Wednesday May 10, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Where is the justice for the Clarification on the rice cereal plant in Essequibo parents of these boys? DEAR EDITOR, The Institute of Applied Science and Technology wishes to provide the following information to the public on the Rice Cereal Plant constructed in Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast. In part, our letter is motivated by important questions raised on May 2nd 2017 in the Kaieteur News by Mr. Romario Blair. Ownership of the plant: The plant is currently owned by the Institute of Applied Science and Technology, as it was constructed through monies received via a warrant to the IAST from the former Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce. The land on which the plant is constructed belongs to the Guyana Power and Light Corporation, which provided their no-objection to the plant being constructed on the land. The transfer of this land to the IAST has been occupying the attention of the IAST’s subject Minister – the Honorable Joe Harmon, Minister of State. Also occupying the attention of the Honorable Minister is the presence of a squatter within the compound of the facility and the need to craft a humanitarian solution for this issue. Update on Readiness of the Plant: The building construction is complete and without defects. The equipment for the plant was procured, is in place in the building and is currently waiting to be commissioned. The equipment was exhaustively tested by IAST’s technical staff in China before being shipped to Guyana. Commissioning will begin after a transformer is installed which converts the power from that currently supplied by GPL to that required by the equipment. The transformer has been procured and the contractor is expected to begin installation in weeks. The supply of power to the building from GPL is dependent on the ownership of the land – as soon as this transfer is effected, the facility will be powered and can proceed to be commissioned. The IAST has also located a generator owned by the institute to the facility, to serve as an interim solution to the need for power, until power can be supplied by the GPL. Operation of the Plant: the plant will be commissioned and operated in the initial months by the IAST. The Anna Regina Town Council has expressed an interest in being involved
in the operation of the plant, through the Ministry of Communities. Their interest has been preliminarily discussed with the IAST. There is no unwillingness to seek a partnership with the Anna Regina Town Council, but the current priority is to commission the plant and ensure that at least one shift can be operated, which will require training of staff. The Board of Industrial Training and the Ministry of Social Protection has been engaged to begin training, when the commissioning of the plant is complete. Ultimately, the IAST has recommended that when the plant is operational and is generating a cash flow, that Government seeks to divest the plant to the private sector or through a public private partnership which whilst ensuring employment, also allows the Government to recoup its original investment at an appropriate premium so that this capital can be used to germinate other such value-added processes in other communities. A final decision on this direction has not been made, but several conversations have taken place with the IAST, the Minister of Business and the Minister of State on the matter. Also to be decided is an allocation of funding for operations, although it is expected that this shall be offset by sales. Focus of the Operations: The plant is only focused on the production of breakfast cereals and nutrition bars. The main ingredient used is rice, with other major ingredients being rice bran, sugar, molasses and peanuts. The intent is to source as much of these raw materials regionally and nationally. Indeed, the IAST has already procured raw materials for the commissioning process: all of which are available on the Essequibo coast were procured from Region 2. Development of Markets: The IAST has been working with the National School Feeding Program operated by the Ministry of Education in a pilot project, to test the acceptance of the cereals by several schools on the coast. There has been an enthusiastic response by the students to the product, which is a favorite among the several products being piloted. Therefore, the National School Feeding Program is expected to provide an institutional market for uptake of some of the facility’s production in the near term. Additionally, the IAST has engaged with the
Guyana Defence Force, which has preliminarily indicated its intention to purchase substantial amounts of the cereal for its troops. The IAST continues to produce the product at a pilot scale and to solicit other markets, so that the plant’s produce can find markets in the early stages of operation. The intent is to secure enough markets ahead of the production so that the plant can operate at least one shift profitably. Subsequent decisions on the operation of the plant will then seek to expand market share and the number of shifts. Environmental Impact of the Cereal Plant: The plant will only generate minimum organic waste, related to overproduction during operation. This waste is edible because it is breakfast cereal and will be utilized in collaboration with ruminant farmers in the region. The process does require rice to be milled into flour. The mill purchased generates a minimum of noise and creates no dust due to having electronically regulated dust collection. The facility in which the milling will be conducted will be noise-insulated, to further reduce any potential impact of noise. There is no air pollution generated by the plant. There will also be no ground and surface water contamination from the plant – the facility is equipped with drain traps to ensure double protection against any mistakes or accidents within the plant which allows organic load to be introduced into the drainage system. This is a food plant and very modern. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was prepared by the IAST and submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since 2014. However, despite receiving positive feedback on the EIA, the EPA cannot issue the relevant licenses until the matter of land ownership is resolved and the ownership of the plant is unencumbered. The IAST wishes to point out that every activity has an environmental impact. In the case of this plant, it has been designed to provide minimum impact. However, the IAST is committed to working with residents to ensure that if any unforeseen environmental impacts arise, they are dealt with in a collaborative and effective manner so as to mitigate the impact on environment and neighbouring populations. Ryhaan Hickson For IAST Management
DEAR EDITOR, The public of Guyana notes with sad satisfaction the increased successful prosecution and sentencing of child abusers. However, notably absent is the prosecution of the Muslim Imam implicated in the abuse of several young boys. The families have been commendably vocal in their pursuit of justice; they have kept the Guyanese populace informed through the media and have also picketed several government departments, seeking justice for
their sons. However, for various reasons most of which smell like conspiracy, the accused has not yet faced the courts. It seems money and powerful connections are involved. However one cannot ignore that he is alleged to have no less than nine victims. So while a Minister has received eighteen years for his crimes against a six year old child, we impatiently await the execution of justice on the this religious man implicated in the abuse of the nine or more young boys. Concerned Citizen
ADMIRABLE COURTESY AT A FAST FOOD RESTAURANT DEAR EDITOR, I am not promoting Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), nor am I advocating for the consumption of fast food, but would like to commend that local franchise for their recently experienced good service standards! A few days ago, I had the urge to treat myself to some fast food. KFC was my pick, since I had not yet sampled the re-introduced brand. Fortunately, I got parking just in front the outlet and entered to a short and manageable queue. While waiting my turn to order I observed the décor. The ambience was great. The floor was clean and unoccupied tables were free of residue. I was very impressed because I have visited several other overseas outlets but this Georgetown outlet certainly took the prize for cleanliness. The staff were also neatly attired, and every one of them wore the appropriate hairnets
and caps. Their morale appeared unusually high compared with what seems to be the invariable local norm of mediocrity. While placing my order, the cashier was momentarily interrupted by a colleague who promptly asked me to be excused and subsequently apologized for the less than 20 seconds intrusion. That instance caused me to become even more enthralled. I could not resist the impulse to commend the staff for the courtesy received. She graciously reciprocated appreciation for my compliment before continuing
her efficacy. Such courtesies are absent in almost every sector these days, and remonstration against illmannered people can potentially bring you to the brink of being killed. So, kudos to the staff of KFC Guyana! I trust that my memorable experience of their high standards and service was not just an isolated instant of good taste, but is of consistence to all patrons. Orette Cutting
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Wednesday May 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
Sherod Duncan on the importance of solid waste management DEAR EDITOR, It is heartening to see the efforts by Director, Walter Narine and team of the Mayor and City Council’s Department of Solid Waste. The Department has conceptualized a compost project that if actualized could be monetized and become an additional revenue stream for the municipality while playing a huge role in the holistic health of our environment. More recently, Mr. Narine and team at our recent municipal Health Fair demonstrated the positive effects of waste separation by converting organic waste into fertilizers through a simple composting mechanism; hoped to be rolled out to Primary Schools in the city shortly. The Department’s offering at the Fair included a biodigester, and mats made from plastic bags. These efforts underline the importance of Government’s draft strategy, “Putting Waste In Its Place: A National Integrated Solid Waste Management Strategy for the Cooperative Republic of Guyana 2017 – 2030”. I had offered, in these
pages, that that strategy is comprehensive, and in our transition to a GREEN economy signal the need for a holistic approach to solid waste management; the Strategy is in depth and breadth what it is in coherence and eloquence. Additionally, what will be vital to the sustainability of this integrative approach will be its evaluation and monitoring not only in a Solid Waste Management Authority in coordinating the implementation but also in performance evaluation that is fact based and real-time, which makes use of the technological tools at our disposal. This management process must be data, software driven. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in its publication, “How to Feed the World 2050” states, “By 2050 the world’s population will reach 9.1 billion, 34 percent higher than today. Nearly all of this population increase will occur in developing countries. Urbanization will continue at an accelerated pace, and about 70 percent of the world’s population will be urban (compared to 49 percent today). Income levels will be many multiples of what
they are now. In order to feed this larger, more urban and richer population, food production (net of food used for biofuels) must increase by 70 percent.” Increase production and consumption use to be synonymous with increase waste but this needs no longer be so. And yet, we still have a very far way to go as preliminary estimates indicate over the last year our municipality produced 54431.05 tons of waste which costs tax payers of the city $387,209,194. In a Department Report a notation stated, “In the period November 15 to December 31, 2016 the Department has recorded an increase in amount of bulky waste in all 10 groups by 23% (2756T) as compared to the same period in 2015.” The high cost and increase in solid waste are in keeping with global trends and underscored dire need for interventions at all levels. From the data available consideration should be had whether just collection of waste ($300-$400 per emptied barrel) should be the methodology or a weighted system. For instance, in April 2016, 1674 tons of waste exacted $18,203,000 and $16,685,280 respectively for
DEAR EDITOR, For about four months now while going to Georgetown daily from the East Coast, I note with interest two holes on the road by Vlissengen Road and Carifesta Junction. As the months go by these two holes get bigger and wider that are now blocked off by the Police Force barricade. What bothers me is most of our Ministers in Government pass their daily; the President and Prime Minister too. The police blocked off this piece of road that slows down traffic, yet no one in authority thinks of fixing this road junction that is getting worse daily. Very soon this road will be cracked into two and traffic will be diverted to Sheriff Street. The fact remains that the police barricade is on that bad piece of the road tells me clearly that the police are aware that this road slows down traffic so why is it that the police don’t get these road builders to fix this piece of bad road? I guess that the City Mayor, Chase Green and Town Clerk Royston King passes that junction constantly too but they just put a blind eye to it. But they were very efficient to implement the parking meter and they will still implement it sooner or later. I also see not far from this bad piece of road some drag-line and
hymacs digging a very deep trench as if they are building a next pyramid for Pharaoh in Guyana next to Damon Statue. These people can see the holes on the road and the barricade, they have the equipment and the tools to fix these two holes in less than one hour yet they turn a blind eye to it. Now the rains coming in May-June these holes will get bigger and erosion will cause that entire road junction to break in two or create a big accident. When will they fix it? Only when an accident occurs and kills innocent citizens? A sudden blackout at nights turns the entire junction pitch black and those driving to Georgetown cannot see these barricades and holes on this road, thus great accidents will occur sooner or later. If we cannot fix basic road problems then it’s not possible for this current administration to fix this country’s economic problems. These pot holes are all over. I noticed another big pot hole opposite Guyana Stores and Muneshwers that has some sand in it and a few sticks around it that can even cause a vehicle to divert and run into Guyana stores supermarket. I wonder who will fix that big pot hole and when? Where I live on Agriculture Road, Mon repos, we have two miles of
growing pot holes in this road, it gets worse daily. I wrote several times about it yet no one came to fix this road. The NAREI big wigs drive here daily and the NDC chairman even the police, yet they put a blind eye to it. I am calling on our erudite Minister of State Joe Harmon and Mr. David Patterson Minister of Public Infrastructure to get these pot holes fixed immediately at Vlissengen and Carifesta Junction before a severe accident occurs. I want to suggest to the Mayor and City Council to get a Road Builders Committee set up that will travel the entire city to fix deplorable roads immediately. Our basic problem in this country is incompetence and negligence. We wait until something is completely destroyed before we rescue it long before it’s destroyed. I have seen this from the past PPP Administration and the same incompetence has repeated itself in our current administration. It is about time our current administration govern this nation with more diligence and competence. I wonder who will fix the hundreds of pot holes in Agriculture Road, since over 7 people were killed on this road including two ten year old children not very long ago by accidents. Rev.Gideon Cecil
Serious attention must be given to these dangerous potholes
CEVONS and PURANS contractors as compared with September 2016 collection of 3870.5 tons of waste for $18,889,080 and $16,117,780 for respective contractors. We can appreciate there is a need not only to efficiently collect, remove and dispose of solid waste, but the larger objective has to be geared towards consuming goods responsibly and producing less solid waste by aiming to Reuse, Reduce and Recycle. This thrust has to engage a more rigorous, coherent legislative framework which focuses on education and enforcement. There is a school of thought that suggests that on both of the latter fronts, education and enforcement, there have been systemic failures and that is why we see a retreat to the old ways now that the effects of the $300M Georgetown Rehabilitation Programme has plateau. Or could other factors explain why over the last year those citizens attracting the littering penalty under the Municipal and Districts Council Act, Cap 28:01, (279:1:C), only numbered 15 persons, by comparison those persons found under a charge of “Deposit of Waste” numbered 31.
Two important issues to be pursued on the legislative end will be endowing the city with its own Municipal Court for the redress of such local issues and also the remitting of fines to the municipality which goes in tandem with the costs associated with successfully prosecuting such infractions, though in the case of the former there might be a disincentive to pursue this as, for example, fines for litter related offences only amounted to $362,000 over the last year which would be far below the cost of prosecutions, administration and management of such a system. As levels of consumption increase more attention is being place on solid waste management globally. According to an online article, “Report: Solid waste issues more frequent topic for local governments”, which based its content on a US ‘Waste Alert Report’, “which analyzed 1,699 agendas and minutes from 807 meetings — solid waste or recycling issues came up in 26% of local government meetings during the first quarter of 2017. This information came from municipal, borough and
county meetings across 16 largely Western states.” “The report shows that the most common instances were about financial issues, followed by future planning for facilities and infrastructure and then direct mentions of companies — often relating to franchises. Changes to contracts or regulations were also common themes.” In effective and efficient Solid Waste Management the stakes are high; the threat to human life and the environment is real in every regard. Standing by and doing nothing is not an option. Yet there is a dire need for our collective strategies to be grounded in reality and as an anchor underlying the national Strategy’s myriad features will be the efficiencies in the coherent interaction of system processes. As a local government Councilor it is my hope that we can bring a rich and robust discussion of this issue to councils across our country, discussions that lead to meaningful action. Sherod Avery Duncan, C o u n c i l l o r , Constitutency 14 Municipality of Georgetown
The priceless role private education has played DEAR EDITOR, In a few days’ time, it will be two years since David Granger was elected President of the Republic. He promised Guyanese that with his APNU+AFC Govt. he would improve their everyday life and meet their basic needs. The evidence so far suggests otherwise as the President and his Ministers have been making many useless trips abroad at taxpayers’ expense rather than concentrate on their mandate to solve the many problems facing the nation. For example, the President stated recently that, “he has no intention of shuttering down the sugar industry”. Yet since taking office nearly 1,800 sugar workers have lost their jobs and several processing facilities have ceased operation. GuySuCo is financially bankrupt and his APNU+AFC Govt. has no strategy for consolidation and diversification to make it viable. Further, the President has failed to rein in and bring to justice those corrupt PPP/C officers who were engaged in such fraudulent schemes as the Pradoville 2; the one exception being the disappearance of Law Reports from the AG’s Office. What about missing Govt. vehicles, etc. For its part, many of the APNU+AFC Govt. employees seem to have taken the cue from their PPP/C counterparts and are involved in fraudulent schemes like those at the Gold Board, Deeds Registry, the employment of phantom teachers within the Ministry of Education and several other misdeeds still being uncovered. President Granger instead of seriously fulfilling his mandate to govern competently and well to solve the nation’s many problems seems to take every opportunity to escape his duties by making expensive overseas trips at taxpayers’ expense under the pretext that they are in the national interest. His recent
state visits using chartered aircraft to the Bahamas and Great Britain accompanied by an entourage of Who’s Who attests to this, as nothing of significance was accomplished. This should be of great concern to all Guyanese as the Bahamas is a group of islands that have no economic benefit to offer Guyana except sand and sunshine while Great Britain cannot make any trade deal or investment to Guyana without approval from the European Union. So what has President Granger really achieved from his latest expensive overseas trips? He should level with the Guyanese people and let them know. Finally, it is ironic that President Granger and his APNU+AFC Govt. are spending millions of scarce dollars on useless overseas trips while in an attempt to raise revenue they have imposed a hefty tax on private education and education materials. The local public school system is a dismal failure as its teachers badly need training, infrastructures are falling apart and resources are lacking for basic teaching material. It is under this dark educational cloud that concerned parents have scraped together whatever little resources they have to give their children the opportunity for a quality education to acquire the knowledge and skills which will enable them to progress in a rapidly changing environment. The APNU+AFC Govt. instead of imposing a crippling tax burden on private education should have set up standards and monitor that these are met. After all, the Minister of Education like myself knows full well that had it not been for private education in our early life, we probably would still be struggling to make a living planting rice and/or grazing cows in the lowlands of the Mahaica River. Charles Sohan
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SPORTS DIRECTOR RESPONDS TO MISAPPROPRIATION ALLEGATIONS
Kaieteur News
Details emerging of acrimonious relationship at NSC …Deputy Director alleges victimization
In light of allegations leveled against the Director of the National Sports Commission, Christopher Jones, he has refuted the article in this newspaper. The full statement below: It is never my intention to discuss these issues in the public domain, unfortunately, the issue was placed in the public domain and therefore I must defend my good character. I note an article appearing in the May 9, 2017 edition of Kaieteur News under the headline ‘National Sports Commission Director allegedly pays assistant $3M for doing nothing’. I wish to unequivocally state that this article is based on falsehoods and I reject any assertion or allegation of improper conduct on my part as Director of Sport. At all times I have executed my duties with the highest level of integrity and within the law. Further, I have forged strong relationships between the National Sports Commission and all national and other sporting bodies as I have worked assiduously to raise the profile of sports in Guyana. Mine is a tireless and thankless task but one which I pursue with enthusiasm, zeal and a passion for the sector. From my interactions with the various sporting organizations I have every reason to believe that I enjoy a high level of confidence and trust from the entire sporting fraternity. This has been achieved even as I have operated under severe internal constraints and with limited resources - the details of which I do not wish to disclose at this time. Nonetheless, my work in sports is on public record as is my achievements and performance in the sector. I have every reason to believe that this article is part of a naked attack on my person, character and integrity which is politically motivated. Further, it is my view that the intellectual authors of this attack are steeped in envy of the achievements of the NSC and the consequent positive public attention which has followed. I do not believe that it is any coincidence that this attack has come mere weeks after the successful and critically acclaimed NSC Sports Awards at which the medallists of Guyana’s CARIFTA Team were awarded University of Guyana scholarships by the NSC. I am pleased to have read that an investigation is being conducted. I commit my full and unreserved cooperation with same as I am confident that I and my team at the NSC will be completely vindicated. Further, I call for an independent investigation in uncovering the intellectual authors of the article and that those culpable have appropriate action taken against them by the relevant authorities. The source of the Kaieteur News article is unfortunate but as a disciplined public servant, I shall say no more.
Wednesday May 10, 2017
Director of Sports NSC, Christopher Jones In the face of the recent revelation involving the Director of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Christopher Jones, and his Personal Assistant (PA) Brian Smith; more is emerging about the relationship between the two men. In a letter dated April 27, the substantive Deputy Director Melissa DowRichardson, wrote to the Permanent Secretary of the Public Service Ministry, Reginald Brotherson, venting her frustration at the way she was being treated by the Director and his PA. An excerpt from the letter stated, “Mr. Jones keeps insisting in the presence of staff and persons visiting that his PA is the Assistant Director and persons should report to him in his absence.” In the letter to the PS, Richardson said that the ongoing situation has caused confusion among the staff. Further, the woman said that the situation has caused a prevailing air of fear at the agency. She alleged that female staff members were being mistreated but were afraid to speak out. Additionally, Richardson
stated that she normally shares office space with Smith whom she claimed has been willfully disruptive. In her two-page letter to Brotherson, Richardson chronicles a series of events, the willful slamming of doors; loud noise or uncomfortable silence. The deputy also alleged that there were subtle acts of sabotage on the part of Smith. Contextualizing the issue, the woman said that there were unexplained information technology (IT) instabilities. Printers were turned off when she attempted to use them. To add to Richardson’s woes air conditioning (AC) units were turned off or rendered inoperable. As if that was not enough, the woman said that she is constantly being blocked from accessing information flowing in and out of the Commission. In what reads like a soap opera script, in the letter Richardson said Smith told staff members in the accounts, coaching and administrative department not to speak to her. Richardson resorted to using her own vehicle to do the Commission’s work after she found some drivers’
behaviour at the Commission objectionable. “The manners of drivers towards me as a senior female official have been provocative.” In the letter, Richardson explained that she needed private space to do one of her Caribbean Leadership Project (CPL) leadership sessions and she asked that this be facilitated by her Director. Richardson was given all assurances that this would prevail but on the day of the leadership session, the woman said that the Director’s PA Brian Smith was sitting across the room from her. This was despite there being other additional space and Smith having access to his Director ’s office which was free at the time. The woman said that she was made aware that the above mentioned are all part of a ploy to besmirch her character and create a case against her, in which she said the existing administrative manager is complicit. Richardson said that all means were explored to resolve the issue but her failure to get this done was the reason why the intervention of the Public
Service Ministry was sought. Ye s t e r d a y, this newspaper broke a story about the NSC Director Jones paying Brian Smith over $3M by way of a cheque, but the only problem was that Smith never did any work to warrant such a sum. Jones when contacted said that he had no knowledge of the issue that was brought to his attention. However, in a letter dated January 26, 2017 the Director wrote to one of the Ministers at that Ministry saying “I received your letter of February 20, 2017 Re: Alleged Infractions reported against the NSC… I note that your concern is that of alleged infractions that may have been committed…I will prefer not to respond to any inquiry unless it is channeled through the Commission”. Information has surfaced of Jones spending over $23M in grants, when the National Assembly had only approved $5M. The accountant informed the Director that only the $5M could have been spent but this advice was not heeded.
Wednesday May 10, 2017
DEM BOYS SEH...
Blind man’s bluff Guyanese are so divided that they have a way of not seeing what they do not wish to see. Half of the population turns a blind eye to the faults of the APNU+AFC and the other half did the same to the mistakes of the PPPC when it was in government. This approach of seeing things through the haze of partisanship means that objectivity is not achieved at all. No amount of rational arguments will convince people who do not wish to be convinced. Right now there are clear signs that businesses are shutting shop. The businesses themselves are claiming that it is as a result of the downturn in the economy. This newspaper had sought comments from a wide cross section of the business community in Georgetown and all of those interviewed indicated that
sales had fallen to such a degree that it threatened the viability of their companies. Yet, there are some people who refuse to accept that business is bad in the economy. They only see what they want to see. They are so much partisan in their outlook that they refuse to admit that money is not circulating even though the very government to which they are blindly loyal has come around to accepting that there has been a slowdown in the economy. Businesses in Guyana have a way of complaining but surely everybody is not going to complain that things are bad when they are not. When major franchises which cost millions of dollars to procure are closing their doors, it does suggest that there is a problem with spending in the economy. But the supporters of the government will not accept
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Kaieteur News
this fact. The problem they face is a psychological one. They associate any criticism of the government they support as a failure on their part. They therefore personalize criticism. This forces them to look for excuses. And boy, the supporters of the APNU+AFC can surely find excuses! If excuses were worth money, they would be billionaires. One of the excuses they are saying for the closure of businesses was that the old economy was narco-economy and this has dried up since the new government has come. Those who peddle this excuse have not supported their arguments with evidence. They can point to evidence which suggests that the narcotics trade has slowed. In fact, there is evidence that smuggling of narcotics continues based on the fact that an abandoned aircraft was found hidden in a remote part of Guyana and that a vessel from Guyana was held in the United States with narcotics. There is no major crackdown on the drug trade in Guyana. The excuse of a narcodriven economy of course insults the intelligence of Guyanese and slanders them. It fails to take note of the thousands of persons who are not involved in underhand businesses. It is also contrary to
Kak wuk mek big man cry basic common sense. The evidence is clear that all of the sectors of the economy except gold have contracted for the first quarter of the year. Even though the economy continues to grow because of gold, it does not mean that there is more money in circulation because not all of the gold proceeds come back to Guyana and also much of the proceeds have to set off against increased expenses. There is a myth about the impact of drugs money in the economy. Guyana does not produce cocaine. Guyana is a transshipment point which means that drug runners in Guyana get only a small fraction of the drugs which are transshipped from here. The rest finds itself back to the suppliers. This is basic common sense. Yet people have this idea that Guyana is floating on raft of drug money. But those who do not want not to see the truth staring in their face will not do so. They will believe what they want to believe and see what they want to see even when they cannot see further than their noses.
Thing fuh laugh does mek big man cry. A man tek on a job to build a monument. Is nuff money so de man got to smile because as old people seh, is nice to smile all de way to de bank. People develop de habit to do kak wuk so every time dem have a job to do is kak. Dem boys seh that dem believe in de saying, “No tricks; no living.” De monument was to done fuh last week but all de people find was a pile of bruck up concrete blocks and sand. De monument collapse. De people who investigate report all de faults, right down to de fact that dem man dig sand from de seawall. It tun out that de sand just couldn’t wuk. When de monument collapse is right deh de crying start. De money de contractor did intend to pocket he got to spend back. Other people now laughing. Is de same thing happen when Jagdeo give out nuff contract to build house fuh poor people. De contractors put some kak wuk pun de people who give dem de contract. Even before de people move in de house had serious problems. People could stand inside sand see outside without looking through a window. De difference between Jagdeo contractor is that dem get to walk way wid all de money, Dem still laughing. Dem boys seh that everything Jagdeo put he hand pun it fail. He give dem Chinee people de contract to build de Marriott. Three years ain’t done and de government got to spend a whole heap of money to repair de place. Is de same thing wid de Skeldon sugar factory. Again Jagdeo give out de contract to de Chinee people and again he get kak because de factory never wuk and de people gone. Now de same Jagdeo give out de contract to extend de Timehri runway and dem boys wondering if that gun collapse as soon as de first big jet land pun it. Talk half and hope that all de kak wuk done.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday May 10, 2017
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN...
Non-stop flow of unnecessary mistakes The Government announced that it will move the Independence Day ceremony from its intended site of the Stabroek Square to D’Urban Park. There are two dimensions to this decision that are important to reflect on. One is that it symbolizes the political mediocrities and political insensibilities that the APNU+AFC formation has intricately become embedded in. What kind of mental thinking went into the Stabroek Square choice in the first place? How could any normally thinking politician in the APNU+AFC formation could have turned his/her mind to Stabroek Square? When it was juxtaposed against D’Urban Park, the
disadvantages were as pellucid. D’urban Park is brand new and costly. It was constructed for that purpose, meaning national events like anniversaries of important dates. Why leave a site you spent so much money to build to congest an already congested area? The normal, rational mind has to know this. As soon as the Stabroek Square location was announced, the average person began to deride the decision and without exception, everyone was asking, why not D’Urban park. Then there was the question of class politics. To go to Stabroek, you have to dislocate hundreds of poor
A mini health check is the first step to donating blood
people making a daily living in a poor country. There are the vendors, mini-bus operators, taxi drivers and other related entities. Why Granger, Nagamootoo and others couldn’t see this? The average person saw this crass attack on poor people but Granger and Nagamootoo couldn’t see it. Or they just didn’t want to? Who has to move to make way for the Independence Day celebrations if they are put at D’Urban Park? The second dimension of the transfer announcement is that there was a rising crescendo of dissent against the original site. People were annoyed about it in the face of a D’Urban Park project that stands idle every day. My opinion is that the power establishment feared a reenactment of the antiparking meter and VAT on private tuition anger. These two protests have
generated considerable resentment against the APNU+AFC administration and both of these protests began when the coalition did not achieve even two years of power. One has to connect these rising tides of unpopular decisions with the desire by the Alliance For Change to seek a relook at the Cummingsburg Accord. These unpopular directions are cascading like fountain water. The first one was the salary increase as soon as power was attained in 2015 and the concatenation has not stopped, the latest one being the appointment of a serving trade union leader as the head (ag) of the Public Service Commission. In my opinion, it would have been more plausible to go for someone who is not directly involved in union leadership. How does one account for this series of non-mistakes. The traditional explanation is power. When one is at the centre of power he cannot and does not see reality rationally. Bharrat Jagdeo comes to mind.
There were long-serving leaders in the PPP who should have known that Donald Ramotar was not the best of candidates to lead the PPP into the 2011 general elections. But caught in the vortex of power, they couldn’t see that Ramotar was a liability. The average citizen felt that Ralph Ramkarran would have clinched the slot. Most commentators felt the same. I am of the opinion that Ramkarran would have won the 2011 elections for the PPP if Ramotar was not chosen and if Jagdeo had taken a back seat. We all know how it turned out. The trouble with leaders is that once they come into office, a hectic schedule prevents them from maintaining contacts they once had with the people. They lose that touch they once had when they were in opposition. They lose their perception of reality. Take just one example – City Hall. The average Georgetowner has no respect for City Hall whom they feel is abusive, arrogant and insensitive. If PNC and AFC leaders were still on the
Frederick Kissoon ground as they were when they were in opposition, they would know that City Hall’s behavior poses an electoral threat to them. Many citizens have asked me if the APNU and AFC leaders are not afraid they lose the 2020 elections. They point to City Hall, the concrete fence being constructed in front of OP, park-meters, VAT on private tuition, etc. My reply is traditional - when politicians have power they cannot see what we the average person sees until they wake up a morning and find they no longer have power. APOLOGY; Mr. Robert Corbin called me to ask for a correction. He said he was never charged during the Hoyte administration. He resigned to allow police investigation. I regret the mistake. An apology is offered.
Wednesday May 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
PAGE 11
Review of environmental impact on oil offshore Guyana imminent During the opening of tenders at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), a one company, Rambol Environ from the United States of America (USA), submitted a financial proposal in the sum of $30.8M for the Review of an Environmental Impact Assessment for oil offshore Guyana. The procuring entity was listed as the Ministry of the Presidency. Meanwhile, tenders were open for the provision of consultancy service to prepare the final monitoring and evaluation of the Technical Cooperation Project for the Ministry of Public Security.
Tenders were also opened for the rehabilitation of concrete drains in the compound.
The Ministry of Public Health is the procuring entity for the procurement of medical equipment for the National Blood Transfusion.
Finally, tenders were open for the rehabilitation of sanitary facilities for the Police Outpost.
Bids were also submitted for the procurement of medical equipment for the Disease Control Department.
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is the procuring entity for the procurement of military tents.
Finally under the Health Ministry, tenders were submitted for the procurement of medical equipment for the Maternal Child and Health Care Department.
The GDF is also the procuring entity for the procurement of uniform materials- rip stop camouflage.
Tenders were also open for the procurement of frozen fish.
The Parliament Office is the procuring entity for the rehabilitation of sanitary facilities for the Police Barracks Room.
The GDF was again listed as the procuring entity for the procurement of marine spares.
Finally, tenders were open for the procurement of drugs, dental and laboratory supplies for the GDF.
The Office is also the procuring entity for the construction of a garage on the southwestern side of the compound.
PAGE 12
Wednesday May 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
Soldier, 18-year-old held for bread vendor’s death A Guyana Defence Force (GDF) rank and an 18-year-old Sophia resident were arrested Monday night for the alleged murder of Andre Alexander. Alexander was shot during a robbery at his bread stand on Friday at Sophia, Georgetown. The soldier has been identified as a 20-year-old Section B Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara (ECD) resident. He, along with a Plum Park, South Sophia resident, was arrested after ranks in ‘A’ Division received information that they might have been the two individuals who rode up to the bread vendor and shot
him during a robbery. After being arrested, the two men, who are known to each other, were taken to the scene of the shooting, accompanied by senior police officials in ‘A’ and ‘C’ division. It is unclear what transpired there. Kaieteur News was informed that the soldier is known to traffic ranks at the Turkeyen Police Station because he was pulled in on numerous occasions for riding a motorcycle without the proper documentation. But, on Monday night when he was asked about the motorcycle, he denied owning a CG bike or ever
riding one. When questioned further, the soldier admitted to investigators that he once had access to a CG motorbike but that it belonged to a friend. Up to late yesterday, ranks were trying to locate the motorcycle since the bread vendor was shot by two men on a CG motorcycle. The two suspects were taken to the Sparendaam Police Station where they were being questioned by ranks. Andre Alexander, of Lot 394 ‘C’ Field Sophia, died around 23:00 hrs on Friday during surgery at the
Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The attack occurred around 20.30 hrs at the victim’s bread stand, which is situated about four doors from his home. Police said that Alexander was at his bread stand when the two men rode up on a motorcycle. The pillion rider requested three loaves of bread and paid with a $5000 note. Kaieteur News understands that while Alexander was in the process of making change, the ‘customer’ whipped out a gun and demanded cash. When Alexander put up a fight, the robber discharged two rounds, one of which struck the vendor in the stomach. The two men relieved their victim of his cash and also escaped with three loaves of bread. The dead man’s wife,
Beverley Alexander, said that she and her husband have been operating the bread stand at the same location for more than six years and were never confronted by bandits until Friday night. She recalled that she was at the stand when the two
Former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall
Investigations into alleged larceny committed by former Attorney General Anil Nandlall in relation to 15 Law Reports are still ongoing, says Special Prosecutor Patrice Henry. When the matter came up yesterday before Magistrate Fabayo Azore, Prosecutor Henry told the court that he is confident that investigations will be completed by May 26. He requested a date to report on whether the matter will be tried indictably or whether the administration of justice
DEAD: Andre Alexander
bandits approached her husband and shot him when he resisted. “After (the pillion rider) collected the bread, my husband was making change to give him when he pulled out a gun and demanded the cash. So my husband tried to push away the gun and the man fired one shot and when that one missed, he fired another shot,” the woman noted. She further related that when she heard the first shot, she ran for her life. “I run behind the stand and when I see the other suspect coming, I start run.” The bandits did not try to rob the other customers at the stand. Beverley Alexander said that after the bandits escaped, she ran to her husband and found him lying on a bench. He was rushed to the hospital where he subsequently succumbed.
Date set for report on Anil Nandlall’s larceny matter
act will be applied. Should the court proceed indictably a preliminary inquiry will be conducted and if a prima face case is made out the matter will be sent to the High Court for trial. H o w e v e r, if the Administration of Justice act is applied the matter will go to trial before Magistrate Azore. Attorney Sanjeev Datadin questioned the basis on which Nandlall is being charged since investigations are still incomplete. The attorney asked that the charge be dismissed and that when the prosecutor has everything ready he can reinstitute the charge. The lawyer is further contending that his client’s rights under Article 144 are being violated. “Nandlall is hanging under a charge while the state is seeking to obtain evidence,” Datadin argued. He added that the failure of the prosecution to serve statements on his client is depriving him of all things to allow him to defend himself. This matter continues on May 29 for report. Nandlall was charged last month for the alleged theft of the Lexis Nexis Law Reports of the Commonwealth that cost some $2M. The law reports are the property of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, the charge contends. The High Court has since restrained the Special Organized Crime Unit from seizing the law reports.
Wednesday May 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
Nagamootoo denies Govt. ever promised $9,000 per bag of paddy Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo has vehemently denied that his government ever promised rice farmers that a bag of paddy would be bought at a price of $9,000. The Prime Minister made this declaration during Monday’s debate of the motion regarding the increase in land rent for farmers in the Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary Agriculture Authority (MMA/ADA). The motion was moved by People’s Progressive Party Civic Member of Parliament Dharamkumar Seeraj. Nagamootoo said that the price has been used throughout the debate by speakers on the Opposition, as a red herring in their arguments for Government to repeal the increase in land rents. He said that since the 11th Parliament started, no member of the Opposition has named a member of government that would have promised rice farmers $9,000 nor have they given a source of this information. Nagamootoo said that if Opposition members have the courage to identify their source of such information then they should do so and place it on the record. “They (opposition) invented an argument to fool the rice farmers by saying that we have promised $9,000 per bag (of paddy). No such promise has ever been made by any one on this side of the House (government). No such promise has been made in the manifesto during the election.” He said that Opposition members have taken advantage of the privileges afforded in the National Assembly to repeat an allegation that is totally untrue and concocted. The Prime Minister said that the farmers of Guyana need to know that they are being used in a concocted war to be used for the advantages
Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo of ambitious politicians. During his presentation, Nagamootoo debunked arguments that the MMA/ ADA could have avoided increases in the rates. He said that persons who argue this position should take cognizance of the fact that like GuySuCo, the MMA/ ADA had to be given $357M as a subvention by Central Government to allow it to exist as an agency that was created under law to supervise and manage a productive area of the country. He said that the motion which was moved in the Assembly was badly conceived. It was intended to capitalise opportunistically to create a situation that would bring about dissatisfaction among a specific section of Guyanese population. Nagamootoo defended the increase in rates saying that there are persons who have been giving large expanses of land but have not been able to utilise the land nor pay for them. “So there are many reasons why we have come to this situation where the rates that were approved by the Minister (Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder) were the rates reflecting a reality that you have to pay a little more to have better services.”
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday May 10, 2017
Bethanians encouraged to use available resources The government has made good on a campaign promise to residents of Bethany to return to the villages once they are elected to office and address the many challenges villagers face. This promise was delivered on Sunday last when Vice President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, Sydney Allicock, led a high level Government team to the Indigenous Village. Bethany is located seven miles up the winding Supenaam River. The team included Regional Executive Officer, Rupert Hopkinson, Member of Parliament Hemraj Rajkumar and several regional councilors. Among the issues raised by residents were challenges faced in the Health and
Education Sectors and proper consultations as well as the issue of village protocols being breached, particularly by contractors. Two outspoken residents, senior community member Banes Thomas and Midwife Ramona Thomas, spoke of transgressions by contractors who would most of the times visit the village unannounced and fail to report the reason for their visit. This was the case only recently when a contractor and team sought to undertake the renovation of the roofing for the Health Centre since it was infested by bats and termites and had become unsafe for the daily operations of the facility. The midwife noted with concern, “We would see a contractor just come and start
measuring. I am responsible for the Health Centre and I would like to at least hear from the contractor what they are about and not just walk in without saying anything to anybody. I would like to see that changed.” To date the roof for the Health Centre was successfully replaced. However, a request was made for special attention to be placed on the water system, toilet facilities, yard maintenance, provision for a cleaner, completion of the stelling and repairs to the Health Centre. A request was also made for the provision of fuel to the village on a needs basis to cover transportation associated with ferrying the sick to the hospital. Banes Thomas said, “Many times villagers are not
The community of Bethany meeting with the Amerindian Affairs Minister consulted on projects done in the village and I believe that we as a village should be involved in whatever project is going on here whether it’s the region or the Ministry working in our village.” He added that many times projects are done in a haphazard manner since there is none or very little community involvement. Minister Allicock in responding to these two major concerns raised, noted that while Government aims to give equal attention to every village, he challenged the Toshao to be more proactive in disseminating information to the villagers which will alleviate these concerns. The Minister added that these challenges can be overcome since “there are 115 Indigenous villages across the country and we have to engage all of them. Since you are easier to access, you are at the center, so you are at an advantage. “ Yo u can get
everything that can help you move forward.. use the opportunity to get what you want”. On the issue of contractors entering the village unannounced, Minister Allicock challenged the Toshao to have this issue immediately corrected. Sharing similar sentiments, Hopkinson said that villagers must be able to take ownership of projects executed in the villages and therefore must be aware of works being carried out. A call was made by parents and teachers for assistance with the provision of school furniture since according to Acting Head Teacher, Miss Rhonda Grant, there is a limited quantity of furniture for the students. In this regard, the R.E.O asked residents who have the skill set to produce furniture to take up this opportunity thus boosting the economic activity in the village. Other interventions to
be made by the region include the possibility of s u p p o r t i n g a s c h o o l ’s feeding programme, seeking out the possibility of establishing a secondary department within the primary school since one single parent said this would ease the financial strain of having to send her child to school on the Essequibo Coast daily. One boat builder Mr. Fiedtkou promised to furnish the village with a boat and an outboard engine to transport secondary school children to and from school from the beginning of the new school year. An issue that has been plaguing the village for more than two years is several failed attempts at regaining control of the Community Centre which is currently in the control of a resident and former Councilor. The issue was placed squarely on the shoulders of the R.E.O who is expected to bring closure to the matter.
Wednesday May 10, 2017
PAGE 15
Kaieteur News
Large quantities of dangerous drugs stolen from state Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, has her work cut out for her. It has become obviously urgent that Lawrence needs to put strict measures in place to reduce or if possible eliminate, pilfering by employees in the health sector. While a figure has not been put, it is safe to state that millions of dollars in dangerous drugs have been stolen from the state. Information about the pilfering was released when Lawrence responded to written questions posed to her in the National Assembly by Member of Parliament, Bishop Juan Edghill. Minister Lawrence was asked if she had information about employees of the Ministry of Health, and, in particular the Materials Management Unit (Diamond Bond) or the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) being complicit with contractors or suppliers of pharmaceutical and medical supplies in defrauding the state. She was also asked to state what actions have been taken to investigate the
- Pethidine, Morphine included
Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence allegations. She answered in the affirmative, insisting that there have been such cases of thieving. Lawrence indicated that there was pilfering of drugs at the Materials Management Unit. She said that an employee was found with vials of insulin in his possession. Police were called to look at the matter. Lawrence said that the unidentified employee was subsequently arrested and placed on bail.
CH&PA seeking more support for Housing Expo 2017 The government is seeking increased support from corporate Guyana, not only to partner with the agency, but to showcase their products and services. Public Relations Officer (PRO) attached to the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Jenelle Carter, during a press briefing at the agency’s Brickdam location, yesterday, explained that a housing exposition will be used as a platform for skilled persons. The housing exposition would be held at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara. The involvement of corporate Guyana will enable landscapers and furniture makers among others, and companies to showcase their products and services. “One of the concepts we are bringing to this expo is giving persons the opportunity to see what their homes would look like fully furnished, so we have companies on board like Kissoon’s who would furnish an entire home. “When you walk into a house, you wouldn’t just be seeing an empty house. You will see what your bedroom would look like, your kitchen would look like, so that is why we are calling for more companies to come on board,” Carter noted. According to the PRO, 20 booths have already been secured and others are welcomed to join. She noted that the agency will also have a booth that will help to inform persons about the construction of the houses and provide further information. Carter said that the CH&PA does more than provide lands and homes. The agency also hopes to foster cohesion, empower residents and build sustainable communities. She added that the expo is also designed as a well rounded event for families and children since they have created separate areas to entertain those who will attend the expo. The building expo will be open to the public from May 26 under the theme “Housing Solutions 2017 and Beyond Exhibition.” Last month, during the official launch of the Ministry of Communities’ Housing Solutions 2017 and beyond programme, Minister within the Ministry of Communities Valerie AdamsPatterson said that the programme will bring resolution to those persons who form the huge backlog of applications at the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA). Some of them applied for their house lots since 1994. “It is painful to sit and hear the stories of some of our people as they visit my office, as I go out to consultation and meet people. It is sad to look into their eyes and to have them say ‘We do not have house lots,’” the minister added. She noted that it is the view of the government to provide all Guyanese the right to adequate housing and affordable housing.
She said that he never reported for duty thereafter and the matter is still engaging the police. Lawrence said that the Ministry has since put measures in place to stop pilfering. West Demerara Regional Hospital also had incidents of pilfering. The identities of the two accused were also protected in this instance. Lawrence said, “The Pharmacist and his wife were working in the main drug bond. A visit to the bond by the Ministerial Task Force found some discrepancies in the manner in which the dangerous drugs were being stored and accounted for.” She said that the Task Force returned to the hospital
in February and found that the drugs ledger had been tampered with. Figures were retraced, numbers were changed. Lawrence said that the unnamed Pharmacist could not give account for several ampoules of the Pethidine, Codeine and Morphine in his possession. The police were subsequently called in and both the Pharmacist and his wife were arrested. Lawrence indicated that the matter is still engaging the police. Codeine is an opioid pain medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic. The drug is used to treat mild to moderately severe pain. It is stated that Codeine can slow or stop breathing, and
may be habit-forming. The drug is only supposed to be used as prescribed. Misuse of narcotic medicine can cause addiction, overdose, or death, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription. Morphine is also a narcotic med. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain. Formulations are taken as needed for pain and so is Pethidine. Both are highly addictive drugs. Dangerous drugs of this sort were also sent to Suddie Hospital but according to Lawrence, drugs sent to that location never arrived. She said, “The Ministerial Task Force visited and found that some of the drugs never
arrived at the hospital. The Pharmacist could not give account for several dangerous drugs and had not been making entries in his dangerous drugs ledger since 2015. This matter is till engaging the police” Another case was highlighted but this time in New Amsterdam. Lawrence said that the Regional Pharmacist attached to the New Amsterdam Hospital was charged and placed on bail for pilfering but was never interdicted from duty. This staff member has now been sent on leave to allow for an investigation. Further, Lawrence said that the Commission of Inquiry report has listed names of employees from the Ministry of Health— Procurement department who have been complicit with contractors.
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WANTED One female vegetarian cook in the Interior. Call: 668-6421 Articulated/Dump truck driver for interior location, must be experienced. Call: 618-2020 for further details. SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 6267040; 265-4535.
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 6471773/660-5257 Hair station for rent in prime location in Georgetown, preferably a braider. Call: 6807813
Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigration Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496/ 662-6045 Eagle’s: Re-gas -$8,000, Washing machine repairs, Gas Stove, Plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 697-2969/646-0966 For the best house plan prices & designs. Call: 610+4085/ Visit 37 Camp & Croal Streets Diamond Auto Spa & Cleaning services for professionally cleaned vehicles, fences, carpets, buildings (interior & exterior). Call: 646-8748 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 FOR SALE/FOR RENT American Pool Table. Call: 277-0578
Two Dynamic Individual with communications & sales techniques, computer skill @ Sparkle, Meeten-Meer-Zorg & KeyFood Mc Doom location. Experienced salesgirl at Christine’s Variety Store on Lombard Street. Call: 2278529 Experienced salesgirls apply with written application to VV&I General Store, 22 Saffon Street, Charlestown. Call: 223-9677 One female needed 35-55yrs for housekeeping & child care. Call: 676-1748/664-5503
INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Floor sanding & Lacquering, house plans, estimate & painting, boat for Santa Mission. Call: 650-4362
Wednesday May 10, 2017
Kaieteur News
PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 New property for sale @ ‘BB’ Eccles, 5 bedrooms, 3 Full baths -$38Million negotiable. Call: 623-7963/ 602-9574
TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS) Dream Rides: bus and taxi for airport specials & contracts only. Safe, reliable, courteous & comfortable- 24hrs. Call: 664-0802 LEARN TO DRIVE C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj BuildingCall: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 (affordable packages).
Two general workers to work shift system. Call: 231-6293 Contract Cars and Drivers, Nigel’s Taxi Service @ Sheriff Street, C/Ville. Call: 219-5002/ 699-6152 Straight stitch/over edge machine operators/bond warehouse worker. Call: 2222541 8:00am-4:00pm (MonFri)
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 677-7827, 6435122 ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM
AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MIN BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPOTR & FAMILY OUTING, CHEAPEST RATE. Call: 698-7807
WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP REATES,SPECIALOFFERS FOR THE SEASON. CALL: 690-6494
1 Double Stall for sale @ Bourda Market Section D. Call: 665-7896 Farm land for sale and for rent @ Land of Canaan. Call: 6221957 House lot for sale @ Land of Canaan. Call: 622-1957 Design & Make Aluminum windows, doors, stainless rails, showcases, rolling shutters, make & install automatic doors. Call: 2336818/677-5599/659-9999 Yamaha Outboard: 200HP 4 Stroke (2015), 175HP 4 Stroke (2015), 150HP 4 Stroke (2014), 25HP, 4 Stroke (2015). Call: 612-8661 Honda Generator, Honda engine, electric motor. Call: 627-7835 One land in Tuschen Phase 2 – Call: 642-1252 Gold and Diamond land for sale or partnership in Berbice, Middle Mazaruni, Ekereou. Call: 600-0036/ 223-1273 Owner Migrating: all items for photocopy shop, internet café, also school supplies for sale. Call: 694-1895/667-8559
Dried and in large quantities: Corilla bush, lemon grass, sour sap leaves. Call: 6651397 Carpenter with router, tiler, mason, painter a joiner with knowledge of granite counter tops and steps. Call: 625-3705 Live in waitress and cashier for grocery and bar - $ 8 0 , 0 0 0 m o n t h l y, boarding and lodging free. Call: 610-3974 Maid required for domestic work and cooking.Call:6588669 Buying Wamara, TATABU, Koraroballi, Itikiborabali, fresh logs. Call: 664-5150 We pay in local currencies or US$ for land in Eccles, Herstelling & La Parfaite Harmonie. Call:684-5822/ 629-2881
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
Investors needed for gold trading business in the Interior, weekly turnover. Call: 658-7553
VEHICLE FOR SALE Allion, Primo, Fielder Wagon, Spacio, Bluebird, 212 Carina, NZE, Honda CRV, Toyota IST, RZ & Pit-bull – Call: 650-7501 Toyota 212 New Model, Fielder Wagon 07, Spacio, all in excellent condition. Price neg. Tel: 681-6488, 657-5839. One Toyota Spacio, in excellent condition, PPP series with Rims, AC & Music, Price -$1.350M negotiable. Call: 653-0120
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Space for rent @ Vreed-en Hoop Junction, lessons place, church, storage bond, office, others -$20,000 monthly. Call: 603-6400 3 Bedrooms upper flat, fully grilled with toilet, bath, kitchen, parking @ Block ‘8’ Mon Repos, E.C.D -$70,000 monthly. Call: 687-1050 Business Space to rent downstairs 26ftX32ft, Lime Street, Georgetown. Call: 6866866/223-8492 Business space for rent next to Harbor Bridge. Call: 622-1957 One newly built studio apartment @ Diamond 15X12. Call: 621-1485/ 663-2746 Two bedrooms, upper & lower flat @ Mc Doom Public Road, Married Couple/ Students - $50,000 each. Call: 643-8281 Furnished one bedroom apartment at Better Hope, Parking & Free Wi-Fi. Whatsapp or Call: 688-6010 Prime Business Place to rent on Sheriff Street, for offices only. Call: 627-6740/227-8644
LAND FOR SALE
Land at La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.8M, $1.6M, $2.5M, Tuschen Phase 2 - $1.3M, Herstelling $3.5M, Farm- $3.5M. Call: 6046724/ 686-9608 Farm (100ftX50ft) -$2.8M, Uitvlugt -$2.6M (100ftX50ft), La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.2M & $1.6M., Providence -$4.5M. Call: 658-5897/ 651-1969
1 Black Primo. Call: 612-5356
EDUCATIONAL Classes for slow learners in Reading, Mathematics, Composition Writing and much more, after nursery classes available too. Call: 675-4379
WANTED One maid. Attractive salary. Contact 696-9386, WhatsApp and SMS, Or call 227-5672
VACANCY Experienced cook (for canteen), porters, bond clerks, snackette attendants, drivers. Apply: Survival, Lot 10 Vlissengen Rd, Kitty. Nail Technician and hairdresser who know to do everything. Contact Odessa: 688-8882/681-6338 Office Clerk (senior/junior) with CXC English/ Mathematics, computer knowledge an asset. Call: 223-7500 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic –Call: 223-7500. Monday-Saturday 8:15-4:15pm Boys for store/bond, warehouse work. Call: 2237500 between MondaySaturday, 8:15-4:15pm. Receptionist, male security guard, 30-40yrs @ 233 South Road Lacytown. Call: 225-0198 RA Soda Factory, Rosignol, W.C.B: Male & Female workers, persons with IT certificate for machine operators & drivers. Call:3302399/623-5920 Gas Station Hopetown: Manager, Pump attendants & Accountants; RA Soda Factory, Rosignol W.C.B. Call: 330-2399/623-5920 Events/Function supervisor. Apply: Manager, Herdmanston Lodge, 65 Anira & Peter Rose Street, Georgetown, no later than May 11 2017 One Experienced Climber to install Wireless Broadband Equipment and One Domestic Worker. Call 2192226 for information.
Land @La Parfaite Harmonie: $1.5M, $1.6M, $1.8M, Tuschen -$1.2M, Herstelling -$3.5M, Farm, -$3M, House & land @ Parfaite -$14M. Call: 666-2326
1-620-240 Leyland DAF engine foreign used and I.S.L Cummings Engine starters, all foreign used. Call:649-8449
Experienced bus and taxi drivers at Princess Ramada Hotel, Providence. Call: 6165419/ 265-7076 Uitvlugt, Tuschen, Zeelugt and La Parfaite Harmonie Harmonie. Call: 642-1252
FOR RENT
First Aid/CPR Course, available on Saturdays, St. John, 110 Cowan St, Kingston, if interested please call: 225-9082 for details.
TO LET 4 AC Rooms/2 large hall with 1 extra room, suitable for business/offices @ 21 Seaforth St. Campbellville, Georgetown. Call: 226-1877, 624-7436, 654-9350 One bedroom apartment, troweltex, tiled toilet and bath, single person, no children- $40,000 monthly Call: 225-1418/674-6394 ACCOMMODATION Journey Inn apartments: Fully furnished with Kitchen and AC for short term. Call: 233-2300/ 7182301695/646-3011634 Le Grand Hotel Penthouse, 6 Commerce St, Lacytown, Georgetown. Low rates, selfcontained, central location. Call: 592-227-1801 or 592-227-3494
Wednesday May 10, 2017
PAGE 27
Kaieteur News
Hospital blamed after Crabwood Creek woman dies of self-inflicted stab wound An argument between a couple ended tragically after a 55- year old woman stabbed herself once to the abdomen following a heated argument with her husband at their Crabwood Creek home. Dead is Charmoney Charlie, also known as “Pillow”, of Grant 1803 Crabwood Creek. Relatives of the dead woman are claiming that the woman could have been saved if doctors at the Skeldon Hospital had tended to her on her first visit to the institution. The dead woman’s sisterin- law Tamini Lakhraj who lives a stone’s throw away told reporters that around 11 pm last Friday, Charlie ran over to her house and informed her that she had stabbed herself. She stated that she insisted that the woman visit the hospital for medical treatment since they were not aware of the extent
Husband of the dead woman: Rishee Lakhraj of the wound inflicted. The woman refused to go at that said moment. She eventually went the following day with her relatives. She said that when they arrived at the hospital, Charlie met with the doctor. “It just had one doctor; he lift up she
shirt and watch the cut and he give she an injection and tablet and send she home. He give she a paper to collect more tablet on Monday”. The woman subsequently succumbed to her untreated stab wound early Monday morning. “Me brother (Charlie’s husband) been a work and by rain fall he had to come home back and when he come he say he see she fall down next to the cupboard. He start holla fa me go and then we see she dead and lef deh,” Lakhraj said. It is her firm belief that if the doctors had informed them of the extent of the injury they would have taken steps to have the injured woman taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital instead. “But them na tell we nothing; them just give she injection and tablet and send she home.” Lakhraj explained that Charlie and her husband would have frequent
Court warns carpenter to stay away from alcohol …after he pleads guilty to stealing $3,800, among other charges
Egbert Daniels The actions of a 45-yearold carpenter prove that alcohol does not do well with everyone. Egbert Daniels of Mabaruma, North West District appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan yesterday and was slapped with seven charges in relation to things he did while he was under the influence of alcohol. Particulars of the first charge against Daniels alleged that on May 4, at Mabaruma Settlement, he broke into the dwelling house of Kenneth Derk and stole $3,800 property of Derk. He pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay a fine of $15,000 with an alternative of two weeks imprisonment. It was further alleged that on May 1, at Barima, he threw a missile to the annoyance of J u d y D a n i e l s . To t h i s
charge, Daniels also pleaded guilty and was fined $7,500 also with an alternative of two weeks in jail. The fisherman admitted that on May 1, he maliciously damaged four window panes valued at $12,000 belonging to Daniels. On this charge, he was ordered to pay $12,000 to the victim or in default serve four weeks in prison. The man was also charged for calling Daniels a name, other than her own name, with intent to insult or annoy her. He pleaded not guilty. And he also pleaded not guilty to assaulting Winston Allen and was released on $5,000 bail. Before transferring the matters to the Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court, she warned him to desist from using alcohol pending the completion of the trial. She also informed him that if he fails to adhere to the court’s order he will be arrested and placed on remand at the Camp Street prison. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore told the court that Egbert Daniels and the victims are known to each other since they reside in the same neighbourhood. The prosecutor said that on May 1, Egbert Daniels was under the influence of alcohol when he began using
expletives. According to the prosecutor, “(Egbert) was spoken to by Winston Allen and as a result he dealt the man a cuff to his face. (Egbert) was taken to the side of the house by Judy Daniels who told him to calm down himself but he continued to behave in the said manner.” Prosecutor Moore further told the court that Egbert Daniels in a fit of rage threw a piece of stick at the window panes belonging to Judy Daniels which resulted in them being shattered. On May 4 at around 21:10hrs, Deon Santiage, Doreen James and Ignatius Santiago were left in care of a house owned by Kenneth Derk. The court was told that the occupants were asleep when they were awakened by a loud noise, but upon checking they saw nothing. “(The occupants) noticed that the windows were broken. They checked and saw a pair of black long boots, which they knew belonged to Egbert Daniels,” Prosecutor Moore disclosed. The matter was reported and investigations were carried out which led to the arrest of Egbert Daniels, who Prosecutor Moore said confessed to breaking into the home and stealing the monies. He was given two weeks to pay the fines.
The Berbice home in which the woman died. arguments because of her “drinking problem”. Her husband would usually plead with her to stop what she was doing but his pleas fell on deaf ears.
Charlie’s husband, Rishee Lakhraj, 62, of Lot 1803 Grant Crabwood Creek, is currently in police custody assisting with investigations. A post mortem
examination will be conducted shortly to determine the actual cause of death since relatives are claiming that the woman died of internal bleeding.
Pork knocker remanded for 2016 murder Jumar Ralph was yesterday remanded to prison for the February 10, 2016 murder of 25-year-old Richard Culpepper, who was stabbed to death during a heated argument he reportedly had with the murder accused. Ralph, 26, of Lot 45 South Haslington, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that he murdered Culpepper at Sand Hill Landing, Cuyuni River. Ralph had been on the run for over a year. He was captured on May 4, by police
ranks in ‘F’ Division, at Omai, Mahdia. According to reports, Culpepper of One Mile, Potaro, was imbibing with a group of men when a heated argument broke out during which he was stabbed to death with a knife by a man believed to be Ralph. It is alleged that after committing the act, Ralph fled into the backlands. Attorney Eusi Anderson told the court that his client is a father of two “and very innocent of the charge.” Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore indicated that the case file is incomplete since he is still awaiting the post mortem report.
MURDER ACCUSED: Jamar Ralph Nevertheless, the Chief Magistrate transferred the matter to the Bartica Magistrate’s Court for May 31.
SOPHIA MAN TO STAND TRIAL FOR MURDER
MURDERED: Shawn Anys
MURDER ACCUSED: Jamal Forde
Jamal Forde has been committed to stand trial at the High Court in Georgetown for the May 1, 2015 murder of Sophia businessman, Shawn Anys. Forde of Plum Park,
Sophia was told that he will face a judge and jury for the indictable offence after a preliminary inquiry into the murder concluded before Magistrate Zamilla AllySeepaul at the Sparendaam
Magistrates’ Courts. The Magistrate ruled that based on the evidence led by the prosecution, a prima facie case had been made out against the murder accused. Another man, Odel Roberts, 24, of ‘C’ Field Sophia has already been committed to stand trial in the High Court for the murder of Anys. According to reports, Anys, who owned a small grocery shop, was confronted by armed bandits at his home. It was reported that the gunmen shot Anys while demanding cash and valuables from him. They reportedly made off with $40,000 in cash along with jewellery. The 37-year-old businessman was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
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Brazil on edge as ex-president Lula squares off with judge Moro (Reuters) When Brazil’s former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Judge Sergio Moro meet for the first time in a courtroom today, the contrasts - and the stakes could hardly be greater. One is the country’s most popular president ever and the front-runner in next year’s election - a former union leader who still whips up crowds with his fiery and folksy oratory. The other, a soft-spoken law professor who represents Lula’s main obstacle to power. The legacy and political future of Brazil’s first working-class president are on the line as Lula faces one of the five criminal cases against him, part of the biggest corruption probe in the country’s history. While denying any wrongdoing, Lula and his lawyers have turned his defence into an attack on Moro himself, arguing the judge’s track record in overseeing the graft probe has undermined his impartiality. Lula’s supporters are traveling from across Brazil to the southern city of Curitiba to protest outside the court. Local media has fed expectations of a confrontation with a breathless buildup to today’s hearing. One news magazine’s cover painted the two as masked wrestlers going head to head. On another, they are boxers “Settling Scores.”
Members of the Landless Workers Movement (MST) are seen at tents at a support camp yesterday, a day before former Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s testimony to federal judge Sergio Moro, in Curitiba, Brazil. REUTERS/Paulo Whitaker Pollster Datafolha found Moro was one of the few public figures who could beat Lula in the 2018 presidential race - though Moro denies he will enter politics. The 44-year-old judge has avoided addressing the electoral impact of his decisions and discouraged portrayals of him as David to Lula’s political Goliath. Lula’s testimony is just one more step in a three-yearold operation, insists Moro, who has kept lecturing public university students on criminal law as he runs the
probe. “I’m a little concerned by this climate of confrontation, these heightened expectations about something that may be totally banal,” the judge said at a public event on Monday, regarding this week’s hearing. Moro has already sentenced dozens of businessmen and money launderers for a bribery scheme paying billions of dollars to politicians in return for public contracts, political favors and deals with state firms such as oil giant Petrobras.
Barbados aims at improved processing time in customs and immigration BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) –Passengers using Barbados’ ports of entry should soon see an improvement in the time it takes to get through Customs and Immigration. Minister with responsibility for Immigration, Senator Darcy Boyce, on Monday announced a number of initiatives aimed at ensuring “quick though secure passage through border control”. Boyce who attended the opening of a border security training workshop for Immigration and Customs officers, said shift systems at the ports of entry would be redesigned to ensure that the Customs and Immigration counters were fully staffed during peak periods. In addition, he has asked that discussions be held with the Ministry of the Civil Service and trade unions to facilitate the process. He said the Ministry is also continuing to work on an initiative which involves the installation of 14 Auto-
mated Passport Control (APC) kiosks in the Arrivals Hall at the Grantley Adams International Airport, aimed at significantly decreasing the waiting times of arriving passengers in the terminal. The kiosks, that should be activated later this year, will give passengers the option of inputting the required Customs and Immigration information electronically. According to Boyce, International airports using the system have reported a 40 to 50 per cent drop in the wait times.. Another initiative expected to help improve security and processing times, relates to the provision of advanced passenger information by carriers coming into Barbados, and the Ministry is working to ensure that this was effectively provided. The Minister also said that work is ongoing on a project to provide technology which would enable the Customs Department to improve and increase sur-
veillance of luggage and cargo in less time in order to improve security and increase facilitation. The week-long border security workshop is sponsored by the CARICOM (Caribbean Community) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), in collaboration with the European Union and the United States Customs and Border Protection. The training is expected to improve interviewing techniques, fraudulent document inspection, body language analysis, and luggage and person examination. It will also enhance the capacity of border security officials to identify and intercept persons, goods or vessels travelling across borders by illicit means or with illicit intent; improve screening techniques to reduce wait times at checkpoints; and reduce litigation and poor publicity that might result from interaction with immigration or customs officials.
Office holders in Brasilia must be tried by the Supreme Court, so prosecution has moved more slowly against alleged beneficiaries in the ruling Brazilian Democratic Movement Party and the Workers Party, which ran the country under Lula and his successor Dilma Rousseff from 2003 to 2016. “CLIMATE OF CONFRONTATION” Prosecutors say Lula masterminded the scheme during
his eight years in office, but today’s hearing focuses on whether he traded influence for the refurbishing of a beach condo. On Monday, Moro began hearing testimony in a second trial against Lula, regarding 12 million reais ($4 million) of land bought by a construction firm to be used for his institute. A conviction in either case, if upheld in an appeals court before elections in October next year, would bar him from seeking office. While Lula’s allies are calling for tens of thousands of partisans to convene in Curitiba, Moro posted a Facebook video discouraging a rival march by supporters of the investigation. Yet even that call for restraint stirred controversy. “Judge Moro, who ought to be impartial, is speaking directly to his supporters. That is not normal in a democratic system. In a democracy, politicians have supporters and adversaries - not judges,” said Lula attorney Cristiano Zanin in a video response. The exchange underscored that while both Lula and Moro face public scrutiny, the judge may have more to lose if the interrogation devolves into a contentious
exchange. A courtroom spat would stoke complaints from Lula supporters who call the investigation a political witch hunt and bolster his lawyers’ demands that another judge try the case. Attempts at such a legal maneuver are not uncommon, said Oscar Vilhena Vieira, dean of the law school at the Getulio Vargas Foundation. In Brazil, the same judge is usually responsible for overseeing an investigation and then ruling on a case. Yet relations between Moro and Lula’s team are especially tense amid their campaign to discredit him, which included the lawyers’ complaint to the United Nations that the judge violated Lula’s human rights during the corruption investigation. Moro often cites the value of public support for the task force he oversees, pointing to the lessons of Italy’s “Mani Pulite” graft probe in the 1990s to show the importance of popular opinion to sustain a major corruption investigation. “From a political perspective, there is a greater risk for Judge Moro,” said Vieira. “His rhetorical options are far more limited. He has to take great care not to fall into the traps set by Lula’s lawyers.”
Parliamentary committee alarmed as CAL pilot made 100 free trips in one year
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Members of the Joint Select Committee (JSE) on State Enterprises have asked executives of the state owned Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) to explain why a pilot employed to the airline made 100 free trips in one year – on personal business. The issue was raised yesterday during a sitting of the committee when members of the airline’s executive appeared before the committee. “Someone is using CAL as Air-Uber. This smacks of abuse of privilege,” said Chairman of the JSC, Independent Senator David Small who
made reference to documents which showed that the pilot made the trips using a “jumpseat”. CAL’s vice-president, Human Resources, Hyacinth Guy told the committee that all employees are entitled to 20 trips per year. She said an analysis showed that on average, employees use between six and eight flights adding that the use of the jump-seat was industry practice and Human Resources would not have had sight of the frequency of flights used by the particular pilot. She told the committee that in some cases some mem-
bers of staff work in Trinidad but live elsewhere and could be utilizing the privilege an option, so it might not necessarily be an abuse of the system. In response, Small said the JSC will have some clear recommendations for the airline although the number of flights taken by the employee may not have impacted on the revenue of the airline. CAL’s chairman Shameer Mohammed who was also present at the sitting of the committee, said he too was concerned about the frequency in which some employees used the carrier.
Wednesday May 10, 2017
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South Korea’s Moon takes presidency of In shock move, Trump fires FBI divided country amid North Korea tensions Director Comey
South Korea’s president-elect Moon Jae-in gestures to supporters. REUTERS/Kim Kyunghoon (Reuters) South Korea’s liberal leader Moon Jae-in will take the oath of office as president today, tasked with navigating the country out of rising geopolitical tensions over North Korea’s nuclear program and the risk of a rift with the United States. Moon, 64, is expected to announce major cabinet and presidential staff appointments as early as today to swiftly end a power vacuum left by the March ouster of his predecessor, Park Geunhye, in a corruption scandal. Moon was expected to forgo an elaborate inauguration ceremony. Final results show Moon winning a decisive victory with the highest turnout in 20 years despite drizzly weather in South Korea. Moon won 41.1 percent of the votes compared with 24 percent for conservative candidate Hong Joon-pyo and 21.4 percent for centrist candidate Ahn Cheol-soo. The National Election Commission confirmed Moon’s win at 8.09 a.m. today, officially starting Moon’s presidency. As president, Moon must find a way to coax an increasingly belligerent North Korea to dial back on its nuclear and missile threats while defusing a potential trade conflict with the United States. Moon’s advocacy of engagement with North Korea contrasts with the approach adopted by the United States, South Korea’s main ally, which is seeking to step up pressure on Pyongyang through further isolation and sanctions. The White House nevertheless quickly congratulated Moon, saying it looked forward to working with him to strengthen the longstanding U.S.-South Korea alliance. Moon’s administration also needs to figure out how to ease tensions with China stemming from the deploy-
ment of a U.S. anti-missile defense system in the South Korea to guard against the threat of a North Korean missile strike. Challenges include mending a deeply divided electorate and a society badly bruised by the corruption scandal. “I will make a just, united country,” Moon told a crowd gathered just before midnight to see the former human rights lawyer who entered politics to lead a party just five years ago. “I will be a president who also serves all the people who did not support me.” White House spokesman Sean Spicer congratulated Moon and said in a statement: “We look forward to working with President-elect Moon to continue to strengthen the alliance between the United States and the Republic of Korea.” MINORITY IN PARLIAMENT Moon faces a divided parliament in which his own Democratic Party lacks a majority. To push through major initiatives, including creating 500,000 jobs annually and reforming the country’s powerful family-run conglomerates, he will need to forge partnerships with some of the parties and politicians he fought fiercely on his path to the presidency. Moon’s comfortable margin of victory belies a deep ideological and generational divide in the country of 51 million people. Data from an exit poll conducted by the country’s top three television networks showed that while Moon won the majority of votes cast by those under the age of 50, rival Hong found strong support from those in their 60s and 70s, who tend to be more conservative. The election has been closely watched by allies and neighbors, with North Korea
believed to be gearing up for its sixth nuclear test and vowing to test an intercontinental ballistic missile. Moon is expected to try to engage Pyongyang with dialogue and aid, breaking from his predecessor’s hardline policies. Moon’s election could add volatility to relations with Washington, given his questioning of the deployment of the U.S. military’s Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile system, but is not expected to significantly change the alliance, a U.S. official said. “It remains a concern that the left of center, left-wing party in South Korea is going to do well,” the official told Reuters, asking not to be named. “But they are going to have to do some coalition building, so I am not sure he’s going be able to have an unadulterated anti-alliance, antiTHAAD stance.” Analysts say Moon will need to act quickly in naming key security and foreign policy aides and ministers in order to ease geopolitical tensions. Daniel Russel, Washington’s former top diplomat for Asia, told Reuters the differences between and Moon and Trump would mean inevitable friction, but “don’t portend a crisis or failure” for relations. “The important thing is the degree to which he (Moon) will consult, communicate and collaborate with the United States. Will he be a good alliance partner?” said Russel, now diplomat in residence at the Asia Society Policy Institute. “Do you dial up the pressure until North Korea feels compelled to come to the table? Or do you dial down the pressure and turn on the mood music and light some candles until North Korea gets in the mood to talk. That’s going to have to be sorted out.”
(Reuters) U.S. President Donald Trump yesterday abruptly fired FBI Director James Comey in the fallout over Comey’s probe of Democrat Hillary Clinton’s emails last year, saying Comey was no longer able to effectively lead the law enforcement agency. Comey had been leading an FBI investigation into allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election and possible collusion with Trump’s campaign. His dismissal will likely fuel concerns about the integrity of the probe and renew calls for an independent investigation. The FBI director had been embroiled in a controversy surrounding his probe into whether Clinton’s use of a private email server while U.S. secretary of state during President Barack Obama’s first term compromised national security. “It is essential that we find new leadership for the FBI that restores public trust and confidence in its vital law enforcement mission,” Trump said in a letter to Comey released by the White House. Trump told Comey in the letter he accepted the recommendation of Attorney General Jeff Sessions that he could no longer provide effective leadership. Comey’s term was to run through September 2023. The decision, announced by White House press secretary Sean Spicer in a brief appearance before reporters, caught Washington off guard. Comey had said in July the Clinton email case should
Fired: FBI Director James Comey be closed without prosecution, but then declared - 11 days before the Nov. 8 election in which Clinton was the Democratic nominee - that he had reopened the investigation because of a discovery of a new trove of Clinton-related emails. Clinton and other Democrats say they believe Comey’s decision help cost her the election. The White House released a memo by Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein that provided the administration’s justification for firing Comey. “I cannot defend the Director’s handling of the conclusion of the investigation of Secretary Clinton’s emails, and I do not understand his refusal to accept the nearly universal judgment that he was mistaken,” Rosenstein wrote. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin went to the Senate floor on Tuesday to urge the White House to clarify whether the FBI investigation of Russian interference in the
presidential campaign would continue now that Comey has been fired. “Any attempt to stop or undermine this FBI investigation would raise grave constitutional issues,” Durbin said. “We await clarification by the White House as soon as possible as to whether this investigation will continue.” Trump, in his letter to Comey, said: “While I greatly appreciate you informing me, on three separate occasions, that I am not under investigation, I nevertheless concur with the judgment of the Department of Justice that you are not able to effectively lead the bureau.” There are several Russia probes ongoing in Congress. The U.S House of Representatives’ main investigation has been stymied in recent weeks by partisan squabbles, while the Senate’s parallel probe has been slow-moving and equipped with a much smaller staff than previous high-profile congressional investigations.
US looks for evidence of crimes by Haitian amnesty recipients WASHINGTON (CMC) – The Donald Trump administration is reportedly hunting for evidence of crimes committed by Haitian immigrants even as calls are being made for the government to extend the Temporary Protected Status programme (TPS) that has protected thousands from deportation following the 2010 earthquake in their homeland. The hunt for information on Haitians was found in an internal US Citizenship and Immigration Services email that was obtained by the Associated Press. According to the Associated Press - the email states that the agency’s newly appointed policy chief also wanted to know how many of
the Haitians enrolled in TPS were taking advantage of public benefits for which they are not eligible. TPS is intended to help people from places beset by war or disasters and, normally, the decision to extend it depends on whether conditions in the immigrants’ home country have improved enough for them to return. The latest development follows news that the acting director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services, James McCament made a recommendation that TPS be extended for only six months past the current July 22 expiration date. The recommendation to end TPS has fuelled at least two petitions from Haitian activists, letters
from both Republican and Democratic law makers and faith-based leaders and organisations. Last week the chair of the United States Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), Cedric Richmond, and Caribbean American Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke urged the Trump administration to extend TPS for Haitian nationals who were in the United States prior to November 4, last year. Haiti was added to the list of TPS-designated countries on January 21, 2010, after an earthquake killed 300,000 people and displaced another 1.5 million people. TPS has been extended three times since then for 18 months each.
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PSC meets with Canadian High Commissioner The Private Sector Commission (PSC) met with the Canadian High Commissioner, Pierre Giroux, to engage in discussions on a number of critical areas, which are of concern to the Private Sector. A number of issues were raised about Governance, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the State Assets Recovery Bill, Canadian Trade and Investments in Guyana and Guyana’s relations with Canada. The PSC stressed the importance and the need for free and fair elections, which they believe can certainly be achieved through assistance from Canada and the other American British and Canadian (ABC) countries. As it relates to trade and investment, it was noted that Canada is Guyana’s largest export destination; accounting for US$441.7 million or 30.7 percent of Guyana’s total exports of which 94 percent is gold as at December 2016. Further, the assertion was made that Guyana has become a very attractive place for investment, especially since the offshore discovery of oil and gas. The idea of possible
- Discuss possible joint ventures between local and Canadian companies
Canadian High Commissioner, Pierre Giroux, flanked by members of the Private Sector Commission. ‘joint-ventures’ between Guyanese companies and Canadian companies was entertained as technical and technological assistance is needed in order to maximize on the new Oil and Gas Sector and its lucrative onshore activities. The Government’s Green Economy initiative was discussed along with possible cooperation between Canada and Guyana
to attain the Sustainable Development Goals. Chairman of the PSC, Eddie Boyer, last evening, said that the body would have already met with the Business Minister, Dominic Gaskin, where discussions were held on various issues. Boyer said that he is hopeful that the engagements will bear fruit. More engagements are scheduled to be held in the
coming weeks. The PSC recently met with Baroness Anelay, Minister of State of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the United Kingdom and Member of the UK House of Lords. The Baroness was paying a brief visit to Guyana. She was accompanied by British High Commissioner Greg Quinn and other officials. According to the PSC,
the body “took the opportunity of discussing a number of issues of concern and of national interest.” Discussions ranged from the potential impact of Brexit on the region to the help that Britain, and the other ABC countries, have rendered at election time in Guyana in successful bids to ensure that the elections were free and fair and free from fear, PSC had stated back then.
“Also included was a discussion on the decline in the local economy which has been caused partly by a fall in commodity prices but exacerbated by excessive taxation and a lack of confidence on the part of investors. The State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) Bill and its implications were also raised.” The PSC had stated.
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U.S. to arm Syrian Kurds fighting Islamic State, despite Turkey’s ire
Kurdish fighters head a convoy of U.S military vehicles in the town of Darbasiya next to the Turkish border, Syria April 28, 2017. REUTERS/Rodi Said (Reuters) Despite fierce opposition from NATO ally Turkey, U.S. President Donald Trump has approved supplying arms to Kurdish YPG fighters to support an operation to retake the Syrian city of Raqqa from Islamic State, U.S. officials said yesterday. Ankara views the Kurdish YPG militia, fighting within a larger U.S.-backed coalition, as the Syrian extension of the Kurdish PKK militant group, which has fought an insurgency in southeastern Turkey since 1984. There was no immediate reaction from Turkey, whose president, Tayyip Erdogan, is expected to meet Trump in Washington next week. The Pentagon immediately sought to stress that it saw arming the Kurdish forces “as necessary to ensure a clear victory” in Raqqa, Islamic State’s de facto capital in Syria and a hub for planning the group’s attacks against the West. “We are keenly aware of the security concerns of our coalition partner Turkey,” Pentagon spokeswoman Dana White said in a statement as she traveled in Lithuania with defense secretary Jim Mattis. “We want to reassure the people and government of Turkey that the U.S. is committed to preventing additional security risks and protecting our NATO ally,” White said. The United States has long directly supplied arms to the Arab components of the so-called Syrian Democratic Forces, which include YPG fighters. White said Wash-
ington would still prioritize supplying those Arab fighters within the SDF. One U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the equipment for the Kurdish fighters could include small arms, ammunition, machine guns, armored vehicles and engineering equipment. Equipment provided to the SDF would be limited, specific to a mission and provided “incrementally as objectives are reached” White said. STRAIN ON ALLIANCE The U.S. alliance with Turkey has proven decisive in the battle against Islamic State in Syria, providing the coalition with access to Turkey’s Incirlik air base to wage strikes against the militants, officials say. Mattis, speaking before the announcement to reporters in Denmark and after talks with coalition members, sounded upbeat about working through tensions with Ankara. “Our intent is to work with the Turks, alongside one another, to take Raqqa down, and we’re going to sort it out and we’ll figure out how we’re going to do it,” Mattis said. Mattis called Turkish Defense Minister Fikri Isik on Tuesday, the Pentagon said. It was unclear how Isik responded but the Pentagon said that both “affirmed their support for peace and stability in both Iraq and Syria.” The decision to arm the Syrian Kurds will likely cast a shadow over Erdogan’s visit to Washington, policy experts said. “There have been bad episodes in the relationship between the United States and Turkey, but this one is serious because it gets to the heart of Turkish security priorities,” said Bulent Aliriza,
director of the Turkey project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington. “You’ve now got a question mark over the U.S.-Turkish security relationship that is pretty serious,” Aliriza said. Ankara had long argued that Washington should switch support for the planned assault on Raqqa from the Kurdish YPG militia to Syrian rebels Turkey has trained and led against Islamic State for the past year. But the U.S. administration was skeptical that the Turkish-backed force was large enough or sufficiently trained. White appeared to allude to that conclusion when she said: “The SDF, partnered with enabling support from U.S. and coalition forces, are the only force on the ground that can successfully seize Raqqa in the near future.” Saleh Muslim, co-chair of the Syrian Kurdish PYD party, the YPG’s political affiliate, said the U.S. decision was expected. “The Raqqa campaign is running in parallel with the international coalition against terrorism. It’s natural that they would provide weapons” to the SDF and the armed groups fighting as part of it, Muslim said. In a sign of recent tensions, Turkish warplanes carried out air strikes against Kurdish YPG fighters in northeastern Syria and Iraq’s Sinjar region late last month, killing less than 30 fighters, according to one estimate. The United States has played down Turkish accusations of links between the YPG and PKK. Ankara believes the YPG’s advances will fuel anti-Kurdish sentiment in predominantly Arab parts of Syria such as Raqqa, and threaten Syria’s territorial integrity.
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Kaieteur News
Caribbean’s first online human rights incidence database launched BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – The region’s first online database that will enable a standard system for capturing, collating and reporting human rights violations, has been launched. Developed by the Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC), the Shared Incident Database (SID) is an advanced, user-friendly, webbased technology that will strengthen evidence-based advocacy for more just policies and programmes in the Caribbean’s HIV response. “The Database will track incidents affecting key population groups which include those living the HIV, sex workers, drug users, transgender people, men who have sex with men, marginalised youth, migrants and inmates, who often encounter barriers to accessing health services and human rights protection.” According to CVC, the SID provides an integrated platform to record, analyse and exchange information to impact policy and programmes and will further empower individuals and civil
society organisations to pursue redress including legal remedies where these are available. “The roll-out of the SID has met with enthusiastic response and already, in Jamaica, the Jamaica AIDS Support for Life (JASL), Jamaica Network for Seropositives (JN+) and the Jamaica Forum for Lesbians, All Sexuals and Gays (J-FLAGS) have trained and signed MOUs (Memoranda of Understanding) for the use of the database.” Last month, additional groups including Jamaicans For Justice (JFJ), Eve for Life and Transwave were trained, and in the wider Caribbean, training has been done with groups in Belize, Guyana, Haiti and the Dominican Republic with Suriname and Trinidad to follow shortly. Following recent talks, the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) has agreed to use
the database to track incidence of stigma and discrimination as part the overall Strategic Framework for scaling up the response to HIV/ AIDS in the Caribbean. “This will give significant expansion to the regional application and use of the database by governments and non-government organisations.” The SID is one of several interventions being implemented by CVC and Centro de Orientacion e Investigacion Integral (COIN) based in the Dominican Republic, as part of a three-year, CVC/COIN Caribbean Civil Society Grant funded by The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The programme focuses on challenging stigma and discrimination to improve access to, and quality of, HIV services in the Caribbean.
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Wednesday May 10, 2017
Drubahadur Must Publicly Account For... (From page 39) months after it was supposed to have occurred. 3. In clear terms what were his major contributions (lows and highs) during his term of office. 4. What legal mechanism was utilized to transfer all the assets (conservatively valued at $2.5 billion dollars) to the privately-owned group named Cricket Guyana Inc Company No 6850 formerly named D.E.B Essentials Organisation Inc. Also, Drubahadur must explain who is holding the Berbice Cricket Board’s shares since the incorporation document shows that shares for the Essequibo Cricket Board are held in the name of Fizul Bacchus and for the Demerara Board in the name of Raj Singh. 5. By what legal authority were Mr. Chetram Singh and Mr. Lionel Jaikarran empowered to effect such a
transfer of the GCB assets to a private body. It is indeed sad, even sinful for our cricket to be relegated to this pitiful state, moreso with the Essequibo Board President Fizul Bacchus now the President of the GCB things could only get worse. Just look at the state of Essequibo cricket! When one considers that the Essequibo Cricket Board has been the mainstay, the backbone of all the illegalities that have kept the so-called GCB in office an d t h e s t a t e o f t h e i r cricket is in shatters, and virtual disarray, there must be some sinister reason why that Board is still supporting the GCB. The fact that the current GCB is illegal and in violation of the Cricket Administration Act (which both Drubahadur and the erstwhile GCB Secretary claim they support) is extremely subversive to the
Berbice Cricket Board, the Georgetown Cricket Association and the East Coast Cricket Board. The GCB has deliberately ostracised the Upper Demerara Cricket Association where immense talent exists. One is therefore left to ponder as to the delay by our Government in resolving the cricket crisis and bringing order, transparency and accountability as provided for in the Guyana Cricket Administration Act Mr. President, Mr. Attorney General, Minister of Sport, the entire Government, the Opposition, the media and the public in general must act now act decisively to resolve the illegality that prevails. It is our collective responsibility to our great national game, failing which things will only get worse. Claude Raphael Former GCB Executive Former WICB Director
Wednesday May 10, 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You can sort out any differences you have in an amiable manner. Your mate may want to pick a fight but if you're persistent with your affections their anger should dissipate. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Children may be less than honest with you. Try to curb your habits, or you could find yourself in an awkward financial position. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Be sure to take care of the needs of youngsters. You may need a good friend to lean on. Minor health problems may lower your vitality. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You will be viewed as a sensitive, compassionate individual and others will ask you for advice. Talking to those you trust and respect will help you sort out any problems. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You'll be surprised how much you can accomplish. Residential moves will be hectic and may be unsatisfactory. Don't make promises that you can't possibly keep. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Female colleagues may be able to help you get the job done. Today will be rather hectic on the domestic scene. Be diplomatic when dealing with in-law.
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LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Beware of colleagues who don't have your best interests in mind. Your sensitive nature will allow others to read you well. You will meet new friends and enjoy a multitude of new activities. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You will be in a high cycle regarding work. You can find out important information if you listen to friends and relatives. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Past partners may try to come back into your life. Do not let the reactions of others get you going. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You will be in a high cycle regarding work. Be careful that you aren't saddled with the responsibilities of others. You could have a need to make some changes today. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Be sure to keep communication open with those you live with. You may be sensitive concerning friends and their situations. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Difficulties will result if you have to deal with controversial groups today. Take time to make physical improvements that will enhance your appearance. Time to deal with institutional environments, government agencies, and matters of a private nature today.
FIFA keep bidding options open for 2026 World Cup MANAMA (Reuters) FIFA are to leave open the bidding process for the 2026 World Cup until August after rejecting an attempt by the three-nation North American
proposal to fast-track their plan, a FIFA source told Reuters. FIFA’s ruling council yesterday opted to leave the 2026 event open to other possible
bidders for a further three months. The bid from the United States, Mexico and Canada remains the only proposal so far to host the 2026 event.
Olympics: Los Angeles ready to... (From page 33) renovated student residences on the UCLA campus not far from Beverly Hills. Casey Wasserman, the entertainment executive heading LA2024, and everyone connected with the bid have stayed on message throughout the process - that Los Angeles can deliver a cost conscious, low-risk Games. “The report will address a wide range of relevant issues and technical matters, including the sustainability and legacy value of the proposal,
its impact on the natural environment, and the experience for athletes, the media, spectators and other Games participants,” Baumann said in a letter to the media. “It will offer a consensus opinion on the opportunities and strengths of the two candidatures, but will not endorse one over another.” The report will be made available on July 5. Los Angeles rescued the Olympics in 1984 by taking over a Games no one wanted and transforming them into
Massachusetts judge... (From page 38) Ursula Ward. Hernandez’s attorneys praised the judge’s decision and declined to answer reporters’ questions on whether it would have any influence on civil lawsuits by the families of the men he was accused of murdering. Hernandez was cleared last month of killing two Cape
Inspired Alves... (From page 34) Paulo Dybala with a precision pass, met Subasic’s punched clearance with a full-blooded volley from 25 metres and the ball flew into the net with the goalkeeper out of position. Juventus were able to drop the pace in the second half and neither Mbappe’s goal nor Glik’s tackle were anything more than mild annoyances as the reigning Italian champions cruised into next month’s final.
Verdean nationals, Daniel Abreu and Safiro Furtado. “In our book, he’s guilty and he’s going to always be guilty,” Ward said. “No one wins today. But I won because I have God on my side and with God all things are possible.”
the world’s biggest sporting extravaganza pouring billions into IOC coffers. Cities, however, are no longer lining up to host an Olympics, the astronomical price tag of staging a twoweek sporting festival now too extravagant for most tastes but Los Angeles could be in position to revitalize the franchise once again with a fiscal responsible bid. Paris and LA are the only remaining cities left in the race to secure the 2024 Games, after a number of withdrawals from the process, including Boston, Hamburg, Rome and Budapest. “We don’t think this campaign is only about the 2024 Games, we believe we have the responsibility to put forward a plan that will serve the Olympic movement long after the 2024 Games are over,” said Wasserman. “LA 2024 is about the future.”
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Wednesday May 10, 2017
Ministerial ban on GCB presents brush Cricket South Africa lifted cutter to EBDCA
Rohan Sarjoo, Vice President of East Bank Cricket Association Receives Brush Cutter from GCB’s Territorial Development Officer, Mr. Colin Stuart. The Guyana Cricket Board through its structural development programme recently presented a Honda Brush Cutter to Mr. Rohan Sarjoo, Vice President of the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association. As is being done in other locations across the country, the Brush Cutter was given for the intended purpose of maintaining training and playing facilities. President of the East Bank Cricket Association, Mr. Anand Kalladeen, who
is also a member of the GCB executive, was very instrumental in formulating a strategic ground development plan. The conceptualization of presenting the brush cutter was derived from such a plan and this valuable donation is expected to be of tremendous benefit to the EBDCA. The GCB hopes that this contribution will assist the EBDCA in delivering their duties and responsibilities in a more efficient manner.
The GCB noted that the EBDCA has plans to commence their 2017 T20 tournament from Saturday. This timely and valuable contribution is a demonstration of the GCB’s continued effort to collaboratively organize, develop and promote cricket in Guyana, and the GCB feels privileged to work with Associations, Committees and Counties who places heavy emphasis on Guyana’s cricket development and promotion.
ESPNcricinfo - Cricket South Africa has regained the right to bid for and host major tournaments, after meeting the government’s transformation criteria. Sports minister Thembelani Nxesi confirmed the lifting of the sanction at the annual Eminent Persons Group (EPG) report handover on Tuesday morning. The EPG report is a yearly assessment by an independent committee on various sports’ commitment to and execution of transformation. After a season in which CSA established transformation targets for
the national team - which stipulated that a minimum average of six players of colour including two black Africans should take the field over the course of the season - and exceeded those targets, it was widely expected that the ban, which was imposed last year, would be lifted. Cricket is among two other sports, rugby and netball, which has now satisfied the sports ministry, while athletics remains under sanction. In real terms, the news will only have an immediate effect on rugby, whose administrators are bidding to host the 2023 World Cup.
CSA does not have any international events on its calendar for the next six years and CEO Haroon Lorgat told ESPNcricinfo earlier this week that he does not foresee that changing. There was some talk of the ICC organising a World T20 in 2018 and South Africa being considered the front-runner to host it, but there has been no further developments on this. Nonetheless, CSA has been recognised for what the ministry called “improved barometer scores” and could put its elf up to hos t tournaments in the future.
FIFA’s chief ethics investigator and ethics judge replaced - FIFA source
The FIFA logo is seen outside their headquarters in Zurich October 7, 2015. (REUTERS/Arnd Wiegmann Picture Supplied by Action Images FILE PHOTO) MANAMA (Reuters) F I F A’ s c h i e f e t h i c s investigator and ethics judge have both been replaced by the ruling council of global football’s governing body, a FIFA source said yesterday. Ethics judge HansJoachim Eckert and chief investigator Cornel Borbely will not have their mandates, which ran until Thursday’s FIFA congress, renewed despite expressing a desire to continue their work cleaning up FIFA. During their time in
charge of FIFA’s Ethics Committee, the pair have overseen the suspension and expulsion of a series of officials including former FIFA President Sepp Blatter and Secretary General Jerome Valcke. Colombian investigator Maria Claudia Rojas is the new head of the investigatory chamber with Vassilios Skouris of Greece, a former president of the European Court of Justice, taking over as head of the adjudicatory chamber.
FIFA was expected to make a statement later yesterday with details of the decision. Borbely and Eckert were not immediately available for comment on the decision. The move follows the resignation of former reform and compliance chief Domenico Scala last year, who argued the independent committees had been undermined by changes made by FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Infantino denied this.
Froome unhurt but bike ‘totaled’... (From page 36) remains of his “totaled” training bike, saying he had been deliberately knocked off by the driver. The Team Sky rider said he was “okay” after the incident that happened during a training ride near his home in the south of France. Sky News reported that it understood Froome would be reporting the incident to police. “Just got rammed on purpose by an impatient driver who followed me onto
the pavement! Thankfully I’m okay. Bike totaled. Driver kept going!” the Team Sky rider wrote, adding an emoji of hands clasped in prayer. Team Sky said the Monaco-based Froome had continued his training session after returning home to get a spare bike. Froome is training for J u n e ’s C r i t e r i u m d u Dauphine, his familiar warm-up event before the Tour de France between July 1-23. He is favourite to win the event for a third
successive year. The incident was just another reminder of the continued perils faced by professional cyclists on the road during training rides. It occurred less than three weeks since the death of 37-year-old Michele Scarponi, the former Giro d’Italia winner, who was struck by a van while training in Italy. His team, Astana, described the death of Scarponi, a husband and father of two, as a ‘tragedy too big to be written’.
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Tewatia, Mohit keep Kings XI alive ESPNcricinfo - A sensational display of endovers bowling from Mohit Sharma and strangulation by leg-spin from Rahul Tewatia, playing his first game this season, helped apply the choke on Kolkata Knight Riders. By securing one of three wins they needed, Kings XI lived to fight another day. In what was an engaging last five overs off which Knight Riders needed just 50, Mohit brought out all his slower variations - the knuckleball, back-of-thehand slower deliveries and off-cutters - and delivered them with precision to deny Chris Lynn, who wiped out half of Knight Riders’ 168run target off just 52 balls, and Manish Pandey. The p a i r ’s d i s m i s s a l o f f successive deliveries off the 18th over helped close out a tight game, with the Sharmas - Mohit and Sandeep defending 29 off the 12 deliveries to ensure three Playoff spots were still up for grabs. Knight Riders’ productive first six Kings XI made four changes, two of those being forced. One of them Hashim Amla - had just smashed a 60-ball 104, his second century of the season, in the previous game. Even so, the rest of the batsmen stuttered as they finished with just 189 when they should’ve posted 210. Now, without Amla, who along with David Miller was
unavailable because of national duty, Kings XI needed a robust beginning from the openers. Manan Vohra, who had earlier in the tournament shunted up and down the order to accommodate both Shaun Marsh and Martin Guptill, sparkled briefly, but his dismissal, brought about a restrained approach. The first six overs fetched just 41 for the loss of the openers. Knight Riders had begun well. Maxwell, Saha keep the innings alive On a surface where the ball was deviating just about enough to keep the mediumpacers interested, Chris Woakes and Colin de Grandhomme bowled six overs in tandem, conceding just 22 off the first four immediately after the Powerplay. Kings XI limped to 63 for 3 in the first half. They went 17 deliveries without a boundary after Shaun Marsh’s dismissal in the ninth over, before Maxwell cut loose - hitting de Grandhomme for two successive sixes off legitimate deliveries to trigger a surge. Maxwell’s picking of lengths was impressive as he played the pull effectively against the pacers. Wriddhiman Saha, on 10 off 17 at one stage, pinched crucial boundaries to move to a run-a-ball 26. At 115 for 3 with five to play, Kings XI needed big back five overs. But they were
Chris Lynn looks on after glancing one fine, Kings XI Punjab v Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2017, Mohali, ©BCCI denied. K u l d e e p Ya d a v, returning in place of Piyush Chawla, was rewarded for his willingness to flight the ball as he had Maxwell caught at long-off in an attempt to hit him for a third successive six. In his next over, he had Saha stumped again after bring biffed across the line one ball earlier. A cameo from Rahul Tewatia lifted them to 167, not underwhelming but not match-winning either. Narine tees off, Lynn consolidates Two quiet men, who don’t believe in intimidating opponents with words let their blades talk. Sunil Narine’s no-frills approach fetched him a four fours in a 10-ball 18. Chris Lynn, playing in only his second game after returning from a
shoulder injury that kept him out for three weeks, didn’t show signs of “not being a 100 percent” as he revealed during a flash interview during play. Time and again, he was tested against the short ball, only for the deep midwicket and wide long-on boundaries to be peppered with regularity. The best shot of his knock - a flat-batted swat off Matt Henry which he fetched from outside off - showed how brutally effective he can be even if not at full tilt. Yet, this wasn’t as brutal a knock as the one against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Yet, by bringing up a half-century off just 29 deliveries, Lynn ensured Gautam Gambhir’s struggle against spin - he scratched around 18 deliveries for 8 before mistiming a slog to deep
Rahul Tewatia applied the brakes on Knight Riders after another belligerent start © BCCI midwicket - didn’t deeply disturb the asking rate. Tewatia spins web Two balls after sending b a c k G a m b h i r, R a h u l Tewatia, playing his first game this season, saw off Robin Uthappa, but to not give any credit to Axar Patel would be doing injustice to his efforts. Running around from wide long-off, he covered quick ground before putting in a dive to catch the dipping slog sweep inches from the ground at deep midwicket. Now, the choke was on. Axar followed it up by conceding just three in his next over. The spinners Tewatia along with Axar Patel and Swapnil Singh - at that stage had combined figures of 2 for 29 off six overs. Knight Riders needed 86 off 54 balls.
Maxwell punt on Mohit pays off By leaving two overs of Mohit in the last five, Maxwell gambled. With the form Lynn was in , it was a tough proposition. But the pressure applied by the spinners left Knight Riders with a steep task against a bowler, who justified the INR 6.5 crore investment, at a crunch moment with the game on the line to keep his side alive. That he bowled just three overs may have been a decision Kings XI could have rued, but on the night, it was his experience that prevailed. Scores: Kings XI Punjab 167 for 6 (Maxwell 44, Saha 38, Woakes 2-20) beat Kolkata Knight Riders 153 for 6 (Lynn 84, Tewatia 2-18, Mohit 2-24) by 14 runs.
Olympics: Los Angeles ready to shine for IOC evaluation visit
A Los Angeles’ Olympic bid committee rendering shows how L.A. Stadium at Hollywood Park would look like after receiving an Olympics-style makeover in this image released in Los Angeles, California, U.S. Monday. (Courtesy LA 2024/Handout via REUTERS) LOS ANGELES (Reuters) It will be lights, camera, action with the Los Angeles 2024 Olympic bid in the spotlight when the International Olympic Committee visits Tinseltown this week as the race to host the Summer Games heats up.
The IOC’s Evaluation Commission will hear a well-worn sales pitch during a three-day visit that will provide a firsthand glimpse at the LA2024 vision. What commission chief Patrick Baumann of Switzerland and his
members discover will find its way into a report presented to IOC members who will decide between Los Angeles and Paris as 2024 host when a vote is held in Peru on Sept. 13. While there will be no shortage of celebrity
firepower and Hollywood pizzazz, starting with a visit to “Jimmy Kimmel Live” yesterday and a Los Angeles D o d g e r s g a m e t o d a y, LA2024 officials will be out to impress but at the same time emphasize that this is no Olympic blockbuster, like
those that have been ravaged by critics for their cost and white elephants. In fact, the bid is more frugal than flashy with officials touting a proposal that will lean heavily on existing sporting venues such as the Rose Bowl,
Forum and the Memorial Coliseum that was the centre piece of the 1932 Olympics and used again for the 1984 Summer Games. The LA plan calls for no new venue construction and athletes to be housed in (Continued on page 31)
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Wednesday May 10, 2017
Inspired Alves leads Juventus into Champions League final
Monaco’s Benjamin Mendy in action with Juventus’ Dani Alves during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final Second Leg. (Reuters / Max Rossi Livepic) TURIN (Reuters) Juventus defender Dani Alves produced in an inspired display capped by a stunning volleyed goal in a 2-1 win over AS Monaco yesterday that took the Italians into their second Champions League final in three years. Brazilian Alves crossed for Mario Mandzukic to net the first goal in the semifinal, second leg and then scored the second through an explosive strike which, with
Juventus’ Dani Alves shoots to score during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final Second Leg. (REUTERS/Alberto Lingria)
Juve leading 2-0 from the first game, effectively finished off the tie by halftime. Juventus were coasting until Monaco’s exciting 18year-old forward Kylian Mbappe pulled a goal back in the 69th minute, ending a run of six successive clean sheets in the competition for the Serie A side and veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. Tempers then flared when Monaco defender
Kamil Glik appeared to stamp on forward Gonzalo Higuain, although the referee took no action against the Pole, leading to a bad-tempered final 20 minutes as Juve ran out comfortable 4-1 winners on aggregate. They will face either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid, who meet in the other semi at the Vicente Calderon on Wednesday with Real leading 3-0. The showpiece match is in
Cardiff on June 3. “I’m very happy with the way the lads played,” said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri, whose side lost 3-1 to Barcelona in the 215 final. “It wasn’t easy to play in the Champions League and they deserved to get to the final.” Monaco started brightly as they began the thankless task of trying to breach the Juve defence and the home side’s 39-year-old keeper Buffon flapped at Bernardo Silva’s cross in the first minute, although nobody was on hand to take
advantage. Mbappe then hit the inside of the post from a narrow angle, though he was flagged offside, and Radamel Falcao drove over from long range as the visitors pressed forward. But Juventus always seemed to have too much guile and Higuain had already squandered one chance, with a failed attempt to dink the ball over goalkeeper Danijel Subasic, before Mandzukic put them ahead after 33 minutes. The move started with Alex Sandro breaking out of
defence to charge 50 metres down the left and the ball eventually found Alves who lofted a high cross over from the right. Mandzukic’s header was brilliantly saved by Subasic but the keeper could do nothing as his fellow Croat fired home the rebound from close range. Both teams had further chances as the game ebbed and flowed but Juve were sharper in attack and struck again just before halftime. Alves, who in the previous attack had played in (Continued on page 31)
ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – Batting coach Toby Radford expects world-rated leg-spinner Yasir Shah to play another huge role in the decisive third Test and has w a r n e d We s t I n d i e s ’ batsmen against taking him lightly in the all-important contest starting here today. With the Windsor Park track expected to spin, Radford said he expected Yasir to be a handful, and urged the Windies batsmen to adopt the same approach against him as they did in the second Test in Barbados last week. “He’s a world class performer and he’s often taken wickets around the world against every side on pitches that turn and we’ve certainly had a few pitches that spun in this series,” Radford told reporters here. “He utilizes the rough very well – he’s got left-arm seamers that create rough – so he obviously bowls into that a lot. We’ve got to play like we did in Barbados. Roston Chase was exceptional, Shai (Hope) the
way be batted in that second innings was brilliant against him (Yasir) in particular. “Again, we’ve got to knuckle down and do the same because I’m sure he’s going to bowl a lot of overs.” Yasir has been Pakistan’s main threat in the series. He took eight wickets in the first Test at Sabina Park last month to help set up his side’s seven-wicket victory and picked up a nine-wicket match haul in the second Test last week, even though Pakistan slid to a 106-run defeat. He grabbed seven wickets in the second innings but failed to prevent West Indies carving out a big enough lead to put the visitors under pressure when they batted a second time. Radford said it was important the Windies batsmen capitalized on scoring opportunities against Yasir. “ We k n o w t h a t traditionally here it does get spin and bounce so I have no doubt he’s going to put a few overs in and it’s for us to
combat that and when he’s loose to score off him, which is exactly what we did last week,” he stressed. The Kensington Oval pitch for the Barbados Test came in for much criticism for it’s slow, low nature and the swiftness with which it deteriorated throughout the course of the contest. And Radford said though the hosts were hoping for a quicker pitch at Windsor Park to help their faster bowlers, they were prepared to play on whatever surface was presented. “There’s a little bit more grass on it. I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s live grass but there certainly more grass,” he noted. “As I said, the pitch here traditionally turns and bounces and I think we’d love something with a little more pace and bounce in it against the Pakistani batters but if it turns out to be a pitch like the usual [Windsor Park] pitch with turn and bounce then that’s our job to play that and I’m sure we can cope with that.”
Blairmont CC holds Fundraiser for GCUC Yasir will be dangerous, warns Radford members on Sunday Somwaru, Nicholls among six to travel to Jamaica The Blairmont Cricket Club in East Bank Berbice will be hosting its inaugural ‘UMPIRES CUP’ fundraiser this Sunday at the Blairmont Estate Ground to raise funds for the Guyana Cricket Umpire’s Council (GCUC) trip to Jamaica for the Biannual Convention in July. Six members of the GCUC including its President Dhieranidranuth Somwaru and former International umpire Eddie Nicholls will go to the Convention from July 1-8. The last time the Convention was held in Jamaica was in 2003 and participants will come from Canada, USA, and the Caribbean Cricket Territories. The estimated cost per person is US$1,680 for airfare and accommodation in the Northern Caribbean Island. The day’s event will include 10/10 cricket with DeEdward Super Kings,
GCUC President Somwaru(right) and its Treasurer Eddie Nicholls. Blairmount Blazers, Shieldstown Rangers, Young and the Restless, Blairmont Titans and No.48 Challengers will compete for top honors with live commentary at venue of the cricket matches. There will also be Dominos, Checkers and Volleyball competitions and interested individuals for the
Domino and Volleyball competitions are asked to call telephone numbers 6275215 and 628-6767 for more information. Other attractions are the sales of B-B-Q Chicken, Tassa drumming, IceCream, giveaways and Cartoon Character walk around. (Sean Devers)
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Upbeat Derrick lifted by support as FIFA case looms ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – Under-fire Caribbean Football Union president, Gordon Derrick says he has been buoyed by support from local clubs as he prepares to defend himself against charges of corruption brought by football’s world governing body, FIFA. Derrick, who is also the general secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association, faces a ban of up to four years and a fine of US$15 000 for “alleged conflicts of interest, offering and accepting gifts and other benefits, mismanagement of funds, abuse of position, and disloyalty.” “I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of clubs and I was absolutely blown away … and I really feel the love from the clubs,” Derrick said here on a sports radio show. “A lot of them have told me that anything they can assist with in my defense to please, let them know and they are fully happy, able and willing to assist in any way they can. I don’t know how
they can yet because I am working with my lawyers. “But, I am talking well over 50 percent of the clubs have already called.” FIFA announced recently that its ethics committee had opened a formal case against Derrick following an investigation conducted by D r C o r n e l B o r b é l y, chairman of the investigatory chamber of the Ethics Committee. In a report submitted to the adjudicatory chamber of FIFA’s ethics committee, Dr Borbély recommended a ban on Derrick of no less than four years from any kind of football-related activity – administrative, sports or any otherwise – along with a fine. Though FIFA did not outline the specifics of the charges, it is understood that among the contentious matters is the mortgaging of land here housing the FIFA Goal Project – a move Derrick said was a decision of the entire ABFA. “I cannot mortgage the ABFA’s property by myself. Anything to do with football, the decisions must be passed
Caribbean Football Union President, Gordon Derrick. by the executive committee,” Derrick explained. “I am an employee of the association and my job as the [general secretary] is to carry out the objectives of the executive committee body and if I am not doing that, they would let me know and they would fire me and reprimand me, or do whatever they want to do with me as an employee.” The Antiguan took over as CFU head in 2012 following the resignation of
Windies eye ‘perfect game’ as rare series victory beckons
The end of an era: Misbah-ul-Haq and Younis Khan will sign out from Tests at the end of the series © AFP (From page 40) in. It’s just about transferring that to the field of play. “Even in the first game I felt that we were heading in the right direction. We ended the year quite nicely in Sharjah against the said very Pakistan and coming into this year we don’t look too badly at all.” We s t I n d i e s h a v e retained the same 13-man
squad from the last Test for the encounter here. SQUADS: WEST INDIES – Jason Holder (captain), Kraigg Brathwaite, Kieran Powell, Jermaine Blackwood, Shai Hope, Vishal Singh, Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Shane Dowrich, Alzarri Joseph, Shannon Gabriel, Devendra Bishoo, Miguel
Cummins. PAKISTAN – Misbahul-Haq (captain), Ahmed Shehzad, Azhar Ali, Shan Masood, Babar Azam, Yo u n i s K h a n , A s a d Shafiq, Sarfraz Ahmed, Usman Salahuddin, Yasir Shah, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Asghar, Mohammad Amir, Wahab Riaz, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Abbas.
Trinidadian Jack Warner at the height of the cash-for-
votes scandal, and was reelected for a second term last July. He said, however, he had taken the decision to step aside from the position until the ongoing matter with FIFA was wrapped up. “I’ve not resigned from the CFU. I’ve recused myself until the conclusion of the matter that’s going on at the moment,” he stressed. “I have only about two weeks left to get all of my defense in and there is a significant amount of files that I have to go through. I have to make sure I go through everything to make sure I can have my
defense in properly and on time.” F I FA s a i d r e c e n t l y Derrick would be presumed innocent until proven guilty. The current controversy is not Derrick’s first run-in with the powerful world governing body. He was one of several Caribbean officials reprimanded and fined over “apparent violations” of FIFA’s ethics code, following the cash-forvotes scandal. And only last year, he was barred from standing for the post of CONCACAF president after FIFA’s Audit and Compliance Committee said he had had failed an integrity check.
Guyanese Travis Blyden leads from the front UWI take first TTCB North/East 50-over League title UWI’s Player/Coach and Captain, 27-year-old Guyanese Travis Blyden, led from the front in his first season for the St Augustine based team after playing for the past five years in T&T for Evergreen as he led UWI to its first Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board’s (TTCB) North/East 50-over title. In a steaming hot conditions last Sunday on a good batting track UWI continued their dominance in the TTCB’s East 50-over League by defeating Fulham by six wickets at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground to capture the Championship. Fulham won the toss and elected to bat and ‘the scholars’ overpowered Fulham to send them packing for 190 in 35 overs after slipping from an impressive 80-run opening stand in the first 15 overs between Steffan Campo (49) and Stephen Sooklal ( 34). But after that only Rondel Jones (29) offered resistance. Blyden held two jawdropping catches that removed two of Fulham’s most dangerous batsmen before Russel Paul, bowling with plenty of control, took 5-26 in a frugal 10-over spell and got support from Shaun Sookdial (3-39) as the home team displayed impeccable fielding and catching. Watched by a large partisan crowd, UWI replied with 191/4 in 29 overs on a ground which replaced the Brian Lara Stadium as a
Travis Blyden is enjoying a good season with new team UWI in T&T.
warm-up venue for the 2007 World Cup. Opener Jasbour Findlay led the way by scoring his first century of the season, a magnificent unbeaten 105. Christanja Carey weighted in with an attractive 43. Stephen Sooklal (2-33), Steffan Campo (1-33) and Anderson Nesbitt (1-33) were the wicket takers for Fulham in a losing cause as UWI lost just one of their seven matches for the season on their road to the title. Skipper Blyden
scored189 runs in six 50over games with a highest score of 71 and took two wickets. In three T20s he made 79 runs with a highest score of 29 and took two wickets. In five games in the Three-Day League, Blyden, who plays for GDF in Guyana, has 308 run from seven innings including 105 and an average of 44. He has also taken three wickets with his leg spin. One match remains in the Three-Day League. (Sean Devers)
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Froome unhurt but bike ‘totaled’ after hit-and-run case
Wednesday May 10, 2017
NBA opens first academy in cricket-mad India NEW DELHI (Reuters) The National Basketball Association (NBA) opened its first academy in India yesterday, hoping the facility on the outskirts of Delhi will trigger the game’s growth in a country obsessed with cricket. “We opened our first office in India in 2011 but we had to understand the market place,” NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum said after launching the academy at Jaypee Greens in Greater Noida. “We recognised there was opportunity for us now to bring NBA-style coaching, development and training to kids around the
world who may not have access to that.” It follows the launch of academies in Hangzhou, Jinan and Urumqi in China and in Thies in Senegal. The NBA’s plans also include launching a global academy in Canberra. A total of 21 male players are to receive NBA-level coaching and scholarship at the academy. The number of international players in the NBA has been increasing, with a record 113 on opening night rosters for the 2016-17 season. The NBA has an Indian owner in Sacramento Kings Vivek Ranadive, who was
born in Mumbai, but a player to galvanize a fan base has yet to arrive. Satnam Singh Bhamara, the son of a farmer, became the first Indian to be drafted into the NBA when the Dallas Mavericks used the 52nd pick on the 7-foot-2inch centre in 2015. “This initiative is not about finding more sponsors or marketing partners. It’s about developing elite basketball prospects,” Tatum said. “Here we have 21 of the best prospects in India. What we want to do is make sure they reach their full potentials, whatever that is.”
Sharapova set for wildcard entry in Birmingham: report
The picture Froome posted was geotagged from Beausoleil in France, which is near his Monaco home. (froome tweet) (Reuters) Tour de France champion Chris Froome said yesterday that he had escaped unhurt while having
his bike written off by an impatient car driver in a hitand-run incident. The 31-year-old three-
time winner of the world’s biggest bike race, tweeted a picture of the twisted (Continued on page 32)
STAG ELITE LEAGUE CONTINUES TODAY The Stag Elite League (Season 2) will continue today with one match, Match 18, which was originally scheduled for April 2 but was not played due to logistical challenges experienced by one of the teams. It will feature Monedderlust FC versus Buxton FC at 18:30hrs and will be played at the Tucville Ground. Both teams will be looking for a win to increase their standings in the league with Buxton United FC in fourth position with nine points and Monedderlust FC at the tail with three points. Monedderlust FC, while being very competitive have been fading in the latter stages of their games giving up crucial goals to their
opposition and, as a result, remains stuck at the bottom of the table. On the other hand, Buxton United, who have assumed the fourth position, can move into third place with a win today and hopefully finish the league in the same position. The Stag Elite League is the senior league of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and seeks to, among others, provide a space for
consistent and competitive engagement of footballers, while facilitating disciplined players of a high technical and tactical ability, to be identified and or be selected for national duties. Patrons will be given a chance to win fabulous prizes at every game including family meals compliments of Church’s Chicken, jerseys / caps compliments of Jialing, Impressions and the Guyana Football Federation, and cash vouchers and Gillette hampers compliments of Ansa McAl. The grand patron prize will be a JIALING 250cc motorcycle, compliments of Automobile Power Products. Admission to each game is GYD$500.
(Reuters) Former world number one Maria Sharapova will be awarded a wildcard by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to play at next month’s Aegon Classic in Birmingham, according to a report in the Times. Sharapova’s current ranking of 258, after a return from a 15-month doping suspension last month, was too low to merit a direct entry for the grasscourt event and the organisers are looking to give her one of the four available wild cards, the report said. The 30-year-old Russian last won the Birmingham event in 2005 but her most recent appearance was in 2010. “We are in the process of deciding which players will receive wild cards for our summer season grass-court tournaments,” an LTA spokesman told the Times. The five-time grand slam winner Sharapova reached the Stuttgart Grand Prix semi-finals last month in her first tournament since being banned but lost 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 to Canadian Eugenie Bouchard in the second round of the Madrid Open on Monday. The tournament is scheduled from June 17-25 at the Edgbaston Priory Club ahead of the Wimbledon, starting on July 3. Sharapova’s hopes of featuring in this year’s Wimbledon could hinge on a June 20 meeting of tournament organisers unless the Russian finds form in the forthcoming event in Rome.
Maria Sharapova of Russia in action. REUTERS/Ralph Orlowski
Kaieteur News
Wednesday May 10, 2017
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Local boxing referee/judges Newly-elected GNDF President has great plans for sport receive AIBA certificates
Local referee/judges Ramona Agard and Richard Braithwaite were recently officially welcomed to the AIBA One Star ranks. The two received certificates and One Star badges from president of the Guyana Boxing Association Steve
Ninvalle, an Executive Committee Member of AIBA. Agard and Braithwaite were successful at the One Star examination held in Barbados last December. In congratulating the two locals, Ninvalle charged
them to move on to becoming Two Stars this year. In this photo, the GBA president is flanked by obviously elated Agard (left) and Braithwaite who display their certificates.
Massachusetts judge overturns ex-NFL star Hernandez’s murder conviction
Former New England Patriots football player Aaron Hernandez. (REUTERS/Steven Senne/Pool/File Photo) BOSTON (Reuters) A Massachusetts judge yesterday overturned former New England Patriots star A a r o n H e r n a n d e z ’s conviction for murdering an acquaintance in 2013, granting his attorneys’ request since the athlete died before exhausting the appeal process. Prosecutors had argued Hernandez’s prison suicide should have prevented the judge from overturning the conviction following his death, which is routinely allowed by Massachusetts state law when the
conviction in question has not been fully appealed. Hernandez, 27, hanged himself last month in a prison cell where he was serving a life sentence for the June 2013 killing of Odin Lloyd. The suicide stunned his family because it came just days after Hernandez has been found not guilty of a 2012 double murder. “This court cannot know why Hernandez chose to end his life,” said Superior Court Judge Susan Garsh, who handled the 2015 trial in which a jury found the former tight end guilty of
fatally shooting Lloyd in an industrial park near his home in North Attleborough, Massachusetts. “There being no reason to recognize any exception in this case in the interest of justice the court has no choice” but to vacate Hernandez’s conviction, Garsh said. Hernandez had a $41 million National Football League contract when he was arrested at his home in June 2013 and charged with m u r d e r. P r o s e c u t i o n witnesses at his trials painted a picture of a troubled man with a history of drug use and paranoid tendencies. Prosecutors plan to appeal Garsh’s decision, said Thomas Quinn, the Bristol County District Attorney. Noting that Hernandez had left his fiancée, Shayanna Jenkins Hernandez, a note that included the phrase “you’re rich,” Quinn said the suicide may have been intended to help his family protect assets. “It is fair to conclude based on what was presented that it was a knowing decisio n t h a t h e h a d thought about and acted upon,” Quinn told reporters, standing alongside Lloyd’s mother, (Continued on page 31)
She is considered to be one of the persons responsible for the elevated status of Dominoes in this country. Newly-elected President of the Guyana National Domino Federation (GNDF) Faye Joseph speaking with Kaieteur Sport Monday evening, at Dynasty Sports Bar in South Ruimveldt said she has great plans for the sport. Joseph, who is also the Head of the Georgetown Domino Association (GDA), ever since her initial involvement in the sport four years ago has strenuously sought to move the previously dubbed leisure time game into a mainstream sport. According to Joseph, who now wears two hats, her late husband, Orin Joseph displayed similar passion as her for the sport which was to transform the image of the activity from a pastime event to one that allowed persons from all walks of life to be part of a larger gathering. “Previously Dominoes was restricted to bottom houses and at wakes or even by the roadside, but now we’ve been able to move it from that label and have it now positioned as a major sport in Guyana,” she told this newspaper. She said at first her relation with the sport was just from a sponsorship standpoint, but that changed after her husband’s passing and as we know the rest is history. Joseph has even moved the sport’s popularity and fortunes to unprecedented levels and is known to be one of the main architects of the International Tournament which was staged last month right here.
Faye Joseph She has also been responsible for the national team participation in tournaments of a similar nature overseas, while the consistent staging of tournaments is another encouraging feature of her reign at the top. Urged to identify any particular benefit (s) that stands out by playing Dominoes, Joseph pointed to the camaraderie that exists among clubs, the unity that it brings among the various ethnic groups and the financial rewards that is derived from the staging of competitions. The soft-spoken executive also commands a lot of love and respect among her peers and is always willing to offer any assistance that might be sought from participants. Many of the sport’s participants see her as a major pillar for the game, a testimony that is borne by the fact that she usually returns at the helm unopposed. Among the plans she has for the year is to host and support regular tournaments and to ensure that Guyana
send teams to fulfill all requests for overseas participation. It is no secret that Joseph has made huge personal and financial sacrifices to get teams to overseas engagements and this act of goodwill she stated, will continue as long as she remains involved in the sport. The reality of this pronouncement is that she intends to stay attached to the sport for years to come. Meanwhile, Joseph disclosed that she will be hosting a two-day tournament for Mothers Day at her residence 1223 Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt. According to her it is an annual undertaking and she is urging all teams to come out and support the venture which is aimed at showing appreciation for Mothers. The tournament will commence this Saturday and ends the following day, while Mothers who participate in the activity will receive tokens of appreciation. Entrance fee is $12,000 per team.
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Wednesday May 10, 2017
Joseph elected as GNDF president
Members of the newly elected executive of the GNDF. Faye Joseph was recently elected president of the Guyana National Dominoes Federation (GNDF) when the body held its annual general
meeting and elections at Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt. Gladstone George is the first vice president, Godfrey Samuels the
second vice president and Orin Boston the third vice president. The assistant secretary is Kurt Sutton, while the assistant treasurer is Sherwin
Grandison. Mark Wiltshire will serve as the senior organising secretary while his assistants are Wendell McPherson and Reuben
Tato. The committee members are Jane Chase, Terrence Pollard, Navin Singh, Bruce Goodman, Ian James and Rayne Mc
Ray. The secretary and treasurer will be elected at t h e o rg a n i s a t i o n f i r s t statutory meeting later this month.
Italian FA may be disciplined by Fifa over handling of racism claims BBC Sport - Italian football authorities may face disciplinary action over the treatment of Pescara midfielder Sulley Muntari. Muntari, 32, was sent off after leaving the field claiming he was racially abused during a Serie A game. He was initially banned for one game but had this overturned by the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). “We have a committee in charge of monitoring this and the committee will take action,” Fifa secretary general Fatma Samoura told BBC Sport. “What matters is that the committee has to act and the sooner the better. “I have my personal feelings on anybody that is treated like he has been treated, on the pitch and off the pitch but I’m not here for my personal matters. I’m here to make sure that Fifa takes, through the committee, the appropriate action for any single discriminatory action.” Yesterday, Fifa president
Gianni Infantino said he would speak to exPortsmouth player Muntari, who believes world football’s governing body, and European equivalent Uefa are “not taking racism seriously”. “We will work together,” said Infantino, who also said he intends to talk to the head of FIGC, Carlo Tavecchio. “Unfortunately idiots, there are always idiots everywhere but we have to fight them. We have to work on the people.” Fifa was criticised for disbanding its anti-racism task force last September. The organisation defended this decision at the time, with Samoura then saying that it had fulfilled the “mandate” for which it was set up in 2013 - which was to provide recommendations for a “strong programme” to tackle racism. A number of these have been put into action, including the introduction of an Anti-Discrimination Monitoring System to assess
Sulley Muntari has also played for Portsmouth, Sunderland and Inter Milan. (EPA) 850 high-risk matches for potential discriminatory incidents during the 2018 World Cup qualifiers and friendlies. Speaking ahead of this w e e k ’s F i f a c o n g r e s s meeting in Bahrain, Samoura adopted a different stance to Infantino, saying: “I don’t have to call people anytime that they have been victim of an abuse.” She continued: “We’ve been regularly publicising
the action of the committee on every action that relates to racism, homophobic chants and any kind of discrimination. “We have monitoring too on anti-discrimination. We have heavy sanctions every time we have been receiving reports.” At the weekend, Juventus’ Morocco defender Medhi Benatia cut short a post-match television interview on Sunday after
claiming to hear a racist insult in his earpiece. On Monday, Boca Junior player Frank Fabra reportedly left the pitch in tears after receiving racist abuse during his side’s match with Estudiantes. La Nation says that the Boca players approached the referee to halt the game but he deemed the insults to be isolated. Analysis - BBC Sports Editor Dan Roan
Does Fifa talk a good game, but not really care when it come to fighting racism, as Sulley Muntari suggested in his hard-hitting interview with my colleague David Ornstein in Milan this week? Those working to eradicate discrimination from football believe the sport is slowly heading in the right direction, with heftier sanctions, regular initiatives, and better monitoring, despite the abolition of Fifa’s anti-racism task-force last year. But as this case proves, there are still failings, especially in South America, Eastern Europe, and in Russia, where Fifa in their wisdom will stage the next World Cup. 2022 hosts Qatar meanwhile, have the death penalty for homosexual acts. Yet Fifa remains silent, and has not changed its regulations since 2013, something which frustrates campaigners. Despite pressure from groups like Fifpro and Fare,
Kaieteur News
Wednesday May 10, 2017
PAGE 43
Phantom win semi final encounter
Action in the semi final encounter on Monday night at Dynasty. Phantom chalked up 81 games to defeat C7 and Unity when the semi final of the Boyce and Jefford Dominoes competition was contested on Monday night at Dynasty sports bar. Orin Favourite led Phantom with 16 games, while Rawle Cameron made 15. C7 placed second with 66 games, while Unity
finished third on 64. Marvin Thomas and Brian Edwards scored 15 and 14 respectively for C7, while Ryan Boodhoo and Godfrey Chance got 14 each for Unity. Phantom, C7 and Masters will now contest the final tonight at Faye Joseph residence in Gaulding Place. Meanwhile, Joseph will
be hosting a pre-mother’s day tournament starting on Saturday at 15:00hrs at Gaulding Place. Entrance fee is $12,000 and prizes will be announced on a later date. The comp e t i t i o n w i l l conclude on Sunday and teams can contact Wiltshire on 665 5855 for information on registration.
Letter to the Sports Editor
Drubahadur Must Publicly Account For His GCB Stewardship Dear Sports Editor, Drubahadur ’s recent public announcement of his resignation as President of the Guyana Cricket Board
Agricola is Boyce and Jefford Five-A-Side Football Champs
One of the Coordinators of the event, Edison Jefford (left) hands over the winning trophy and cash prize to Agricola Champion Boys on Sunday. Agricola Champion Boys came from behind Sunday at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary in the final of the Boyce and Jefford Five-A-Side Football Competition to eventually beat Broad Street Ballers on penalty kicks. Broad Street Ballers scored in the first half of the 20-minute game before
Agricola equalised in the last minute of the second half to ensure the game finished on a 1-1 stalemate in regulation time. Agricola triumphed 3-2 on penalty kicks. As a result the East Bankbased team took home $50,000 and winning trophy, while Broad Street won $25,000 for their second place finish along with
t r o p h y. B e t t e r H o p e Kanaimas and Show Stoppers were the other two teams in the tournament. The 2017 Boyce and Jefford Relay Festival and Family Fun Day on Sunday featured the Five-A-Side football competition, cycling, male and female softball cricket and dominoes apart from the
relay race in athletics. The National Sports Commission, Ansa McAl under its Lucozade and Stag brands, Ministry of Social Cohesion, C. Mohan Contracting Guyana Inc., R&D Engineering Services, K&B Mining and Insurance Brokers Guyana Ltd. were among the main sponsors of the event.
“Who Holds The Berbice Cricket Board Shares In Guyana Cricket Inc?” (GCB) emphasizes the magnitude of the ongoing crisis in this failed cricket administration. The number of previous resignations has effectively reduced the GCB Executive to a veritable one man show. During his tenure Drubahadur seemed powerless, without authority, but was expected to act the part. On his first appearance within the cricket administration, he was appointed Asst. Secretary at the illegallyheld 2011 Elections of the GCB. In 2013 when elections were again due, the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) did not attend and the Demerara Cricket Board Executives/officials were all injuncted; yet by some unknown mechanism he was promoted to the prestigious office of President of the GCB. As a professional accountant but with limited knowledge and experience in cricket administration, Drubahadur had placed himself at a terrible disadvantage thereby making his duties more ceremonial than executive. After all, he who pays the piper calls the tune. It certainly is not good enough for Drubahadur to just resign without properly accounting for his six years stewardship by saying that he cannot precisely recall when he resigned and that his record speaks for itself. What record? Now, the Guyana Cricket
Board’s constitution clearly states that the President of the GCB is the first choice to represent Guyana on the Directorship of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB). Chetram Singh during his 20 odd years enjoyed that privilege as did Ramsey Ali in his brief s o j o u r n . Ye t d u r i n g Drubahadur’s purported tenure, Anand Sanasie and Anand Kalludeen were the two persons questionably selected to serve on the WICB Executive Body. Kalludeen of course never played nor administered cricket at any level before this surprising appointment to the GCB Executive and m o r e s o a s G u y a n a ’s representative to the WICB. Also, since the 2011 elections were illegally held basically for want of a quorum and the 2013 elections for the same reason was illegal (due to the nonattendance of the Berbice Cricket Board and the Demerara Cricket Board) and there has been no elections held in 2015 or 2017 (since the Cricket Administration Act 2014) Drubahadur must now tell the public: 1. How, where, when and who voted for his election to the Presidency of the GCB. 2. Definitively when he resigned from the GCB and the real reason for so doing, especially since he seem so vague on this issue approximately two (2) (Continued on page 31)
t r o Sp
Windies eye ‘perfect game’ as rare series victory beckons ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – West Indies enter the decisive third Test against Pakistan at Windsor Park here today chasing the “perfect cricket game” as they seek to notch their first series win over a higherranked side in five years and turn the corner on a worrying trend of results. A series which started in disappointment with a seven-wicket defeat at Sabina Park last month suddenly took a turn for the better last week when the Wi n d i e s p r o d u c e d a memorable performance to crush Pakistan by 106 runs at Kensington Oval and level the three-match series. And with the hosts on the verge of ending a protracted drought, captain Jason Holder told reporters that rather than feeling pressure, it was critical his side pulled all the various facets of their game together to execute over the next five days. “There’s no pressure. We’re in a situation where we’ve played some good cricket in this series so far,” a calm Holder said on the eve of the contest. “We haven’t been perfect
Captain Jason Holder believes West Indies can pull off victory in the final Test against Pakistan. ©AFP
but we’re striving to play a perfect cricket game. Once we strive to do that and we get 99 per cent of that going right I think we will be on the better side at the end of this game.” He added: “It always gives you confidence to win
any cricket game. As I said before, there are still a few areas I would like to see them tighten up in. One, is for sure, our fielding and I urge the guys to play a perfect cricket game and there’s no better chance to do than in this final game.”
West Indies were almost unrecognizable in the last Test in Barbados. On every occasion they found themselves in trouble, they fought back gallantly, before producing the ultimate bowling performance on the final day to dismiss Pakistan
for a record-equaling venue-low 81. But even with the memories of the victory still fresh, Holder urged his side not to dwell on the win but rather focus on turning out an improved performance. “It doesn’t change anything for me [that this game is a series-decider]. I just take it as another cricket game,” Holder noted. “What happened in Barbados is gone already. It’s important we put that behind us but not forget the good things we’ve done there. We have to improve on a few areas – the fielding is one especially taking our chances – [but] once we forget that (win) as quickly as possible and move on to this game, it’ll be better off for us.” He continued: “It’s always good to win cricket games but we have to take it in stages. I think once we hold our chances, put a good first innings total up and take 20 wickets, we stand a very good chance of winning this Test match so we have to tick our process boxes and make sure we win this game.”
West Indies’ last series victory over a higher-ranked side was when they beat New Zealand 2-0 in the Caribbean in 2012. Opener Kieran Powell is the only surviving member from that side. Since then, West Indies have lived in virtual drought, with just nine wins in 36 Tests since then and six of those coming in series against Bangladesh and Zimbabawe. Of the 13 series played since, the Caribbean side have lost nine. However, with two victories in their last three Test outings and a new attitude and vigour in the camp, Holder said there was reason to have confidence going forward. “I think we are heading in the right direction. I think the guys have put in the extra effort at practice,” the allrounder pointed out. “We have changed our practice routine slightly where we try to do a little bit more. Our work ethic has been pretty good. I must commend the guys for the way they’ve put the effort (Continued on page 36)
Froome unhurt but bike Yasir Yasir will will be be dangerous, dangerous, warns ‘totaled’ after hit-and-run case warns Radford Radford
Chris Froome (GBR) of United Kingdom after the Men’s Individual Time Trial - Pontal - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (REUTERS/Eric Gaillard)
Pakistan leg-spinner Yasir Shah.
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