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Monday May 27, 2019
Kaieteur News
KAIETEUR NEWS Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: ADAM HARRIS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Guyana: A land is still trapped in the same place Independence: liberty and learning to maximise national gifts. And yet, after over a half century, maximisation can be summed up in two words: Never again! This is the unique, always intriguing, nature of what is the soul of Guyanese politics. Nothing changes; save for the intensity of private words and public deeds. No matter how denied, this is what courses through the thinking, visions, and granite-like strategies and tactics of most Guyanese. Never again, is not the heartfelt pledge or the existential blood oath of the Jewish people after the horrors of the holocaust. It is not monopolised by those victims alone. Instead, “Never again” has been the guiding star and fateful promise that Guyanese political leaders and diehard supporters make to themselves whenever there is electoral triumph. Never again is the readiness to go all out, to prevent the other group, and the other people from power, from sharing. Independence unleashed such passions. It is why this geographical construction, this patriotic mirage, called Guyana, has nothing that rises to the level of progressive national governance. From the moment of every official election results, the focus and energies are not on how to mend and bring together. No! For in the ecstasies of political and riotous racial revelries, there are already the visions and drive on how to wield power for one’s own, and how to stay in power. Forever. Hence, the unyielding finality of: Never again. Not the other man. Independence hurts. Of course, the gush of words is sure to come in the heady aftermath of victory. None is soothed; none comforted. None is fooled. Nothing changes. There is that independence, too. In the heart, this is the unchanging essence of political governance in this nation: How to maintain the foundations, pillars, and architectures of political power in this country. In perpetuity. Specks of alternate racial presences intrude on sight should be enough? In a plural society, this is what passes for the floorboards of all the governance platforms that have ever been erected in this nation. To their eternal discredit and diminishment, political leader and seniors, wordsmiths and propagandists, all say with a straight face and a glaze in one eye that such governance works. The other eye is winking. Independence squandered. Without a doubt, it works. A critical look reveals that this type of governance of Guyana is what works to remove people from jobs (and replace with acceptable kind in those newly vacant spaces); to stack the contract processes with one perverse practice after another (with appropriate people to make this happen); to set the sails for the future through scholarships (through careful corrective screening); and to establish housing enclaves that would become indebted strongholds (thus supplying fodder for later electoral positionings). Independence has facilitated all this and more. These are the governance visions, governance practices, and governance realities in this country. They speak powerfully and colourfully for themselves. Inarguably and distinctively so. Collectively, this is the “Never again” mindset and preparation that readies for implementing and reinforcing, when electoral numbers become a done deal; and sets the stage for the raw, ugly, defeatist (and self-defeating in the long-run) governance machinery that is of Guyana, and in Guyana. It is aided incalculably by the now undeniable fact that political Guyana, governance Guyana, is also racial Guyana. A case can be made that it is also a racist Guyana. Independence to remain irreversibly fused to failure. That this country continues to pretend to exist through the irrelevancy of what now has to be the mockery of a national motto is by itself a daily miracle. Yet this is the governance model that finds favour; except for those on the losing side. Generations after the 1960s and this land is still trapped in the same place. Never again, keeps one set in, and the other set out. Same state. Same present. Same future. Independence: freedom for self-enslavement.
Guyana needs to heal as the country enters 53 years of Independence DEAR EDITOR, As Guyana enters its 54th anniversary of Independence, the country is more divided than ever. Instead of the gap between the two major parties to be reduced, it is getting wider and it is anticipated that it will get worse with the trillions of dollars in oil wealth in the horizon. The politicians from the political parties are eyeing the windfall not in the interest of the country, but to see how much they can get for themselves. There is already concerned about the US$18 million paid by the oil explorers, Exxon Inc., and the agreement signed by the Guyana Government and the giant oil company. Moreso, with the likelihood that the May 2020 elections will be held earlier in light of the no confidence motion and other concerns. What emerged from the Charrandass Persaud motion is that there were several lawmakers with dual citizenships from both political parties. This to a certain extent has been corrected. Are Guyanese proud of their nationhood? I would answer this question in the affirmative, but the country needs to heal—Guyanese, especially the politicians, have to set aside their differences and work together. The racial strife, which is the root of the problem must be eradicated
at all cost. The PNC was in government for a total of 30 years and the PPP for 23. When Forbes Burnham was at the helm, he made some radical decisions — banning basic food items, abolishing appeals to the Privy Council even though there was no regional appellate court and the Guyana Court of Appeal was the final court for 36 years until the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) was inaugurated in 2005. Burnham was more of a regionalist and was in the forefront of Caribbean integration. He was one of the main players in the establishment of CARIFTA later CARICOM, the Caribbean Community, and do not forget, he was the main player in CARIFESTA — the regional festival of arts and culture. Guyana gained Independence on May 26, 1966, after Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. The British delayed independence because they wanted Cheddi Jagan,, who was then Chief Minister and later Premier, to change his leftist views but he was adamant with his meeting with US President J. F. Kennedy and shortly after showed to the world that he was in the Russian camp when he went to Cuba and embrace Fidel Castro. This was the biggest mistake not only for Jagan, but to the then British Guiana because the British Government changed the
electoral system from first past the post to Proportional Representation (PR) which made it extremely difficult for the PPP to gain more than 50% of the votes. This paved the way for Burnham to merge with the small right wing party, the United Force to form the government in 1964 and two years later, independence was given. But after Burnham got into power, he did what he wanted. He imposed communist measures — the party (PNC) was supreme; the government was merely an arm of the PNC. The party’s flag flew over the Courts. After the death of Burnham in August 1985, Desmond Hoyte took over. He was more to the middle and agreed with former US President Jimmy Carter to make some electoral changes and as a result, Cheddi Jagan, after 28 years in the wilderness, in 1992 was sworn in as President. But Cheddi did not change the “Burnham” Constitution which he had severely criticised. The PPP carried on merrily until the death of Dr. Jagan. His widow, Janet replaced the “holding”, President Sam Hinds, but she resigned shortly after and she handpicked young Russian trained Bharat Jagdeo to be her successor who in a short time became wealthy and arrogant so much so that he rebuked Janet.
He became very unpopular after he fired a few top supporters who along with other dissatisfied persons from the PNC, formed the AFC which gained support from dissatisfied persons in and out of Guyana and as a result, the AFC became very popular in a short time which merged with APNU (PNC) to form the government in 2015. Most of the AFC financial support came from the diaspora, but it seems as if the AFC failed to deliver and as a result, it will not get the support as it did four years ago. It is interesting to see how the next general elections will unfold. A large number of the PPP supporters are not at all pleased that Irfaan Ali who they claim was handpicked by Jagdeo to be the presidential candidate and might abstain at the next general elections whenever it is called. On the other hand, AFC will not get quarter of the support it won the last time around. APNU will need to get some “outside” votes to push it over the line. Can Granger, Harmon and other top flight members convince the Amerindian voters to support APNU? This will be the key. Best wishes to the Cooperative Republic on its 53rd anniversary of nationhood. Let there be peace, harmony and racial unity I pray. Remember unity is strength —divided we fall. OSCAR RAMJEET
Mr. Granger should be entrusted to bring the necessary constitutional changes we need DEAR EDITOR, Everyone agrees that there is the need for constitutional changes and I think that to proceed to the next general elections, we need to address this all important concept BEFORE holding elections- it’s about time! That is why, once the present government can agree, elections should be delayed and Mr. Granger should be entrusted to bring the necessary constitutional changes we need, by involving the people of our Republic in such a project. I have no doubt that Mr. Granger would be the best leader to oversee the urgent need for constitutional changes. Editor, in bringing about changes, we should look at California and the concept of propositions in special ballots where referendum politics are the name of the
game. Thus, in Guyana, to involve the peoples’ will, we can hold a special referendum with direct no/yes answers to multiple propositions on the same ballot, with each proposition requiring verifiable signatures-maybe 20,000 persons to make the ballot. So, for example, one question that could be on the ballot in the question on “dual citizenship” so the question could be phrased as such: “Should Guyanese citizens with dual citizenship be allowed to be elected to any office including the Presidency and any other office in the Republic ?”-NO or YES. Another proposition that could reach this special ballot might be: “Should our Republic keep the 10 region concept or go back to the 3 region concept of Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo ?”-
NO or YES. Another proposition which could be presented: “Should a no-confidence vote against a sitting government be eliminated from our constitution ? “NO or YES. This referendum itself would depend on a revised houseto-house voters list and would ensure that no chicanery can occur to taint the outcome and to satisfy all citizens of fairness and “above board” checks and balances. Editor, such a referendum involving the will of our citizens, will be free of racial voting patterns and instead be issue based; so, current politicians might find themselves advocating for each proposition beyond “party lines” and campaign on issues, instead of ideology and racial inclinations. Of course, the current government and all
opposition forces would have to agree to implement whatever proposition is voted in excess of 50%- that becomes the fixed laws of our constitution and would govern the future direction of our dear Republic. Instead of rushing to another election because of Charrandass’ betrayal of a flawed part of our constitution- an election which will bring national tension and more racial voting patterns - let us all seek an issue based referendum with ideas and concepts which will bypass deep racial and ideological rifts in our Republic and most importantly, will start the vital process of unity of purpose and strength in preparing for the wealth which God is granting us to have a good life, especially for our children. Yours faithfully, Cheddi (Joey) Jagan (Jr)
Monday May 27, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Some questions Guyanese must Independence Day Celebrating a broken cistern ask in relation to the SARA Inquiry DEAREDITOR, What is there to celebrate after 53 years of independence? We often hoist our flag, even in remote areas, recite the National Pledge, sing the National Anthem and patriotic songs on the 26th May each year in reverence and to acknowledge what the generation of 1966 felt was a liberation that was sure to herald an era of peace, prosperity and goodwill among the citizens. This independence, we were told by the political elite of 1966, would give us dominion over everything Guyana possessed and no longer will our resources be plundered by the imperialist. After 53 years on what seems like a downward trajectory from what was expected, the present generation has lost the will to reminisce or contemplate on the economic status quo that existed prior to Independence, relative to where we are today. May 26th has been reduced to a day for a poorly attended and meaningless Guyanese ritual, where the President or members of the ruling elite try to convince the nation or rather those who care to listen, that we as a nation had made great strides over those 50 odd years. All utter trash! All in consonance to reaffirm our belief that Independence was the best thing that ever happened to Guyana. The yearly ceremony is done for the propagation and justification of the political class that ruled over the people for those 50 odd years. Independence brought about the enrichment of the political class while the fortunes of the poor drifted further south. Where is the inspiration for patriotism? The general consensus of measuring progress or lack thereof on a societal scale is by going back to the past. By 1960, our rate of exchange was below G$20 = 1 US$. We were touted as the ‘Bread basket of the Caribbean’. We had boasted the highest GDP per capita for the Caribbean. Trade unionism was at its apex. The working class was well represented. Fifty three years after, with unemployment and under-employment so prevalent, we are being induced to believe that a Ministry of Labour is a luxury the state cannot afford. We were on the road to great things, but we became collateral damage to the Anglo/American Empire in the war of ideologies, even before independence was handed to us. Communism reared its head in the Caribbean, too close for comfort for the Americans when the Batista regime was overthrown by communist Castro in 1959. It resulted in the birth of “manifest destiny’ in American foreign policy. “Manifest Destiny”
dictated that another communist government was not going to come to power in the Western Hemisphere. I am going to say something that will annoy a lot of people, but I don’t give a damn! Our history must be told to our young people not only in a contemplative manner, it must also be told in a speculative manner. “What if”? Should be the focus point to determine how, where and why we ended up the way we are. Historically! The world has always been in a mode of conquest and captivity. Every superpower from, Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Greek, Romans, way past the British Empire that had brought our fore parents here, had sought to conquer and control as much of the known world in their respective era. As crude and cruel this thesis may look, it cannot be refuted. It was, simply put, the ways of the world. It didn’t require rocket science to depict the dominant power of the 1960’s. All it required was a little historical perspective. The year 1960 was just 15 years after the greatest attempt at World conquest (World War II). One had to be a fool to imagine the world could have beaten its,” swords into ploughshares and spears into pruning hooks” in such a short time- upsetting a trend that goes back for thousands of years. For premier Jagan in British Guyana to be openly associated with communist Russia was courting danger, in the face of manifest destiny. The result was inevitable, they (America) got rid of Jagan by “covert action”, which was the new mode to achieve domination, replacing conquest and captivity. Jagan’s demise became Guyana’s demise. Jagan’s demise resulted from his lack of historical perspective and his belief that he “ knows everything about anything” as asserted by Dr.
Ralph Gonzalves at his 2015 lecture. This is where contemplative history comes alive! What if Jagan had not chosen the communist path? I leave you the reader to think of the possibilities! How and why our progress was railroaded? Contemporary history has contemplatively identified the present universal status of democracy to one battle, the victory by the Greeks over the Persians in the battle of Thermopylae 490 BC. The faster we as a nation can contemplatively identify how and why our independence was presented as a broken vase, the quicker we can seek redress. The methodology of this covert action sowed the seed of discord among the nation by further polarising the two major races. Fifty six years later, the political class have not lift a plausible finger to attempt to exorcise the demon of racism cast upon us because our leader had a communist proclivity. All the rigged elections were just American foreign policy, which dictates that a dictator is preferred to a communist at work. We were relegated to the poorest country in the western hemisphere. Our people were forced to scamper to all parts of the globe in search of a better life. Now we have gone 360 degrees, from driving the capitalist away to inviting them to “ plunder our resources”, luring them with tax concessions and sweetheart contracts, in the name of being independent- the very reason we were willing to drive them away 53 years ago. Is this the independence we should be proud of? While the majority of our population is severely poor and continues to mire in poverty. The Anglo/ American Empire made sure they gave us a broken cistern for independence. A cistern so broken that for 53 years we can’t begin to piece it together. A cistern the people may have done well without. Rudolph Singh
DEAR EDITOR, Regarding the recently disclosed SARA inquiry into the award of the Kaieteur and Canje Blocks, here are five brief questions all Guyanese should want answered publicly and promptly. 1) How much was paid for the acreage? 2) To whom was it paid? 3) When was it paid? 4) Who are the beneficial individual equity owners of all of the involved entities, and from award till now?
5) How were they chosen to receive the property which was previously the property of all Guyanese citizens? This will be a first letter on this hugely important subject. Subsequent correspondence will define the characteristics of a successful outcome for Guyana versus that of a failed outcome, and will outline the challenges to be faced by SARA and Guyanese in their efforts for justice. Regards, Jan Mangal
We must also commemorate Wismar Massacre on May 26 DEAR EDITOR, Reference your editorial relating to May 26 Independence Day and several news reports (May 26) as well as planned programmes. Your newspaper reported on flag hoisting events and celebrations in Guyana and in the diaspora to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of Guyana’s Independence. Your media also carried several reports on other plans for this year’s celebrations including a concert by a convicted Jamaican drug trafficker. But there were/are no reflections on the other more significant historic event – the Wismar massacre (of Indians) that took place on May 26, 1964. The independent international media described the attack on Indians, who were an ethnic minority in the area, “as an orchestrated orgy of violence. It was an ethnic cleansing.” We must not erase this important part of our history and effort must be made to bring reconciliation between victims and perpetrators (victors). Victims are still hurting and can’t bring themselves to celebrate independence. One must be sensitive to the remembrance of the victims and only join in celebrations of the victors. It should not be forgotten that an official British government report on the Wismar Massacre said, “ was politically and racially inspired...and the fact that the security forces were in no case able to apprehend arsonists forces us to conclude that the destruction was not ‘spontaneous’, but was organised, and well organised.” Reports say the Indians were beaten and robbed; regrettably, some of their neighbours took part in the pogrom. Some 3,000 Indians
were victims of terror, murder, physical barbarism, and psychological trauma. They were uprooted from their homes, other properties, businesses and jobs. They lost gold, money and other valuables in the tens of millions of dollars of value at that time (tens of billions in today’s value). They fled for their safety and were not allowed to return to their properties or recoup valuables. They received no compensation for their humongous losses. At a recent conference on the Wismar Massacre in New York, eyewitnesses (survivors) said several Indians were murdered, hundreds of women raped (including children), over two hundred and twenty five Indian homes and dozens of businesses razed to the ground, and temples and masjids desecrated as Indians fled for their lives. News reports in 1966 stated that Forbes Burnham deliberately chose May 26 as Guyana’s Independence Day to celebrate his triumphalism over Indians which took place at Wismar. Speakers at the Wismar conference echoed that claim. Therefore, May 26 should not only be commemorated as Guyana’s Independence but it must also served as a reminder to all Guyanese that it is a date of infamy. This is the first incident of official ethnic cleansing of a community in any part of the globe after the Jewish pogrom of Europe. It is a historic date that the country must not forget. Memorial service should also be held for the victims. Compensation for the victims should be considered. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
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Monday May 27, 2019
Kaieteur News
Pomeroon-Supenaam I Am Legend Concert Surpasses Expectations observes Independence Day - over 24,000 attended show
It was dubbed the ‘I Am Legend Concert’, and it surpassed all expectations. It featured iconic Reggae Superstar Buju Banton, and even after it ended, fans were screaming his name and demanding that he return to the stage. The show at the National Stadium started early and saw patrons rushing to get a good view of the stage in whichever section they purchased tickets for. Early entertainment was done by Guyanese DJs inclusive of the Boom DJs and the show was hosted by HJ’s very own DJ Akelo. There were three sections; General, VIP and VVIP even though ticket prices went up,
all three sections were overcrowded and it was difficult to manoeuvre in the crowd. The crowd was well engaged and ready for Buju who did at the time he was scheduled to. Instead, 19-year-old reggae sensation Koffee surprised the audience when she appeared on stage. Many seemed awe – struck as she belted the lyrics to her hit song ‘Toast’, among others, and many in the audience were questioning if they were listening to a recording. The crowd was at this point well energised as they sang along with the artiste. After Koffee’s performance, everything went silent at around 01:30 as the introductory track to Buju’s hit song ‘Our Father in Zion’ began and the crowd went wild as his captivating vocals joined in on the track. The stadium was brightly lit by thousands of cell phone lights that illuminated the stage. As he energetically ran onstage, fireworks went up after which he greeted his fans and wished Guyana a Happy Independence and the performance, which will be talked about for months and will go down in history began. His stage performance was nothing short of the legend he is and he made sure to include Guyanese and the country’s name in his songs frequently. Some of the songs performed included, It’s Not an Easy Road, I Wanna Be Loved, Destiny, Give I Strength and Driver. There were a few solos by the saxophonist Continued on page 22
The Independence Flag Raising Ceremony of the Pomeroon-Supenaam Region was held at the Regional Administration building beginning at 8:00 hours yesterday. Patriotism filled the atmosphere where some three hundred persons, of all ages and from all walks of life, participated in this activity that honours their land. Staff members from the Regional Administration, students from Essequibo Technical Institute and Anna Regina Secondary, all added to the colourful event. Members of the Guyana Police Force, Guyana National Cadets Corps, Cotton Field Secondary School, Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Fire Service and Guyana People’s Militia looked smart in their uniforms as they marched exquisitely. The ceremony featured great flare. It included speeches and cultural items such as
songs, steel pan renditions, dances and poetry reflecting our beautiful and Independent country. The ceremony commenced with the march past, followed by the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead, recital of the National Pledge and singing of the National Anthem. Keynote speaker, Regional Executive Officer, Denis Jaikaran chose four outstanding Essequibians to stand beside him and extend greetings. They were; Veteran Doreen Duncan, RDC Councillor Samad Baksh, Social Cohesion Officer Audrey Garraway and Representative of the Business Community, Dileep Singh. REO Jaikaran commended the Cotton Field Secondary School, Guyana National Cadets Corps and others for their p a r t i c i p a t i o n t h e a c t i v i t y. H e a l s o commended the staff and planners of the auspicious activity.
Salt and sweet water forms a natural barrier DEAR EDITOR, I wish first up to establish the value of your editorial of Saturday, May 25, 2019 and its implications for orderly societal development. However, on closer inspection, the editorial is subjected to a historical deficit in that it fails to acknowledge the commands of Allah (SWT) to mankind regarding the prohibition of alcohol. Therefore, your identified sources of non – alcohol promotion has been pre – dated by over fourteen centuries. The prohibition placed on alcohol and alcoholic beverage is most severe in
the Islamic culture. Muslims are therefore prohibited from ingesting, promoting, transporting and handling of alcoholic beverages, even in its minutest forms. In my view, the vilification of Islam and Muslim in the mainstream media has an integral relationship to the subject matter in that western civilization has failed and will ultimately fail to integrate Muslims into the mainstream economies of alcohol consumption, in addition to other undertakings relating to emergence of pornography, gambling, among other repugnant ways of life that
have undertaken industrial proportions. Over fourteen centuries ago, Allah (SWT) revealed that salt and sweet water forms a natural barrier, they will never integrate. In like manner, Islam being a natural way of life will forever reject western cultural overtures. Against this background, it is not difficult to imagine the economic boon to the valueless should over a billion consumers be integrated into the economies of repugnance. Sincerely, Abdul Rahim – Forde Servant of the Merciful
Monday May 27, 2019
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Kaieteur News
The Integrity Commission is toothless The Integrity Commission is empowered to receive and demand financial declarations from persons in public office. But its members are also required to submit their own declarations to the President. One past President of Guyana seemed to have been in receipt of information as to which members of parliament were defaulters when it came to submitting their annual financial declarations to the Commission. There was no way that such information should have been shared with any President but it seems that it was back then when there was no formal
Commission in place. The only declaration which the President is required to see is his own and that of the members of the Integrity Commission. The new Integrity Commission, today, seems to be working with greater alacrity but that does not mean that it is any more effective than its predecessor. On May 12, 2019, the Integrity Commission published in the Official Gazette, a total of 74 office holders who it said had not submitted declarations for 2018. The list included specified offices in the Ministry of Finance, the Civil
Defense Commission and Guyana Elections Commission, Castellani House, the Ethnic Relations Commission, the Guyana Energy Authority, the Guyana Rice Development Board, the Guyana School of Agriculture, the Guyana Sugar Corporation (including a factory manager), the Tourism Authority, the Guyana Water Authority, the Institute of Applied Science and Technology and the Human Rights Commission. The Integrity Commission Act requires specified (not all) public officers to submit annual declarations. Schedule 1
DEM BOYS SEH
Two big man got time to play dolly house When big people behave like li’l children, dem does look really stupid. Imagine big man running and ducking behind post hollering ‘Bang! Bang! Dem shooting gun wid dem mouth as if dem playing ‘war break.’ Or imagine two big woman sitting pon somebody front step playing dolly house. Don’t worry wid de suck finger. Dem boys does see nuff big woman sucking dem finger. Dem also see big men playing young boys going after young girls. Nuff of dem does get bite and then dem want to kill. Dis time dem got two big men who pelting each odda fuh no reason except wha dem know. One of dem always picking on people. People don’t have to tell him anything. He just got to watch dem and then he start to attack. When dem knock back, dis man does run and complain. De man attack Ralphie; he attack Benschop, he attack magistrates. More recently, he pick pon he own friend. Like two women showing off dem underwear, de two big men carry on. Who know who do what
and didn’t seh nutten, who had to protect who and who don’t understand is de kinda things is wha dem talking about. De Waterfalls paper was de fighting ground. De two big men got a column in de paper. Dat ain’t enough. Dem tek up space in de letter pages. Dem boys hear when de people at de paper seh enough is enough. De nonsense done. De bosses at de Waterfalls paper seh de two big men can carry on dem fight in anodda newspaper. Dem boys want to know if enough things don’t exist to keep people busy. People can go and drink. If dem don’t want to drink, dem can go to de movies or meet some woman and talk to she till dem tongue drop out. To sit down and write cussing people is boring. It also dangerous. Dem boys only hope dat somebody who get attack don’t tek it pon heself and get violent. At least de Waterfalls paper keeping out. Talk half and help two big men play dolly house.
specifies the persons who are required to declarations of financial disclosure under the said Act. Section 45 designates other categories and positions as persons who can be considered as persons in public life. But it does not require these persons to make a financial disclosure except where a complaint is lodged for a violation of the code of conduct under the Integrity Commission Act. Both the 1st Schedule and Section 45 provides an exhaustive listing of office holders who are required to submit declarations, the first set annually and the second set following a complaint made. The Integrity Commission therefore has to the full authority to demand declarations from defaulters. This year, the Integrity Commission caught a number of public officers off guard. Many of them had never been asked to submit declarations in the past and probably did not know that they were so required. The Integrity Commission, in the first instance, is asking for persons in public office to comply with the law. But what sense does it make to ask persons to
comply with the law by submitting declarations when the Integrity Commission does not have, as yet, the capability to scrutinise those declarations or the powers to sanction any public office. The Integrity Commission should have been limiting the number of persons in public office submitting declarations so that this process of scrutinising them does not become unwieldy. Right now, the Integrity Commission does not have the capability – and probably never will have - to investigate fully 10% of the declarations, which it has received. In other words, both Schedule is too exhaustive. The Integrity Commission should, for now, limit itself to considering the declarations in respect to the more politically exposed persons such as Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Tender Boards and Heads of Government corporations. Middle-level and low-level managers including factory managers should, for now, be off of the Integrity Commission’ radar. It is good in principle for all persons who are required to do so to submit their declarations. This is good in
principle but what sense does it make when there is limited investigative capacity. Investigating assets of public officers requires forensic financial skills. Recently it was reported that the Integrity Commission had advertised for investigators. The minimum qualifications required 5 subjects at CSEC and three years’ experience in conducting investigations. That is not the sort of qualifications, which are needed to determine whether persons are concealing or misrepresenting their income and assets. The Integrity Commission is looking for clerks not investigators. All the Integrity Commission is doing is collecting paperwork to fill its storage shelves. Asking persons in public life to submit their declarations will not improve transparency or accountability unless this backed with powers to sanction these officers. And that my friends, is a power which will never be granted to the Integrity Commission.
Monday May 27, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Monday May 27, 2019
Kaieteur News
Customs Law now compliant with int’l trade obligations - Jordan The Customs (Amendment of Schedules) Bill 2019 was recently passed by the National Assembly. In it, there are five separate schedules, which have replaced all the schedules to the Principal Customs Act. Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, said that the bill will ensure that Guyana is compliant with international trade obligations and will ensure consistent laws to facilitate trade and protect Guyana’s revenues. The first schedule is that of the Harmonised Commodity Description and Coding Systems, otherwise known as the Harmonised System. It is a six-digit international commodity classification system used by government, international organisations, and the private sector for, among other things, customs tariffs, developing international trade statistics, freight rates, and production statistics. The Customs (Amendment of Schedules) Bill 2019 touts the system as offering uniformity in the treatment of goods from one country to another, in four streams: the obtainment of consistent tariff treatment for imported goods; the benefit of researchers to have consistent classes of goods for trade statistics; the use of consistent codes by transporters of commodities in trade; and accuracy in the comparison of trade figures by economic negotiators. The Sixth Edition of the Harmonised System,
controlled by the World Customs Organisation (WCO), according to the amendment, has a logical class structure, consisting of 21 sections, divided into 97 chapters which comprise of about 5000 commodity classes. It is supported by Rules of Interpretation and legal notes, explained in the amendment. “Now we have moved to the 2017 version which is the current version that will ensure that Guyana is compliant to its obligations to the World Customs Organisation and to also ensure a more modern and consistent legislation in trade to protect Guyana’s revenues,” Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, told the assembly. The remaining parts of the first schedule lists conditional duty exemptions granted to member states of the Caribbean Community, under the CARICOM Common External Tariff System, when such goods are imported by persons, enterprises and organisations in the circumstances. They also list exemptions from export duties of customs. Jordan said that the system introduces regulations to control dangerous chemicals and organic pollutants, while new products are now classified under new headings. “Advances in technology are also included in the amendments, like LED lamps, multi-component integrated circuits, and hybrid
UG to offer Doctorate in... (From page 3) encourage candidates to focus on research in geographical distribution and the ecological and evolutionary factors involved, use of biodiversity by local communities, marketing and commercialization of biodiversity, risk of biodiversity alteration or extinction by human populations in urban or rural landscapes, biodiversity conservation, protected areas, land reclamation or ecosystems restoration, their economic potential values in agriculture, food, forestry, health and pharmaceutical, cosmetic, tourist and recreation, mining industries, bioconstruction as well as other connected areas with economics, planning, political governance, education, communication, biotechnological development among others. The ideal MPhil/PhD student should be able to design and carry out original, high quality research that contributes to the knowledge base of biodiversity management; demonstrate effective communication and presentation skills; critically evaluate and use scientific theories and frameworks relevant to biodiversity assessment and management; critically analyse research literature; and apply a set of ethical standards in the conduct and dissemination of research.
vehicles.” The second schedule of the amendment lists a series of “prohibited and restricted imports”. Prohibited Imports include counterfeit coin, food that is unfit for human consumption, infected cattle and stamps. The Restricted Imports include arms and ammunition, a series of illicit narcotics, exotic species of fish, tobacco, and certain
vehicles. The Third Schedule of the amendment lists “prohibited and restricted exports”. Prohibited exports include goods (the importation of which is prohibited by any other local law), and any articles, save for some personal items like rings and watches, as well as a high amount of cash. The Restricted Exports only list goods, the
exportation of which is regulated by local law. The Fourth Schedule of the Customs Tariff lists conditions to be complied with as provided under article 84 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, and rules regarding what commodities should be classified as being of community origin. The Amendment’s fifth schedule details the value of imported goods.
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Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan
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Monday May 27, 2019
Kaieteur News
SARA’s chances of successful oil blocks...
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.
FOR SALE Porcelain tiles. Huge reduction. 12x12, 12x24, 10x14, 24x24, 716 & 3/8 thickness.Tel 695-4785/643-1000/265-3541. 1 (250) Gen set power by NT55.Cummings.Contact#2690603/609-2350/644-1190. Plants on sale @ Bookland Gardens : Foxtail, Manilla Palms 1 to 4 ft tall, plus ornamental plants. Call: 6301925 1 Honda 450 Atv bike, 1 Cat 215 excavator, 1 Cat 428 back hoe, 1 Mack mixer truck 8 cuyds Tel#275-0367/683-7225
I N S TA L L AT I O N S , REPAIRS AND PARTS FOR AC, FRIDGE, WASHING MACHINE, STOVE ETC. CALL NICK 627-3206, 630-1600
1 Double steel wheel roller, 1 pnuematic 9 wheel roller, 2- tar kettles, small &large. 215-excavator spares, 1-3304 Cat Di engine Tel#275-0367/683-7225
Bookland Gardens is the new outdoor place for social/special events. On facebook. Email: booklandguyana@gmail.com #680-7354
Used imported glass showcase L 72'’ x H 39'’ x W 24'’$30,000 each. Tel#625-1514
Bedrooms and shopping in Central Georgetown. Email: caribamercare2014@gmail.com. Tel#226-2409/223-4159/6442388/687-5448
Used imported metal supermarket shelves, Height 6ft x Length 4ft x 8 Shelves $30,000 each. Tel#625-1514 PROPERTY FOR SALE
Jacob’s Jewellery and Pawnshop. Tel#227-8748/ 622-4970 16 Pike Street, Kitty. Georgetown
House for sale, Eccles Housing Scheme. 7 bedrooms, 3 toilets and bathrooms enclosed. $28.5M. Call 642-0391/ 001447587233657/ yasharabhola4@gmail.com
Professional Repair Service: Computers, Tv’s (LCD & LED), Cellphones & Other Electronics.Ph#629-6470/ 696-2843.Email :akinscott@outlook.com
Lot 89 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown. Next door to Mike’s Pharmacy.Land size- 3431.25 Sq.ft. Phone: 617-5323, 6668052.
We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar
Roxanne Burnham $20M, South Gardens $10M, $35M (100x100), Norton St $18M, Alberttown $35M, Diamond $14M #231-2199/618-7483
VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Rav 4 PHH series. Price negotiable. Contact #6462131,630-0915 One 2014-2015 Honda Vezel Pxx series, good as new. Price $4.7M Neg #689-5103 1 shortbase supercustom minibus for parts. #664-0802
Transported Property in Regent St, between Wellington & Camp St. Tel#655-3332 Opposite Guyoil Gas Station 2 storey building, Broad St (Business area) Georgetown. Contact Ray’s Realty #6279685
LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/6912561
2 storey concrete property 11 (classey) self contained rooms, Broad St, Georgetown. Contact Ray’s Realty #6279685
FOR RENT
WANTED
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Salesgirls & porters. Apply with written application at Best Buy Food Supplies 1E Dennis & Middleton Sts, Campbellville
Building at Coverden, East Bank Demerara. Call #6231615 Two well-appointed in Belvoir Court, Bel Air, Georgetown. Tel#592-627-3650/223-0654/ 225-0605 Mining land for rent #6215900 Barr St Kitty, Upper flat perfect for business. Contact Ray’s Realty #627-9685
(1) Security and (1) Driver to work in Georgetown. Call #227-1717 1 male cook to work in Interior $100,000 - montlhy. Tel#6723359 1 Security personnel to work shift. 6 Days a week. Tel# 2275536/ 223-0504 1 Noah or Voxy to Rent for 2 months. #646-8748 Caregiver for elderly female required to cook , clean. Call: 675-6723, recommendation required
EDUCATION Interested in learning chess? Call Agnus Chess Institute on Tel#630-6458 or Whatsapp 657-7543. Classes commence June 1,2019
VACANCY
(From page 15) Cataleya Energy Limited. It should be noted that Ratio Guyana Limited represents a joint venture partnership between ExxonMobil subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) and Cataleya. Cataleya on its own, holds 25% of the petroleum rights in the Block while Hess holds 15%. The Kaieteur Block is particularly significant since it is adjacent to the Stabroek Block, where the Liza discovery was made by ExxonMobil in 2015. Liza was the first oil discovery in Guyana and 11 additional discoveries have since been made in the block area. To date, the total proven reserves in the block amount to more than five billion barrels of oil. Esso’s Head of Public and Government Affairs, Deedra Moe, confirmed that an environmental baseline survey is being pursued on the Kaieteur Block to get a sense of the current conditions. She said that this has to be done before planning for future drilling. Further to this, Moe said
Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 25-45, Car/Van license. Call #642-9823 (1) Couple to work & Live on a farm. Tel#673-1131
CAR RENTAL DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL CALL: 225-7126 & 2263693 -DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL @ YAHOO.COM/ W W W . D O L L Y SAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’sPER DAY- CALL: 656-0087 / 6435122,EMAIL:PRO_ A U T O R E N T A L @YAHOO.COM LAND FOR SALE Parfaite Harmonie $1.5M $3M $2.7M Herstelling $4M $5.5M Providence Eccles $6.5M Farm $5M. Parfaite ten year up $2.5M Call: 666-2326 V/Hoop WCD. 48ft x 1300ft. Call: 609-5672 Transported land 11.6 acres. Lot 15 public road. #2 Village W.C.B. Price $18M. Contact 686-4818, 648-7109 2 acre- V/Hoop WCD. Tel# 621-6918/697-7731 House lots at Middle Rd G/ town Enterprise ECD and Providence EBD. Contact Ray’s Realty #627-9685
VACANCY FOR FULLTIME HOUSEKEEPER TO WORK AT AAGMAN RESTAURANT, SHERIFF ST. CALL: 219-0158 VACANCY FOR A FULL TIME/PARTTIME WAITER/ WAITRESS TO WORK AT AAGMAN RESTAURANT. CALL: 219-0158 Miners (Pit workers) to work in Konawaruk location. Call: 618-2020 Vacancy exist for 1 cook for a family, must have experience between 25-40 yrs old. Call: 231-8737
VACANCY DemBake @ Land of Canaan is seeking distributors & experienced drivers & sales agents. Email CV: admin@demerarabakery.com / 266-5848 Experienced male sales attendant, stocktaking knowledge, computer literate, excellent service attitude, able bodied.Key Food McDoom Village.
Taxation Personnel: 3 yrs experience.Minimum qualification CAT/Diploma Accounts Clerk. i n A c c o u n t a n c y. S e n d Requirements: CAT/ACCA application to bs.vacany Level 2, Quickbooks POS & @gmail.com. Accounts proficient, salary One domestic. Contact #223negotiable. (2) Driver/ 5273/74 Salesman. Tel#623-8780 Accounts clerk to work at the Female to help a 3- year old Contact boy learn to play musical office. instrument: piano, guitar etc. barry@adamantiumholdings.com or Tel#654-7162 Call: 623-1615
One secretary 28-40 years. One trainee refrigeration/ AC technician #683-8734/2310655
Cook: to cook and manage the A&S Fast food. Contact barry@adamantiumholdings.com or Tel#654-7162
Customer Service Rep, Two shifts rotated weekly (6am3pm & 3pm-11pm), Shell Station Providence, EBD. E m a i l : Shellramsburg@gmail.com
Sales clerk to work at A&S General Store and Gaulin Supermarket. Contact barry@adamantiumholdings.com or Tel#654-7162
English & Maths Tutor. Contact #223-5273/74
General domestic. 3 Days work. Must know to cook. Apply with 2 references. KeyFood McDoom village
that this survey is in keeping with the fact that the company has work commitments on all of its blocks. “And we make sure we’re fulfilling those commitments,” added the official. GIVEAWAYS The Kaieteur Block operators were also able to capture very favourable terms in the contract that it signed with the Ramotar administration. Exxon and its partners enjoy the right to use as much production as may be needed in its Petroleum Operations in the contract area for transportation and terminal systems. All quantities of any discovered oil so used or lost would be excluded from any calculations of entitlement. The Contractor also enjoys the right to send abroad, via an export point chosen, all petroleum to which it is entitled to free of any duty, tax, or other financial impost and to receive and retain abroad, all proceeds from the sale of such petroleum. The Kaieteur Block operators were able to secure in the PSA, provisions which allow it to be free of paying import duties on all equipment and supplies for operations. And these can all be freely exported when the operators are ready without paying any duties. As it relates to taxation, the Kaieteur Block PSA says that the contractor, its shareholders, members, partners, or affiliated companies are subjected to no tax payments, save and except for income and corporate tax. They are also exempted from the Property Tax Act. While the PSA only allows Guyana to benefit from a one percent royalty, the PSA states that the Minister may remit in whole or in part or defer payment of any royalties payable by the contractor.
I Am Legend Concert... From page 6 and guitarists as he stopped to catch his breath and they didn’t disappoint. His three female backup singers did great harmonisation to his voice and were very energetic as they did their choreographed moves. The performance lasted for approximate two and a half hours. That was not long enough for the fans who demanded that he return to the stage. By this time, the star was soaked in perspiration and his shirt clung to his skin. Hits and Jams Entertainment thanked the government, private sector and the citizens for their support as they announced that over 24,000 persons were in the stadium at the said time.
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$600,000 in grants to boost HEYS businesses in Moraikobai Marina Hope is among thousands of highly successful young Indigenous entrepreneurs who are realising life changing experiences as beneficiaries of the Hinterland Employment Youth Service (HEYS) programme, the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs flagship Youth programme. Twelve participants of the programme with existing business ventures in Moraikobai, MahaicaBerbice, Region 5, Friday last received a fifty-thousanddollar grant each, to boost their respective establishments. During a moving testimony of the changes realised in her life through the programme, Hope said “because of the HEYS programme, today I am now a seamstress, I have my own sewing machine, and a grocery shop. I never had this opportunity before and I am really thankful for it”. Latoya Jacobs another beneficiary, said “this HEYS programme did a wonderful thing for me in my life, I was at home sitting down doing nothing, and since this programme came out, I started knowing things that I never know especially the catering side. I never know to make like egg ball, pine-tart and now I trying with all of that”. Cheryl Clinton, a single parent said, “starting in the
A recipient collects her cheque. HEYS programme, I was living a single parent life, I have four kids and it was not easy and I must thank the Government for choosing to put the programmee in this village. I’m happy to be on board because from that I was able to build and own my own home and for that I am happy”. Clinton, speaking on behalf of her cousin Vanessa Clinton, who is a person with disability, but running a successful poultry business said, “It is helping her a lot because she has a family of two. It’s helping her to send her daughter to school and in the home and even help her
husband so the business she is in is great and it is helping her”. Amesha Adrian said, “Before this programme, I was a dependent person and then this programme came on board and I was able to take this opportunity and today I am no longer dependent, but independent. I can be able to help myself and help my husband also, to build a future life”. (A DPI feature) Programme Monitor for Coastal Villages, Neil Persaud said, “We have seen the fruits of this programme today, the evidence is there. The programme is a catalyst or an agent that causes
RCC holds fourth annual workshop at Pegasus In commemoration of Guyana’s 53rd Independence celebrations, the commissioners and staff of the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) hosted its fourth annual Child Rights and Independence Workshop at the Pegasus Hotel last Thursday. Special invitees included Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs, Valerie GarridoLowe, and Chairperson of the RCC, Aleema Nasir. The aim of this workshop was to engage multiple discussions with children and youth. It also focused on the history and significance of Independence. The RCC’s programme also aimed on realising, promoting and enlivening independence and human rights of the children of Guyana. Protection Chairperson Aleema Nasir related that the RCC has partnered with the Guyana Police Force and the Health Sector on ensuring that the rights of children are “activated and availed.”
She noted that goal is in pursuance of ridding society of all abuse and neglect that is constantly hindering the performance of the youths in Guyana. The Commission recently hosted a workshop with doctors and nurses of the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital. Its purpose was to educate participants on the articles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. That workshop uncovered that children in Region 6 still suffer from malnutrition. Education The Ministry of Education is considered as one of the principal partners of the RCC. That partnership is to ensure that the settings and conditions in which children are being educated are accorded with the best practices. That endeavour has not been limited to the coastland, but has a strong focus on the hinterland areas. The RCC has stressed on numerous occasions that schools with dormitories within the hinterlands must always represent safe places
for children to receive their education. Recent reports of lapses and deteriorating conditions at schools with dormitories in PotaroSiparuni, Region 8 are being reviewed. The RCC takes pride in championing the complete elimination of corporal punishment in the schools around Guyana. This is done in order of keeping up with international best practices. Recent sessions with teachers from Port Kaituma and Kwakwani have established that those teachers are still working in burdensome conditions. Empowerment The RCC’s Youth Empowerment Workshop in secondary schools has sought to produce and promote leadership roles by children and youth. The most recent workshop that was held at the St. Ignatius, Christainburg-Wismar and Kwakwani Secondary Schools, within Regions 9 and 10, have refreshed and reinforced faiths and beliefs in the capacity of the youths of Guyana.
development in a faster way and this is what HEYS is all about. It is for your development. I like the stories where you were once dependent, now you are independent, that’s the goal, that’s what we want”. He added that, “we want to thank those who would have made use of this opportunity to develop yourself and build and become independent so we want to encourage you to continue on that path”. Persaud further explained that Government has invested some $9.5M in the village of Moraikobai in an effort to empower them individually, but to also boost economic activities there. David James, who is the Legal Advisor to Minister of
Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock said he was pleased to see the vision of President David Granger for Hinterland development realised. “Today looking at what you have done, HEYS is a programme that has borne fruit and has fulfilled the promise that it was meant to be, the promise that it would improve your life, it would improve the life of your community, which means that you will have a better life”. He added that, “you have already shown that you have started well, you have shown the desire, you have shown the commitment and this is not an end in itself this could be the stepping stone to many things greater and bigger in the future, so I think that is the story and the lesson you should learn from HEYS”. He assured that because
of their success and “you are the future of Guyana”, Government remains committed to providing further support towards every aspect of development. Twenty youth from the village participated in the one-year programme (20172018), and to date, all of the participants have thriving businesses. However, the remaining eight participants will soon receive their grants. The village of Moraikobai is located some 98 miles up the Mahaicony River and is home to more than 600 residents, who mainly depend on logging, fishing and hunting for their daily existence. They can now boast of having established village shops, fuel depots, a salon, garment construction shops, snackettes, poultry farms, cassareep shops and ground provision farms.
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Kaieteur News
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Monday May 27, 2019
Monday May 27, 2019
French Open: Angelique Kerber suffers shock first-round defeat
Kerber has gone out at the first-round stage in Paris in three of the last four years. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber said the pain from an ankle injury was “not my excuse” after her shock first-round exit at the French Open. The German fifth seed lost 6-4 6-2 to world number 81 Anastasia Potapova. The three-time Grand Slam champion said she “did not have much expectation” after pulling out of the Madrid and Rome clay tournaments this month. Elsewhere, Spanish 19th s e e d G a r b i n e Muguruza came from a set down to beat American Taylor Townsend 5-7 6-2 6-2. Muguruza was broken for a second time late in the first set by the world number 83 but breezed through to win the next two sets in the first main draw match on the new Simonne Mathieu court. The 2016 French Open champion will play Sweden’s world number 172 Johanna Larsson in the second round, following her victory over Slovak Magdalena Rybarikova. Russian Potapova,
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Kaieteur News
playing in her first French Open, faces Marketa Vondrousova of the Czech Republic next. “My phone is exploding at the moment,” said a delighted Potapova after her surprise win. Meanwhile, Czech second s e e d K a r o l i n a Pliskova eased into the next round with a straight-set victory over Madison Brengle. The 27-year-old, who reached the semi-finals at Roland Garros in 2017, won 6-2 6-3 to set up a meeting with Slovakian qualifier Kristina Kucova. Last year’s runnerup Sloane Stephens also progressed yesterday, with the 26-year-old American winning a tie-break in the second set to beat Japan’s Misaki Doi 6-3 7-6 (7-4). Kerber, who was bidding for a career Grand Slam, had played only three matches in the current clay-court season before coming to Roland Garros. She admitted two weeks ago she was unsure she
‘Not the right place for me’... From page 32 said. “He needs to be a stronger leader, to be with the players and do the right thing. But he gave in to cricket politics. He allowed other people to make decisions and did not stand up for his players. I am being honest. I have told him this as well and he accepts it. If he hadn’t given in, we would probably not be in this situation today. Even if I see him today, that’s the only complaint I will have against him. “The number one rule in Sri Lanka is, if you are the captain, lead by example and do not allow any outsiders coming into that setup. That’s the only way we ran the show and survived. It was unfortunate and it was not easy, either. You need to deal with a lot of unwanted elements. But if you are a strong character, that’s something you have to do. I have nothing against him. He is a brilliant cricketer and a wonderful person but he did not handle this situation well. He should be the one who is leading this team at the World Cup. He had to give up because it was too much for him. But it was his fault. “I think [Chandimal] was another victim of cricket politics. In the sense, he was another player like Angelo Mathews who was snared to elements behind the scene and went along with them rather than taking control of the team and being a strong leader.”
would be able to compete. “At the end I didn’t have much expectation for the tournament. And I think the feeling I had before the tournament was right,” she said after her defeat on Philippe Chatrier court. “I was able to practise in the last few days really good, but it was not a long claycourt preparation with everything. At the end, I was just happy to at least go on court, playing a match, and of course it is not like I hoped for.” On whether she was suffering pain, she added: “It is not my excuse, I tried my best. I know there is still a little bit of work to do to play matches 100%, into sliding, to jumping on the foot, and on the leg.”
U.S. beat Mexico 3-0 in women’s World Cup warm-up (Reuters) - The U.S. wrapped up their preparations for the women’s World Cup yesterday with a 3-0 win over Mexico on a sweltering day in New Jersey. The U.S., who will go to France undefeated since January, struggled for much of the game against a resolute Mexican side but scored two late goals to put a more convincing sheen on the scoreline. Tobin Heath got her 30th international goal in her 150th game when she put the home side ahead after 11 minutes following sloppy play from the Mexican defence. Carli Lloyd had a goal chalked off for offside midway through the second half but made amends with a quarter of an hour to go when she set up substitute Mallory Pugh to
double the U.S. lead with a scrappy tap-in. Another substitute, Christen Press, rifled home to make it 3-0 with two minutes of the game remaining. Cecilia Santiago was excellent in goal for the young Mexican side but neither team had their most inspiring afternoon in front of 26,332 fans at the Red Bull Arena. The result means the U.S. are now undefeated in their last nine games with four consecutive clean sheets. The current world champions open the defence of their title against Thailand on June 11 and then face Chile and Sweden in their remaining group fixtures. The tournament kicks off in Paris on June 7 when hosts France face South Korea.
Marta injury worries Brazil ahead of Jamaica opener
SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazil striker Marta is a doubt for their women’s World Cup opener against Jamaica next month after t h e c o u n t r y ’s f o o t b a l l confederation (CBF) said on Saturday she had picked up a hamstring injury in training. Marta, named Women’s Player of the Year a record six times, picked up the injury at Brazil’s camp in Portugal and while the CBF did not clarify how serious the injury was coach Vadao told a Globo website she could miss their June 9 opener. “Our worry is just about the first game,” he said, “and whether she has time to recover or not. “She feels fine. We’ll wait
a couple of days for the medical department to give me a more concrete appraisal.” The absence of Marta, who has scored a record 15 women’s World Cup goals, would make Brazil’s life even more difficult at the June 7 to
July 7 tournament in France, where they also meet Australia and Italy in the group phase. The finalists in 2007 come into the tournament having lost their last nine matches, their worst ever run.
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Monday May 27, 2019
Kaieteur News
Raptors rally past Bucks for first Finals appearance TORONTO — The Toronto Raptors made history the hard way Saturday night, reaching the NBA Finals for the first time after rallying past the Milwaukee Bucks 100-94 in Game 6. Trailing by 15 points with 2:18 remaining in the third quarter, the Raptors scored the final 10 points of the frame. Then, with Kawhi Leonard on the bench for the first 3:30 of the fourth quarter, they took a two-point lead. Leonard returned, and the game was in good hands. He finished with 27 points — seven in the fourth quarter — a career-best 17 rebounds and seven assists. The Raptors, who lost the first two games of the Eastern Conference finals before winning four straight, will open the NBA Finals at home on Thursday night against the Golden State Warriors. Pascal Siakam added 18 points, Kyle Lowry had 17 and Fred VanVleet scored 14 for the Raptors. Lowry has been through many playoff failures in seven years with the Raptors. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 21 points and 11 rebounds for the Bucks, who had the NBA’s best record (60-22) during the regular season. Brook Lopez added 18 points with nine rebounds and three blocks, Khris Middleton had 14 points, Ersan Ilyasova 13, and Malcolm Brogdon and George Hill 10 each. Antetokounmpo was asked about Leonard’s playoff experience. “You can tell from the way he plays,” Antetokounmpo said of the 2014 Finals MVP. “He has so much patience, he knows what we wants to do, he has faith in himself and he has been in the Finals before.”
Serge Ibaka’s dunk tied the game at 78 with 10:31 to play in the game, and Siakam’s jumper and VanVleet’s 3-pointer capped a 100 run to give Toronto a five-point lead. A key play was Lowry’s steal and his handoff to Leonard, who dunked to increase the lead to eight with 6:46 remaining. The Bucks came back with a 7-0 run to pull within one point on Antetokounmpo’s layup with 5:19 to play. Marc Gasol’s 3-pointer had Toronto ahead by four, but Lopez reduced it to two with a layup at 3:29. The Raptors went up by five on Siakam’s tip-in with 2:06 to play. Lopez made two free throws with 29.6 seconds to play, cutting the lead to three, but Milwaukee never had the ball within one possession in the closing minutes. Siakam and Leonard finished the game off with free throws. The Bucks were 6-for-9 from 3-point range to earn a 31-18 lead after one quarter. Ilyasova’s 3-pointer with 7:48 to play in the first half put the Bucks ahead 38-23. VanVleet’s 3-pointer with 2:28 to play in the half cut the lead to seven. Ibaka’s dunk with 1:32 left had the Raptors within five points, and VanVleet’s jumper reduced the lead to three with 1:07 left. The Bucks scored the final four points of the half to lead 50-43. Middleton’s second 3-pointer in three minutes had the lead at 14 with 3:46 left in the third. The Bucks worked the lead to 15 before the Raptors went on a 10-0 run, with Leonard scoring eight. The Bucks led 76-71 after three quarters. (Field Level Media)
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dribbles the ball past Toronto Raptors forward Kawhi Leonard (2) in the first half of game six of the Eastern Conference final at Scotiabank Arena. (Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports)
Federer graces new-look Roland Garros with stylish opening win
Switzerland’s Roger Federer in action during his first round match against Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego. (REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach)
Toronto Raptors forward Kawhi Leonard (2) hoist the Eastern Conference trophy after winning game six of NBA Eastern Conference final at Scotiabank Arena. (John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports)
Rain robs Windies of vital practice BRISTOL, England, CMC – The West Indies’ preparations for the upcoming ICC World Cup were foiled by inclement weather, with their first official warm-up game against South Africa being abandoned here yesterday due to heavy showers. The Windies were hoping to use the match as practice, with their opening match of the World Cup against Pakistan just five days away. However, despite the match being restarted after a lengthy delay, the rains came again, forcing the match to end in a no-result. South Africa had progressed nicely to 60 without loss in the tenth over, when the first
set of showers came. Two more attempts were also made, but both were short-lived as showers forced the players to seek shelter with the Proteas 95 without loss in 12.4 overs. Openers Hashim Amla, who was unbeaten on 51 and Quinton de Kock, who scored 37 not out, were the batsmen at the crease. It was tough going for the Windies’ bowlers up to that point, with captain Jason Holder’s five overs for 29 runs being the most economical of the five used. The West Indies will play their final official warm-up game against New Zealand at Bristol tomorrow.
PARIS (Reuters) - Roger Federer made a stylish comeback to the French Open after a three-year hiatus as the revamped, widelyacclaimed Roland Garros burst into life yesterday. The 20-time Grand Slam champion, back on the Paris clay 10 years after his only title here, swept aside Italian Lorenzo Sonego 6-2 6-4 6-4 in a graceful performance on an expanded court Philippe Chatrier. “The reception I got today was crazy, it was really nice to see a full stadium for a first round like this. It was a beauty,” the 37-yearold Swiss told reporters. Earlier, 2016 champion Garbine Muguruza inaugurated the new court Simonne Mathieu with a first-round victory, describing the semisunken 5,000-seater as a ‘cosy’ place. Situated within a botanical garden at the East end of Roland Garros, the court is cocooned by greenhouses featuring rare tropical plants. “It’s a cute court. It’s in a very different place. You don’t feel like you are around a court. It’s like in a garden,” Muguruza said. Some top players, however, will not get much chance to enjoy the new stadium, with
former world number ones Angelique Kerber and Venus Williams sent packing along with former winner Svetlana Kuznetsova. Opening proceedings on Chatrier, Germany’s Kerber was downed in two short sets by Russia’s Anastasia Potapova as her attempt at completing a career slam was cut short on her least favorite surface. Seven-time Grand Slam champion Williams was also eliminated in straight sets by Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina, the ninth seed and one of a dozen contenders for the Suzanne Lenglen Cup. Last year’s semi-finalist Marco Cecchinato of Italy, seeded 16th, was at the receiving end of Nicolas Mahut’s spectacular comeback as the local favorite advanced into the second round with a 2-6 6-7(8-6) 6-4 6-2 6-4 victory on court Simonne Mathieu. In the women’s draw, second seed Karolina Pliskova and seventh seed Sloane Stephens eased into round two while on the men’s side, Greek sensation Stefanos Tsitsipas and Japan’s Kei Nishikori also progressed. Top favorites Rafa Nadal, the 11-time champion, and world number one Novak Djokovic will be in first-round action today.
Monday May 27, 2019
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Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate West Indies ready for World Cup: Holder Association successful at NAFMA… The Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate Association successful competed at the NAFMA international championships in Atlantic City New Jersey over the past few days. The Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate Association took a team including Master Lloyd Ramnarine where they battled against competitors on an international level. Senior Division: Azariah Duncan 1st in traditional kata, 1st in kumite, 1st in freeform. Chandrapaul Sukhu 1st Kumite, 2nd in freeform, 2nd in traditional kata. Altaf Singh 1st in traditional kata, 2nd kumite, 3rd freeform. Black Belt division: Zafar Lee Ramnarine 2nd in kumite, 3rd in freeform 3rd weapon and 2nd in traditional kata. Raul Joseph 3rd in traditional kata, Abrar Wahid 3rd in kumite and 3rd in freeform. Master Lloyd Ramnarine made a return after 18 years into the martial arts arena and finished 1st in kumite and also received a special award from Grandmaster Jose Torres. He promised his students he will compete alongside them in the future. Master Lloyd Ramnarine congratulated
each student who participated in what was described as a very rigid international martial arts championship. He thanked sponsors Anand Persaud Dental Lab, Dougie Beer Garden in Bagotstown, Howard Restaurant in Eccles, National Horse Racing, Atlantic Marine Supply and Silvie’s Variety Store. Master Lloyd Ramnarine would also like to extend special thanks to Republic Bank for sponsoring Mr Azariah Duncan. Persons interested in learning martial arts which benefits are self control, self defense, self discipline and improve overall health, can become a member of any of their schools which include Iron Fist Martial Arts Academy located in Diamond/Grove Primary School, Vreed En Hoop Martial Arts Academy located opposite Royal Castle, Herstelling Tiger Martial Arts Academy at the NDC building, Invisible Kicks Martial Arts Academy in la Parfait Harmony, Red Dragon Martial Arts Academy located at the Bell West Primary School. Contact can be made with instructors on 698-6727, 673-0823, 698-7456, 266-2869 and 622-4857.
Inclement weather forces Ryan Crawford Horserace meet to be rescheduled again The Inclement weather has forced the organisers of the one day horserace meet organised by the Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club to reschedule the activity once again. The event which was scheduled for yesterday (Independence Day) at the Club Facility, Alness Village Corentyne, East Berbice, has been rescheduled to Next Sunday, June 2nd at the same venue weather permitting. The programme remains the same with seven races listed for the day. The feature event is the Alness Classic over 1400 M for a winning purse of $500,000.
There is the ‘I and Lower’ event over 1000 M for a first prize of $240,000. There is a race for ‘3-YearOld maiden horses’, which will see the animals running over 900M for a prize of $200,000. The horses classified ‘L and Lower’ will be competing for a pole position takings of $200,000 over 1200M. The 1000M event for horses classified ‘J and Lower’, will see the winner pocketing $170,000. The ‘L3 Unclassified’ horses will race over 1000 M with the winner taking away $100,000.
The ‘L1 and Lower’ 1200M race will see the animals competing for a top prize of $100,000. The ‘L2 and Lower’ race is for colts and geldings, over 1000M with the first prize being $80,000. Trophies and other incentives will be given to the respective winners, outstanding jockeys and stables. Banks DIH Limited and Attorney-at-Law Rajendra Poonai SC are among the major sponsors. Contact can be made with Marcel Crawford Jr on 6785342 or 696-9009 for further information.
3rd Independence 5k road race
Mbihia looking to maintain 100% record in Guyana The Guyana Committee of Service (GCOS) in collaboration with Rising Stars Athletics Club are all set for today’s third Independence 5k road race that will feature Kenyan Godffrey Mbihia this afternoon from 15:00hrs at the National Park. The 40-year-old Mbihia is on a hot streak after winning the C to C 5k race in the twin island republic of Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) last weekend before winning the Ex Athletes Association’s 10k race yesterday morning in Georgetown and the Kenyan will be aiming to continue his form. The race, which will begin and finish at the National Park, will have over $800,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs with categories from under-10 to masters. In addition, with a bid to increase the competitiveness of the event, the GCOS has noted to this publication that the seasoned Kenyan athlete who has experience competing in Europe and North America, will
be engaging local middle and long distance athletes to help them improve on their times through discussions on training regimes, diet etc. The third Independence 5k road race has been sanctioned by the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) and will begin in the National Park then proceed into Thomas Lands, East into Vlissingen Road before turning left into Carifesta Avenue, Left into Camp Street, left into Thomas Lands then back into the National Park for the finish at the children monuments. Among the sponsors for the event are to Ken Phillips (Antarctic Maintenance), Ministry of the Presidency, Office of the Prime Minister, Guyana Committee of Service, ENetworks , Bk Inc., Busta company, Kevin Jeffrey, Andrew king, Spad Inc., GTT, Star Party Rentals, Christopher Jones (National Sports Commission), Real Value Supermarket and Paul’s Auto Spares.
BRISTOL, England, CMC – West Indies captain Jason Holder isn’t too concerned about a lack of playing time for his troops following yesterday’s rained out match against South Africa. Only 12.4 overs were possible before heavy showers brought an end to the day’s proceedings, with South Africa 95 without loss. However, Holder said all of the players in the 15-man squad had either played in the Indian Premier League or took part in the recently concluded Tri-Nations Series involving Ireland and Bangladesh. “It was not ideal today with the rain, but it’s out of our control. Obviously, it’s a situation where we need to hope we get some cricket in in the next two days against New Zealand. “We just came from Ireland and playing the TriNation Series there, so we’ve had a lot of cricket leading up to this. Some of the guys have been playing IPL cricket and everyone was playing cricket leading up to this tournament,
West Indies captain Jason Holder believes his side is prepared for the ICC World Cup. so I think we’re all well attuned to the conditions and looking to start the tournament,” Holder said. In today’s shortened game, Proteas opener Hashim Amla scored an unbeaten half-century and together with Quinton de Kock scored at seven and a half runs an over. Most of the West Indies’ bowlers were expensive and Holder said there needed to be improvements in that area heading into Tuesday’s final warm-up match against New Zealand “We have to make some
slight adjustments in terms of our length. I think generally we were a bit too short and we offered a bit of width at times too, so especially in these conditions where the ball doesn’t do as much I just think that you need to be as accurate as you possibly can in terms of holding a line and length and try to create some problems there,” Holder said. “If you stack up some dot balls and stack up some pressure overs together then more often than not you’ll get the wickets you’re looking for.”
West Indies women draw first blood against Ireland DUBLIN, Ireland, CMC – West Indies captain Stafanie Taylor’s aggressive halfcentury and a four-wicket haul by Afy Fletcher led them to a comprehensive 64-run win over Ireland in the first of three T20 internationals here yesterday. Taylor’s knock of 75 from 53 balls was the backbone of the Windies’ eventual total of 139 for four from their 20 overs, after winning the toss and choosing to bat. But it was their disciplined bowling effort which paved the way for an emphatic victory. Only Kim Garth who topscored with 46 got into double digits, as Fletcher ran through the lower order to help dismiss Ireland for only 75 with eight balls left in the contest. The home side got off to a horrible start when Gaby Lewis lost her wicket in the first over, bowled by Shamilia Connell. Garth joined Mary Waldron at the crease and the two shared a 31-run stand for the second wicket, the largest partnership of their innings. But when Waldron was run out by Fletcher for six, Shauna Kavanagh went one run later and she was quickly followed by Una Raymond-Hoey for a duck as Ireland slipped to 34 for four. Soon after, Rebecca
Stokell became the first of Fletcher’s victims, trapped leg before wicket for just five. Fletcher also accounted for the wickets of Louise Little for three and Lara Maritz for one, before dismissing Garth, who was the last wicket to fall with Ireland well short of their target. Captain Laura Delany was unable to bat after being injured. Fletcher finished with the spectacular figures of four for 14 from 3.4 overs while Chinelle Henry grabbed two wickets. Earlier, Taylor produced a captain’s knock to almost single-handedly guide the Windies to their total. She first shared a 47-run
second wicket stand with Britney Cooper who made 17 and then posted 75 runs with Shemaine Campbell (20) for the third wicket. Taylor was eventually dismissed with nine balls left, with the score 128 for three in the 19th over. She struck 11 boundaries and one six during her hourlong innings. Henry then struck two boundaries in a quickfire nine to bring the innings to a close on a high. Scores: WEST INDIES 139 for four off 20 overs (Stafanie Taylor 75); IRELAND 75 all out in 18.4 overs (Kim Garth 46; Afy Fletcher 4-14, Chinelle Henry 2-15).
Teachers and Prison Officers... From page 30 similar programme was already held in Region No 3. Other courses are planned for Bartica in May, Essequibo in June, Linden in June and Georgetown later in the year. An ITTF level one course is planned before the end of this year. The activity involved schools and Clubs from Crabwood Creek Upper Corentyne, schools from East and West Canje, New Amsterdam and East Bank Berbice. Among those participating were St Therese’s Primary, Berbice Educational Institute, Port Mourant Sec, Canje Secondary, Central Corentyne Secondary, Berbice High School, Tagore Memorial Secondary, Tutorial Academy, Fort Ordnance Primary, Vryman’s Evans Secondary, New Amsterdam Prison Service Sport Club, Skeldon Line Path Secondary and New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary. The participants will be presented with certificates of participation at a presentation ceremony shortly. (Samuel Whyte)
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Reliance Hustlers, RG XI, Bacchus Bulls and Queenstown B through to final four Reliance Hustlers, RG XI, Bacchus Bulls and Queenstown have secured their places in the semi finals of the Banks DIH softball cricket competition following victories in their respective quarterfinal matches played recently at Affiance, Essequibo Coast. Reliance Hustlers defeated Queenstown Ariel by four wickets. Batting first, Queenstown Ariel managed 142 all out in 13.2 overs. Frank Satrohan made 63, while Brian Mangar scored 37. Narendra Madholall, Ramesh Narine and Daniel Bholo picked up two wickets each. Reliance Hustlers responded with 1476 in 12.1 overs. Mark Austin struck 57 not out while Bholo made 22 not out. Anil Durga took 2-20. RG XI beat Diehard Brothers by six wickets. Diehard Brothers took first strike and posted 182-4 off their allocation of 15 overs. Patrick Rooplall stroked 78, while Yadesh Semangal cracked 74; Dovendra Mohan claimed 2-24. RG XI replied with 184-4 in 13 overs. Quentin Sampson slammed 60, while Mohan made 58 and Adina Smith 46. Harrinarine Panday captured 3-7. Bacchus Bulls overcame Richmond Ravens by 57 runs. In a match which was reduced to 10 overs and played under lights, Bacchus Bulls scored 143-6 with Latchman Rohit scoring 64 and Neiland Cadogan, the tournament’s leading run scorer and only centurion so far, made 34. Safraz Ally snared 2-36. Richmond Ravens could only muster 86-6 in reply. Marvin Pearson scored 30 and Sugrim Ahiram 22; Thakur Samlall had 2-13. Queenstown B upset pretournament favourites Adventure Sports Club by 30 runs. Following their insertion, Queenstown B rallied to 136-8. Akeel Wallace stroked 64 while Marvin Seymour made 21; Shaz Grovesnor picked up 2-25. Adventure Sports Club were limited to 106-6 in response. Gavindra Sharma led with 34 and Javid Azeez made 21; Motilall Narine claimed 2-17. Earlier, Bacchus Bulls defeated Adventure SC by 25 runs to top group B. Bacchus Bulls rattled up 225-5, taking first strike. Rohit made 73 while Cadogan got 58 and Ganesh Mangal 46. Grovesnor had 2-36. Adventure SC replied with
Monday May 27, 2019
Kaieteur News
Pepsi Mike Parris U-16 Boxing C/Ships staged
Neiland Cadogan 200 in 15 overs. Chandi Jairam made 48 and Grovesnor 43; Yaseer Mohamed and Mangal took two wickets each. Queenstown/Ariel beat RGXI by seven wickets to top group A. Batting first, RG XI scored 99-2 in eight overs. Sampson made 48 and David Williams 38. Queenstown Ariel responded with 103-3 in 7.2 overs. Brian Mangar made 48.
The young Boxers show off their medals on Saturday at the Six Head Gym. The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) held its Pepsi Mike Parris U-16 School boys & Juniors Boxing Championships at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Boxing Gym in Albouystown on Saturday last. There were three exhibition fights in the 10 bout card which provided some entertaining fights from the youngsters. This card was also used as preparation for the Caribbean Schoolboys and Junior Championships. In Saturday’s action: Malachi Sealy (YA) lost to Sean Graham (FYF) Dwayne Baptiste (FYF) won against Maldini DaSilva (YA)
Exhibition - Akeelah Vancooten (FYF) vs Jermaine Andrews (FYF) Wayne Castillo (FYF) lost to Malachi Jones (FYF) Daniel Wright (VBG) lost to Alex Butcher (YA) Exhibition - Alesha Jackman (FYF) Vs Ryan Benjamin (FYF) Jaqwan Milo (FYF) won Against Sherlon Stephen (YA) Exhibition - Abiola Jackman (FYF) Vs Hasha Holder (YA) Emmanuel Pompey (YA) won against Joshua Joseph (FYF) Exhibition - Richard Howard (FYF) Vs Shanquancy Wright (VBG) Patrick Harvey (FYF) won against Francis Sukhu (RHJ)
Teachers and Prison Officers taught Table Tennis skills in Berbice Another successful Basic Table Tennis Coaching Course was recently conducted by the National Sports Commission/Guyana Table Tennis Association in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture Youth and Sports. The 12 hours training sessions was conducted over three days at the New Amsterdam Prison Sports Club, Penitentiary Walk, New Amsterdam, Berbice.
The programme which involved both theoretical and practical sessions was conducted by National Table Tennis Coach, Linden Johnson. The majority of the participants were teachers drawn from both primary and secondary schools in region six. The aims and Objectives of the programme was toenable each of our teachers to become self-supportive by developing an infrastructure of administration, coaching
and officiating with clear development plans in place, which will ensure sustainability of initiatives; create an integrated coaching structure that incorporates teacher education and player development at school, club and also at the national and international levels; create an umpiring structure that incorporates umpire education, participation and development at the school, club, national and international levels;
motivates and encourage schools and players to join forces and work in partnership. According to Johnson the programme was a bit challenging for him at first since most of the teachers were first timers. He however noted that they gradually developed an understanding of the sport and adapted well. He is hopeful that the knowledge learnt could be transcended to the students, since the main objective of
The participants and officials take a group photo during the programme.
the programme is to have the students benefit through the reintroduction of table tennis in schools. He noted that the programme provided the teachers with the ability to be self-supportive and develop a coaching an administering perspective. Each participant received table tennis rackets and six tennis balls to be used in the schools. Johnson explained that a Continued on page 29
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Metro Office and Computer Supplies renews sponsorship of RHTYSC, MS Female Team Stationery giants Metro Office and Computer Supplies last Sunday renewed their long standing sponsorship of Guyana’s only Female Cricket Team, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS Metro Female Team. The Company has been sponsoring the team since its formation in 2009. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, the only youth and sport organisation in the history of Guyana to ever receive a National Award has invested heavily into its female team over the years. Secretary/CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS stated that the Club would continue to invest into female cricket and hailed the continued cooperation of Metro. The Team, Foster stated, has made the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club very proud over the years and even won the only National Female Championship to ever be organised by the Guyana Cricket Board in 2009. Over the years, the Rose Hall Town Metro Female Team has proven to be the strength of Berbice Female Inter-county Team with over eighty percentage of Berbice Team being members of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club. Foster expressed total
disappointment that no other club in Guyana has seen it fit to invest in the development of Female Cricket, while the Berbice Cricket Board is the only county Board which organises tournaments for the fairer sex. The rapid development of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club female members came about because of being exposed to daily practice, involvement in coaching programmes and regular playing with their male counterparts. West Indies players Shemaine Campbelle and Erva Giddings are permanent members of the Rose Hall Town Bakewell Second Division and Pepsi Intermediate teams and match their male counterparts’ performance on the field. During practice, female members are treated as equal and as such they develop at a very rapid rate. Special mention was made of Uma Matadin and Abigail Kishun who only recently joined the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club but are now Guyana Under-19 and Berbice Senior Players respectively. Over the years the Metro Female has produced dozens of players for Berbice and Guyana including Shemaine Campbelle, Erva Giddings,
Metro Regional Manager Danny Ramnarine hands over sponsorship to Hilbert Foster in the presence of Metro Female Players. Plaffiana Millington, Melanie Henry, Nikita Toney, Jackie Singh, Sheneta Grimmond, Shabiki Gajnabi, Mariam Samaroo, Dian Prahalad, Uma Matadin, Deborah Vanderstoop, Aleema Arokium, Rushanna Lynch and Sherica Campbelle. Campbelle and Giddings have gone on to play for the West Indies, while Grimmond
Sentinel Security Inc onboard with AP Invitational in major way Sentinel Security Inc, a returning sponsor of the Aliann Pompey Invitational has committed to the event in a major way for 2019. Regarded as the biggest track and field event in Guyana, the Aliann Pompey Invitational will pay any female athlete of Guyanese origin $200,000 (USD $1,000) should they be able to break any national record. The fantastic opportunity for the national women was made possible by Sentinel Security Inc and Aliann Pompey was ecstatic about the development. “Yesterday (Friday) I watched Guyana’s Olympian Aliyah Abrams run 51.63 seconds over 400m and I saw my national record flash before my eyes. It’s won’t stand much longer - we have a tremendous group of young athletes coming up and believe me they are thoroughly motivated to rewrite the record books. “I am thrilled that Sentinel Security Inc. sees the value in supporting our athletes at
this level. One of the principles on which this competition was initially founded is to provide not only a platform for our athletes, but a way for them to make a living from this sport; starting here. At the end of it all, it’s a job. The satisfaction from representing the Golden Arrowhead is incomparable. To be able to earn a living doing so is something we need to do for our athletes,” Pompey started. Executive Director of Sentinel Security Noreen Gaskin was nothing but complimentary of the AP Invitational and the development it fosters for Guyanese athletes. “Sentinel Security Inc has always held the vision that supporting the development of Sports is not only a corporate commitment, but also vital for the improvement of Sports as a whole and Athletes in Guyana. “Providing resources to those associated with organising events towards
this eventual achievement is a priority. We have always demonstrated this through various and varying efforts, and are particularly thrilled with the initiative of Ms Aliann Pompey. In fact, Sentinel feels that she shares its vision aptly and stands ready to support her in her venture and calls on others to recognise and support her for the development of Sports in our Nation,” Gaskin highlighted. Meanwhile, other sponsors singing on with the event to date are the Guyana Olympic Association, Banks DIH, the Athletics Association of Guyana, IAAF, ConSudAtle, Ministry of Education, SleepIn Hotel and Casino, Star Party Rentals, National Sport Commission, Quality Plus Fast Foods and the Ministry of Communities (Green Generation Guyana). The AP Invitational is set for July sixth at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora and will feature Guyana’s top athletes.
was selected in the Regional Team World Cup 20/20 squad but had to withdraw due to injury, but together with Gajnabi have been called to numerous West Indies Training Camps. Campbelle and Gajnabi captained the National Senior and Under-19 Teams in 2019. Erva Giddings at the recent 29th Award C e r e m o n y copped the 2018 Female Cricketer of the Year Award w i t h h e r We s t I n d i e s counterpart Shemaine Campbelle was runner-up. Mariam Samaroo was named Discipline Player of
the Year, Abigail Kishun as Most Improved, Uma Matadin the Most Committed, Sheneta Grimmond as the Most Promising, while Shabiki Gajnabi won the Fielder of the Year Award. Asst Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu, who heads the Club’s Cricket Section along with Ravindranauth Kissoonlall, Keith Hicks and Tyrone Pottaya, expressed gratitude to Metro for their continued confidence in the Club and hailed the contribution of its Chief Executive Officer Avia Lindie
and Berbice Regional Manager Danny Ramnarine. Naidu assured the Metro Staff that the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club and the Female Team would continue to represent their brand with discipline, passion and commitment. Regional Manager Danny Ramnarine in handing over the 2019 sponsorship, hailed the Female Team as true ambassadors of the Metro Brand. The Company, Ramnarine stated was delighted to be associated with Guyana’s leading youth and sport organisation.
Corona Futsal Tournament
Semifinalists to be decided tonight at Gymnasium The fourth annual Corona Futsal tournament continues tonight at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue and Princess Street with knockout matches as quarterfinal action is set to kickoff from 21:00hrs. The first match will be sure to provide fireworks with Future Stars (group B winner) matching skills with West Front Road (Gold Is Money). All the fixtures are potential blockbusters, California Square will be pitted with the dangerous and fan favourite Bent Street in game two which is scheduled for a 22:00hrs kick off. See detailed fixtures below: 5/27/2019 Quarter Finals 21:00 hrs Future Stars 22:00 hrs Bent Street 23:00 hrs Back Circle 00:00 hrs Sparta Boss 6/1/2019 Semifinals 22:30 hrs Winner of 32 23:30 hrs Winner of 31
The penultimate clash will feature Back Circle and North East La Penitence going all out for a place in the semifinals of the tournament which will see the champion pocketing $500,000. The Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson led Sparta Boss side, which can easily boast as being one of the more successful ‘small goal’ team in Guyana, will face a tough opposition in Tiger Bay that topped Group C. The second place finishers in the tournament will pocket $250,000 and third will receive $125,000. Gymnasium West Front Road California Square North East La Penitence Tiger Bay Gymnasium Winner of 33 Winner of 34
Match # 31 32 33 34 Match # 35 36
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Two significant resolutions passed at GFF Ordinary Congress The GFF Executive at the Ordinary Congress 2019.
From back page brought to its attention in the future. Apart from the resolutions, President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, in his opening address thanked all GFF members and the ExCo for their contributions in advancing the game. He indicated that this remarkable period of stability in football has resulted in exceptional progress in every department of the game, on and off the field of play. He outlined the six key goals the ExCo adopted that were responsible for the game
to be moving in the right direction. These were: good governance, improved facilities, capacity building, forging corporate and social relationships, improved financial management, and improved livelihoods for the players. The President also singled out a number of noteworthy achievements during the past year and these included the historic qualification of the Senior Golden Jaguars for the Concacaf Gold Cup; the significant role played by corporate partners such as
National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO), Pele Alumni Corporation, Guyana Beverage Inc., Ansa McAl Trading and Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC); the role of ExCo Member Dion Inniss for overseeing the successful and historic hosting of the FIFA Development Conference on May 14-15; the Den Amstel Football Club for winning the Stag Super 16 KO tournament; the Fruta Conquerors Football Club for winning back to back Elite League
competitions and for playing unbeaten in the 2018/2019 edition; the conferment of the National Award of Medal of Service on former FIFA Referee Lawrence “Sparrow” Griffith; and the dedication and commitment of the GFF staff. Other issues of Congress’ deliberations included a presentation by the Director of Competitions, Ian Alves, on the proposed Federation Cup, slated to commence in August this year, involving all 10 Elite League Clubs plus 14 clubs from Regional Member Associations.
GFF President Wayne Forde during his Activity Report presentation.
‘Not the right place for me’ - Jayawardene declines SLC World Cup offer
Mahela Jayawardene leads a training session. (Getty Images)
ESPNcricinfo - Mahela Jayawardene had been invited to play a role in Sri Lanka’s World Cup campaign, but declined largely because he remains disillusioned with Sri Lanka Cricket’s general direction. Now a two-time IPLwinning coach, Jayawardene has in the past produced plans to overhaul Sri Lanka’s domestic cricket system, only for those proposals to be rejected by SLC. Last year, a
committee featuring Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara and Aravinda de Silva had also produced a report on Sri Lankan cricket, with recommendations on governance as well as domestic structure. Those recommendations have been almost totally ignored since. Jayawardene said he had been asked twice to play a role in Sri Lanka’s backroom for the World Cup - once by Sri Lanka’s sports minister, and
once by SLC’s CEO towards the end of the recent IPL. He turned the offers down. “I was [invited] but I have several other commitments. More than that, I didn’t understand the role I am expected to play,” Jayawardene told Sunday Times. “There’s no point in me getting involved tactically, or whatever, if I don’t have a say in the whole structure. The team is selected and everything is done and
dusted. There is no room for me to come in and add something. “I am still happy to contribute in my little way with the management of the team, but nothing to do with the SLC. That’s something I have told myself as well. I just don’t have the appetite to come and work for anybody when I know that it’s not the right place for me.” Jayawardene had been especially dismayed by SLC’s failure to seriously consider the recommendations put forward by his committee last year. That report had been commissioned by Sri Lanka’s sports ministry. “We created a professional cricketing structure spending eight months,” he said. “We offered to set it up for them but they rejected it. We did it because we don’t want to lose our cricketers going to Australia and to league cricket in England. We need those experienced players in our system. “There are some teams in our first class system where the average age is 25, which is sad. When we played, we had so many senior cricketers
to guide us. Without them in our system, we cannot build a strong domestic cricket structure. And without doing that, there’s no point in building stadiums.” Jayawardene also criticised aspects of Angelo Mathews’ and Dinesh Chandimal’s leadership, whose failures he believes contributed to the rapid recent turnover of captains in the Sri Lanka side. Mathews was captain of all Sri Lanka’s teams
when Jayawardene retired in 2015, but since then, Chandimal, Thisara Perera, Lasith Malinga, Chamara Kapugedara and - mostrecently Dimuth Karunaratne have held the reins. This instability is understood to have contributed to Sri Lanka’s serious decline in ODIs. “The only advice we gave Angelo was not to give in to cricket politics,” Jayawardene Continued on page 25
Hamilton wins Monaco Grand... From page 33 pits with 19 laps gone. The Monegasque, starting 16th, was up to 12th by the end of lap seven after overtaking McLaren’s Lando Norris and Haas’s Romain Grosjean at the hairpin and Rascasse. The youngster, who had vowed to be aggressive after a Ferrari strategy blunder messed up his qualifying, paid the price when he tried the same move on Renault’s Nico Hulkenberg at Rascasse. Leclerc spun and picked up a right rear puncture, limping home on a rim and flailing rubber, losing a lap to the leaders and flinging out debris that led to a safety car period for marshals to sweep the track. Red Bull’s Pierre Gasly finished fifth, with Carlos Sainz sixth and consolidating fourth place overall for McLaren. They were followed by Toro Rosso pairing Daniil Kvyat and Alexander Albon. Renault’s Daniel Ricciardo, last year’s winner for Red Bull, was ninth and Romain Grosjean collected the final point for Haas.