whenever I see damage, I know GWI has a hotline, but I usually message them via their Facebook page
and the matter gets rectified. Walking around Uitvlugt I have noticed more than three places that water is constantly running/wasting due to errors from the line/main, and cannot understand why citizens cannot understand the importance of water and try reporting it. Again I reiterate, the GWI staffers traverse all over and many places I would see water wasting, and it’s not being fixed. I ain’t no saint, sometimes I leave my tap on and water is wasted, but it’s nothing compared to what I see happening everywhere I go. Wastage of water results in us receiving low pressure, water being contaminated, or some people not even being able to get. Wastage also causes the roads, dams, parapets etc., to deteriorate. All of this could be avoided by just one phone call or a message. It’s frustrating because I know that as soon they receive a report, the issue is addressed. GWI should explore the possibility of charging the staffers assigned to areas that have leaks for months and they’re not reporting it - they cannot depend on the citizens alone to do so. It’s their interest; they are being paid to do a job, they should be more responsible, not walking around the place with attitudes alone. Sahadeo Bates
Gratitude to dialysis supporters DEAR EDITOR, In a world where highlighting negativity overshadows positivity, I would like to acknowledge some noble gestures. On May 1, your daily carried “Corporate support helps DMRC keep dialysis cost low” where it was confirmed that prominent businessman Sattaur Gafoor is subsidising $2 million monthly to avoid the increase to kidney patients for dialysis at Doobay Medical and Research Centre (DMRC). I would like to offer a sincere thank you to Mr. Gafoor and everyone who has donated over the years and gone unnoticed. Contributing financially is critically important, as one session per dialysis currently costs about $9000. (Dialysis is not readily available at public health in-
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stitution and DMRC provides at a reduced cost) A patient is required to complete 12 sessions per month which amounts to $108,000. This does not include transportation, medication and other life necessities. This act directly impacts those close to me, as my mother has been receiving dialysis at the Doobay Medical Centre since 2015. The incredible work of the staff there should not go unnoticed. I visited the location in 2017 and observed the care, love and dedication given to patients. It warms my heart knowing there are still so many good people out there, and I urge all to love and care for Kidney patients. Dialysis is not an easy process, as it entails lying painfully for four hours each session. Patients are usually weak and unable
to carry themselves after the rigorous sessions. I’ve witnessed my mother faint multiple times following the procedure. In closing, I’d like to deeply thank Mr. Gafoor for his generosity. Without angel donors like him, these procedures could easily become unaffordable and limit access to people in real need. Thanks should also be given to Dr. Doobay and all who are affiliated with this special clinic that brings relief, comfort and hope, while saving lives daily in Guyana. Haresh Sukhraj Toronto, Canada
I TAKE NOTE OF THE SOCIAL AND POLITICAL UNREST PLAGUING OUR NEIGHBOURS TO THE WEST DEAR EDITOR, This question has been haunting me for quite some time as I take note of the social and political unrest plaguing our neighbour to the West and the forces at play to install the chosen one as head of the government. No doubt I, like most concerned Guyanese, would never want to see what is playing out in that country become our experience. This from someone who knows first-hand the kind of devastation that kind of upheaval brings with it, having had my home bombed in 1963 and being only seconds from literally being blown to bits. All of the pieces are on the table for our beloved country to fall prey to the crows just waiting to pick over our bones. So-called leaders, dedicated to exploiting our ethnic divide in order to grasp power for their own selfish ambitions and the all-important personal gains for close friends and family. All of Guyana knows who “they” are, just willing to sacrifice our country on the high altar of corruption and greed. It is at this juncture that the stakes may well be way above our heads, and the lessons of Venezuela must not be discounted as our possible future. All Guyana awaits the coming oil boom which is seen as a blessing. I beg to respectfully disagree and view the coming oil as a curse. Why
do I expound such a view? One word… America. If we fail to make the connection, then the Venezuelan experience can very well be in our future, as corrupt Exxon carries out the dictates of the American administration under their amoral leader Trump, who is quick to point fingers at the Muslim Terrorists but describes those white, home-grown versions as “ Good People”. Those good people are responsible for the majority of violent domestic terrorist acts in America, meanwhile Trump has disbanded the Domestic Terror Unit of the Department of Homeland Security, whose job, among others, was to monitor those home-grown terrorists. This same person appointed Rex Tillerson, former Chairman and CEO of Exxon, as Secretary of State for a year. He cut him loose after describing Tillerson as “Dumb as a Rock and Lazy as Hell” - The black pot calling a black pot black. The fact is, however, Trump thought it important enough to appoint a former chairman of Exxon as Secretary of State. Wonder about that connection and the fact that Venezuela is oil-rich and the US is energy-starved. Not too much of a stretch to see why the so-called defender of America’s democracy, would support an unelected politician as a head of government. These are the same hypo-
crites who would jump into a country to support democracy. Not that Maduro is a saint, on the contrary, he is an autocratic tyrant, but what about this democracy thing America is always mouthing off about. Trump is addressing Juan Guaido’s wife as “First Lady”, would this be tolerated in America, even as incompetent as Trump is? That is the scenario Guyana faces with the coming of oil, coupled with unprepared leaders on the one hand and greedy, corrupt ones on the other. Our only hope is to walk away from our present political path, ethnic exploitation, and seriously form a government of National Reconstruction reflecting all of the ethnic groups in our country. Our racial divide will only be exploited by the pernicious. Doubt this? Ask those Rusal workers. One Nation, One Guyana, One Destiny! Respectfully Claudeston Massiah
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Maduro exhorts Venezuela military to fight ‘any coup plotter’
- Four people were killed Caracas (AFP) - Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro yesterday called on the armed forces to oppose “any coup plotter” after a military uprising in support of opposition leader Juan Guaido fizzled out, and subsequent street clashes left four protesters dead. On Tuesday, Guaido — who has been recognized by more than 50 countries as the crisis-wracked country’s interim president — urged the armed forces to rise up against the embattled leader. A small group heeded the call, but the movement failed to ignite — the military leadership ratified their support for the government, and Maduro is standing his ground despite international pressure. “Yes, we are in combat, keep morale high in this fight to disarm any traitor, any coup plotter,” Maduro said yesterday at a televised event with the military high command, at which he was surrounded by soldiers. “No one can be afraid — it is the hour to defend our right to peace,” he said at a ceremony attended by 4,500 military personnel, according to the government. “We’ve come to ratify our loyalty ... to the supreme commander of the armed forces, who is our only president, President Nicolas Maduro,” Defense Minister General Vladimir Padrino said at the
event. The failed uprising sparked two days of protests against the government in which four people were killed, including two teenagers who died of their injuries yesterday. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s supreme court ordered the rearrest of influential opposition figure Leopoldo Lopez — who made a dramatic appearance alongside Guaido on Tuesday after he was freed from house arrest and has since taken refuge at the Spanish embassy. The 48-year-old Lopez was a prominent opposition leader in 2014 when he was imprisoned after calling for protests against Maduro. He was transferred to house arrest in 2017. In Washington, US President Donald Trump offered prayers at a White House service for “the people of Venezuela in their righteous struggle for freedom.” “The brutal repression of the Venezuelan people must end, and it must end soon,” he warned. Opposition lawmakers and family members announced yesterday that two teenage protesters had succumbed to injuries sustained in the antigovernment protests. Yoifre Hernandez, 14, was hit by gunfire during Wednesday’s clashes in Caracas, while 16-year-old Yosner Graterol suffered a
Nicolas Maduro appeared alongside his top military chiefs and hundreds of soldiers in a televised address where he urged troops to ‘disarm any coup plotter’ following an attempted uprising by Juan Guaido. gunshot wound during unrest in the northern town of La Victoria on Tuesday, lawmakers and relatives said. Jurubith Rausseo, 27, died Wednesday after being shot in the head, the non-governmental Venezuelan Observatory of Social Conflict said on Twitter. Another person was killed in the northern state of Aragua on Tuesday. Human rights organizations and health services reported that dozens of people were hurt on both Tuesday and Wednesday. UNICEF said “at least 15 children between the ages of 14 and 17” were injured in Wednesday’s violence.
The government said more than 150 people were arrested on Tuesday. So far, 25 rebel soldiers have sought asylum at the Brazilian embassy. Tensions in Venezuela have soared since Guaido, who heads the national legislature, invoked the constitution to declare himself acting president on January 23, claiming Maduro’s re-election last year was illegitimate. The country has suffered five years of recession marked by shortages of basic necessities as well as failing public services, including wat e r, electricity and transport.On both Tuesday and Wednesday, security forces fired tear gas and rubber bullets at stone-throwing protesters. UN Secretary General An-
tonio Guterres warned Venezuela’s authorities not to use deadly force against demonstrators, while the US and Russia accused each other of making the crisis worse, evoking their Cold War-era confrontations. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are to discuss Venezuela when they meet in Finland next week, a US official said.“We’re going to remain in the streets until we achieve freedom for the Venezuelan people,” Guaido told his supporters in Caracas on Wednesday. Pro-Maduro groups also marched through the capital on May Day. Guaido said staggered industrial action would begin on Thursday, leading to a general strike.
Padrino described Guaido’s move as “child’s play.” At Thursday’s military event, Maduro — who is backed by Russia and China — said: “The time for combat has arrived.” “The time has arrived to give an example to history and the world and to say that in Venezuela there are armed forces ... united like never before, defeating coup attempts of traitors who sell themselves to the dollars from Washington,” he added. The International Contact Group of 13 countries — including Britain, France, Germany and Maduro’s ally Bolivia — announced a meeting in Costa Rica on Monday and Tuesday to discuss the latest flare-up in Venezuela’s simmering crisis.
The kerfuffle over the late MP, Abdul Kadir, is just another example of bullying DEAR EDITOR, It never ceases to amaze me that the kindergarten countries always have something to say when independent and sovereign nations assert their rights to self-expression. The kerfuffle over the late Member of Parliament, Abdul Kadir, is just another example of bullying. As far as I know, Guyana asserts itself as an independent nation, with a duly elected Parliament, and is managed by adults. We in Guyana owe no apologies for honouring one of our sons or daughters for the contributions and public service they have rendered for us, in this jurisdiction. The Clerk of the Parliament drafted the motion, the party of MP Kadir was given the notice, and it was entered as an item on the Order Paper. As such, any notions that our actions have created a stain on the legacy of Guyana’s
law-makers should be withdrawn. There is a stain on the legacy of Guyana. Recall, the stains of blood brutally extracted from our foreparents on this soil. Recall, the stains of colonialism that denied our ancestors educational, economic, and employment opportunities that resonate to this day. Recall, the stains of debt systematically imposed on our children, who are waiting to be born. And, recall the possibility of the stains of oil about to be strewn onto our waters that provide fish as a source of our protein. So, stains are nothing new for us. Isn’t Guyana’s nonpareil consistency still a “model to the world on religious tolerance and understanding,” hands-down? Recently, didn’t Christians across Guyana celebrate Easter? Did those who find it convenient to chastise us look at our landscape to see Guyanese kith and kin flying
kites, together? At our last Phagwah celebration, who in this land was not represented at the celebrations? And during Ramadan, don’t we respect all of our Muslim brothers and sisters in their celebrations? We may have had racial violence, but neither do I recall anyone entering a Mosque and carrying out a mass shooting, nor do I remember anyone entering a church, praying with its congregants, then proceeding to slaughter said congregants. The equation that the extradition of an alleged murderer balances with one who was suspected of plotting a heinous act escapes my mind. Thinking about an act and carrying out an act should not end with the same sentence of death. Since when is conspiracy without an overt act a crime? L. A. C. Archer
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Bleak picture hides behind 4.1 percent growth rate –Jagdeo
Harmon’s role as DirectorGeneral still being defined
- DG Harmon tasked with -Finance Minister says Opposition Leader’s claims are irrational chairing post-Cabinet briefings By Kiana Wilburg On numerous occasions, Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, said that the economy is ailing. But the most recent report from the Ministry of Finance shows that the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) climbed to 4.1 percent, the highest growth rate in years. In light of this development, Kaieteur News asked Jagdeo to say if he would recant his statements on the health of the economy or still maintain his position. At his Church Street Office yesterday, Jagdeo said, “You see, I am not a cut and paste economist and I am not saying (Finance Minister, Winston) Jordan is. And secondly, I don’t manage for ratios because behind numbers are people.” Jagdeo said that the government is gloating about the 4.1 percent growth rate and the fact that it collected some $88B more as indicators of success. He said however that when one examines where the growth is coming from, it is not from new investments but rather, those which
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan were piloted under the PPP regime. He said, too, that the test of wellbeing of a country is in the ability of the people to provide for themselves and their families. Jagdeo said that the Finance Minister never addresses the issues regarding the number of people who are losing jobs. He said, “Almost every sector is down...Some services and constructions have increased but look beyond the 4.1 percent and you will see massive job losses.”
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo
When contacted by Kaieteur News last night to respond to Jagdeo’s statements, Minister Jordan said that the End of Year Outcome Report for 2018 is clear about the performance of the respective sectors. The economist said, “We stand by it. (Jagdeo) cannot redefine economics or the indicators that measure the health of a country. When he was Finance Minister and President, it was the same set of ratios that were used to report on the health of the coun-
try. We report them religiously in the end of year statements, budget speeches etc...” Jordan added, “If he is envious of the growth rate then I cannot do anything about it. He didn’t question the 4.1 percent figure but what he tried to do is to deflect the good performance of the economy by bringing in other issues.” The Finance Minister then rubbished Jagdeo’s perspective that there is some bleak picture behind the (Continued on page 8)
Newly appointed Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, said his role is still being worked out. Addressing the media at a post-Cabinet press conference today, the former State Minister said the announcement of this new position, along with changes in ministerial portfolios occurred at a time when four senior ministers demitted office simultaneously. He explained that this requires some amount of rebalancing in the government hence, changes had to made within a very short space of time, “so you will appreciate that this rebalancing takes time and the actual designation of some former ministers and the duties which they perform are still works in progress.” Harmon said he has already been tasked with the role of chairing the post-Cabinet press conferences. Former Business Minister, Dominic Gaskin and former Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenridge’s future portfolios are also being examined, DG Harmon stated.
Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon “The president met with the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, this morning, there are some on-going discussions taking place and with former minister Dominic Gaskin as well, as well as with former minister Dr. Rupert Roopnarine.” He explained that once the situations have been clarified and decisions made, the public will be informed.
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Belt and Road Projects must be subjected to transparency, economic assessment –Opposition Leader By Kiana Wilburg
A
ny project Guyana pursues via China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) must be subjected to a transparent process and a rigid economic assessment says Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo. Jagdeo, who is also the PPP General Secretary, made this declaration during a press conference at his Church Street Office yesterday. There, Kaieteur News asked the Opposition Leader if he agrees with recent statements by the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Christine Lagarde on BRI. The official noted that BRI should only go where it is needed and where it is sustainable. Jagdeo told this publication that he agrees with Lagarde. Asked to say if he believes BRI is needed in Guyana, the PPP General Secretary said, “It depends on what you use the resources for... You have to use resources to either increase welfare so that the social return is greater than capital or use it in a manner that it can give you an economic return. “So definitely, a careful examination of the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) (is needed), looking at all the investment needs, mapping this out...” He added, “We are supposed to have a rolling PSIP that is supposed to be four years ahead. And it should be underpinned by a vision of where you want to go and unfortunately, this govern-
ment has had an ad hoc approach to the PSIP.” The Opposition Leader said he is in favour of any initiative that is designed to help develop investment capital but how the country develops those resources is important. He emphasized however that it must be done transparently and an economic assessment must be conducted. SUSTAINABILITY While China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has the potential to stimulate infrastructural development, Lagarde says it should only go where it is needed and where countries can “sustainably” handle the debt that will follow. Lagarde made these and other remarks to nearly 40 world leaders and other highranking officials at China’s second Belt and Road summit in Beijing. The three-day event ended on April 27, last. The summit sought to encourage discussions on opportunities for growth that are possible for nations involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. There were also talks on ways to further promote trade, foster greater financial inclusion, and facilitate more people-topeople connections through BRI. Lagarde’s presentation however, was focused on exposing that BRI is only successful in countries that need it and can subsequently service the debt that will be incurred. The Managing Director said, “To borrow from a Chinese proverb, ‘It is easy to start a venture — the more
difficult challenge is what comes next.’ That is where we find ourselves today, at the more difficult challenge. The BRI is clearly having an impact. From stimulating infrastructure investment to developing new global supply chains, some of the promises of BRI are being realized.” Lagarde added, “Consider Kazakhstan, where a new manufacturing zone is beginning to unleash previously untapped economic potential. Or look at Senegal, where robust economic growth of over six percent in each of the last four years was supported partly by BRI-linked investment projects, including the construction of a new highway linking the airport to three large cities.” At the same time, the IMF Managing Director alluded to the fact that other nations have not been so lucky. She said, “History has taught us that, if not managed carefully, infrastructure investments can lead to a problematic increase in debt. “I have said before that, to be fully successful, the Belt and Road should only go where it is needed. I would add today that it should only go where it is sustainable, in all aspects...” Locally, Kaieteur News has been at the forefront of exposing how the debt burden from China’s BRI has been breaking the backs of nations which signed up for it. Sri Lanka for example was forced to sign over its strategically important Hambantota
Bleak picture hides behind... From page 7 growth rate. Jordan admitted that indeed, some sectors are down but others have improved. Jordan said, “Only the likes of Jagdeo and his acolytes think this way...People are coming into the country and they are investing. Look at the clean construction that is taking place... “In immature democracies like ours, we don’t want to give jack his jacket because it looks like you are giving the enemy kudos...”He added, “In four years, Jagdeo never said one good thing about the economy and I cannot say that is his right because that cannot be a rational position for one to take.”
port to a Chinese state-owned company on a 99-year lease in 2017. The transfer of the port was to lift some of the enormous billion-dollar debts Sri Lanka owed to Beijing, debts which came from loans that helped fund Hambantota in the first place. Other countries which have landed in the same boat with Sri Lanka include Pakistan, Djibouti, the Maldives, Fiji and Malaysia. (See link for further details: https:// www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ category/chinas-modus-operandi/). In spite of the revelations made by this newspaper and the international reports
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo warning countries about the BRI being nothing more than a debt trap, Guyana still signed up. Other Caribbean nations which have done the
same include Jamaica, Barbados, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Panama, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica, and the Dominican Republic.
Diabetes Association to foster better eye care with IDF donation An eye examination in process volunteer Asim Victor (seated left) examines the eyes of Guyana Diabetes Association’s Treasurer Shawana Blaize, as IDF’s Glynis Beaton looks on
The Guyana Diabetes Association will now be able to better track and control eye illnesses in diabetic patients. This has come about through the donation of a Tang Fundus Camera (Model: TFL-10) from the International Diabetes Federation. The very sophisticated camera will not only enable the promotion of better eye care for diabetic patients, it will also assist the local diabetes arm in detecting eye illnesses at an early stage. Early detection can prevent eventual impaired vision, with extension blindness. The camera produces immediate reading (which can be printed out) on status of eye damage and also proves instant photos of the retina and other areas to facilitate corrective treatment. Yesterday IDF’s, Glynis Beaton, welcomed the gift saying that it was a great boost to their operations. She said that this will speed up their services, and save the eye of many patients now that this equipment
made available provides information for emergency treatments and even referrals. Beaton noted that the local diabetes organisation will now be able to save the sight of many as this speedy eye care initiative will see more patients being referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where corrective treatment/ surgery will be administered. “The provision of the very sophisticated camera has created another plus for the local diabetes arm. It now puts us in a position to better diagnose the state of the eyes of diabetic patients, at an early stage. “This makes room for correctives measures to be implemented to save the sight of many. We are now more than able to better treat our patients, save their sight and provide professional medical care with accurate eye care photos and information, provided by the camera. “It’s also very good that the camera takes instant photos of the retina and other ar-
eas of the eyes. This provides the specialists with concrete information for better diagnosis and treatment.” Training in the use of the camera has already begun. Many volunteers are already acquainted with its use and functions. The Guyana Diabetes Association is expected to pay US$50 per annum to the IDF to offset expenses for the camera’s software. That aside, the Guyana Diabetes Association has so far been conducting several outreach initiatives across Guyana. This camera will now serve as a booster to these projects. Such a programme has improved significantly according to Beaton who noted that they have now moved from blood testing to more heightened levels of treatment. She lauded the efforts of the GPHC’s very active Diabetic Eye Care Clinic which she said has been working in close collaboration with the local diabetes arm.
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Small businesses need the local market The Ministry of Business, quite rightly, was keen on encouraging local businesses to go international. The Ministry even organized an exposition, exclusively for export-ready businesses. Unfortunately, the response to that exposition has been below expectations. And therein lies an important lesson for government in its attempt to prepare Guyanese businesses for the export market. The domestic market limits the prospects of growth for small and medium-scale businesses. And this is the main reason why the Ministry of Business has been pushing for export readiness of local businesses. The problem which the government does not recognize is that access to the domestic market is necessary to allow for the development of export-ready firms. Research has long established a correlation between domestic demand and export competitiveness. In other words, the domestic market prepares you for international competition. Unfortunately, there are numerous instances where the domestic market is closed to Guyanese small businesses. These businesses simply cannot access that market. There is in our law books a requirement for 20% of government contracts to be allocated to small businesses. But all kinds of obstacles are being placed in the way of implementing that legislation. The result is that local businesses are not being provided with the opportunities they need to become export-ready. Without the benefits of the domestic market, small businesses cannot become
effective competitors internationally. This is something which the government needs to recognize. The government signed a contract with Exxon Mobil with weak provisions for local content. It has since promised local content legislation. But the contract with Exxon supersedes any future law; it is those laws which have to be made compliant with the terms of Exxon’s contract and not the other way around. And right now the hog’s share of business opportunities in the oil and gas sector is being gobbled up by the Trinidadians who have more than one hundred years advantage in that sector and who are using this edge to dominate the opportunities in the local oil and gas sector. When the opposition United National Congress promises to create 50,000 jobs in that country, it knows that much of these jobs will come from Guyana. It knows that Trinidad will use the exportreadiness of its businesses to dominate the emerging market in Guyana. Guyana has no policy in place to support its local manufacturers. On Tuesday, this newspaper published that the government had procured exercise and other educational books, which can be manufactured locally, from Trinidad and Tobago. If Guyana has the capacity to produce the books, then why not encourage for the books to be published locally. Right now, we have a situation where persons are buying from local suppliers and reselling to the government at a mark-up, when the same government could have bought directly from local suppliers.
The Ministry of Education must clarify whether any arrangement it has for the external publishing of exercise and other books, was tendered. It is important for the Ministry to clear up any doubts as to the basis upon which exercise books and other school books are being printed overseas when the same can be done locally. The government must allow for local suppliers to tender; and its tender evaluation process must factor in some form of encouragement to local businesses, including the government owned printer which is capable of supplying exercise books. Local printers are at disadvantage when it comes to competing with foreign firms. The local businesses have to source all of their raw materials. We do not produce ink we do not produce paper and our cost of electricity is prohibitively high. And no one is suggesting that small business should be given an unfair advantage over their foreign competitors. All that is being suggested is that local manufacturers, including the state-owned printer, be allowed to tender for the production of school books and other local educational material. This is all that is being asked. If local manufacturers feel locked out of the manufacturing sector, they will never be encouraged to become export-ready. The domestic market, though small is needed to nurture small producers until they are in a condition to compete internationally. The other issue is why Government has to procure exercise books at all. Why cannot a company such as
Exxon Mobil, one of the biggest oil companies in the world, as a good corporate citizen, agree to supply every Guyanese child with a dozen free exercise books each year? If it could find US$10M
from its Trust Fund to give to Conservation International, it can damn well invest in the education of Guyana’s children by providing them with free exercise books, locally produced.
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THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
People choose a calling because that is how they see themselves In this country, once you have lots of money, you see people who do not have wealth as not worthy of being in your company. Once you have a certain kind of status (famous engineer, famous surgeon), you think others are not worthy to socialize with you. It never occurs to such persons in this world that some of us choose our calling because we think that is what we want to do with our lives; that is what makes us live on and not a bundle of money. Forty-one years ago I married into a family that had a thriving business. My wife refused to carry it on when her mother gave it to her. I was not interested; I enjoyed teaching at UG. Had we taken over the business, the wealth would have come. My wife loved her engineering work. I loved teaching at UG. Has it ever occurred to people that civilization would have died a long time ago if we all on Planet Earth wanted to start a company and make
countless dollars? There would have been no Shakespeare, Einstein, Gandhi, Mandel, Bob Marley, Lionel Messi, Pele, Don Bradman, Brian Lara, Gorbachev, Stephen Hawking, Julian Assange, Edward Snowden etc. Not every soul in a civilized community wants to have a private jet, yacht, and mansion. For countless people in the world those things do not enter their minds. I have no interest in being invited to dinner by any ambassador. I have no interest in socializing with people who are considered the crème de la crème of Guyana. With the same attitude, I don’t give a rabbit’s ass what people say about me. You can fly your private jet with your jet-setting friends and laughingly look down on me driving my old car and I would be unmoved. Don’t ever think if you step on the wrong side of me, your wealth and status would intimidate me. I will tell you to
put your wealth and status where the monkey put the nuts. This was my problem with Miles Fitzpatrick. People treated Fitzpatrick as a god. He wasn’t a god in my eyes. We disagreed and since no one can tell a god that he is wrong because it exposes his infallibility, Fitzpatrick hated me. That didn’t deter me. I featured him negatively in my columns based on what I knew of him. It is against this background that I write this column based on a conversation I had in the National Park on Labour Day with a longstanding politician. Confidentiality was requested of me and I gave my word. He said that the story of so many politicians in Guyana is yet to be told and he thanked me for my columns. He dealt with a specific individual that I had written about. I remember his words – “I know because I was there.” He cited the case of someone who refused to be a minister because the salary was not to his liking. He as-
serted he could not work for a minister’s salary. Requested several times to serve, he refused. Then, when the time was right he told his comrades, he was interested in the presidential slot for his party. This confidante said, “Freddie, he couldn’t get the support of not one person in his party.” Jagdeo made no bones about dressing this man down. He reminded this man that he told Dr. Cheddi and Janet Jagan that they could not pay him to serve in any Ministerial capacity. We were getting settled into discussing history when others came up and that was the end of our discussion. Before he walked away, he said, “Keep writing Freddie, and don’t let them deter you”
to which I responded; “You know me.” I cannot even give a clue as to who this person is because his identity can be revealed but I can tell you this; he is well placed. In running this over with my editor, Adam Harris, he had a broad smile on his face and said, “I could easily guess who he is.” He guessed and I didn’t respond. I am glad I ran into this guy because as he said the story of so many people around us that we think are trustworthy are not and the facts may never be revealed. I am not going to be scared in writing about places, people and events. If those who my pen exposes think I am a crazy, a non-entity, narcissist, then, I have news for them. I am
Frederick Kissoon happy. I meet people who think I am sane and brave. I meet people who think I should continue in my work. If those who think I am a nobody, who don’t know much about concepts and how to use them, then, write what you have to write; doesn’t bother me. Never did, never will.
DEM BOYS SEH Soulja Bai got to jail people in de public interest Soulja Bai doing a lot of things in the public interest. That mean that he got de public at heart. Of course, if dem boys should ask some odda people dem would seh Soulja Bai don’t care about de country. Yesterday, he swear in some new Minister. When dem boys examine de news last week dem one man seh Soulja Bai got an old deck of cards and all he can do is shuffle. Before de week out, de man find new people. Some of dem so new that people asking wheh dem come from. After he swear in de new Ministers dem boys decide to ask him some questions.
Dem ask him bout de Housing Minister and he seh he move she in de public interest. Wha he really mean is that he move she out of de firing range of Jagdeo, Gail and de Chat-3. Dem boys hear how dem people talk bout conflict of interest and somebody whisper how Jagdeo looking fuh an excuse to cover up fuh Irfaat. Gail got she eye pun de presidency suh whatever Jagdeo seh she got to repeat. Soulja Bai was certain Jagdeo and Gail woulda mek de Housing thing a political issue. When he send home Seeall he tell people he was doing that in de public interest.
And is a good thing because See-all write to himself to apply fuh twelve firearm licence. Then he reply to heself granting approval. De next week he sit down wid heself to conduct de interview. Soulja Bai seh de man was either very smart of he was running mad. That is why he send home de man in de public interest. Dem boys want to know why he don’t jail some people in de public interest. He did mek nuff promises in de public interest and is time he keep de promise to jail some people in de public interest. Talk half and do everything in de public interest
Friday May 03, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Sole-sourcing of exercise, text books…
Education Ministry blames National Printers for irregularities but fail to address paying high prices
T
he Ministry of Education (MoE) has distanced itself from the multi-milliondollar purchasing of exercise and other books from overseas for government schools. The statement came after disclosures this week that local printers were complaining bitterly about being bypassed as the Guyana National Printers Limited (GNPL) doled out hundreds of millions of dollars to producers and printeries overseas. There were little or no advertisements. Local suppliers said that they were not told of the orders. The exercise and textbooks are given out to students of the governmentrun schools. According to the ministry in its statement, yesterday, it has taken note of an article
GNPL has reportedly been doling out hundreds of millions of dollars to purchase exercise and text books overseas, sideling locals.
GNPL’s GM, Trevor Bassoo published in the Wednesday, May 1, 2019 edition of Kaieteur News with the headline “$100M spent to ‘upgrade’ National Printers yet… Education Min. bypasses local printeries to sole-source from T&T”. The MoE said it wishes to
Minister of Education, Minister Nicolette Henry advise that the printing of exercise books and textbooks produced locally is contracted to the GNPL which is a state-owned entity, located at 1 Public Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, Guyana. ”The Education Ministry has no arrangement
Guyanese-born off-duty cop killed in NY crash
An off-duty New York City police officer heading to work was killed Wednesday morning in a two-car accident in Lynbrook, officials said. (Credit: Jim Staubitser) New York (Newsday) - An off-duty New York City police officer killed Wednesday morning in a two-car accident in Lynbrook has been identified as Vincent Persaud of West Babylon, authorities said. Persaud, 31, who was stationed in the 101st Precinct in Far Rockaway, was on his way to work, driving west on Peninsula Boulevard at 6:45 a.m. when his car collided with another vehicle near the Hempstead Avenue intersection, said Lynbrook Police Lt. Charles McCartney. Persaud’s car then went off the road, Nassau Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said during an unrelated news conference in Mineola. He
was pronounced dead at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream. The NYPD said Persaud suffered severe head trauma. The other driver, who was not identified, was not seriously injured, police said. The crash is not considered criminal and the investigation is continuing, Nassau police said.A native of Guyana, Persaud joined the NYPD in July 2015 and spent his entire career in the 101st Precinct, officials said. “Our hearts are heavy with passing of our brother P.O. Vincent Persaud this morning in an off-duty vehicle collision,” the NYC Police Benevolent Association tweeted Wednesday. “Please keep his family,
friends and @NYPD101Pct brothers and sisters in your thoughts and prayers.” Reached by phone, a family member of Persaud declined to comment and asked for privacy. Last month, a veteran NYPD highway officer and married father of five from Elmont was killed in a motorcycle crash on the Laurelton Parkway in Queens as he rode to work, officials said. Officer Marc St. Arromand, 42, was traveling south about 5:30 a.m. April 11 near Merrick Boulevard when he lost control and was thrown from his 2011 Yamaha, according to the NYPD. He struck a metal guard and was then hit by a vehicle.
for printing of local text and exercise books with any other company as is inferred in the article,” the statement said. However, glaringly absent from the statement is the price that the ministry paid GNPL for the books. It appears, too, that MoE did not determine what price GNPL was paying for each book or worse yet, did not care how taxpayers dollars are being spent.It would be pertinent in determining if the country got value for its money. In any case, from all indications, GNPL appeared to have breached all the protocols when it came to p r o c u r e m e n t . Ye s t e r d a y, GNPL’s General Manager, Trevor Bassoo, when
contacted, said he was not prepared to speak. Rather, he said, a statement would be forthcoming. He did not say when.In November 2016, President David Granger visited the La Penitence facilities of the state-owned Guyana National Printers Limited (GNPL). Over the years, it had been critical in producing exercise and text books for distribution in schools; birth, death and marriage certificates, Official Gazettes and other parliamentary documents including the budget estimates, calendars, labels, other forms and cardboard boxes.However, despite celebrating 80 years in operation, a lack in investments and
mismanagement has been bleeding the operations. In late 2016, during the visit, the President promised that he will assist in facilitating a cash injection to help reverse the losses. Reportedly, $100M was plugged into the operations to upgrade and modernize the printery.A used printing press was acquired from overseas and installed early last year but it has failed to deliver. Since last year, GNPL has been engaging suppliers in Trinidad and Tobago to produce exercise books and text books. Local printers are saying they have the capacity to print for way cheaper than what is being produced and (Continued on page 28)
Tain man, sons ward off bandits during home invasion Armed bandits who invaded the home of a Tain Villager and his family were given a difficult time when they broke into the family’s house. The man Haimraj Pattiram, 52, and his two sons armed themselves with objects and cutlasses when bandits entered their premises and were attempting to wrench open the door leading to the upper flat of the home. According to the wife, Satyawattie Pattiram, of Lot 160 Block 4, New Scheme Tain, some time around 3:00 am they heard loud noises emanating from the bottom flat of their home. Immediately her sons and husband armed themselves with a weapon and other objects with the intention of hurling it at the men if they gained entry through the door leading to the upper flat. The first call to the police was also made. She stated that the men were trying to wrench open the door. Eventually when the crooks finally succeeded ”the (occupants) start pelt thing on them bandits.”“After them throw everything them only left with the cutlass in them hand and then them decide to take two chairs and throw it,” she said. The woman said that the men removed two window panes from the lower flat to
The scene after the home invasion gain entry into the building and then broke the kitchen door to allow the other men to enter. Pattiram stated that one perpetrator was heard shouting “Shoot the big man”. When another attempted to shoot at them, his gun failed. “Like when he cranking he gun it na crank me son say.” She explained that when
they made the first call to the police, they called back shortly after for directions. “Is when dem (bandits) hear we giving directions then they get away.” A silver band, silver chain and two sugar testing machines that were in the lower flat was taken by the men when they escaped. Police are investigating.
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Bandits murder Albouystown businesswoman …husband found bound and gagged in shop Popular Albousytown businesswoman, Nalinie Persaud, was murdered in her bed around 03.00 hrs yesterday, while her spouse was left beaten, gagged and b o u n d i n t h e c o u p l e ’s shop. The deed was done by four masked men who invaded their home. Persaud, 56, who operated Nalo’s Variety Shop at Lot 161 James Street, Albouystown, was found lifeless and with a rope tied around her neck around 06.00 hrs after a customer came to the shop and freed her husband, Mahendra Rampersaud. He was strapped with duct-tape and lying on the floor. The house and shop were ransacked. Mr. Rampersaud said that the killers carted off money and jewellery. He believes that the men may have killed his spouse after she began to scream. It was raining at the time and neighbours said they had not heard any unusual sounds. To enter the house, the bandits first ripped away zinc sheets from a fence at the back of the yard. They then prised out some loose boards from the southern wall in the
bottom flat. They were able to gain access to the top flat via a door that was only bolted from the outside. The couple had retired to bed around midnight. Around 03.00 hrs, Rampersaud said he felt someone touching his leg, and awoke to see four masked men in their bedroom. Two of the intruders were pointing guns at him. He said that when he sat up, the men ‘lassoed’ him around the neck with a length of nylon rope. His wife, who had also awoken, began to scream and the men immediately pounced on her and pressed her facedown on the bed. However, according to Rampersaud, his spouse “was still keeping noise.” While two of the robbers remained with his wife, the other two dragged him to the bottom flat where their shop is located. “I was telling them ‘don’t kill me; tek whatever you want.” After taking him downstairs, Rampersaud said that the intruders ordered him to switch off the lights. He said they began to gun butt and kick him, while asking “Where the money and the jewellery deh.”
Mr. Persaud points to the area where the killers ripped away a section of the wall to gain entry
“I say that maybe the money deh in the wardrobe, because is my wife does keep the money.” The robbers, he said, then placed him on the floor of the shop and strapped his eyes and limbs with duct tape. He said that he eventually heard the other two men come downstairs and tell their accomplices, “We get thing,” (money) before hearing them escape via the front door of the shop.
Rampersaud estimated that he remained in the shop for almost three hours, before a customer arrived around 06.00 hrs. He said that the bandits had left the front door of the shop unlocked. The customer entered and saw Rampersaud on the floor. He then freed the businessman. Rampersaud said that he then alerted his reputed wife’s son, who lives next door. The son then went to the top flat and Rampersaid said he then heard the son cry out,
“Ow, they kill me mother.” He said that his spouse’s body was on the bed, and a length of rope was tied around her neck. Mr. Rampersaud, who was treated for his injuries and for hypertension, disclosed that he had re-migrated about a year ago, after living overseas for several years. His spouse had been operating Nalo’s Variety Shop for about ten years, and was reportedly planning to renovate the premises and also to buy a vehicle which would operate as a taxi.
Murdered in her bedroom: Nalinie Persaud
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PPP Councillor demands findings of NCN Berbice investigations be released - Mathoo no show at Statutory meeting to renounce seat Newly appointed Member of Parliament Donna Mathoo came under fire from Councillor Zamal Hussain at the monthly statutory meeting yesterday. Hussain in his presentation to the council at the conclusion of the meeting demanded that the findings of the investigation into the mismanagement of funds at the National Communications
Network (NCN) Berbice be made public to the RDC in light of what was published, recently. Hussain said that he was happy that Kaieteur News has brought to light what is taking place at the entity and the person in charge. In the same light he issued a call for the findings of the investigation to be made available to the RDC, a request he made be-
fore at the meeting. “I am calling, through the RDC, to have a copy of the findings. Where the chip falls, let it fall. Access to information is our rights unless there is some clause in the laws. We are asking for the investigation to be made public to the RDC”. “To date, the most competent man as he claims to be, Moses Nagamootoo, has not
presented to the RDC to give us the findings on the investigation at NCN so that we can analyze what is happening there. NCN is an entity that falls within the ambit of Region Six. I know and I said it several times, that we are being isolated. “In fact, we are being minimized,” Hussain pointed out. He argued that past employees during the investigation either resigned or were fired but Mathoo who was only sent on administrative leave during the probe was brought back to work. In a letter to Mathoo dated April 13, 2017, from then NCN’s chief, Lennox Cornette, who has since died, she was implicated by employees in a racket to hide cash received for advertisements. In the letter captioned “Financial Irregularities at Berbice Branch”, an audit of transactions at the NCN branch expressed the opinion that staffers have defrauded the state-owned media company in excess of $500,000 monthly starting in December 2015. The staffers used fictitious invoices, receipts and broadcast logs. Internal auditors found that among other things, there were verbal instructions for staffers to air advertisements and private programmes and other unofficial means even though these were not recorded on the official’s logs. He said that there was evidence that orders were issued for the destruction of the fake logs and receipts before the auditors came in to conduct a special exercise in 2017. Kaieteur News has copies of the audit report, which clearly
MP Donna Mathoo indicated a widespread, systematic fraud. Mathoo in a public statement, which was carried by Kaieteur News in April 2018, said that she was asked in 2017 to proceed on leave to facilitate an investigation. “I proceeded on leave on March 29, 2017 after which date the investigation commenced. During the course of the investigation, Mr. Omadatt Ramnarine’s services were terminated by the NCN. I was provided with a copy of the findings of the investigation. No allegation of misconduct against me was contained in the findings. After due consideration and deliberation, I was invited to resume duty on 5th March 2018.” Meanwhile, although it was expected that Mathoo would turn up to the RDC meeting as she sometimes would, she was a no-show. It was anticipated by some
councillors that Mathoo would turn up to renounce her seat as a councillor given that she was recently appointed an MP but that did not happen. Hussain, quoted article 155 of the constitution which states in paragraph 6A that “if he holds or is acting in any office that is specified in parliament and the function of which involves responsibility for or in connection with the conduct of an election or the compilation or the revision of any register of electors for the purpose of an elections then this person is not qualified for an election in the parliament, this is the actual law”. While positing that he stands corrected on the section he quoted he still believes that “you cannot be an RDC councillor and be an MP. This is a breach of the constitution again by this government so I know that we need to look at it”.
Guyana risks becoming like Venezuela in absence of plan to diversify economy-Jagdeo PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, is dissatisfied with the efforts Government says it is making to ensure the nation is not overly dependent on the oil revenues to come. He also bemoaned the fact that the government is yet to put forward its plans to diversify the economy. The Opposition Leader made these and other comments during a press conference he held yesterday at his Church Street Office.
Jagdeo said, “That is the biggest cause of worry and this is not as Opposition Leader; this is as a Guyanese I am speaking here. They (government) are peddling these rumours that we will do well with oil money, we will get rich and solve all our problems but that is not so.” “Even if we get a lot of money, which we won’t in initial years, if we don’t focus on diversification then we are going to become like Venezuela and others who produce
oil and the people don’t have food. This is the problem with this government.” He added, “There is no plan for how we will use oil resources to create jobs for people...You have to decide what we will use the resources to do, how much will go to short term improvements , health care, education, and what will be saved for intergenerational equity.” He stressed that these matters need to be addressed urgently.
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Outdated farming system a contributory factor to reduced production in Pomeroon Over a number of years, the Pomeroon had grown quite popular for its ability to produce some of Guyana’s finest ground provisions, citrus, coconuts, coco and even Coffee. As of recent, however, the Pomeroon’s capacity to produce these fine delicacies seems to be somewhat dwindling. Following a field visit conducted yesterday by the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute [NAREI], it was concluded that production within the riverine community has decreased tremendously due to the ‘aging agriculture prac-
tice’ still being used. Based on reports, there are more than 800 farmers in the Pomeroon River. There is believed to be more than 150 farmers within the Jacklow area. Jacklow is located some one mile from Charity. During a visit to this area yesterday, it was observed that most of these farms, like many other within the Pomeroon, have been established for over thirty to forty years. Within this time period, there appears to be little or no replanting of fruit trees. In addition, there was no proper husbandry practice, or
little or no fertilizer use, says a NAREI officer. With the fertility of the soil rapidly depleting, and with no replenishing, production has significantly declined. The officer also stressed that aged plants are easily affected by pests and diseases. Some of the diseases observed during the field visit, yesterday, included the wood termite, an insect which feeds on the citrus and pear plants, Die-Back often referred to as the Dry stem and Dry Limb, and the black sigatoka, which affects growth and production of sucker plants.
“Malnourished sucker plants.”
“A farmer interacting with NAREI officers yesterday.”
A farmer for a number of years said that her four acres of cultivated crops have been producing poorly. She added, “I use to get 40lb to 50lb from a bunch of bananas. Now it is way less. The dry stem disease is also a big problem to the orange trees and pear; even the new trees that growing then not really growing; the leaf turning.” Another woman who cultivates a five-acre plot also has the same problem with her crops. She told this pub-
lication yesterday that her trees were about 20 to 30 years old. She noted, however, that there is a ¼ acre of new citrus crop, which she says will require a three-year period before production. NAREI stressed the need for improved field sanitation and proper drainage system, which will tremendously reduce flooding. It was also suggested that farmers replant new seedlings, which will replace plants that would’ve outlived their pro-
ductive lifespan. An officer added, “Farmers need to implement a fertilization programme, accompanied simultaneously by a pest and disease management programme… Young plants will be more vigorous in terms of growth and production, and their resistance to pest and disease.” Farmers who request technical support and advice are being advised to visit the Charity Extension office or call the office number.
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Minister Patterson-Yearwood removed from Housing in “public interest”- President Granger Minister Valerie Patterson-Yearwood was placed in charge of Department of Housing in 2015, a key entity that overlooked the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA). She was supposed to clean up the authority, which up to 2015 was dogged by constant allegations of corruption and mismanagement under the previous administration of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic. However, last week, she was removed from Housing
and placed in the Ministry of Agriculture to handle “Rural Affairs”. Yesterday, President David Granger said that the Minister was removed in the “public interest”. The president was being asked about the circumstance that compelled him to take the decision in light of evidence that her husband benefitted from millions in contracts to build turn-key homes for CH&PA. “There were certain allegations, and I felt it would be in the public interest for
her to go to another ministry,” the president told reporters at the Ministry of the Presidency yesterday, shortly after swearing in a number of new ministers. Patterson-Yearwood was not there. However, several of her colleague ministers, including Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, were there. According to the president, the minister has not been convicted of any crime. He said that he felt her services could be used in sup-
porting the Ministry of Agriculture with responsibility for Rural Affairs “Yes, I met her and she clarified …at this point I am satisfied that she has not committed any criminal offence and that she is a fit and proper person to continue to serve in the Department of Rural Affairs.” It appears that the department was specially created for her. Meanwhile, speaking with reporters on the resignations of four senior ministers who have dual citizenship and are barred from holding parliamentary and ministerial posts, the president admitted that the four have considerable experience. The four ministers who resigned last week were Minister of State, Joseph Harmon; Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge; Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin and Minister with responsibility for Public Service, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine. According to Granger, Harmon will continue to play a key role in the Ministry of the Presidency. He was appointed as Director General to assist the president in the administration- a non-ministerial role. According to the president, the ministry has several large departments. These include Defence, Environment, Energy and a number of com-
In the public’s interest: Minister Valerie Patterson-Yearwood missions. “Very large administration…I need the assistance.” With regards to the appointment of Dr. Karen Cummings as the new Foreign Affairs Minister, President David Granger stressed that with Minister Carl Greenidge gone, the country could not be without a substantive minister. Guyana is currently fighting the border claims of
Venezuela in the International Court. “I felt in my considered judgment she is the fittest person to hold that portfolio; that is the deciding factor.” Greenidge, a season minister who served under Forbes Burnham and then Desmond Hoyte, had been meeting with the President who yesterday disclosed he wants the former ministers to continue to serve.
Govt. making it easy for PPP to win next General and Regional Elections--Jagdeo PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, said yesterday that the sheer folly and incompetence of the APNU+AFC Government is making it easier for the political opposition to win the next General and Regional Elections. Speaking to the media at his Church Street Office, Jagdeo said that the APNU+AFC is a visionless cabal which has forgotten the nation’s youths, has a partisan outlook on issues, and lacks a plan for any of the major revenue earning sectors. He said, “I think people have seen the true nature of this government. We pointed it out on the campaign trail. They went into office with vague promises and some specific ones. I say vague in the sense that they said they will raise billions from stopping corruption. “Remember, they had said that there was massive procurement fraud going on...Then they proceeded to exclude all the young people from government...” Jagdeo added, “They became totally corrupt. In fact, in four years, they have done
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo more harm to institutions which fight corruption and destroyed the Procurement Act with their noncompliance. They even undermined the Integrity Commission by failing to submit statements...” The Opposition Leader said that there is no direction
from this government and the nation is beginning to understand that all along, its accusations against the PPP were baseless. He said that the people are seeing that the PPP is a party that is committed to improving the lot of all Guyanese.
Friday May 03, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
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Friday May 03, 2019
New MP, Donna Mathoo, was cleared of NCN's fraud allegations - Chairman/CEO Woolford
T
he state-owned N a t i o n a l Communications Network (NCN) has come out in defence of newly sworn-in Member of Parliament, Donna Mathoo. Yesterday, the entity's Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Enrico Woolford, insisted that as far as the fraud allegations against Mathoo are concerned, that matter has been “settled”. This, he stressed, is having regards to the fact
that allegations in this country are not indictment, and indictments are not convictions. “At the end you can make any allegations. I can make allegations about you or anybody else but that does not mean that that is guilt. Allegations are not equivalent to guilt.” He said that Mathoo has a n s w e r e d t h e investigators…has answered all the questions. “In this country we have to be very careful about
allegations.” On Friday, Mathoo, the Berbice Branch Manager of NCN was one of four persons sworn in to replace the ministers who resigned due to court rulings over dual-citizenship. Mathoo, in a public statement, which was carried by Kaieteur News in April 2018, had said that she was asked in 2017 to proceed on leave to facilitate an investigation. “I proceeded on leave on March 29, 2017 after which
date the investigation commenced. During the course of the investigation, Mr. Omadatt Ramnarine's services were terminated by the NCN. I was provided with a copy of the findings of the investigation. No allegation of misconduct against me was contained in the findings. After due consideration and deliberation, I was invited to resume duty on 5th March 2018.” However, according to a letter to Mathoo dated April
NCN's Chairman/CEO, Enrico Woolford
Cleared? - New MP for the AFC, Donna Mathoo 13, 2017, from then NCN's chief, Lennox Cornette, who has since died, she was implicated by employees in a racket to hide cash received for advertisements. In the letter captioned “Financial Irregularities at Berbice Branch”, an audit of transactions at the NCN branch expressed the opinion that staffers have defrauded the state-owned media company in excess of $500,000 monthly starting in December 2015. The staffers used fictitious invoices, receipts and broadcast logs. “It is evident that the fictitious documents issued to customers were done to conceal the case collected since our official documents carry a sequential numbering that are tracked daily for any breaks,” Cornette had told Mathoo in the letter sending her off on leave. According to the NCN chief, in the letter to Mathoo, staffers gave statements “which implicate you as part of the financial irregularities.” Mathoo was given until April 18, 2017, to respond to the findings of the audit. She was told to remain on administrative leave. Cornette disclosed then that in addition to paper trail evidence, NCN and auditors were in possession of two video ads to supplement the evidence. The advertisements were
related to the Country Pride programme. Among other things, the internal audits found that there were several instances of fictitious receipts to customers; creation of separate logs to air ads and the concealing of cash paid for the ads and verbal instructions to staff to air advertisements and private programmes. There were also indications that the destruction of fake logs and receipts were ordered before the NCN internal probe started. There was also evidence that staffers were made to sign blank petty cash vouchers for travelling and then a higher amount was inserted. “Specifically, the audit has found evidence of 724 advertisements on fake broadcast logs as well as several fake receipts. The matrix that follows gives d e t a i l s o f 3 0 0 advertisements, aired for which revenues collected were not handed over to the company,” Cornette said in his letter. In April 2018, the issue of Mathoo resuming her job at that Berbice branch was raised at the monthly statutory meeting at the Regional Democratic Council, Region Six. Several persons including the Regional Chairman, David Armogan, and the Community Development Officer for Region Six, Barbara Pilgrim, expressed their disapproval at the status of the investigation.
Kaieteur News
Friday May 03, 2019
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MV Kimbia recommissioned after $488M renovation The MV Kimbia will serve the Northwest district for 20 years more
T
h e n e w l y rehabilitated MV Kimbia was recommissioned by Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, yesterday. A team from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, led by Patterson and Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Annette Ferguson, were treated to a tour of the newly renovated facility. Patterson said the boat, which is 38 years old, “will be able to service the country for another 20 years”. The boat was driven along the Demerara River, between the ports of Georgetown and the Demerara Harbour Bridge, shadowed by a tug, the MT Aruka, . It was the same route when the vessel went on a trial run, last month. It had undergone rehabilitation that lasted three years, to the tune of $488M. The boat was retired for major rehabilitation that included works to its steering mechanism, which were done by Brenco Shipping & Trading Company Limited, in collaboration with Damen Shipyards of the Netherlands. The vessel received complimentary television sets, a number of refrigerators and freezers, improved cabin facilities and a refurbished galley, courtesy of the contractor Courtney Benn Construction Company. This is the sixth marine vessel to be rehabilitated within the past three years. The Transport and Harbours Department said that the marine fleet had almost all been mothballed. There was no effort to keep them afloat. This vessel was
commissioned nearly 70 years ago. It serviced communities along the Berbice River and the North West District. With age, it began to breakdown before it could complete a voyage. In one case, it had to be towed back to Port Georgetown after stalling miles in the Atlantic. Patterson said that the addition to the service will benefit the Northwest greatly, because it is larger than the Barima, and will carry much more cargo. “It adds to our fleet. So, obviously, the frequency at which we can get to service the Northwest is enhanced. It's a bigger boat than the other two” “[It will be] cheaper for communities to get their goods in. So we're quite pleased,” Patterson told the press. The Minister said that it is just part of the overall package for the upgrade of the maritime sector “and better service for residents in regions One and Two”. He added that they expect to get feedback from those communities on how the new service benefits them, and what could be done better. Further, the inspectorate division is expected to be reinstated. “So therefore, questions of people being treated unfairly – people not being allowed service in order – that will be addressed by the inspectorate division”. There have been complaints about persons' cargo being taken off of the Barima due to overloading, including perishables and other valuable items. To remedy that issue, Patterson said that the boat will be put into operation as soon as possible.
Friday May 03, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Team Slingerz to host grand
Mother's Night Party
on MAY 12
S
lingerz Family is proud to host on May 12, the ultimate Mother's Night Party called “Mama I Love You.” The event is being held at the XS Bar and Lounge, Corneila Ida, West Coast Demerara. There will be drinks specials all night long. Patrons are asked to dress elegantly. Admission for this event is set an easy $1000. Sponsored by Heineken
Friday May 03, 2019
GUYANA CARNIVAL TO HOST W.E.T WEDNESDAY FEATURING
MACHEL MONTANO
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G
uyana Carnival is proud to present, The Monk of Soca, Machel Montano on May 22. This event will be labeled “Wet Wednesday” where Machel will share the stage with reigning soca monarch winner, Mr. Killa and Guyana's very own Jumo Primo. The venue is set for the National Park and starts at 8PM sharp. Come enjoy sounds by DJ Energy, DJ Shizzle, Patrick The Hypeman, DJ Jayand and DJ Jus Jay. Tickets cost $5000 for general and $25,000 for VIP. Visit guyanacarnival.eventbrite.com or its box office at 206 Lance Gibbs Street, Queenstown.
Kaieteur News
Friday May 03, 2019
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Shenseea BUJU BANTON
REGGAE SUPER STAR
to headline UG FETE on May 21
to perform in Guyana on May
G
25 R
eggae Super star Buju Banton is confirmed to perform in Guyana on May 25, 2019 as part of the Guyana Independence Carnival Celebrations. Over the past couple days, much excitement has been generated after a few popular social media sites leaked information that Buju Banton is expected to perform in Guyana in May. Well, now it is coming directly from the horse's mouth, he is coming. After seeing how excited Guyanese were to see Buju, High Frequency Entertainment in collaboration with King Leo Promotion and the Guyana Carnival Committee decided that it is a great opportunity to make Guyana a part of the 'Long Walk to Freedom' tour. Buju Banton, who's 'Long Road to Freedom' tour was announced late last year, listed many
countries in the Caribbean, such as, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Kitts, Suriname, Grenada and his home country of Jamaica; finally, Guyana is on that list. Banton, who has always referred to Guyana as one of his favourite countries to perform in the Caribbean, has not performedhere for over 12 years, however, he will return with his full band to give his Guyanese fans a long overdue and highly anticipated concert. The reggae superstar is known for hits such as, 'untold stories', wanna be loved', 'champion', 'deportees', 'not an easy road' and much more. Tickets for this event will go on sale online and at ticket locations locally in the coming days. Stay tuned to social media sites @guyanacarnival and our website www.guyanacarnival592.com for more details.
Ultimate Wedding House Party set for PC tomorrow
G
uyana's leading entertainment spot, the Original Palm Court, is poised to host tomorrow, the ultimate wedding house party which will feature talented disc jockeys like Selector Andy, DJ Ryan and DJ Anisha. There will also be special performances from the Feel Da Beat Tassa Troupe. Doors will be open from 7PM. Ladies will be allowed free entry up to 9PM. There will also be free Bacardi shots for the first 50 persons. See you there.
Game of Thrones Season 8 Ep. 4 for viewing at 704 on Sunday
T
he fourth episode of Game of Thrones Season 8 is all set for viewing at the exquisite 704 Sports Bar this Sunday at 9 PM. There will be a lineup of unique Game of Thrones cocktails such as, “Winter is Coming,” “Ours is the Fury”, “Fire and blood”, and “The Red Woman” for you to indulge in. Show up in your Game of Thrones Costume and you can get a free drink too. See you there.
uyana Carnival organizers are proud to present “UG Fete” featuring the #1Trending Gyal‟ Shensea” alongside the nation's very own, Timeka Marshall on May 21st. For UG Fete, Guyana Carnival collaborates with PACE ( Philanthrophy, Alumni and Civic Engagement) and The Student's Society in order to raise funds which strive to foster the rounded development of the University of Guyana's students. This will happen through the provision of services; programmes and the facilities to complement the academic environment that is holistically conducive to learning. General tickets cost $3000 and the stage front tickets cost $10000. UG Students will be able to receive a special rate of $2500 for a general ticket and a stage front ticket at $8000. Tickets will be on sale at the University of Guyana's Campus and the Guyana Carnival box office located at 206 Lance Gibbs Street Queenstown. The princess of dancehall will be at the Turkeyen Campus on May 20th performing where students will also be given the opportunity to ask questions. Guyana Carnival 2019 is slated for May 17th– 27th with combinations of cooler fetes, mega concerts, day tours, jouverts and a grand Independence Day road parade. Make sure you get there!
Kosmos
The latest Entertainment hotspot that caters for all
K
osmos is the new exciting destination for patrons of all walks of life looking for the ultimate experience. Whether you're craving a chef inspired meal, an afternoon hang spot or a great night out, Kosmos has you covered! There are daily happy hour specials, live band, nightly shows and theme parties combined with ultra modern environment and international line of beverages makes us the only place you will ever want to be. You will always want more at Kosmos. (See schedule for upcoming events at right)
Kaieteur News
THE
PAGE 24
'Game Of Thrones' Season 8, Episode 3 Review:
POP
CULT
Friday May 03, 2019
THE REVIEWS ARE IN!!!
By Eric Kain Sunday night's episode of Game of Thrones was . . . astonishing. This was one of the best episodes not only of HBO's extraordinary fantasy drama, but of any television show I've ever seen. I'm left reeling, dizzy, all my expectations shattered. Holy hell, that was something truly special. I'm not even sure where to begin. I suppose, let's begin with the moment right before the Night King was turned into a thousand pieces of ice. Shattered, like my expectations, by Azor Ahai. The clue to that prophesied hero's name was always the letter "A" after all (and the number of letters in the name, for that matter): Arya Stark (Maisie Williams) = Azor Ahai. The only character in this show whose name starts with an A and is four letters long. And isn't an Aegon (or an Alliser, I suppose). She may have never added the Night King's name to her kill list, but in the end, "What do we say to the God of Death?" Melisandre asks as they stare at the fallen Beric Dondarrion, who has died so many times before, all for this moment it turns out. All part of this plan. "Not today," Arya says. And she rushes off. I didn't know why at the time. Then, later, as Theon (Alfie Allen) breathed his last and the Night King walked slowly toward Bran (Isaac Hempstead Wright), who sat there so calm and so confident and so unperturbed, suddenly it
hit me. I turned to my girlfriend and I said, "Arya's going to kill the Night King." Jon was there, hiding from the undead dragon's blue flame, and I also thought we'd see him slay a dragon at the same time, but that was not to be. And just after I said it, we see the wind blow and the White Walkers turn as if a shadow has passed. The Night King reaches for his blade, but Bran doesn't mind. He's calm. He's ready. His trap is sprung. Then there she is . . . Arya . . . Azor Ahai, the princess that was promised, leaping through the dark. The Night King turns, grabs her by the throat, she drops the dagger—the dagger Littlefinger sent with an assassin to kill Bran Stark, lo these many years ago; the Valyrian steel dagger that he later told Catelyn Stark was Tyrion Lannister's, leading to her arresting the Imp, which in turn led to Jaime attacking Ned Stark in the streets of King's Landing; the dagger, in other words, that helped start this entire war, intended for the throat of young Bran, whose Direwolf saved him. We've come full circle. Arya catches the dagger in her other hand and plunges it into the Night King. And just like Bran hoped, when he falls so does his army. Just when all seems lost, when the odds become impossible and the dead keep rising and rising and the night is blackest—the army of the dead falls. The night is always darkest before the dawn. I will say this. I am not particularly good at predictions. But I did make a couple this
The Battle Of Winterfell Defies Every Expectation Of Greatness
week that I'm happy about. I said that the fan theory about the Night King heading to King's Landing instead of Winterfell was poppycock, and I was right. I said that the dead would rise up in the crypts and attack the living—not fight for them—and I was right. And I said that our heroes would win and defeat the Night King in this episode before turning to face Cersei (Lena Headey) in the final three, and I was right. I did not, however, see Arya Stark as the perfect assassin who would, in the end, kill our epic fantasy villain. I love that I didn't see that coming until the moment before it
happened (and I'm still a little giddy that I saw it coming just in time) and I'm overjoyed that both Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen were, in the end, sidelined in a way. Their dragon-riding, fire-breathing antics did very little to stem the tide of the dead. Sure, they blasted some wights with their dragon flame, but most of the episode they were lured into one fruitless confrontation with the Night King after another. Both Jon and Dany's dragon were taken out of commission and—perhaps one of my only complaints about this episode—woefully underutilized in the actual battle. They could have been much more helpful burning the ranks of the dead than playing chase with the Night King. Valar Morghulis Then again, so much wonderful drama occurred on the battlefield. So much that, to be quite honest, I will need to dip in for a second viewing to fully wrap my brain around everything that just transpired. Who died? I can't say for sure after just one viewing, but the biggest deaths were: · Jorah Mormont (saving his queen one last time) · Lyanna Mormont (in a great David vs Goliath moment) · Theon (in yet another redemptive moment of true heroism) · Melisandre (who did one good thing, at last, after so many horrors) · Beric (fulfilling his destiny) · Dolorous Ed (who saved Sam, god bless him)
NATIONAL TASSA DRUMMING COMPETITION SLATED FOR MAY 5 AT DIAMOND MARKET TARMAC It’s Tassarama 2019! Diamond Market Tarmac will come alive on Sunday, May 5, with excellent drumming from some of the best tassa groups in the Country. The event is being hosted to commemorate the 181st anniversary of the arrival of East Indians to Guyana. The groups are from the East Bank, East Coast, West Bank and West Coast of Demerara, with at least one group from West Berbice. They will be competing for over $500,000 in cash prizes and trophies. The event is organised by RB Dubraj Production. This event promises to be very entertaining with a packed cultural show that will see live performances by the Caribbean Hotshot Band, led by Dharmendra Gobin and Rajesh Dubraj. Also performing at the event will be Nishal Balkissoon, Arijit Singh, Savethri Li, Paras Prasad Nyakumarie (2017 Kala Utsav Winner) and a host of other singers. In addition, there will be several dance pieces by members of various dance troupes, but the main attraction will be the tassa drumming competition. Persons can also enjoy Indian delicacies in abundance and partake in the mehndi designing camp, as well as feast their eyes and dig into their wallets and purses at the exhibition and costume sale. The kids will not be left out, as there will be lots of games to keep them occupied. Action starts at 16:00h and admission to the event is absolutely free.
Tassarama G u y a n a N a t i o n a l Ta s s a d r u m m i n g competition. After more than 150 years of tassa drumming it has gradually become a 'staple' in public and national events in Guyana. This has influenced the need for groups to present quality rhythms, performances and costumes for sustainable growth, development and preservation of the art form. to the event is absolutely free. Aim and Objective: To promote the art form in all regions across Guyana by giving all tassa groups the opportunity to shine on the International stage. General Rules and Guidelines: 1. All groups will have four (4) musicians. 2. All group performances must not exceed seven (7) minutes. 3. All groups are required to play at least four (4) beats or (hands).
Judging Criteria:
Kaieteur News
GTT Jingle and Song Competition
returns with a bang - Auditions being held countrywide Excited winners from the Georgetown auditions
PAGE 25
WHATZ
Friday May 03, 2019
HOTTT this weekend!!!
PALM COURT presents 704 Sports Bar to host the ultimate De-stresser Cinco De Mayo weekend for the ladies The most exotic party is scheduled for The legendary Destiny's Child famously said, “Ladies it ain't easy being independent.” And at 704, the management and staff understand just how hard the ladies work to take care of themselves hence the reason this unique establishment is inviting all ladies to head on over to the 704 bar to indulge in their simply tantalizing Destresser cocktail. The first 30 will get this signature cocktail for free. See you there!!!
It's Heineken Fridays at 704 Sports Bar
By Alex Wayne
A
fter persistent calls from the public for the return of the GTT Jingle and Song Competition, the company has launched the GTT Plus Star Singing Competition just recently with an exciting audition at the Duke Lodge, in Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown. Speaking to organizers yesterday, this publication was informed that the Georgetown leg of auditions saw almost 200 persons participating. At auditions participants can either receive the ‘Wow Factor’ nod from the judges, the ‘3 Yeses Nod’ (which does not guarantee a journey to the next round), and the saddening ‘Downright No’ decision which surely shattered the dreams of many. The Wow Factor does not give a contestant atomic passage to the next round of competition, since this decision will be made after a tabulation of scores gathered. The next leg of auditions is slated for New Amsterdam, Berbice, on May 04, while the team heads to Linden on May 11. Essequibo and Bartica can get ready for auditions on May 18. After all auditions are completed, eighty lucky persons will be able to showcase their talents at the quarterfinals where eliminations will be done to see who
arrives to the semifinal and grand finale competitions. According to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Justin Nedd, the competition will mirror its previous incarnation, but will see several additions. The show is expected to run until June 2019 and will allow contestants from across Guyana, 16 years and older, to compete for the grand prize of $1 million and a single recording contract with popular local music producer Drew Thoven. Inniss added that while the three finalists will all walk away with cash prices, the public will also be given an opportunity to win big with the company through weekly text-to-win challenges. In 2006, GTT launched its first Jingle and Song Competition, which garnered the attention of thousands across the country and produced popular Guyanese artiste Timeka Marshall, who become a star in the process of winning the competition. Several competitions followed and they shaped the musical careers for other local artistes like Lindeners Malika Boyd and Brandon Harding, recording artiste Poonam Singh, Calvin Burnette, Ryan Hoppie, and Berbician Gail Ann Singh, amongst others.
If you are a die-hard fan of the Heineken brand then 704 Sports Bar is where you need to be this and every Friday. According to management, fans can get six Heinekens for just $2800 between 7pm and 9pm. Be sure to take advantage of this offer guys!
Aura Bar and Lounge at Pegasus Hotel pres. club night Saturdays Every Saturday, the Management at Aura will be providing an ambiance filled with quality service, delicious food and great music. Every Saturday should be a party to remember and the Aura is determined to give you that experience. The Lounge will be open from 8pm. Music will be provided by Guyana's most popular DJs. For reservations, you can make contact with management on: 225-2853 or 600-6912.
Sunday at Guyana's leading entertainment spot- Palm Court which will see the latest tracks being provided by Selector Carl, DJ Ryan and DJ Anisia. The party kicks off at 3 pm. There will also be special beer deals all day. Admission is set at $2000.
704 Sports Bar presents Build Your Bucket every Wednesday and Friday At the 704 Sports Bar, there will always be an opportunity to evolve your choices. And every Wednesday and Friday, party-goers will get a chance to build their bucket. This interesting concept allows you to pick any combination of six beers to Build Your Bucket (BYB) and get it at a special price. This offer is available from 5pm to 7pm! See you there.
Escape the after work traffic today at Palm Court As the Great Caribbean Singer, Father Fox says, "Who does go to work on a Thursday or even a Friday?" Well, unfortunately, most of us do! But that shouldn't stop you from "ducking" every once in a while when the pressure seems too much and you desire to have a little fun. Every Friday, one of Guyana's number one entertainment spots, Palm Court will be offering a light celebration called "Escape the after work traffic. The event gets started from 4:00pm to 7:00pm so see you there.
Wine of the
The Aqui Malbec 2015 k e e W is one of the sultriest selections from Argentina “SOCA BLOCK PARTY” set for May 17 T I f you enjoyed last year's inhale block party then you don't want to miss this one as Guyana Carnival & Inhale presents its “Soca Block Party”. It is the ultimate kick- start event and after work lime for Guyana Carnival on May 17th transforming Main Street into a fire breathing, stilt walking, visually breathtaking carnival zone. Inhale will also be launching new carnival hookah flavors titled “Carnival LOUD!” Some of the top international and local DJ's lined up are DJ Blank, DJ Jus Jay, Gully Ras, Selector Diamond, DJ Akelo, DJ Shizzle, Selector Biggs, DJ Energy, DJ King Keev and Seen Up. Stay tuned for more details on ticket prices.
he Aqui Malbec 2015 is one of the sultriest selections you can possess from Argentina. With its intense red color, AQUI Malbec showcases mature tannins that support fresh plum, strawberry and cherry flavors. It is the perfect balance of acidity, sustained through the lingering finish, invites repeated sips and thereby makes it a modern yet superb representation from the Mendoza valley of Argentina. It has without a doubt, earned its place among the best Malbecs. Food pairing: This selection will pair extremely well with leaner red meats, and even lighter cuts like dark meat turkey or roasted pork. It also works well with pepper, sage, creamy mushroom sauces, melted cheese, and in particular, blue cheese. This divine wine can be found at the Wine Vault located at the Marriott Hotel for $4000 VAT inclusive. You can also find it at the Hibiscus Restaurant, Nice Restaurant and Bar, Palm Court and other leading hotels and bars.
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Friday May 03, 2019
Kaieteur News
CAA uses Interagency Collaborations Jagdeo says: Gov’t should apologise to heighten consumer protection for honouring convicted terrorist
Consultancy team engages RDC Councillors on Highway rehabilitation project. A team from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Consultancy Services yesterday paid a visit to the Region Ten Democratic Council, at the invitation of Regional Chairman, Rennis Morian. The Purpose of the visit was to engage the Regional Chairman, Councillors and other important stakeholders, in discussions on the proposed rehabilitation of the Soesdyke- Linden Highway, and the feasibility study and design for the upgrade of the Linden to Mabura Hill Road and River crossing at Kurupukari. T h e t e a m comprised Project Director, Stuart Hughes; Social and Environ-
mental Specialist, Vanda Razack; Senior Engineer Deon Amsterdam; and representatives from the Environmental Agency, among others. Hughes, who gave an overview of the projects, first spoke of the Soesdyke- Linden Highway, and the work that the team has been engaged in so far. He pointed out that a number of Geotechnical investigations, have been undertaken along the entire thoroughfare. He added that the investigations have determined that the structure has a good foundation to work with. This, he pointed out, is because of the excellent quality of materials used in its construction, and the way that it was originally designed.
According to Hughes, during a 36-hour, continuous count of trucks, traversing the Highway, the team was able to weigh 1,413 trucks, with 214 being weighed in Linden. This was done, in an effort to determine the type of pressure that the thoroughfare is subjected to on a daily basis, and thus come up with a design capable of withstanding such pressure. However, more importantly, he pointed to the need for regulations to be implemented. Hughes said that the heaviest axle load trucks recorded was 19 tonnes, while according to regulations, the legal limit is only 7.2 tonnes. He declared, “There clearly must be control of trucks traversing the (Continued on page 30)
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo yesterday criticized the Government for honouring convicted terrorist Abdul Kadir in parliament last month. Speaking at his weekly press conference, yesterday, Jagdeo agreed that the motion should not have been presented in the House. Jagdeo noted that terrorism is a serious issue throughout the world and as such the Government owes the world especially those directly affected by terrorism an apology. “They owe the world an apology and that is the only way we will remove this stain that is on Guyana internationally. Instead of the government apologising to Guyana and all victims of international terrorism the world, it has chosen to make excuses,” he stated. According to Jagdeo, the
Abdul Kadir motion should not have made the Order paper. “It should not have been debated by the PNC and passed in the National Assembly. This is a stain on Guyana globally.” The opposition leader believes that apologising is the only way to ensure that Guyana and by extension all Guyanese are not stained. Kadir, deceased, is a former
Member of Parliament who served on the list of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/ R), and as former Mayor of Linden was honoured by the Government. However, Kadir’s last days were marked by a controversy that reverberated across the globe. He became known globally after he was convicted in the US for conspiring to attack John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens, New York, by exploding fuel tanks and the fuel pipeline under the airport. A US Federal Jury convicted Kadir and one of his co-conspirators, Russell DeFreitas, in July 2010, after a nine-week trial. The coalition’s decision to honour the terrorist has met with backlash from the United States Embassy in Guyana, the European Union and Canada.
Welder faces High Court trial for murder at Mocha The Georgetown High Court is hearing the murder trial of Kenkassie Lynch, who was indicted for the unlawful killing of Terrence Lanferman on June 1, 2015 at Mocha. The matter which is being heard by Justice Navindra Singh commenced yesterday. So far, eight witnesses have been called to the stand by State Attorney Abigail Gibbs. Gibbs is appearing on behalf of the State in association with Attorney, Tuanna Hardy. Lynch, a welder of Lot 110 CC Eccles, East Bank Demerara is alleged to have killed Lanferman on June 1, 2015 at his Lot 27 Nelson Street, Mocha Arcadia home. Lynch reportedly confessed to police that he and his cousin plotted the crime. Lanferman was shot dead by a lone gunman who came and knocked at his door. At the time of the shooting, Lanferman was in the bottom flat of the two-storey house he shared with his other sibling. His lifeless body was discovered lying on the floor in a pool of blood. He received gunshot wounds to the neck and chest and was pronounced dead at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre East Bank Demerara. The accused has since pleaded not guilty to the charge. He is being represented by Attorney Adrian Thompson. Among the witnesses to take the stand yesterday was Orville Stuart, who told the court that he had pursued the suspect following the shooting incident at Mocha. Stuart told the court that he was hanging out at the corner when he heard what sounded like an explosion.
Charged: Kenkassie Lynch
Murdered: Terrence Lanferman
A few minutes after the explosion, the witness said a man ran past him. He said that the man was wearing a hoodie and had what appeared to be a gun in his hand. Stuart said that he mounted his cycle and pursued the suspect. However, the witness said that the perpetrator jumped on the back of a CG motorcycle and made good his escape. Questioned by the Defence Counsel about the description of the alleged perpetrator, the witness noted that he had not seen the man’s face but he could tell that he is dark in complexion because he was clad in a three quarter pants and he could see his legs. The victim’s mother, Ulice Lanferman, also took the stand. She provided the court with an emotional testimony of identifying the body of her son after he was executed. The woman became emotional even as she told the
court that she was working as a pump attendant at the Guyoil Gas Station at Providence when she was informed of the incident involving her son. The woman said that as a result of the call, she rushed over to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where she saw her son’s lifeless body—He was covered in blood. Ebon Booker recalled that she lived at the upper flat of the house in which Terrence Lanferman and his girlfriend once lived. She said that on the day of the incident, she was at home. The witness told the court that she had just finished cooking when Lanferman’s girlfriend came to visit her upstairs. A few moments later, she said two loud explosions were heard. They rushed downstairs to see what had happened. There, they discovered, Lanferman lying in a pool of blood.
Friday May 03, 2019
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Woman gets jail time, fine Defence presents final submissions in Subryanville hotel shooting for cocaine strapped to leg A 55-year-old woman was yesterday sentenced to prison and fined for attempting to traffic cocaine on an outgoing international flight. In her defence the woman said that she was seeking money to replace a car her son allegedly damaged in an accident. Sandra Angela Profitt, of John Fernandes Drive, West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, pleaded guilty to the charge which alleged that on April 29, 2019 at Eugene F. Correia International Airport, Ogle East Coast Demerara, she had in her possession seven pounds of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. The charge was read by Magistrate Rushell Liverpool at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Courts.
According to information, on the day in question, ranks from the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) approached the defendant who was an outgoing passenger on a Liat flight. At the time Profitt was sitting in the departure lounge awaiting her flight. A search of her person revealed six parcels of cocaine strapped to her legs. Three were on each side. CANU Prosecutor Konyo Sandiford told the court that Profitt has been cooperating with the investigation and she even revealed who supplied her with the narcotics. CANU recently issued a wanted bulletin for Winston Carto also known as “Chief Mike” of Lot 193 Greenheart Street, South Ruimveldt Gar-
dens. He is wanted for supplying Profitt with the cocaine. When given an opportunity to speak Profitt told the court that her son was recently involved in a car accident and the car was badly damaged. She further stated that the owner demanded that he replace the car with a new one. She added, “As a mother, I couldn’t sit and watch my son go through that, so I decided to do this to get some money.” After listening to both sides, Magistrate Liverpool sentenced the defendant to serve four years in prison. She is to also pay a fine of $9.1M for attempting to traffic the illegal substance.
Watchman dies after a suspected beating A 56-year-old man from Port Mourant, Berbice, yesterday succumbed at the New Amsterdam Hospital due to injuries he sustained during an alleged beating at his home he shared with another man, his son’s father-in-law. The dead man has been identified as Vadanand Sukhra, of Lot 21 Port Mourant. Reports are that an unidentified individual barged unto his premises and struck him about his body along with a man identified as Fredrick Shaw, 56. Shaw was treated for injuries to his face and subsequently sent home but Sukrha remained in critical condition until he succumbed. The daughter- in-law of the dead man, Roshanie Shaw, told Kaieteur News that Shaw and Sukhra were both at home when the man entered the yard and house. She said that some time around 6:30 am Thursday she received a call informing her that her father-in-law had been injured. She immediately rushed over to the house with her husband and found Sukhra on the floor with blood emanating from his mouth. She added that her fatherin-law was in an unconscious state when they found him. He was rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital for medical attention but was shortly after transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he succumbed around 17:00 hrs yesterday. Sukhra reportedly had injuries to his head, while her father, Shaw, sustained injuries to his jaw and neck According to the woman when she spoke with her father, he told her that he was
Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman is slated to make a ruling on whether a prima facie case has been made out against the defendant Erwin Bacchus for the murder of Jason De Florimonte on the next occasion that the matter is called. Bacchus, 45, of Fifth Avenue, Subryanville, is currently on remand for the offence. His Preliminary Inquiry is being conducted in the Providence Magistrates’ Courts. Bacchus was not required to plead to the charge as it was made indictable. The charge alleged that on August 4, last, he murdered Jason De Florimonte. The attorneys-at-law, Glenn Hanoman and Nigel Hughes, are representing the defendant in the mat-
fast asleep but was awakened to a voice asking Sukhra, “Is who lie down on the bench?” Shaw said that as he was attempting to get up the individual dealt him two cuffs to his face and a kick and then proceeded to beat Sukhra. “He say me father-in-law tell the person is me son father-in-law and the person kick he on the bench and give he two cuff. Then the person go and hit my father in law,” she said. Shaw told his daughter that after the beating the individual left and Sukhra walked into the kitchen as normal but “he na realise that he bin really deh bad until later the morning when he find he with the blood coming from
he mouth and nose”. However, the police are coming under fire once again after Shaw stated that when they turned up to report the matter at the Whim Police Station she was told to let her father “come to the station to make the report.” “I tell dem my father at the hospital and dem still seh leh he come. Dem tek a li’l piece paper and write li’l bit information and send we away.” She believes that the police were not taking the matter seriously. Kaieteur News is unsure if an investigation was launched since calls to the Commander of the Division along with other senior officers went unanswered.
assigned to the case by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) instead of a Police Prosecutor. This was after De Florimonte’s relatives complained to the Police Complaints Authority and the Crime Chief about several alleged discrepancies involving the manner in which the case was being handled by the police. According to reports from the police, on the day in question, around 01:00 hrs, De Florimonte, 30, of L o t 9 6 F i f t h Av e n u e , Subryanville, was seen abusing a female. The handyman went to part them. Soon after, an argument ensued between them. According to information, an autopsy conducted on De Florimonte, revealed that he was shot three times about his body.
Dazzell man wanted for gun, drugs offences Police have issued a wanted bulletin for an East Coast Demerara resident whom they want in connection with illegal possession of firearm. Vassie Gordon Barry
Dead: Vadanand Sukhra
ter. Yesterday when the matter was called the attorneys presented their no case submissions to the court. The lawyers are contending that their client was trying to defend himself after he was attacked by De Florimonte who was at the time allegedly armed with a knife and a rolling pin. After the submissions were made, the matter was adjourned until May 7, next, where Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman will make a ruling on the matter. The ruling will determine if there is sufficient evidence for the defendant to stand a High Court trial for a conviction. Attorney-at-law Dexter Todd is representing the state in the matter. He was
is also wanted by police for questioning in connection with drug trafficking. Barry is alleged to have committed the offences on April 27, last, at Dazzell Housing
Scheme and Alpha Hotel, Ogle East Coast Demerara. B a r r y ’s l a s t k n o w n address is Lot 832 Dazzell Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara.
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Education Ministry blames... 2-year-old missing, fear drowned From page 12 shipped from Trinidad to Guyana. The number of exercise books needed annually is said to be over 500,000.In 2015, according to a government statement following the President’s visit to GNPL, it was disclosed that the company suffered financial
losses that year to the tune of some $60M as a result of poor oversight and poorly functioning equipment.It was disclosed that with more advanced equipment, GNPL will be able to undertake 90 percent of the printing needs of the Government. That is not yet a reality.
The landing where the 2-year-old child reportedly went missing from
The home where the two year old lived with her parents
A two-year-old girl from the Charity Squatting Area, Essequibo Coast, is now missing and feared drowned, after she disappeared from off a landing yesterday morning. Based on reports reaching this publication, Zaverha France, two years old, was last seen by her mother, Samantha Layne, mere minutes before she disappeared into a nearby canal at Charity squatting area. When Kaieteur News visited the scene yesterday, both parents were out combing the Pomeroon River with some 30
residents, in hopes of locating the child’s body. The child’s aunt, Keisha Benn, who spoke with this publication, said that some time between 09:00 hrs. and 09:30 hrs yesterday, the twoyear-old was being prepared by her mother for a bath. “She and she mother come out to bathe, so she mommy take off all she clothes, but she didn’t bathe she the same time. The mother went back inside and was sweeping and she [the two year old] gone out back to the Stelling alone.
Missing: Zaverha France, 2
“When she walk out she mother see she on the Stelling dipping water. When she look again she didn’t see she and she thought that she come over by me to walk.” After realizing that her daughter was missing, an alarm was raised and residents from within the squatting area combined their efforts and combed the canal, which leads to the Pomeroon River. Kaieteur News understands that as late as 05:30 hrs. yesterday, residents were still searching the Pomeroon for the child’s body.
Establish free dialysis service – Trade Unionist tells govt
Lincoln Lewis, a leader in the local trade union movement, has called for a revamping of the healthcare system, in anticipation of Guyana’s budding oil and gas sector. Lewis said that all 10 administrative regions should have a main referral hospital, with modern diagnostic and treatment facilities, “including emergency facilities capable of dealing with severe injuries”. Vital to the development of that sector, he said, is free dialysis services. “We call for the establishment of free dialysis service delivered from a central point where all can access,” Lewis told government, after the May Day Parade, at the National Park. Dialysis is a form of treatment for kidney failure that helps to rid the body of unwanted toxins, waste products and excess fluids by filtering the blood. When kidneys fail, the body may have difficulty cleaning the blood and keeping the system chemically balanced. Provision of the service in Guyana is generally very expensive because it is to be taken regularly. The most affordable healthcare provider is the Doobay Medical and Research
Centre. A single dialysis session is currently offered at $9000. However, Dr. Budhendra Doobay had recently informed this publication that it is no longer feasible to offer the service at such a low cost. The difficult decision was made to hike the service to $12,000 per session. It was only because Mr. Sattaur Gafoor of Gafoors – a hardware and manufacturing company – decided to cover the Centre’s shortfall, which will amount to some $2M per month. But that will only last until December 2019, the end of the period Gafoor charitably opted to pay for the shortfall. “I am appealing to all Guyanese to visit the Centre and see how you can help because we do not want to close our doors to patients; to our fellow Guyanese who are in need. Your help is critical for patients who cannot afford these treatments,” Doobay had said. DMRC has been offering a subsidised service to patients for a number of years now, but Doobay is convinced that even more facilities are needed to fully meet the country’s dialysis needs.
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Friday May 03, 2019
MoU to see Regions Four and Ten collaborating to develop Moblissa The Regional Democratic Council [RDC] of Regions Four and Ten will shortly be inking a Memorandum of Understand [MoU] to partner towards developing a shared community. The community in question is Moblissa which forms part of both Regions. Region Ten Chairman, Mr. Renis Morian, spoke of the partnering plans during a recent Government outreach to Linden. According to Morian, Moblissa is considered to be a very blessed community given its geographical positioning. As such, he said, the administrations of both regions have consented that they will seek to further develop the region collectively. “Region Ten and Region Four will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that we would share the work and issues of this community. That Memorandum of Understanding is expected to be signed some time next week, which means that if there is something to be done, resources from Region Ten would be pooled with resources from Region Four. “This would give us a boost to get things done in a faster manner,” the Regional Chairman said Morian pointed out that already his region and Region Four have a very good working relationship and noted that he foresees it getting closer and better with the signing of the MoU. He said that through this agreement a lot more would be done for the residents of Moblissa taking into consideration that the MoU will allow for a more structured system. The Regional Chairman said that it is through this relationship, that the residents will see a number of collaborative projects. According to Morian he was fulfilling a commitment he made a few weeks ago to donate four lengths of chain-
link fence, which he said will be used to fence the community centre ground. The residents, he said, raised this issue with him and his Region Four counterpart, Ms. Genevieve Allen, when they visited a few weeks ago. He said that he had committed to the chain-link fence while she committed to providing wood and bolts. “The Regional Chairman, Ms. Genevieve Allen, told me that she is still awaiting the estimate for the wood so that she can procure it and she has asked me to remind you that she needs the estimate so as to deliver on her commitment. “So I am urging the CDC Chairman to get this ASAP so that Ms Allen would get the wood and other things to complete the fence as we would have committed to the residents,” Morian said. The Region Ten Chairman reassured residents that his administration together with the commitment from Region Four would seek to address a number of issues within the community. He reminded them that he has been seeking a number of ways to help, pointing to the reconstruction of two bridges which, he noted, needs to be urgently repaired. “Some weeks ago some of you would recall that the Regional Chairman of Region Four almost lost her life on one of those bridges. We are grateful to God that she didn’t. This incident resulted in the RDC immediately taking matters into our hands and we are committed to fixing that bridge,” he said. Additionally, Morian said that a tractor and plough have been sought for both Linden and Moblissa promising that if the one which was promised to Linden arrives first he would endeavour to have it used between both communities. He declared that for the 2020 budget he is hoping to ensure that Moblissa, like the farming community of Linden, can have its own tractor and
Guyana drifting away while Govt. plays musical chairs--Jagdeo Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, yesterday accused the APNU+AFC Government of playing “musical chairs” while the country continues to drift away. At his press conference yesterday at his Church Street Office, Jagdeo said that cost of living is skyrocketing; there have been 30,000 job losses, and increased taxes. He said that the current state of affairs leaves workers struggling everyday to make ends meet. Jagdeo also lambasted the government for failing to produce a plan to address security and the apparent escalation in crime which he says is a major problem for citizens. The PPP General Secretary said that the government is failing to acknowledge that there are real issues facing the nation, while noting that the state of affairs will only continue to deteriorate.
plough as it is his administration’s intent to further develop and push agriculture. “There is a farming community in Wisroc and they have 550 acres. Their biggest complaint is that they need a tractor. “However, we have made a request to an agency for a tractor and a plough and would like to assure you that if the tractor and plough comes long before the budget it would be used here and in Linden,” said Morian. He reiterated his assurance that “once the tractor has been released it would be used at both sides.”
Regional Vice Chairman of Region Four, Earle Lambert and Regional Chairman of Region 10, Renis Morian.
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Friday May 03, 2019
Kaieteur News
Industry man wanted for fraud
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; Graphics design, advertisement, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. I N S TA L L AT I O N S , REPAIRS AND PARTS FOR AC, FRIDGE, WASHING MACHINE, STOVE ETC. CALL NICK 627-3206, 630-1600 Eagle’s re-gas AC, Fridge, Washing machine & computer repairs, Gas stove, Plasma flatscreen,Electrical installation & more. Call: 6972969/646-0966
CAR RENTAL A I D A N ’ S C A R RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FORAIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807 WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAY M E N T, C H E A P RATES,SPECIALOFFERS! . CALL: 690-6494 PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’sPER DAY- CALL: 656-0087 / 643-5122 ,EMAIL:PRO_ A U T O R E N TA L @YAHOO.COM VEHICLE FOR SALE Car King Auto Sales.Toyota Allion 2012 backup camera, low mileage $3.4M.Contact #:614-6948. Car King Auto Sales.Nissan Sylphy(Bluebird)2015, 1800CC, low mileage $3.8M.Contact#614-6948.
FOR SALE House lot for sale.27 Hill St Albouystown.Contact#2258916. Porcelain tiles.Huge reduction. 12x12, 12x24, 10x14, 24x24, 716 & 3/8 thickness.Tel 695-4785/643-1000/265-3541. HOWO TRUCKS & ALL H E A V Y D U T Y MACHINERIES, BOTH NEW &USEDFOR SALE. CONTACT 669-9295, 5023408. 7300 john Deeree combine (2000 hrs), Fiatagri L413 combine (2000hrs), Lavarda 132 combine, Massey 399, Massey 290, Fiat 110-90, 20 dish harrow.Tel#695-2220. 1 Pure breed German Shepherd pup black and tan.11 weeks old.Tel#626-0953 or 650-9998. Re-Opened Mrs.Brock Loam Pit. Mixed & Raw Loam available in any amount.Contact Ann 6720243/Chucky 617-6260. FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 New one bedroom Apartment for rent.Meadowbrook Gardens.Rent $45K.Contact Lennox at 233-2306. Furnished two bedroom bottom flat for overseas visitors.619-2575. 3 Bedroom fully furnished upper flat.Vigilance North, E.C.D $50,000/Month.6399345/630-3750.Special conditions applied. 1 Bedroom apartment furnished, Secured in Lyng Str Charlestown.Call 8AM to 8PM. 625-0266/225-1418/6011585. 1 Pickup Hilux for rent.Land for rent.Contact# 604-9608. One Apartment to rent in Charity.Contact#654-7162/ 687-5814. Two bedroom top flat, parking & overhead water tank $45,000.Contact#612-8380. LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/691-2561
WANTED
VACANCY
Supervisor to work at Xenon Hotel Charity.Contact 2235273/74.
Industrial Sales Representative, 5 Subject CXC Age 25+ Experience in Sales, must own vehicle, email r e s u m e : vacancy@josarltd.com
1 female or male receptionist.Must have Maths and English.1 Handy man.Apply in person at 12 Henry street Werk-enRust.225-9211. Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665/6493750
Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 2545, Car/Van licence.Call 6429823. Vacancy for Experienced lorry/ tractor driver.Apply at Alabama Trading.65 Robb street Bourda.
Boys & girls to work @ Bonny’s.Apply in person with written application@302 Church street G/ Vacancy for porters. Apply at Alabama Trading. 65 Robb town,Charlestown. Street Bourda. One attractive waitress from E.C.D to work from 3-11 Nirva Superstore 49 Sherrif & Pm.Salary $20,000 Craig str for Cashiers & weekly.Tel#610-7142. Supermarket helpers.Apply in with written Experienced Cashier. Apply person application.Tel#227-5771. Hacks Halaal with H/written application, 5 commerce 1 Live in Domestic. Salary: street. $70,000 per month.Call:678Wanted Land to Buy: Parfaite 0691. Harmonie, Eccles, Province, Diamond, Uitvulgt, Tuschen, One live in Caretaker for Georgetown Property, 60 Years Farm.Call 666-2326. of age or older.Salary $25,000 1 Couple to work and live in a per month.Must have farm house in Mahaicony recommendation.Call#265River.1 part time domestic.673- 7550. 1131. Vacancy exist for 2 One Domestic assistant & Experienced cooks@People’s two Sales girl.Contact#668- Choice Kitchen 88 James st 0159. Albouystown.Tel:679-9449/ Men to work in the interior on 223-1645.Strictly night shift. c r u s h e r ( G o l d Mining)Call#223-7165 Wanted Maid for cleaning and washing for Kitty.Call#2235897. 1 room available for a working class female/ Student.T el#227-2321.
Driver.Must have a sound secondary education.For more information please call:223-0090.
One Manager to work @ Hotel PurpleHeart.Send Applications/CV’s to email: innovationsamericamng Qualified and Competent @gmail.com Auto-Electricians.Call or Whatsapp +1 758-720-9835 for DemBake @ Land of Canaan is seeking distributors & more Information. experienced drivers & sales agents. Email CV: LAND FOR SALE admin@demerarabakery.com / Transported land 11.6 acres. 266-5848 Lot 15 public road. #2 Village W.C.B. Price $18M. Contact Experienced male sales attendant, stocktaking 686-4818, 648-7109 knowledge, computer literate, Herstelling $5.5M, excellent service attitude, able Farm$4.5M, $5.5M, $4.8M bodied.Key Food McDoom Province, Parfaite Harmony Village. $3.5M, Tuschen Corn lot PROPERTY FOR SALE $1.5M, $3.5M.Call 666-2326. Parfaite Harmonie $1.4M, House for sale, Eccles HousSchoonard $3.6M, Dairy ing Scheme. 7 bedrooms, 3 $1.8M, Farm $3.5M.Tel#656- toilets and bathrooms enclosed. $28.5M. Call 642-0391/ 0701/651-1959. 001447587233657. Uitvlugt-$2.3M neg, Parfaite yashardabhola4@gmail.com Harmony-$2M, Parfaite harmony-$1.7M. Tel#697- 1 Flat concrete property at Diamond 19th Street.12M 6311. neg. Contact#680-2952/663TO LET 2063. Two and three bedrooms apartment in Section A, B l o c k X , G r e a t Diamond.Master room and AC rooms.Tel#688-5211.
Lot 89 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown. Next door to Mike’s Pharmacy.Land size3431.25 Sq.ft. Phone: 617-5323, 666-8052.
An Industry, East Coast Demerara man is wanted by police for obtaining credit by false pretence. According to police, investigators want to question Kevin Campbell. He is accused of committing the offence on Nalina Rampersaud on March 28, 2 0 1 9 . Campbell is said to be from 36 Crown Dam, Industry, East Coast Demerara.
Wanted: Kevin Campbell
CAA uses Interagency Collaborations to... From page 26 Highway!” He said that sand trucks, were found to be the major offenders, but logging trucks too, were also over laden. Hughes said that yesterday’s consultation was the first of three. There will be consultations until September. “We also have to do the technical and economic feasibility report and the Environmental and social impact assessment. “For any project, the EPA has to issue a permit to the Ministry.’” Hughes further related that the rehabilitated works would extend from the Highway and end at the Mackenzie/Wismar Bridge. According to Engineer Deon Anderson, the aim of the consultation was to solicit and incorporate suggestions by stakeholders, into the final designs for the projects. However she said that there might be suggestions that would not be practicable. Specialist, Va n d a Razack, said that the team had “a very good cluster meeting”, with the Kuru
40
Kururu NDC. There, residents were afforded the opportunity to raise any concern, as it relates to the Highway rehabilitation project, and also make pertinent suggestions. Razack said that SRKN have been contracted to work on both the Highway and the Mabura Road, up to Mabura Hill. Councillors Charles Sampson, Gordon Callender, Antonio Hackett and Chairman Morian, questioned the team, as it relates to the projects, and also made suggestions, that would help to enhance their implementation. $134Million from the 2019 budget for infrastructural works, was allocated to facilitate studies and execute works for the rehabilitation of the Soesdyke- Linden Highway. Commuters who are forced to traverse this carriageway regularly, have made continuous calls for its rehabilitation. Many have blamed its uneven surface and unlit state, for several fatal accidents over the years.
Friday May 03, 2019
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Increased Police Presence for Upcoming Carnival Season as GPF gets 151 Addition There will be increased police presence for the upcoming Carnival Season, as the Guyana Police Force welcomed 151 new ranks on Tu e s d a y. Graduates from the three Police Training Colleges— Felix Austin Police Training College, Georgetown; Richard Fikal Police Training College, Essequibo Coast; and Felix Austin Police Training College, Adventure Berbice. All were neatly dressed in their uniforms as they as they stood at t h e Ta c t i c a l S e r v i c e s Unit drill square. Wi t h t h e u p c o m i n g carnival season there is going to be a lot of foreign nationals, as well as o v e r s e a s - b a s e d Guyanese coming back home. Accidents are bound to happen, and what can go wrong will go wrong, the force administrator said. Ranks were advised to put what they have learned into practice as they were exposed to various academic as well as physical training over the last 10 months. Court sessions were attended. They also underwent first-aid training. Other courses that they benefitted from inclusive of anger management, domestic violence, crime and firearm training under instructors at t h e Ta c t i c a l S e r v i c e s Unit. All of this comes in the wake of a previous comment from Deputy Commissioner Paul Williams. He said, “With this new generation, we have equipped ourselves to really and truly give the service that Guyana n e e d s . ” He assured that whate v e r n e w t he country is faced with, the force will meet the demand. “In the past and likewise now the force is capable to deal with whatever this era brings. The GPF is capable enough to handle it.” Receiving the Best Students Awards were Woman Constable 25080 Shemain Roberts, Constable 25018 Dennis Gobin, Constable 2512 Constable 25124 Jeremiah Jafer, Constable 25002 Dharshanand Deowraj and Constable 25106 Tyrone Vyphuis. In attendance were the various commissioners and other senior officials of the force.
Scenes From the Parade Photo credits GPF Facebook Page
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Rain prevents Berbice from... From page 38 reached 39-3 before rain intervened once again and the game was subsequently called off at 15:14hrs. Berbice pacer Leon Swamy made early inroads into the U17s second innings, removing three batsmen in quick succession. He first had opener Matthew Nandu caught at the wicket for 9 and uprooting the stumps of Azizi Christiani (00) before trapping Mavindra Dindyal (00) lbw; all three scalps fell with the score on 13. Zeynul Ramsammy and Andre Seepersaud prevented further inroads as they added 26 for the fourth wicket before the rain came. Seepersaud hit three sweetly timed fours
to remain unbeaten on 16 while Ramsammy was not out on 14. Swamy finished with 3-16 from six overs. Earlier, Berbice resumed on their overnight score of 292-4 and declared in the first session on 404-5. Alex Algoo began the day on 119 and took his score to 175 before he was caught off Chanderpaul Ramraj; he clobbered 10 fours and seven sixes. Garfield Benjamin remained unbeaten on 38 while Nigel Deodat made a quick fire 26 not out with three fours and two sixes. Niran Bissu and Ramraj took two wickets each. The second round will commence tomorrow with Berbice facing Essequibo at Lusignan and Demerara playing the U17 side at Bourda. (Zaheer Mohamed)
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Listen carefully when you receive instructions today. Your mind may not be as sharp as usual. If you aren't careful, you could get on the wrong track and end up having to start all over again. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) A heightened sense of idealized romance could hit you today, Gemini. If you aren't currently involved, beware! CANCER (June 21–July 22) Something you feel you desperately need right now is missing, and it's very well hidden. You may search the house for it and drive yourself crazy in the process. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Don't listen to gossip today, Leo. Any rumors that are spreading are likely to be based on false assumptions and totally outside the realm of reality. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) A luxury you've been craving could seem very tempting today, Virgo. Make sure you're really ready, willing, and able to spend the money to get it.
From page 39 Guyana is more than competent. The assurance was made in an interview with Kaieteur Sport by Hutson who said that his team can manage and organise a successful event at the National Track & Field Center (NTFC). In fact, it won’t be the first international meet organised by the AAG at the NTFC, located at Leonora, West Coast Demerara. In June 2017, the AAG hosted the South American Junior (Under-20) Championships, which was well attended and hiccup free. “You cannot have an event like Carifta Games happening all around the Caribbean when Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham; one of the founders of the Caribbean and Carifta movement, has never had his country visited by the other members in hosting the event”, this, Hutson
ODI, Test boost for Windies....
Friday May 03, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Is a romantic partner having trouble communicating with family? If so, be prepared to hear about it today. Be a good listener. Your understanding and objectivity will be greatly appreciated.
50th Carifta Games - AAG boss says Guyana capable of making event...
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Emotional turmoil may overwhelm your usual objectivity and good sense today, Libra. Family problems could weigh on your mind, as communication between you and family members may be lacking. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your imagination should fly high today, Scorpio. Whether you're into writing, music, or dance, make the most of your creative inspiration. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Doubts about a friend may plague you today, Sagittarius. Did this person borrow money? Promise to do you a favor? Can you depend on this person? CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Confusion might get in the way of anything you hope to accomplish today. You may feel like you're walking around in a daze, uncertain of your actions. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Spiritual and metaphysical concepts may seem murky to you today. Ideas that friends accept as matters of course might feel strange. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A strange, bothersome feeling could plague you today, Pisces, as if you can't remember something you need to do.
From page 35 India sit on top the rankings with 113 points but lost three ratings points to see their gap on second placed New Zealand shrink to two points, after the Black Caps gained three points. Latest Test and One-Day International rankings released by the International Cricket Council yesterday: TEST: 1. India 113, 2. New Zealand 111, 3. South Africa 108, 4. England 105, 5. Australia 98, 6. Sri Lanka 94, 7. Pakistan 84, 8. West Indies 82, 9 Bangladesh 65, 10 Zimbabwe 16. ODI: 1. England 123, 2. India 121, 3. South Africa 115, 4. New Zealand 113, 5. Australia 109, 6. Pakistan 96, 7. Bangladesh 86, 8. West Indies 80, 9. Sri Lanka 76, 10. Afghanistan 64, 11. Zimbabwe 54, 12. Ireland 46, 13. Scotland 40, 14. Nepal 19, 15. UAE 10, 16. PNG 6.
noted, was one of his stronger points in his letter to Victor Lopez, President of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Championships (NACAC), in the bid to host the games. The AAG boss shared that he is saddened that persons are claiming that the financial burden to run off the event will be too much for the association, “For you to make such a statement, for me, is a slap in the face of the Government of Guyana and the Private Sector. They don’t understand the dynamics of how the finances are usually accrued for Carifta Games.” He further posited that some countries have received in excess of US$200,000 funding from NACAC. The AAG estimates that the hosting of the 2021 Carifta Games will be a major tourism investment for Guyana with a projected total of at least 600
athletes and about double that amount in fans expected to arrive, which will provide a major boost to our tourism sector while bringing recognition to this country as a location that can host high profile games. Hutson explained that, “Nations like Bahamas would come with one plane load of athletes and another with fans. Trinidad and Tobago is known to charter a plane while Jamaica does the same as well.” In terms of infrastructure, “We may need to look back at Leonora and put some extra stands in there. We need extra stands. Once we do that we can then have a discussion with Mundo to come in and do the resurfacing of the track which has seen deterioration at certain parts and I am certain Mundo would do it (at a subsidized cost) because of branding opportunities at the 2021 games.”
Friday May 03, 2019
Gabriel pace key to Windies attack: Estwick Dublin, Ireland, CMC – Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel’s pace will be key to West Indies’ attack during the upcoming World Cup, says assistant coach Roddy Estwick. The 31-year-old has played 18 One-Day Internationals and claimed 23 wickets, and is returning to the setup for the first time in nearly 18 months. In the interim, he has emerged as a lethal weapon in Tests, and Estwick is expecting him to bring the same qualities to the one-day format. “He’s got pace and that’s going to be very, very important here in England,” said Estwick. “The pitches [here] and from the scores going forward that we’ve been looking at already in the [County] season, you see scores of 400 twice at Notts (Nottingham) and that’s where our first game is going to be, so we think that pace is going to be very important and Shannon comes with that.” Gabriel is the fastest bowler in the Windies pace attack, which also comprises captain Jason Holder, veteran Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Oshane Thomas and Carlos Brathwaite. He has not played since the wretched 2017 tour of New Zealand, however, where he went wicket-less from 24 overs in three matches, as West Indies suffered a chastening whitewash. Estwick believes the Trinidadian has improved a lot
Shannon Gabriel.
since then and will bring something different to the Windies attack. “He’s a lot more experienced now than when he last played,” Estwick pointed out. “He’s full of confidence, he’s bowling well so we expect big things from Shannon especially in the role the coach wants him to play.” West Indies arrived here Wednesday where they take on Ireland and Bangladesh in a Tri-Nations Series starting on Sunday. They face Ireland in their opener on Sunday before taking on Bangladesh on Tuesday. Estwick said the series would be critical in terms of assessing teams they would face in the World Cup, including world number ones England who play Ireland in a one-off ODI today.
“It’s all about gathering information. Obviously we play Bangladesh at Taunton a little bit later in the World Cup but it’s also looking at them and looking at England as well …,” he pointed out. “So it’s gathering as much information as you can and coming up with a game plan that can help you to be successful.” Following the TriN a t i o n s S e r i e s , We s t Indies will enter a final oneweek preparation camp in Southampton starting May 18 before clashing with South Africa and New Zealand at Bristol on May 26 and 28 in official World Cup warm-up matches. Their World Cup opener is against Pakistan at Trent Bridge on May 31.
Woods to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom next Monday Reuters - Tiger Woods will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Donald Trump next Monday, the White House said yesterday. Woods, 43, ended an 11year major championship drought when he won the Masters on April 14, and Trump tweeted the following day that he would present the golfer with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, “because of his incredible Success & Comeback in Sports (Golf) and, more importantly, LIFE”. Woods’s career was almost ended by a serious back injury, before a spinal fusion two years ago proved successful and allowed him to make a comeback. His Masters win was the 15th major title for Woods who is second only to fellow American Jack Nicklaus (18) on the all-time list of major champions.
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Caster Semenya: Fans urge athlete not to quit after her cryptic tweet BBCsport - Fans urged Caster Semenya not to quit athletics after she posted a cryptic tweet following the loss of her appeal against regulations restricting testosterone levels in female runners. Semenya will have to take medication to reduce her testosterone level if she is to continue competing at 800m. The Olympic champion, 28, is confirmed for that distance in the Diamond League season opener in Doha today. Semenya’s tweet included a quote which referred to knowing when to walk away. One person replied to Semenya’s tweet saying “never give up” while another urged her to “fight until the end”. But Semenya posted another tweet shortly afterwards that read: “That’s me and will always be. I’m finished.” However, Athletics South Africa president Aleck Skhosana appeared to play down suggestions Semenya could quit by describing her as “an outstanding athlete who has a continuous hunger for great results”. Skhosana added: “We believe that Caster will shake off the world attention currently around her to give us another exceptional performance and give the world new topics to talk about.” Yesterday, Lord Coe, President of the IAAF, welcomed the Court of Arbitration’s decision to
reject Semenya’s challenge against new rules from athletics’ governing body. Speaking in a news conference today’s Diamond League meeting, he said: “It’s pretty straightforward. Athletics has two classifications, it has age and gender. “We are fiercely protective of both and I am really grateful the court of arbitration has upheld that principle.” Coe, who answered two questions on the subject before refusing to answer more and switching to the Diamond League, said there would be no delay in implementing the new regulations, despite Cas saying it had “serious concerns as to the future practical application” of them. It means Semenya - and other athletes with differences of sexual
development (DSD) - must either take medication in order to compete in track events from 400m to the mile, or change to another distance. Semenya is still eligible to compete at the Diamond League meet in Doha on Friday and can make an appeal against the Cas ruling to the Swiss Tribunal Courts within the next 30 days. Meanwhile, Indian sprinter Dutee Chand, who fought and won a long battle over her own elevated levels of male sex hormones, said Semenya’s court defeat was “wrong”. “I feel sad for her she has been made to suffer like me,” said Chand, who was cleared to compete last year after winning a court appeal against IAAF regulations. “I think she and her team will find a way out. She is an Olympic medallist and her country is behind her.”
GFF/KFC U-20 Independence KO Cup –EBFA Leg
Three matches slated for tomorrow @ GFF National Training Facility Round two action in the GFF/KFC U20 Independence Cup, East Bank Football Association leg will commence tomorrow following the conclusion of the final first round match between Diamond United and Samatta Point/Kaneville from 12:00hrs at the GFF National Training Facility, Providence, East Bank Demerara. Already through to the next round are Timehri Panthers, Grove Hi Tech, Diamond Upsetters and Soesdyke Falcons. Two second round matches would be played at 14:00hrs and 16:00hrs, respectively. Grove Hi Tech will be
Tiger Woods. REUTERS/Brian Snyder
Semenya said in response to the ruling that the IAAF “have always targeted me specifically”
going all out for victory in their quest to advance to the semi finals when they oppose Diamond Upsetters which will be aiming for an upset win in what would be a tough task for the latter; game time is 14:00hrs. The main event from 16:00hrs will see Timehri Panthers coming up against Herstelling Raiders which drew the bye to the second round. A potentially exciting day of rivalry is expected. The winner of the Diamond United/Samatta Point/ Kaneville clash will earn a date with Soesdyke Falcons on Monday in the lone match from 14:00hrs after which the semi finalists would be
decided. Meanwhile, The EBFA Senior League 2019 sponsored by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will kick off with the official march pass of all the contesting clubs at 13:00hrs followed by the lone match between Grove Hi Tech and Kuru Kururu Warriors from 14:00hrs. The other clubs competing are Mocha Champs, Agricola Red Triangle, Diamond Upsetters, Diamond United, Friendship All Stars, Soesdyke Falcons, Timehri Panthers, Herstelling Raiders and Samatta Point/ Kaneville.
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Linden Town Week/LBFCC/NAMILCO/Clear Waters Champion of Circuits Cycling, a Success The Linden Town Week (LTW) Champion of Circuits cycling event organized by the Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycle club (LBFCC) with the main sponsor being the National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO) has been deemed a resounding success. Club Secretary, Jeffery Yearwood informed that the turnout was better than expected especially since the event and course, were new to the cyclists. A total of 41 Event Category 1 & 2
Laps 8
Category 3 & 4 3rd
8
Veteran Under-45 5 Veteran Over-45 4 Junior/Juveniles 4 Females
4
BMX 9-12 Boys 1 Racing Bike U14 3 Open Racing Bikes Unknown Distance Junior/Juveniles 4 Racing Bikes Open Griffith
riders from around Guyana accepted the challenge. The circuit used was on the Wismar shore; the event started and finished on Burnham Drive. Riders battled through the Post Office street taking the only climb of the circuit then through the Wismar Housing Scheme, until the 1/2 Mile Public Road and back to Burnham Drive. Sending the riders on their way for the first event after
delivering remarks at the opening ceremony was Mr. Haffeez Khan of NAMILCO. The feature event was sponsored by Essential Supplies Inc. Clear Waters while other sponsors included Beepats, Stronghold Minerals Inc., Star Party Rentals and Vishal Auto Toy Store. Gracing the event was Her Worship the Mayor of Linden, Waneka Odetta Arriendell. Following are the full results of the day:
Results 1st Michael Anthony (LBFCC), 2nd Andrew Hicks (United), 3rd Ajay Gopilall (Trojan/PSL) 1st Quince Punch (United), 2nd Christopher Griffith (Evolution), Roy Wilson (Alanis) 1st Sagan Hubbard (Evolution), 2nd Warren McKay (United), 3rd Jaikarran Sukhai 1st Ian Jackson (Flying Stars), 2nd Junior Niles (Coco’s), 3rd Nigel London (LBFCC) 1st Ajay Gopilall (Trojan/PSL), 2nd Jonathan Ramsuchit (Trojan/PSL), 3rd Elijah Rutherford (LBFCC) 1st Shenika Tiexeira, 2nd Cliveicia Spencer (LBFCC), 3rd Abigail Jeffrey (LBFCC) 1st Julian Gordon, 2nd Shaquille Dow (LBFCC), 3rd Javin Henry 1st Mark Lewis (LBFCC), 2nd Jahame Hwey (LBFCC), 3rd Kevin Stephens (LBFCC) 1st Akeem Wilkinson (Evolution), 2nd Paul DeNobrega (Evolution), 3rd Curtis Dey (Trojan/PSL) 1st Jonathan Ramsuchit (Trojan/PSL), 2nd Ajay Gopilall (Trojan/ PSL), 3rd Sherwin Sampson (Alanis) 20 1st Andre Green (United - 1:28:28.56), 2nd Christopher (Evolution), 3rd Adealie Hodge (Continental), 4th Michael
Anthony (LBFCC), 5th Paul DeNobrega (Evolution)
Pollard, Lewis hardly needed as Mumbai secure playoff spot Mumbai, India, May 2, CMC – Kieron Pollard struck the winning runs as Mumbai Indians beat Sunrisers Hyderabad in a Super Over to clinch a playoff spot in the Indian Premier League here yesterday. Asked to chase just nine after the scores were tied at 162 at the end of the regulation overs, Hardik Pandya blasted a six from the second ball of the Super Over bowled by leg-spinner Rashid Khan before Pollard worked the fourth ball to midwicket for a couple, to end the contest. Pollard (10), along with fellow West Indies and Trinidad and Tobago teammate, Evin Lewis (1), had earlier both failed when Mumbai, opting to bat first, were held to 162 for five off their 20 overs at the Wankhede Stadium. In-form South African opener Quinton de Kock topscored with 69 not out off 58 deliveries – his fourth half-
Kieron Pollard century of the season – while Captain Rohit Sharma got 24 and Suryakumar Yadav, 23. Lewis, in only his third match of the season, faced six balls before holing out to deep mid-wicket in frustration off Afghan off-spinner Mohammad Nabi in the 13th over – one of three wickets to fall for 29 runs. Pollard put on 32 for the fifth wicket with de Kock before perishing in the final
over, skying left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed to square leg. In reply, Sunrisers got an unbeaten 71 off 47 balls from Manish Pandey while Nabi got 31 and opener Wriddhiman Saha, 25, as they put Mumbai under pressure. The visitors required 17 from the last over and six from the final ball, and Pandey launched medium pacer Pandya over the ropes at long on to tie the game and force the Super Over.
Female winner Shenika Tiexeira is flanked by Cliveicia Spencer (left) and Abigail Jeffrey.
Concacaf Kicks-Off First Coaching Programme Exclusively for Women Antigua and Barbuda – Concacaf will launch its first coaching program for women in Antigua and Barbuda on Monday, May 6. The training, focused on providing Member Associations with a D License, is part of the efforts of the Confederation to increase access for women to the game. Concacaf Head of Women’s Football Karina LeBlanc speaks with excitement about the four-day course, as it contributes to building sustainable foundations for the growth of the game. “We need to increase the number of women playing the game. At Concacaf we want to create sustainable pathways for former players and coaches, and by doing so, this will increase the number of women coaching in the region. “This course has been designed for women, by women,” said LeBlanc, adding that this is a main goal of Concacaf W, a platform that the Confederation is building to drive growth and sustainability in the women’s game. Concacaf W’s objectives also include changing perception and growing participation in the women’s game by collaborating with Member Associations,
players and coaches across the region. The 25 participating coaches from 12 of 41 Member Associations include one former player and one current female coach. Participants include representatives of Englishspeaking Member Associations from The Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Dominica, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands and hosts Antigua and Barbuda. The coaching program covers a wide range of topics in addition to the Concacaf D License curriculum, focused on safeguarding, e m p o w e r m e n t , accountability, as well as specific characteristics for women coaching. “It’s important in the women’s game to empower women to have voices and tools to be the decisionmakers on the field. It’s good for young girls to see them coaching because it influences them to dream that dream,” said LeBlanc. This revamped course will feature five Concacaf coaching instructors who are active and experienced within the Member Associations, all
holding advanced coaching licenses such as the USSF National A License and the UEFA Pro License. These five Concacaf coaches include University of New Mexico Head Coach Heather Dyche, Former Canadian International Coach Carmelina Moscato, University of Washington Head Coach Lesle Gallimore, Former Canadian International Coach Candace Chapman, and Former Mexican International and University of Manitoba Head Coach Vanessa MartinezLagunas. “Our goal is that the participating Member Associations later nominate one of these coaches to be at our Concacaf Girls’ Under-15 Championship next year,” added LeBlanc. The plan is to create a comprehensive mentorship program with the collaboration of UEFA and grow the women’s game within the Concacaf region by forming a “pyramid-effect” as LeBlanc calls it, of mentors and mentees between the five Concacaf coaching instructors and the 25 participants to help grow participation, while also inspiring the future generations of female coaches.
Friday May 03, 2019
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Kaieteur News
GFF to host FIFA Conference on Development from May 14-16 By Zaheer Mohamed The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) in partnership with FIFA will be hosting a FIFA Conference on Development from May 14-16 at Guyana Marriott. This disclosure was made yesterday at a press conference at the same venue. The GFF and the Tourism Hospitality Association of Guyana have collaborated to bring off this event, which will see representatives from all Caribbean Football Union members and Africa attending. President of the GFF, Wayne Forde informed that a full body of the FIFA Development team will be here to work along with the staff members of the GFF and from the Guyana Tourism family. “One of the key areas of focus will be a comprehensive regional schools football programme. During President Infantino’s visit here, we had extensive discussions on the importance of schools’ football and the extent to which it can contribute to the overall development of the
Sharing the Head Table yesterday, Wayne Forde is flanked by Donald Sinclair (right) and Mitra Ramkumar. game throughout the region.” Forde noted that it is important to indentify talent in its earliest stage. “We have been working feverishly at the GFF on a long term strategic plan to implement football at both the primary and secondary levels. We have established working modalities with FIFA for support in training Physical Education teachers to
conduct the fundamental coaching aspect of the game and to serve as match officials, and even students who are exiting secondary schools. “A model is being developed that would allow us to launch a secondary school league that will be of quality. FIFA has submitted a draft to the CARICOM family that I understand is being
Walter Grant-Stuart for Para-cycling events in Canada, Italy and Belgium powered by the NSC Following his historic exploits at the UCI C1 ParaCycling Event held in April last year at the Circuit GillesVilleneuve, Montreal, Canada, Differently Able Cyclist Walter Grant-Stuart is on a mission seeking greater exploits fuelled by the National Sports Commission. Grant-Stuart has informed that over the year 2018, representing Guyana was such a thrilling and exciting experience and this year would be no different as he is elated to be doing so again. “Please support me with your prayers and love while I represent Guyana at the ParaCycling events in Canada, Italy and Belgium. I hope to make my country proud as we continue on our journey towards the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to bring home the gold medal. I would also like to express special thanks to Mr. Christopher Jones for the remarkable job he is doing as the Sports Director.” Jones indicated that the National Sports Commission (NSC) is proud to sponsor Grant-Stuart who has already left these shores. “It should be noted that for the second time Guyana would be competing in para cycling and this was only possible after the NSC which formerly established relations with the international PWD body in 2017.” Jones also noted.
considered by all members of the community, he added. The GFF head said that he is happy to acknowledge the warm extension of friendship from their tourism colleagues and their efforts to promote Guyana. He pointed out that the federation recognises that sports tourism is an area that they may not have pay much attention to in the past, but it is very critical to their efforts
to commercialise the sport. “The GFF has demonstrated to international governing bodies that we have overtime, developed the capability to run off well organised international events and more so competitions, and I am very happy to have the Government’s support in hosting this venture.” Forde indicated they have been working on a preparation plan for Guyana’s Golden Jaguars participation in the CONCACAF Gold Cup which includes international home and away games. “We are doing a budget that will see close to three weeks of preparation plans, most of which will be spent outside of Guyana and will be reaching out to the Government of Guyana for support.” Mitra Ramkumar of the Tourism Hospitality Association of Guyana, said this is a remarkable achievement by the GFF to have such a conference being hosted here, adding that destinations have positioned themselves as attractive for
conferences and seminars and tourism fits in well. He added that this partnership will extend beyond this conference. “We have targeted beach football events at our resorts across the country, which will give youths an opportunity to show case their skills. Sports tourism is a huge market and has a huge following so you actually get tremendous amount of coverage.” He said they are happy to partner with the GFF and is looking forward to a successful conference. Director General, Department of Tourism, Donald Sinclair stated that sports and tourism have a strong interconnection and that the Department of Tourism is advocating this very strongly. He informed that next week at the GOA Headquarters they will be having their Sports Tourism Agenda for 2019-2020. This effort by the GFF has to be supported, adding that it is important to have FIFA here and this will definitely help in the development of the sport.
ODI, Test boost for Windies ahead of World Cup
West Indies have climbed to number eight in the ODI rankings. Walter Grant-Stuart Jones also said that as a result of this move, Guyana can now participate at several regional and international PWD Meets, citing that recently, students from several Special Needs Schools represented this nation in Dubai. Since 2016, the NSC has been placing specific emphasis on PWD’s. Grant-Stuart will get into action tomorrow after arriving in Canada yesterday in the Defi Sports organised event which is sanctioned by the UCI. The Time Trials will be contested tomorrow with the Road Race on Sunday. Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) President
Horace Burrowes who is presently in Mexico has given the federation’s blessings to Grant-Stuart who said that he is very grateful. The cyclist is expressing thanks to the Almighty God for giving him the strength and the following sponsors for making his trip a reality: National Sports Commission, Farfan and Mendes, Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, Guyana Fire Service, Soesdyke Neighborhood Democratic Council, Freight Link Express, Grace Kennedy, Sylvester Soup Man at the Soesdyke Junction.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, CMC – West Indies have been handed a pleasant rankings boost ahead of the World Cup, after overhauling Sri Lanka to climb to eighth in the ICC One-Day International charts yesterday. The Caribbean side gained four ratings points to move to 80 while Sri Lanka remained stagnant on 76, following the annual update which saw the removal of the 2015-16 results and those between 2016-18 computed at 50 per cent. For the Windies, the rise comes on the back of their outstanding performance in the recent five-match series against World number ones, England, when they snatched
a 2-2 tie. That series result saw them draw level on 76 points with the Sri Lankans last March but remain in ninth spot. They can further solidify their new ranking when they face hosts Ireland and Bangladesh in a Tri-Nations Series in Dublin starting Sunday. Poor results here, however, especially against seventh-place Bangladesh could see the Windies slip to ninth again heading into the World Cup which runs from May 30 to July 14. West Indies have spent recent years languishing at number nine and it resulted in them missing out on automatic qualification for the World Cup. England, meanwhile,
remain the top-ranked side but will need to beat Ireland and Pakistan in their upcoming series in order to enter the World Cup at the summit. India are second after gaining one ratings point while South Africa have overtaken New Zealand to claim third place, with the Black Caps dropping to fourth. In the Test rankings, West Indies are now on the heels of seventh placed Pakistan after gaining five points following the annual update. The Jason Holder-led unit, who stunned England 2-1 in the recent three-Test series in the Caribbean, are now on 82 points but only two behind seventh place Pakistan who dropped four ratings points. (Continued on page 32)
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GSSF/Orinduik Development Inc. Practical Shooting Match
Ray Beharry (Production) and David Dharry (Limited) tops respective fields Ray Beharry accumulated 375.0000 points while David Dharry chalked up 325.5765 points respectively to emerge as the Production and Limited Division champions when the Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF) Practical Shooting Match sponsored by Orinduik Development Inc. was contested on Saturday last at the Timehri Shooting Ranges. The match comprised of five challenging but fun
stages and was conducted by Match Director Mr. David Dharry. During a brief opening ceremony prior to the competition, Managing Director of Orinduik Development Inc., Mr. Brian Backer said that they are a private Security Firm based on the East Coast that specialises in aviation security and VIP personal protection. Each division of the
competition had its unique requirements and restrictions, as prescribed by the USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association). The shooters do not directly compete with each other across divisions. As such, prizes were awarded for 1st to 3rd place in each division. Stages included Bookout’s Boogie, Lots of Sand, Stage 95 Max, Fluffy’s Revenge 2 and Alternate.
Match results were announced as follows: Production Division Limited Division: 1st Place – Ray Beharry (375.0000 Points) 1st Place – David Dharry (325.5765 Points) 2nd Place – Michael Blake (195.9057 Points) 2nd Place – Johan DaSilva (319.1012 Points) 3rd Place – Lancelot Khan (189.4942 Points) 3rd Place – Pravesh Harry (296.3801 Points) The GSSF would is extending sincere gratitude to Mr. Backer and the Board of Directors of Orinduik Development Inc. for the kind sponsorship and support of the foundation’s activities
and events. Also recognised for their roles in ensuring a successful competition were the Match Director, Range Master, Stats Officer, Range Officers, shooters, the Guyana
Defence Force, Chief of Staff Brigadier Patrick West, Commissioner of Police Mr. Leslie James, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ms. Maxine Graham, OC Mr. Guy Nurse, the ranks of TSU and
Division winners Mr. David Dharry (3rd right) and Mr. Ray Beharry (2nd right) seen with the other recipients of prizes. the Guyana Police Force, the Media and GSSF members for their support in promoting
practical shooting locally. Mr. Harold Hopkinson was also recognised for the uses of
his personal props, steel plates, poppers and targets stands for some of the stages.
FIBA/Nike Caribbean Development Camp
GABF selects five best Under-17 players
The fifteen players selected for the U-17 FIFA/Nike Development Camp and the tri-series. Seated left is Rich Mahler and Jermaine Taylor (right) of Youth Hoops Basketball Clinic.
With help from Youth Hoops Basketball Clinic, the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) was able to shortlist the best five male Under-17 players to represent this nation at the International Basketball Federation’s (FIBA) Caribbean Development Camp in Puerto Rico, which is being sponsored by footwear and apparel giants, Nike. Yesterday, President of the GABF, Mike Singh, disclosed that independent body, Youth Hoops which held basketball clinics in Georgetown and Linden last week, volunteered to pick the best five players and the GABF obliged. Singh explained that this was allowed since the GABF wants to be fair and avoid any conflict of interest since coaches on their selection panel may favour their own players from their clubs. The players selected for the
regional camp set for July 1112, 2019 are Lugard Mohan Jr., Timothy Richmond, Kadeem Dover, Rayon Short and Emanuel Atherley. Singh, who is in his first year as President of the GABF, revealed to Kaieteur Sport that the national Under-17 team has been invited to Turks and Caicos to play in a tri-series with the host and the Bahamas, July month-end. To this end, an additional 10 players have been shortlisted and they will begin training along with the Elite five this and every other weekend at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) with guidance from Coach Lugard Mohan. Those 10 players are: Jamal Nicholas, Kahil Ferrington, Elijah David, Kareem Whitney, Gabriel Lim, Ming Wong, Josiah Roberts, Lamon Friday, DaMarcus Adams, and Stephan Deleon.
Breeders Cup fundraising event set for July 7th Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr., Chairman of the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Committee (JJTRC), has indicated that they will be hosting a fundraising event titled the Breeders Cup on July 7th at the Bush Lot United turf club in West Coast Berbice. The action packed day will feature three aspects, a Horse Race Meet, Motocross competition and
a Car and Bike show, with all the proceeds going towards works at the developing Bush Lot United Turf Club which includes the construction of a grand stand, stables for race days and fencing. On the card for the Horse Race Meet are seven races with some of the top jockeys and animals expected to make appearances.
The Motocross competition will see some of the best daredevils in Guyana going head to head between intermissions during the horse race meet. The day will conclude with the Car and Bike show featuring owners of the best machines who would be awarded with cash and trophies. According to
Mohamed, the added attractions have been included to attract persons who don’t usually come to horse racing to be part of the event. To date, the JJTRC has injected millions into the facility including filling of the track which was done recently at an estimated $1million.
Kaieteur News
Friday May 03, 2019
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Rupununi FA Champions League quarter finalists known; to kick off tomorrow Following the completion of the preliminary rounds of the Fourth edition of the Rupununi Football Association (RFA) Male and Female Champions Leagues, the final 16 teams (quarter finalists) have been confirmed. RFA President Ryan Farias has released the name of the respective top teams in the various clusters contested. Central - Guyana Rush Saints (male and female), Tabatinga FC (male) and Gladiators (female). East Central – Flash FC (female), Jaguars (male), Kanuku Harpies (male and female). North – Paiwomak (male and female), Strikers FC (male and female). Deep South - Titans FC (male and female). South Central – Sun Parakeets (male and female). The respective male and female draw for this stage of the league was conducted on Wednesday evening last; play will begin tomorrow while the league is anticipated to end on June 15.
Rupununi Football Association club representatives who attended the drawing of the quarterfinals fixtures on Wednesday evening.
The Sun Parakeets Sports Ground will host tomorrow’s double header which will feature a male clash between Sun Parakeets and Paiwomak from 13:00hrs while from 15:00hrs, a female match
between Guyana Rush Saints and Sun Parakeets will take center stage. On Sunday Strikers Sports Ground will host a female clash between Titans FC and Strikers FC from 13:00hrs while from
Pan American U23/Elite Road Cycling Championships – Mexico
Jamal John claims 12th place in 17-man U-23 field
J
amal John, despite crashing on the first turn of the circuit, ended a creditable 12th in the Time Trials of the Pan American U23 Cycling Championships which was contested in Pachuca de Soto Mexico on Wednesday. The 33km - 3 laps on the Circuit Río de la Avenidas – saw John clocking 47:05.884 in the event that was won by Diego Ferreyra of Chile in 40:10.375. John finished ahead of Paraguay, Panama, Aruba (2) and Argentina. GCF President Horace Burrowes who is in Mexico as Coach/Manager of Jamal John, Romello Crawford and Briton John will be attending the COPACI Congress set for today. He has reported that Guyana has the largest contingent of the five Caribbean countries being represented in Mexico. Trinidad and Tobago has two (1 male 1 female) the same as Bermuda while the British Virgin Islands and St. Vincent and the Grenadines have one each. The T&T female cyclist, Teniel
20:00hrs at the Wadapna Sports Ground, Tabatinga and Titans FC will square off in a male quarter final. The RFA Leagues had kicked off in February this year with 24 clubs battling for supremacy. The Deep
South and Central clusters had a playoff to determine the top male and female teams while South Pakaraimas moved to the quarter finals automatically being the only team. The RFA also reported
that Mahdia Goal Getters male team which was originally scheduled to compete could not have done so due to financial challenges. As a result, Kanuku Harpies male team replaced them.
Silvie’s Variety Store donates basketball and volleyball nets to NSC The National Sports Commission (NSC) one week ago received a large quantity of basketball and volleyball nets from Silvie’s Variety Store. The presentation was made by Silvie’s Sales Manager, Ms Naressa Nabby. Director of Sport Christopher Jones in accepting the donation reiterated the
importance of having Corporate Guyana play a part in improving Sports as it cannot be achieved by the Government alone. Mr. Jones expressed heartfelt thanks to the management of Silvie’s Variety Store as this donation was a timely one and indeed helpful.
Silvie’s Variety Store Sales Manager, Ms Naressa Nabby hands over a pair of nets to Director of Sport, Christopher Jones.
Jamal John is flanked by his countrymen, Romello Crawford (left) and Briton John.
Campbell who campaigns in Europe, won the female Time Trials. Costa Rica’s Jennifer Morales placed second and Cuban, Jeydy Pradera, third. The 21 year-old Campbell has become the first T&T women’s cyclist to ever achieve a medal at the
Pan American level. She rides for World Cycling Center Trade Team in Switzerland. The Guyanese trio would be in action the men’s 140km road race tomorrow 9 laps around the Circuit Ciudad del Conocimiento, Pachuca de Soto, Hidalgo.
Kaieteur News
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Friday May 03, 2019
Hand-in-Hand 3-Day Inter-County U-19 Cricket
MOM Spooner bowls Demerara to emphatic 1st round win MOM Joel Spooner had match figures of 11-65.
By Sean Devers n a day when rain was in the forecast, the sun shone in all its brilliance and it took Demerara just 5.4
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overs yesterday to complete an emphatic nine-wicket victory against Essequibo at Bourda in the opening round of the Hand-in-Hand 3-Day Inter-County U-19 cricket
tournament. Essequibo resumed the final day on 155-9 and overnight batsman Amit Persaud added two to his 14 before Marvin Benjamin was removed for a duck by Pradesh Balkisoon off the first ball of the day’s second over as Essequibo were bowled out for 156 after collapsing from 132-2. Man-of-the-Match, offspinner Joel Spooner, followed up his 5-10 in the first innings with 6-55 from 23 overs for a match haul of 11-65. Balkisoon finished with 4-22 from 10.1 overs for Demerara, set 25 to win. The home side reached 25-1 from 4.3 overs after Persaud, who enjoyed an excellent game, trapped Andrian Hinds (2) at 12-1 to finish with seven wickets in the match. Robin ‘Manage’ Williams smashed four boundaries in his unbeaten 18 including back-to-back fours off Persaud before Windies U-16 Skipper Sachin Singh (5) ended the
Amit Persaud had 6-69 & the only wicket to fall in Demerara’s 2nd innings. contest with a magnificent cut off pacer Elian Whyte which raced across the heavy outfield to the point boundary. The predicted down pour did come around noon but by then Demerara were already celebrating their win. Scores: Eeesquibo 75 and 156; Demerara 207-9 innings closed and 25-1. The spinners from both teams dominated on the spinfriendly track as Demerara’s Alphius Bookie with 52 and Essequibo’s Orlando Jailall with 27 and 60, reached halfcenturies. Williams made 42 and 18 not out and Kevin Christian made 49 and shared in a 110run opening stand with Jailall for Essequibo but no other batsman on either side, reached 20 with many of them throwing their wickets away
Orlando Jailall made 27 and 60 for Essequibo.
due to a lack of patience. The second round is scheduled from tomorrow to Monday and Demerara plays the U-17s at Bourda while Essequibo face defending champs Berbice at Everest. Both games are set to start at 10:00hrs. Meanwhile, according to Manager of the Demerara team, former Guyana First-Class batsman Rohan Sarjoo, he is satisfied with his team’s overall performance in their first game. “Yes I am satisfied with our performance in this game. Having said that we need to work a bit on the fast bowling and batting” said the 40-year-old Sarjoo. Sarjoo, who made 21 and three in his only Regional First-Class game in 1996, informed that he was also satisfied with the general standard of the players in the
match. “We should have a practice session here (Bourda) tomorrow (today) afternoon after school to work on the little areas of concern. But we plan to approach the next game (tomorrow) in much the same manner as we did this one” disclosed Sarjoo who confirmed that Demerara Captain and West Indies U19 left-arm spinner Ashmead Nedd missed the second day on Wednesday due to illness but has recovered and was the ground yesterday. “We were told that food poising was suspected but the medical report indicated that young Nedd was affected from an allergic reaction to something he had probably ate but food poisoning was ruled out” Sarjoo explained.
Rain prevents Berbice from possible victory over the Select U-17 team Rain prevented a possible Berbice victory against the Select U17 team when the first round of the Hand-inHand Inter County U19 three-day tournament concluded yesterday. Set 313 to win in just over two sessions at Everest Cricket Club, the Select U17 were tottering on 17-3, when play was halted in the first session due to rain, resulting in 75 minutes of play being lost. When play resumed in the second session, the U17s (Continued on page 34)
Alex Algoo accepts his man-of-the-match prize from Faneeza Kowlessar of Hand-in-Hand
Kaieteur News
Friday May 03, 2019
Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Linden C/Ship continues tonight All roads leads to the Silver City Hard-Court Tarmac tonight when the second group night commences in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Linden Championship. The event was rescheduled due to torrential rainfall on May 1st. According to the tournament Coordinators, “The Wednesday match-day [May 1 ] which was will be rescheduled to torrential rain, will now be staged on Sunday at the same venue [Mackenzie Tarmac]. It was disappointment that no matches were able to be hosted but you can’t control the weather. We have to be cognizant of the players’ safety which is paramount in the tournament. The fixtures remain the same so the teams are expected to arrive at the venue to compete.” The release further said, “We expect another thrilling night of action which is expected to captivate the fans who are expected to descend on the venue in droves.” The playing area was unplayable due to the rainfall and the decision to switch the matches to another date was taken by the coordinators and sponsors due to the safety of the players. At 19:30hrs, Wisroc will oppose Presidential, with Barsenal engaging High Rollers at 20:00hrs and Coomacka battling Quiet Storm from 20:30hrs. The fourth match will pit defending champion Silver Bullets against Retrieve Unknowns from 21:00hrs, w h i l e A m e l i a ’s Wa r d Russians oppose Haynes Hitters at 21:30hrs and Swag Entertainment take aim at Dave & Celina’s All-Stars st
from 22:00hrs. The tournament is being contested in an initial roundrobin format featuring four groups of four teams. Upon the conclusion of the group stage, the top two finishers will advance to the knockout round. Group-A comprises Assassa Ballers, Amazings, NK Ballers and Capital Storm, with group-B featuring Amelia’s Ward Russians, Quiet Storm, Coomacka-B and Haynes Hitters. On the other hand, groupC consists of Silver Bullets, High Rollers, Retrieve Unknown and Barsenal, whilst Swag Entertainment, Dave & Celina’s All-Stars, Presidential and Wisroc make up group-D. The other playing dates are May 5 , 10 , 17 , with the grand finale slated for the 24 . Below features the fixtures for the May 1 and May 3 slated matches. Fixtures for May 3 Silver City Hard-Court Wisroc Vs Presidential19:30hrs; Barsenal Vs High Rollers-20:00hrs; Coomacka Vs Quiet Storm20:30hrs; Silver Bullets Vs Retrieve Unknown21:00hrs; Amelia’s Ward Russians Vs Haynes Hitters21:30hrs; Swag Entertainment Vs Dave and Celina-22:00hrs. Fixtures for May 5 _Mackenzie Tarmac Quiet Storm Vs Haynes Hitters-19:30hrs; Capital Storm Vs Assassa Ballers20:00hrs; NK Ballers Vs Amazings-20:30hrs; Wisroc Vs Dave and Celina21:00hrs; Swag Entertainment Vs Presidential-21:30hrs; Silver Bullets Vs High Rollers22:00hrs. th
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50th Carifta Games - AAG boss says Guyana capable of making event a success By Calvin Chapman Despite grumblings by some persons in the Track and Field fraternity that Guyana might be incapable of successfully hosting the 50th Caribbean Free Trade Association (Carifta) Games in 2021, President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aubrey Hutson is positive that (Continued on page 34)
Aubrey Hutson – AAG President
Scenes from the opening night of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Linden Championship at the Mackenzie Market Tarmac.
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t r o Sp GFF to host FIFA Conference on Development from May 14-16
Walter Grant-Stuart moments after arriving in Canada yesterday.
Walter Grant-Stuart for Para-cycling events in Canada, Italy and Belgium powered by the NSC
GFF President Wayne Forde (Centre), Mitra Ramkumar (left) of the Tourism Hospitality of Guyana and Donald Sinclair, Director General, Department of Tourism share a moment following the press conference.
Linden Town Week/LBFCC/NAMILCO/Clear Waters Champion of Circuits Cycling, a Success
NAMILCO’s Haffeez Khan presents one of the many trophies to this winner on Wednesday afternoon last in Linden in the presence of other winners and runners-up.
Hand-in-Hand 3-Day Inter-County U-19 Cricket Rupununi FA Champions MOM Spooner Rain prevents Berbice League quarter finalists known; to bowls Demerara to from possible victory over kick off tomorrow the Select U-17 team emphatic 1st round win 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.