Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
National Pride Fifty years ago, today, Guyana broke free from the Monarchy to chart its own destiny. There was no golden handshake as has been the case with countries like Suriname that gained its independence from Holland. Instead, Guyana was pretty much left to work with the systems left in place by the colonial rulers. It is not that these systems were all bad. For example, we continue to maintain the judicial system that allows for a preliminary inquiry ahead of an indictable charge. There are still the public service, the police force and the postal service which, until the advent of improved technology, remained the main link between families and friends. Independence and the ensuing economic hardships of the 1970s forced Guyana to develop what is now a vibrant agricultural programme. This is perhaps the most important and impressive thing that has come out of being independent. Up until May 26, 1966, Guyana was a market for the British farmers and fishermen. So it was that the people of this country became hooked on imported salted cod, what they called Irish potatoes, canned foods and salted meats. The locals were not allowed to make their own preserved foods. Even fruits that formed the basis for cakes had to be imported. There was something else that emerged from being independent. Guyanese could aspire to the highest heights in the social order. The title of Police Commissioner, once reserved for an expatriate was now open to Guyanese. Even the principals of the leading secondary schools were expatriates. Having achieved these things and ensured the transformation over the last fifty years, there are times when people sit back and sometimes wonder whether independence did not herald a certain complacency among Guyanese. The work ethic today leaves a lot to be desired, and this seems to be a carryover from the school system. During the colonial days, punctuality was the order of the day. Children could not go to school late without a valid excuse; events began on time and appointments had to be maintained. Left in control of our own destiny, our leaders ignored punctuality to the extent that lateness went unnoticed. Respect for authority also went through the window, because suddenly people were confronted with friends and relatives in senior positions. This was licence to be casual in the face of authority, and we allowed it to happen. The advent of the new government has reshaped the national policy on punctuality, at least at the official level. State events once more start on time, and this is a resurrection on the importance of punctuality. Press conferences hosted by the government begin at the stated time. It is time that this trend spread throughout every aspect of national life. Every country would experience development with the advent of technology. The result is that over the past fifty years the once wooden city has become like many cities, with tall concrete and glass structures. The roadways have been developed to facilitate movement across the country. Roads now exist where there were none; more schools have been built. Yet there has been a return to the past, with the return of private schools. People have been led to believe that unless they pay for their children’s education then those children would be at a disadvantage. This seems to be a reflection of a decline in the quality of teaching in public schools. To fuel this perception is the inability of graduates from tertiary institutions being unable to spell or to fill an application. Passes at English Language and Mathematics are below par, contrary to what operated in the past. The conclusion is that there needs to be some rebuilding in areas that were well established in the pre-independence years, but we should also take pride in our many achievements and developments. Where the British failed to develop the infrastructure, we did. Where they failed to develop our farming communities, we did. And above all, we did develop that which we never had in the pre-independence years - national pride.
Thursday May 26, 2016
WHERE IS THE COALITION? DEAR EDITOR; This time the feisty elderly citizen was irrepressible. He stood in my way and, as if, contradictorily, it was I who was blocking his path–his emaciated hands akimbo of body too frail to project the defiance he obviously intended. Then he spluttered questions in a way that indicated they did not require answers. What do you mean by ‘Coalition’?
Where are the signs, the symbols? Is it the Jaguar? Did we have a Jaguar at Independence? Or was it a flag–Burnham’s Golden Arrow? It was such a rush. He just would not wait for a response. So where is Burnham-who led this country into Independence? (Do the young generations know what he looked like; how handsome he was?) The citizen
simply refused to be interrupted! Do they know about him and Jagan who was also there at Independence? Another handsome man! Where is he? Where is the image of coalition? Should it not be Burnham and Jagan? However, hopelessly, he again cut short any response. Shrugging his narrow shoulders, he limped past, shaking his head questioningly: Where is the coalition? E.B. John
Region 8 REO should be commended DEAR EDITOR, Please allow us a number of residents of Mahdia, Kato and Kopinang to voice our pleasure and satisfaction with the numerous positives that continues to grace us through the evident hard and diligent work of our Region’s REO Mr. Rafel Downes. While this man has served in both administration of the PPP/C and APNU/AFC as REO there is one thing that is evident about his leadership and that getting the work done is his primary objective. While the country takes time out to celebrate its jubilee anniversary, it is important to note that we the residents of Region 8 equally have a lot to celebrate about. While we must confess that we are not very knowledgeable of the performances of the REO’s in several other regions, we are cognizant of the fact that having a REO like ours who is easily accessible, takes time to meet residents and others, executes programmes and runs the affairs of the RDC is a very professional manner thus eliminating politics from the day to day running which in the past has seen our region deteriorated to an all-time low should be commended for his sterling contributions and efforts thus far.
There were instances under the previous administration whereby getting things done within the RDC was very challenging and a complete headache as officers and staff moved in a lackadaisical manner and practically enjoyed life on the road while they were expected to be in their offices, any favours were done through the awarding of contracts, employment was done via the political connection route while victimization and discrimination was certain for those within the Region’s administration and the public who dared to voice their disapproval and/or objection to the many ills taking place. As such, we are beginning to breathe continued signs of relief with the enormous efforts of this hardworking REO. Further, while we are still cognizant of some ‘rotten eggs’ that continues to plague the system through their continued presence and employment we are satisfied that efforts are genuinely are being made to ensure that projects and programmes are executed within the region at the highest professional standard. Government business are being administered in a professional manner eliminating the dirty politics that once plagued the RDC and while a review of the National
Budget will confirm that Region 8 has been granted the smallest budget it must be understood that this is the most difficult region for anyone to travel. The two subsections of the region Madhia and Kato requires air travel while a number of communities cannot be accessed via land and as such it puts evident strain financially and administratively on the Region administrators in getting around thus being effective in their execution of duties. However despite these and many more challenges its heartwarming to see the REO backed by his Deputy Gavin Gounga visiting a number of communities in an effort to reach out to the people while ensuring that works and programmes are completed. We would like to add further that praising the REO for what we are so afar seen as his diligence, perseverance and commitment to the region is by no means an indication that there are n problems and challenges that needs to be addressed. However, it’s an indication that he continues to work very hard and hopefully with this manner of operation and aggression in getting things done he will continued supported by the right individuals around him. It is evident that (Continued on page 57)
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 26, 2016
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Panic has set in with Disagreeing with the Coalition Govt. Donald Ramotar
DEAR EDITOR; It is becoming quite clear, based on a series of revealing comments from some senior government ministers over the past month that panic and despair are starting to take hold within the coalition government. This is due largely to the President’s public support for the alleged misconduct of the Minister of State and his rejection of the AFC’s demands to reduce some of his powers which points to obvious signs of internal disquiet.. This along with the blatant nepotism and arrogance being practiced by the government suggests that they are making the same mistakes of the past. Many in the cabinet are sensing, at a psychological level, that they are already in defeatist mode from which there is usually no immediate return. Winning elections always begin with the adoption of a winning mindset but the Local Government Election (LGE)results proved otherwise for the government. Its dismal showing at the LGE is due largely to its failure to communicate effectively with the people. It seems that the government is obviously on a sinking ship and many are already looking for a quick way to get rich. Their cardinal sin has been their stubbornness to recognize that the key to political success in this media-driven age of the early 21st century lies in adopting an effective method to communicate with the people. Ignoring them will be costly. The persistent reluctance by members of the cabinet to meaningfully engage the people at home and in the diaspora on a consistent basis is contemptuous and snobbish. They have conveyed the impression that they do not see governing as a partnership with the people whose support is critical to their success. They have alienated the people which explains why the public goodwill and trust that brought them to power have dissipated. Some in the wider public are critical of the constant and lavish overseas trips by senior government officials at the expense of the taxpayers who are not getting their money’s worth from those trips. What has passed for communication
under this government has basically involved the president addressing Parliament, sloppy speeches and the occasional Press releases that often address issues of little interest to the general populace. If the government is foolish enough to believe that it still has the overwhelming influence over the people as it had a year ago, it will be disappointed. Since taking office, the government has become very secretive with little or no transparency or accountability as promised. Political Scientists have posited that it is illadvised for the government to ignore some of the basic principles of politics and effective communication methods. This is the predicament facing the government as it attempts at this eleventh hour to improve relations with the people. Its lack of vision for not engaging the people has dampened their spirit. Not long after when the government assumed power, it ceased displaying the same commitment and enthusiasm to communicate with the people as it did when in opposition. The president did not set the tone for his administration and he did not capitalize on the tremendous public goodwill that had existed a year ago. The government was not serious about ensuring that its communication machinery fired on all cylinders. Therefore the backlash which it is experiencing today is a case of the chickens coming home to roost. Having failed to define the issues, solve the problems and set the agenda, the government finds itself in a quandary today, reacting to criticisms by others which place it in a negative position of being on the defensive and reacting instead of being proactive. With no effective communication strategy, and with no real plans or policies in place to develop the economy, create jobs and reduce crime, the credibility of the government is in tatters as it finds itself in noman’s land, hoping for the situation to change. But there can be no smooth and easy recovery unless the government effects meaningful change and treat the people with respect. Observer (name supplied)
More criticisms of Mae’s schools
DEAR EDITOR; Allow me to shed some light on the following article ‘Two Dept. Heads support Mae’s School’ in your paper on 22nd of May 2016. Let me make it absolutely clear that these two teachers were pressured by the administration into responding to the articles in the paper. The article demanded facts. Here are some facts about the two teachers who wrote the article. One has only been with the school for just over one year and the other for just over two years.
And they were made supervisors because frankly there is no one else to put in those positions. All the staff except for about three teachers in the secondary are new teachers. The article spoke of the director, Miss Stacy French. She has been at the school for less than a year, was not a teacher at the school and used to live out of Guyana. Now tell me if the school was so good, why are teachers fleeing for their lives? I can go on and on about the school. But it is sufficient to say that current teachers writing letters to
defend the school are only doing do so to protect their jobs. That is the kind of place that school is. Parents I am telling you when teachers are leaving so often your child will be impacted negatively. Former teacher name withheld on request)
DEAR EDITOR; Leading up to our 50th Independence anniversary celebrations, some have taken upon themselves to reflect, and, share their opinions on the significance of that event as it relates to Guyana’s political history. Not surprisingly, those recollections and opinions, rather than to assume a broader nationalist narrative, emanated from the usual narrow prisms that defined our political development over those fifty years. Party and specific political leaders are assigned greater significance than that of the wider nationalist aspiration. It is against this backdrop that a recent letter by former President Donald Ramotar (SN, May 24, 2016) requires some level of scrutiny. The former President reminded us that the PPP and, Dr. Cheddie Jagan were the central architects of Guyana’s independence. No doubt coming out of the PAC in 1950, the PPP was birthed, and, central to its agenda, was full Independence for British Guiana. Those are undisputed facts. However, an objective examination of the events and facts evolving from 1953 to 1966 would reveal that the struggle for Independence was wider in terms of participation by political parties and personalities. There were other personalities with names like the following: Jai Narine Singh, Balram Singh Rai, Sydney King, EMG Wilson, John Carter, and OAR Kendall who stood full square for full Independence. Also, although there were
significant differences in political approach and orientation, the PNC party and its leader Forbes Burnham was unrelenting in t h e d e m a n d f o r Independence as early as 1957. This resolve and commitment were demonstrated in a letter sent by Opposition Leader Forbes Burnham to Premier Jagan outlining his party’s support for the granting of immediate Independence. That letter also appeared in the party’s newspapers on April 2nd, 1960. As we celebrate the fifty years of Independence status, maybe it is time that we reflect on the errors of those ways that have conspired thus far to deny the citizens significant progress. The former President has every right to his opinion and passion about his party and leader. However, he is by no means entitled to his own facts where the nation is concerned. Dr. Cheddie Jagan is one of the most significant players in our political history. That fact is unchallenged. Nonetheless, neither the former President nor his party was the exclusive architects of our Independence. There were many who played very important roles. In closing, there is one small matter that I would
hope the former President and his band of historical revisionist can assist in updating the nation. Given that he assigns singular import to Dr. Cheddie Jagan in our fight for Independence as a nation. Would the former President be so kind as to explain the trust of the letter from the great Independence fighter, Dr Jagan to Colonial Secretary Greenwood suggesting partition in December 1964 when he was defeated at the polls? According to Palmer (2010), rather than accept electoral defeat, this letter was dispatched suggesting partition, because, his “majority” would have been denied holding on to power (pg.289.) Leroy Nelson
Thursday May 26, 2016
Kaieteur News
Police outnumber protesters outside Trump California rally
An anti-Trump demonstrator protests outside the venue where Republican U.S. Presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event in Anaheim, California U.S. yester. REUTERS/Mike Blake Reuters - Protesters at a rally in Southern California held by Donald Trump yesterday carried signs saying “Stop Nazi Trump” and “Make America Hate Again,” as a large police presence stood by a day after a Trump event in New Mexico erupted into chaos. Police outnumbered the 100 demonstrators outside the convention center where Trump, who is the presumptive Republican nominee in the Nov. 8 presidential election, was speaking. Many were unhappy about Trump’s views on Hispanic immigrants and ripped apart a piñata resembling Trump and placed the paper mache head on top of a flagpole with a large Mexican flag. Police had warned they would take “swift” action if protests at the event in Anaheim escalated. About 100 police officers stood watch behind metal barricades and another 50 sheriff’s deputies lined up along the convention center. It was not until long after the rally that police were finally called in to disperse the protesters. A police helicopter circled overhead telling people to disperse or risk arrest. Inside, Trump was disrupted by protesters as he spoke, including one who waved a Mexican flag. “Do not hurt him,” Trump said as a man was led out of the arena. “I say that for the television cameras. Even though he is a bad person.” Trump’s appearances in the U.S. West in areas with significant Hispanic populations have drawn large protests - such as Tuesday night’s violence in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where rockthrowing demonstrators were
arrested. Trump’s remarks that Mexico is sending criminals and rapists to the United States, made when he launched his campaign last year, have been a lightning rod for protesters. Trump’s problems with Latino voters could dampen his Nov. 8 election hopes. A poll by the political research group Latino Decisions found 87 percent of registered Hispanic voters view Trump unfavorably. States like Nevada and New Mexico have growing Hispanic populations that could tip the election. Trump’s trip west came ahead of the California and New Mexico nominating contests on June 7. Trump also planned to hold several large fundraising events while in California. It is the first highdollar fundraising event the New York real estate mogul has held after largely selffunding his primary campaign. Mike McGetrick, one of two people carrying “Latinos for Trump” signs at the Ana-
heim rally, said he is part of a group called America First Latinos, whose website describes its members as believing in “the rule of law, hard work and the American Dream.” He said his neighborhood in nearby Orange is “being overrun” by undocumented immigrants. “There are so many of them, and they’re everywhere,” said McGetrick, 62, a retired city worker. “I can tell an illegal from a regular person just like that.” Trump supporters have been hopeful that his likely opponent, Democrat Hillary Clinton, will be dogged by her own problems to offset his difficulty with some populations. On Wednesday, Clinton faced renewed criticism about her use of a private email server for government business while secretary of state after a report by the State Department’s inspector general said she had violated agency policies. Trump only briefly addressed the report in his appearance in Anaheim.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday May 26, 2016
Thursday May 26, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Two men shot by The muck and stench licenced firearm of ethnic prejudice fifty holder Police have detained a licenced firearm holder who reportedly opened fire on a group of men, injuring two of them, during a confrontation yesterday. The incident occurred in Kitty and while none of the wounded men received life threatening injuries, the licenced firearm holder got a sound thrashing and had to be rescued by ranks of the Guyana Police Force who were summoned to the scene. This newspaper understands that the two wounded men were among a group who were offloading a container when the licenced firearm holder drove up and parked his vehicle in a manner that affected the men’s operation.
The group of men became annoyed when the licenced firearm holder refused to remove his vehicle despite repeated requests to do so. Not realizing that the man was carrying a gun, the men swarmed the licence firearm holder and began raining cuffs and kicks about his body. Kaieteur News was told that the licenced firearm holder whipped out his gun and fired shots at the men, hitting two of them in the process. But before he could discharge any more rounds he was swarmed and overpowered by the angry mob and held down until the police arrived. The two men as well as the licenced firearm holder were taken to the hospital for medical attention. Investigations are continuing.
Soldier remanded for robbing 13-year-old An army man accused of robbing a 13-year-old girl of her cell phone, was remanded to prison yesterday when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Niassi Jones, 18, of 118 Mitchel Street, is alleged to have armed himself with a bottle to rob 13-year-old Jordana McKenzie while she was on her way home on May 23, at Kitty. Jones who was unrepresented by a lawyer stood handcuffed in the prisoner’s dock. He denied the charge of armed robbery. According to Prosecutor Neville Jeffers, the schoolgirl
was on her way home when she was attacked by the defendant and another person. Jeffers told the court that the defendant held a bottle in his hand and threatened the young girl. He later got away with her mobile device. The schoolgirl was not present for the court hearing however, her step father appeared on her behalf. Jones was later refused bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan who assigned the matter to be recalled again on June 2. The Magistrate then instructed that the defendant be placed in the care and custody of his captain who was present in court.
years after Independence
A lady who has not been back home since 1977 seemed to be a state of shell-shock at the development that she has seen in Guyana since she left 39 years ago. The physical development of the country, the buildings and the businesses that are developed, the goods that are available and the fact that people seem to be happy is not what she had expected. She had been led to believe that the PPP had not only left the city dirty but that it had destroyed the economy of the country. She had come to celebrate with Guyanese the fiftieth anniversary of Independence had posted a few barrels in advance to help all those needy relatives. It turned out that all along she was being fed a lie. She knew what the PPP had inherited because she had left when times were hard, really hard. She knew that it never got better. But she was shocked when she saw the development that had taken place, the large number of houses that people owned, the cars which seemed too much for such a small country. She has been walking around all week accusing the PPP of leaving the city dirty and in a shameful state but she has had to acknowledge that things have improved tremendously since the time
Dem boys seh ...
Donald Dumb had a diet plan to celebrate Guyana 50 Guyana’s 50th shock dem boys. Dem never expect that it woulda come off wid so much flair. De big event was at D‘Urban Park last night. Every Tom, Dick and Harry Lall and dem wife and pickney tun out. Who couldn’t get in stay home and watch pun TV. Dem see de massive crowd wha Guyana never see in one place. Dem boys didn’t see when Moses come. Dem hear a big noise and when dem look dem see de man wha part de Red Sea and couldn’t bring it back together. Five minutes later dem hear a big cheer and de crowd went wild. Dem shout like dem mad; was Soulja Bai arrive. He tek he salute and march to de VIP stand. Is then dem boys
realize that dem had two VIP stand. Soulja Bai and Moses go in de one fuh de Very Important People. Jagdeo been in de one for Various International Pickpockets. When he tek de salute dem boys notice that Soulja Bai belly flat like a bake. When he was President Donald Dumb been pun a special diet just fuh this occasion. He get kick out and instead of being at de flag raising ceremony he was singing a special karaoke song at Sleep-out . He sing, “I love Guyana but Guyana don’t love me.” But dem boys couldn’t help talking bout de welcome Soulja Bai receive. Is de same kind of welcome Jagdeo, Sam Blinds and Donald Dumb use
to get whenever dem pass by Camp Street jail. Dem prisoner use to look out and shout, “Is when youall come in to join we?” Today is 50. People seh life begin at 40 but nuff thing does happen at 50. Donald Dumb lose all he hair at 50; Jagdeo lose three-quarter of his own; and Guyana get rid of dem both somewhere between 40 and 50. Some of dem lose dem mind, like Sam who tekking blame fuh other people. Luncheon losing he sight; Gail, Irfaat and Clement going out dem head. 50 see some of dem get soft like Uncle Adam and Uncle Freddie; some get hard but dem does end up in jail. Talk half and let’s all celebrate Guyana’s 50.
she left. She perhaps will never acknowledge certain things that we done but she was clear that the political culture has not changed. As far as her observations go, the political culture is just as brutal and the politicians are mere reflections of what is felt in the wider society. It is generally accepted in Guyana that there is need for a kinder political culture. That culture however must not start with the politicians. It has to start with the people because the politicians are more civilized and more civil to each other than citizens are to one another. If you do not believe this, just read any of the blogs underneath the newspaper stories in our online editions of our newspapers and online news services. Almost every issue ends up in a cuss out about the rights and wrongs of both of the major parties. It often descends into racial mudslinging. There is no need therefore for the government to change anything until the people change their own way of relating to one another. Political change has to begin at the bottom not at the top.
The rot is at the bottom not at the top, the top is merely an indication of what is going on below. It will be a waste of time for people to expect that the politicians can be civil to each other whether the people, on whom these politicians rely for support, are angry and vicious in their exchanges with one another. The people have to change first before they can expect the politicians to follow suit. Guyana’s political culture is a vicious one. People are blinded by ethnic loyalties. The problems of Guyana at the time of Independence were caused by ethnic strife. How can fifty years onwards, it be said that Guyana has moved forward? The country may have improved. It certainly has improved from what it was in 1966. The standard of living
is better. A lot of things are better. There is no doubt about that. The country has improved, as that shell-shocked visitor to country discovered this past week. Guyana has climbed out of the pit that the colonial government left us in. The country has moved forward but unfortunately the people of Guyana are still mired in ethnic rivalry, prejudice and hatred. This is destroying whatever gains are being made on the economic front. Guyana’s politics cannot change unless the people change. But from reading some of the online blogs and to notice the frequency with which they generate into a political and racial cuss-down, Guyana has a far way to go to clean itself of the muck of ethnic prejudice.
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Thursday May 26, 2016
Kaieteur News
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Great thoughts of freedom on the 50th Independence Anniversary When I was leaving Guyana to study abroad, one of my favourite persons, my history professor, Catholic nun Dr. Mary Noel Menezes, gave me a little volume and told me to always keep it by my side. It is titled, “Great Thoughts of Freedom.” It is an item in my life that I cherish. In it she wrote the words; “To Freddie. May the spirit of freedom continue to motivate in all you do.” This tiny book sits on top of all the books of the shelf nearest to my desk - meaning it is right in front of my eyes all the time. I would like to offer readers a selection from that book mixed with extracts I have taken from other texts. Where the quote is from “Great Thoughts of Freedom” next to the person who wrote it, are the initials GTF. I begin with a philosopher who had a huge influence in the
evolution of my world belief. I think I am essentially an existentialist/anarchist and Nietzsche more that Martin Heidegger or Jean Paul Sartre had that kind of influence on me. “Distrust all in whom the impulse to punish is powerful.” Nietzsche - GTF “Simply by being compelled to keep constantly on his guard, a man may grow so weak as to be unable any longer to defend himself.” Nietzsche - GTF “I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a free society in which all persons live together in harmony with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to see realized. But my lord, if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to
die.” - Nelson Mandela “Don’t forget your history; know your destiny. In the abundance of water, the fool is thirty.” - Bob Marley “If liberty and equality, as is thought by some, are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will best be attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost.” Aristotle – GTF “We must consider what state all men are naturally in, and that is, a state of perfect freedom to order their actions and dispose of their possessions and persons, as they think fit, within the bounds of the law of nature; without asking leave, or depending upon the will of any other man.” John Locke – GTF “Man is born free; and everywhere he is in chains. One thinks himself the master
of others, and still remains a greater slave than they.” John Jacques Rousseau – GTF “A man attaches himself to a woman – not to enjoy her but to enjoy himself.” – Simone de Beauvoir “Man is defined as a human being and a woman as a female – whenever she behaves as a human being she is said to imitate the male.” – Simone de Beauvoir “When we revolt, it’s not for a particular culture. We revolt simple because we cannot breathe.” – Franz Fanon “Education is the passport to the future for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” –Malcolm X “The history of the world is none other than the progress of the consciousness of freedom.” – Hegel – GTF “There should be no
discrimination against languages people speak, skin colour or religion.” – Malala “Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment, the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent than the one derived from fear of punishment” – Mahatma Gandhi “To renounce liberty is to renounce being a man, to surrender the rights of humanity and even its duties. For him who renounces everything no indemnity is possible. Such a renunciation is incompatible with man’s nature; to remove all liberty from his will is to remove all morality from his acts.” – Rousseau – GTF “Necessity is blind until it becomes conscious. Freedom is the consciousness of necessity.” – Karl Marx “But man, proud man. Dressed in a little brief authority. Most ignorant of
Frederick Kissoon what he’s most assured.” – William Shakespeare Columnist’s note: I hope you enjoy your day on this unique moment in Guyanese history, but when the day is done, I hope you always think of helping to establish greater freedoms for the Guyanese people. I would like to leave you with my own quote which is composed for this particular column. “When I look into the eyes of my two pet cats and pet dog, I see the flowers of innocence and love. If only Homo sapiens can find time to discover love and innocence, life would be worthwhile living.”
The story of three water wells, BK and GWI From page 3 querying why none of the wells was completed. “It was suggested that GWI move to the next level and terminate. It was noted that there isn't anyone else to do the work and the company is working along with the contractor to complete the wells.” According to an October 30, 2014 meeting, a well inspection report by GWI at the Mon Repos site showed that the screen collapsed possibly due to poor development of the well. “…The contractor moved from the location and proceeded to Eccles well site without GWI authorization. He was written on this matter.” For the rest of the year, records of Board meetings suggested that there were problems. The audit report then concentrated on a BoD meeting on April 30, 2015 where the subject of the Mon Repos well came up“Nothing much has been done in the last month since the contractor has been focusing on Hope…the well at Eccles is producing and is in operation– more developing has to be done.” The auditor was critical in noting that the contracts for the wells were awarded to BK International in 2011 and were to be completed in August, 2012. Bending Backwards “These contracts have
not been completed to date and the contractor has not been faced with any penalties. The problem with these contracts was that the BOD procrastinated and allowed the contractor to determine when the contracts would be finished. In addition, the delays, time spent by management and cost to resolve issues with the contractor has compromised the BOD as can be seen from the extracts of the Board minutes above.” Further, the auditors said, stakeholders who were hoping for improved water service continue to wait. The contracts have not been completed as there are still major components and works to be done to complete the wells. In response to the auditor's notes, GWI's management insisted that the contracts were awarded by the National Procurement and Tender Administrative Board based on their evaluation of a contractor that had no experience in well drilling. “These contracts were consistently discussed at the level of the GWI Board and there has been consistent agreement to allow the contractor to complete the three wells.” GWI said it penalized BK the maximum liquidated damages which is 10% of the value of works for each of the contracts to the total value of $18.6 million for the
three contracts. “At present the respective status of the contracts for which one well (Hope)
is completed, the contractor has been issued an ultimatum to complete remedial and development works on
Eccles by April 30, 2016 and they are required to recommence drilling of a replacement well for Mon Repos by
April 30, 2016 or the contract will be terminated and legal actions taken against the contractor.”
Four years overdue: The state of play with the three wells.
Thursday May 26, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Agriculture Ministry unveils band for jubilee parade float
Agriculture Minister Noel Holder, (second left), designer Olympia Small-Sonaram (third left) and other Ministry of Agriculture staff at the band launch. As part of Guyana’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, the Ministry of Agriculture yesterday unveiled its band that will be taking part in today’s Independence float parade under the theme “Reflecting and Celebrating our Cultivation.” The float was designed by Guyanese designer Olympia Small-Sonaram and
comprises two sections; the queen band, which focuses on the crops exported during the 1970/1980 period, and the commercial section, which focuses on livestock, sugar, rice and drainage and irrigation. Small-Sonaram explained that “the costumes were made from tie dye, colourful prints and other fabric with colours of the
City Hall declares, ‘No new vendors’ The Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has reiterated that no new vendors are permitted within the city. It was recognized that new persons are applying to become vendors, while others seem to be taking advantage of the relocation situation. Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen, during Monday’s Statutory Meeting, informed Councilors that the Municipality had received numerous complaints from vendors about new persons occupying spots that the older vendors once occupied before their relocation. She said that new persons are also turning up to say that they want vending spots or that they “used to” vend. In other cases, persons were found to have more than one operation on the street and when relocated sought separate spots for each operation. She said, for example, that where some barbers, cosmetologists, and other groomers have been located on Merriman Mall, the Council’s registration noted 20 persons, but some 52 made claims. Some persons who had more than one station around the city were claiming separate spots. The Mayor explained that if a hairdresser had five
stations and three assistants, then all three would come to register. “It is not fair. It is not the responsibility of the city to find shops or business locations for these persons.” “While we (Council) would want to be sensitive and put a human face to it, it is still illegal and should not happen. If we have to find place for everyone we would not have money to manage the city.” The Clerk of Markets was urged to convene meetings to address all the matters noted. In a bid to clean and reorganize Georgetown, Town Clerk Royston King had stated that the wanton vending practices had to be brought under control. He said that while the Council defended those very vendors when they were being evicted without alternate solutions, “it is time to seriously address the situation, with the aim of bringing as little difficulty to those affected.” More than 130 roadside vendors were relocated to the recently opened Parliament View Mall on Hadfield and Lombard Streets, while others were placed at Merriman Mall. They will remain for three months.
Golden Arrowhead that are representations of the textile industry that thrived in Guyana through companies like the Sanata Textile Mill.”
Also present at the launch was Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder. He expressed satisfaction with the band, adding that “agriculture is an
extremely diverse industry and it has played a major role in getting Guyana to where it is today.” The band is participating under the
medium category, with 51 male and female revellers traversing the route along Brickdam before heading into the Jubilee Stadium today.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday May 26, 2016
GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S PROGRESSIVE COOPERATIVE REPUBLIC PARTY OF GUYANA May 26th, 2016 marks 50 years since Guyana gained political independence. At midnight May 25th, 1966, the Union Jack was lowered for one final time on these shores and the Golden Arrowhead was raised aloft and fluttered with grace above the newly named Cooperative Republic of Guyana. On this, the auspicious occasion of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana’s 50th anniversary of Independence, the Coalition Government salutes all the people of Guyana for their resilience, dedication to nationhood, ingenuity and unwavering tenacity in building a nation which has established itself, with pride, as a democratic and progressive state in the community of nations. On this historic occasion the Government recognizes the steadfast and visionary efforts of our leaders, led by former presidents Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham, who fought and struggled for our political independence from the United Kingdom of Great Britain. His Excellency Brigadier David Granger, President of Guyana recently observed that”independence imbued us with a feeling of pride, a sense of purpose and the ardour of patriotism.” His Excellency further noted in his address to Parliament on May 12th that,
“the first fifty years of our Independence had to be devoted to mending the social fabric, promoting peace and repairing the economy. The first fifty years were about overcoming a hostile international economic environment.The next fifty years must be different. Let us use this special year to usher in an era of social peace, political collaboration and economic prosperity for this and all future generations. The Government entreats Guyanese to recommit to building a nation, which realizes social and political stability and cooperation and ensures a better life for each citizen. Moreover, the Government rededicates to all Guyanese to continue to work to elevate Guyana as a leader among the nations of the world, particularly in climate change and environmental protection, national unity and social cohesion, equality and justice, sports, music and the arts, responsible economic prosperity, environmentally conscious exploitation of natural resources, science and technology and innovation. Guyana’s sail is set to take our majestic ship forward to broader horizons that would see us realise our goals of unity, social cohesion and economic prosperity. The past 50 years must inspire us to greater heights and bolder achievement in the next 50 years as we march confidently onwards as a free, democratic and independent nation.
ALLIANCE FOR CHANGE The Alliance For Change congratulates all Guyanese on the historic achievement of 50 years of independence. The AFC welcomes all Guyanese who have returned to our beautiful homeland to celebrate and enjoy camaraderie and brotherhood on this momentous occasion. Our nation’s journey has been one characterized by triumphs and successes, difficulties and set backs, honour and some distress. Through every season we have risen above and achieved and progressed. It is the people of Guyana who must be recognized for never failing our beloved homeland. The strength and resilience of the Guyanese people have been the driving forces of this nation. It has been the people who have never relented and who have summoned the spirits of our forefathers and ancestors to push boundaries, to demand better and to engender change. For too many of these past 50 years Guyana’s advancement as a progressive state and model economy has been stymied and curtailed. Now at the dawn of the next 50 years with the wind of change at our backs we must unhitch our nation’s future from divisiveness, disharmony and discord.
As we reflect on the life of our young nation we must take heart, and resolve to enhance Guyana’s greatness, to fast track her development, to cement her place as a leader among nations, regionally and internationally. Our peoples’ diverse backgrounds are a source of strength which we should not becoy in embracing. Our colourful, effervescent and infectious culture is emblematic of an enlightened and endearing people. Our people have demonstrated a capacity to achieve excellence in every major facet of human endeavour which they have pursued. Let these next 50 years harness the energies, talents and strength of our people to pole vault our nation to command a place of pride and envy, continentally and hemispherically. The Alliance For Change believes uncompromisingly that Guyana possesses every asset and quality to so achieve. The AFC is enthusiastic about Guyana’s future and the destiny of her people. The party believes Guyana is poised to rise higher, shine brighter and emerge as a model state for responsible development. Long live the great land of Guyana! Long live the blessed people of Guyana! Onward, upward may we ever go!
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends greetings to the Guyanese people on the occasion of the 50th anniversary since the granting of political independence to the country by Great Britain. Fifty years is indeed a significant moment in the political life of any nation. In this regard, the PPP joins with the entire Guyanese people in the observance and celebration of this historic milestone. The struggle for independence is inextricably linked to the broader struggle for a free and just society waged by the PPP since its very inception as a political party. The call for an independent Guyana actually commenced with the formation of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC), led by founding members Cheddi Jagan, Janet Jagan, HJM Hubbard and Ashton Chase. The records would show that it was the PPP under the indefatigable and charismatic leadership of Dr. Cheddi Jagan that led the assault against the colonial system of governance which ultimately resulted in the granting of internal self-government and later, political independence. It was a struggle that contained the elements of an epic story of political treachery and betrayal by the Anglo-American vested interests in collaboration with local reactionary forces that conspired to deny political independence to the country under a PPP government. The PPP, despite being manipulated out of office in 1964 and denied the honour of leading the country to political independence, warmly embraced the granting of independence to the country on May 26, 1966. Regrettably, the hopes and aspirations of the Guyanese people were shattered by the failure of the PNC-UF coalition to meet the expectations of the Guyanese people for a better life. The country experienced a systemic deterioration in all aspects of national life including that basic and fundamental right of electing a government in free and fair elections. Our symbols of nationhood which Guyanese had eagerly awaited turned out to be largely cosmetic and for a considerable
US SECRETARY OF STATE, JOHN KERRY On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I join the families, communities, and leaders of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in celebrating their country’s Golden Jubilee anniversary of independence. The United States and Guyana are bound together by our shared democratic values and our common interests in ensuring prosperity,
NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND EXTENSION INSTITUTE On this significant milestone of Guyana’s 50thIndependence,the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) extends heartiest congratulation to allGuyanese. As Guyanese partake in various celebratory activities it is important that our many successes are acknowledged. NAREI is proud to have contributed to
Guyana’s development and is looking forward to continue serving the public. The local agricultural sector holds many possibilitiesin the areas of alternative energy sources, food security, and wealth generation. As we look ahead there is much excitement at the myriad opportunities that are on the cusps of realization. Current work on ex-
period remained a sad reminder of broken dreams and shattered hopes as the country experienced a free fall into an unending cesspool of economic and social decline as a consequence of undemocratic rule by the PNC regime. As we celebrate fifty years of independence it is important that we reflect on the heroic contributions made by Dr. Cheddi Jagan and his wife Janet who together gave more than a century of dedicated service to the cause of a free and democratic society. The PPP is extremely proud of the contribution it has made to the liberation struggle of Guyana. Indeed, all the major political and constitutional developments in the country carry the stamp of the PPP including the struggle for universal adult suffrage, internal self-government and ultimately political independence. Following the rupture of democracy by the PNC regime, the PPP waged a relentless struggle for the restoration of democratic rule which finally materialised on October 5, 1992 after nearly three decades of authoritarian minority rule. As the vanguard political party the PPP stands proud of the role it has played over the decades in the creation of a free, independent and modern Guyana. The PPP takes this opportunity of our golden jubilee to re-affirm its commitment to a free, united, prosperous and democratic Guyana. The Party is aware of attempts by the Granger-led APNU-AFC administration to down play the contributions made by Dr. Jagan and the PPP in its vain attempt to rewrite our political history. Such attempts will fail as the Guyanese people are much more discerning and knowledgeable of our political history than the APNU-AFC coalition would give them credit for. Sadly, our Jubilee celebrations are tempered once again by the removal of the Party from the seat of government in highly controversial elections as was the case during the pre-independence years when the PPP was manipulated out of office by foreign vested interests in collaboration with local reactionary forces. Be that as it may, the PPP remains optimistic that the dreams and aspirations of the Guyanese people for a peaceful, progressive and prosperous society would be become a reality in the not so distant future. Once again, happy anniversary greetings to the people of Guyana.
otic fruits and vegetables are moving apace with the transfer of technologies to farmers imminent before year-end, in some cases. In addition, modern technologies such as shade house cultivation and hydroponics are becoming popular among the farming community. NAREI believes that the application of Science in agriculture is critical to its ongoing evolution. The institute encourages persons to get involved in agriculture and experience true independence.
stability, and security throughout our hemisphere. And our partnership has yielded tangible results on issues of vital importance to both our nations. This year, we strengthened our relationship in law enforcement training, port safety, justice sector reform, and coast guard cooperation through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative. We worked together to diversify energy resources and expand investments in sustainable energy projects through the recent U.S.-Caribbean-Central American Energy Summit. At the same time, we have acted to create opportunities for vulnerable Guyanese youth through the efforts of USAID. And we have deepened people-to-people ties between our countries through initiatives to build bridges between American and Guyanese universities, and to dismantle barriers to study abroad for our students. Fifty years after independence, the citizens and government of Guyana can count on the friendship and support of the United States as, together, we address our common challenges and build a future of peace and progress for our peoples.
Thursday May 26, 2016
Kaieteur News
PEOPLE’S NATIONAL CONGRESS REFORM On this significant milestone of the 50TH Anniversary of Guyana’s Independence, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) salutes all Guyanese, both here at home as well as those in the Diaspora on our achievement of yet another year as a politically independent people and country. The PNCR also welcome all our Guyanese brothers and sisters from the Diaspora who have returned to the motherland to join us as we reflect, celebrate and inspire in this season of our Golden Jubilee. The political developments of the past year open new avenues for the forging of a new democratic culture so necessary for the achievement of real independence and social progress in our country. It is evident, from the way the Guyanese people voted at the May 11th, 2015 General and Regional Elections, that they wish to experience governance that is less confrontational and more cooperative. In this regard, the coalition government has shown great leadership by exhibiting a predisposition to compromise in the interest of arriving at policies and programmes which have the broadest agreement among stakeholders.
Our Party is confident that if as a nation we can build a truly, inclusive political culture in which all stakeholders are allowed to play a meaningful role and which can create an enabling environment for the orderly development of the nation, we can look forward to a future that is politically successful, economically self-sustaining and culturally rewarding. As we celebrate this Golden Jubilee of Independence, the PNCR pledge to work with all responsible and reliable forces whose aim is to forge social cohesion and national unity. We believe that working together we can ameliorate the many known problems which have bedeviled our country and stymied our development. The PNCR is proud of our record in government and the important role that our Party and our Founder Leader, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham played in our country’s struggle for independence. It is with these reflections that the PNCR greets all the people of this our dear land and extend best wishes on the auspicious occasion of the 50th Anniversary of our political Independence. Happy 50th Guyana!
GUYANA PUBLIC SERVICE UNION On the occasion of the Fiftieth Anniversary of Guyana’s attainment of Independence the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) joins with the rest of Guyana in celebrating this historic milestone in the process of nationhood. We believe that the period of what has been designated our Golden Jubilee must be as much a period of reflection as a period of celebration. Indeed, there is much to reflect upon as we, as a nation, contemplate the journey that we have experienced over half a century of independence. It would be more than worthwhile for us to measure, for example, the extent of our accomplishments as a nation, whether those be in the field of economy, culture, intellectual development or nation-building, that is the creation of a cohesive society. Whatever else we do we must not forget to face, honestly and frankly, our accomplishments as much as our disappointments and perhaps more importantly to use the sum to-
tal of our experiences as a rudder with which to guide our path in the future. What we, hopefully, would have learnt over those years is that real independence, real nation-building transcends the symbols and slogans that we create. What is clear is that the inspiration that will take us forward can only be derived from the setting of clear and worthwhile goals and the relentless pursuit of those goals. For those of us who have been blessed with the experience of witnessing half a century of independence, our mission is to determine the legacy that we will leave behind and work towards the realization of that legacy. Nor should we seek to evade our collective overarching responsibility to continue to reach for that noble if still unrealized goal of a Guyana united across differences, reflected in our national motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny.” That, in the view of the Guyana Public Service Union is the most important mission of all and one which, we believe, is yet to be realized. On this note the President, Executive Council and Members of the Guyana Public Service Union wish to extend our congratulations to the nation on this momentous occasion. Happy 50th Independence Anniversary.
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GUYANA AGRICULTURAL AND GENERAL WORKERS UNION As Guyana marks half a century as an independent state, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is pleased to join with all Guyanese to celebrate this exciting and landmark anniversary in our history. We need to recall, at this time, that there was near absolute consensus amongst our then leaders that we needed to shed the constitutional and other chains with which we were then wrapped. Independence brought us and we joyfully welcomed our new status as citizens of Guyana, no longer colonial subjects tied to a “mother” country. It also brought heavy responsibilities for a free and prosperous future. The onus was now ours to chart our own course and it was recognized that national independence needed to be strengthened by economic independence and social justice. Those objectives had to be attained and sustained. GAWU feels certain that out Independence, which we fought for, is an attainment to be cherished and will be cherished by coming generations too. Since independence we have moved forward. There are successes in several fields nationally; and at the international level our country has earned recognition and respect especially when it took principled and laudable stance on issues that are of concern to humanity. That respect was surely strengthened with the resurfacing of our democratic culture over twenty (20) years ago, which today again faces new challenges. Notwithstanding, the trials and setbacks, periods of marking time, economic and social decline there have been also very many significant
achievements in our endeavours to overcome the negative legacy of colonialism and fulfill our development obligations. The GAWU is aware that several key objectives are yet to be reached. One of these is our economic sovereignty which we see crucial to safeguard our political independence especially in the context and circumstances that we see unfolding in today’s world. The prospects for our country to grow and develop remain encouraging and we need to tackle the various tasks before us in a collective and united spirit. In this respect, acts and obstacle that tend to undermine our still fragile democracy should be discontinued, measures that bring hardships on working-people should be frowned upon and our people, especially our working people, need to become involved in the decision-making process at various levels of our society. As we celebrate this historic anniversary, GAWU urges that we all recognize that we have a responsibility to build our nation, to make great efforts to realize enduring national unity and strengthen the strands that bind our nation. We must be justly proud of our well-deserved freedom and it must also be a joy for all our people. At the same time, let us on this 50th Anniversary remember the struggles associated with the fight against colonialism and these organisations and outstanding leaders who were at the front of those history making efforts. GAWU extends a Happy Independence Anniversary to all Guyanese!
CENTRAL ISLAMIC ORGANISATION OF GUYANA On this historic day May 26th 2016, the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) joins with our brothers and sisters in our blessed land in observing the 50th Anniversary of our nation’s Independence. As we move forward as a nation, we pay homage to those who worked and sacrificed to win our freedom and national identity. All Guyanese should cherish this gift of God of a free and democratic society, rich in diversity, culture and traditions. We thank our Government for their efforts in energizing our people on this our Independence, so that we can strengthen the patriotic spirit that is so necessary to achieve cohesion and nation building. We must never forget that our allegiance is owed to justice for all, service to our fellow
man and upholding the rights of all Guyanese. It is the fervent hope and prayer of the CIOG, that from this day onward our Guyanese people should work in harmony to ensure that future generations can inherit a land of united people, with dignity, respect for all and a pride of being Guyanese. As we move forward, let us eliminate the concept of division by religion, class, race and other means used to discriminate. As Guyanese we must never forget our common heritage, as our nation will have to determine our destiny. Guyana is a great country, and today the CIOG implores all Guyanese brothers and sisters to renew our faith with the certain hope, that by doing the right thing God Almighty will crown our efforts with success.
THE GUYANA HINDU DHARMIC SABHA
As we celebrate Guyana’s 50th Independence, it is necessary for us to reflect on our history with the aim of understanding the common struggle which resulted in us casting off the shackles of subservience and rising as an independent country. Guyana’s preindependence years were fraught with hardship and resulted in our fore-parents taking a resolute stance against colonialism.Many of Guyana’s sons and daughters lost their lives in our struggle for independence. As we observe this 50thmilestone,we reminisce on their valour and indefatigable spirit. A sea of evolutionary changes occurred in the post–independence years. There were obstacles to real development and progress. The serious economic hardship, crime and loss of equal opportunities and democracy in
the first two decades resulted in the consistent migration of many Guyanese families. It was the resilience of remaining Guyanese that shone as they are managed to contribute positively in diverse spheres of our country. After years of struggle and development, we celebrate our festivals together and enjoy the many faceted cultures, norms and traditions of all the peoples of Guyana. We must move forward with that same tenacity and fortitude displayed by our foreparents. There are new challenges and difficulties but our spirit must never be vanquished. We must see theattainment of 50 years as a milestone of our evolution as a people and country. TheGuyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will continue to play its role of contributing in a sterling manner to the Hindu community and
all of Guyana through its impacting and diverse programmes, initiatives and events. The Sabha has an impressive 42 year history of contributing to the cultural, social and religious landscape of Guyana and our vision encompasses many more years of sevice as we evolve to meet the many challenges and developments in Guyana and the world. 50 years as an independent country should motivate us to work harder and more diligently to achieve the ideals of togetherness, productivity, equal opportunities, understanding, sustained peace, mutual respect and sound value systems and principles for our children, youth, adults, families, communities and country. Happy 50thindependence and may our beautiful land Guyana and all our peoples be forever blessed.
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Thursday May 26, 2016
Kaieteur News
Halim Majeed presents credentials in Cuba
Ambassador Halim Majeed was received by Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Cuba, when he presented his credentials to the Cuban Government. On April 21, last, Halim Majeed, Ambassador to the Republic of Cuba, was received by Ms. Gladys Maria Bejerano Portela, Vice President of the Council of State, and Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Cuba, when he presented his credentials to the Cuban Government.
Ambassador Majeed was accompanied to the Palace of the Revolution, where the Presentation took place in the Credentials Room, by Counselor at the Guyana Embassy, Mr. Vernon Robinson; Student Affairs Officer, Ms. Melissa Corlette-Sengwe, and other staff members. In his discussions with
Vice-President Gladys Bejerano, Ambassador Majeed conveyed President David Granger’s greetings to the Cuban Government. He reaffirmed Guyana’s long standing friendship with Cuba. He pledged to enhance the historical ties between the two countries both in the sphere of public diplomacy
Halim Majeed, Ambassador to the Republic of Cuba, meeting with Ms. Gladys Maria Bejerano Portela, Vice President of the Council of State and bilateral relations with emphasis on trade, investment, and cultural relations. Ambassador Majeed and Vice-President Bejerano agreed that there is a need to review existing cooperation agreements and to explore new avenues of collaboration
that would coincide with the vital interests of both States. Vice-President Bejerano reiterated that Cuba would support Guyana’s public diplomacy activities in Cuba and would facilitate, in whatever ways it could, bilateral initiatives that would expand
and strengthen cooperation between Cuba and Guyana. Subsequent to the credentials ceremony, Ambassador Majeed was escorted to the Jose Marti Memorial where he laid a Floral Arrangement on behalf of the President and Government of Guyana.
THE INDIAN ACTION COMMITTEE The Indian Action Committee (IAC) wishes to convey greetings to all Guyanese citizens, on the occasion of the Independence of Guyana from British colonial rule on 26th May, 1966, fifty years ago. The IAC calls upon all Guyanese citizens to remember and recognize all those persons who contributed to the ending of British colonial rule in Guyana including former Presidents Cheddi Jagan, Forbes Burnham and Janet Jagan, and stalwarts of the struggle for national liberation like Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, Jocelyn Hubbard, Joseph Pollydore, Ramkarran, Ashton Chase SC, Jainarine Singh, E.M.G. Wilson, Cedric Vernon Nunes, Martin Carter, Rory Westmaas, Eusi Kwayana, Brindley Benn, Moses Bhagwan and Reepu Daman Persaud. The IAC, in recognition of the challenging history of Guyana during the past fifty years dominated by authoritarian rule (19681992) and, especially the period from 1962 to 1964 when there was a state of undeclared civil war which resulted in: Over 200 persons losing their lives. Over 900 person suffering physical injuries. About 2700 terrorized families being displaced from their homes as villages were engulfed in orgies of ethnic cleansing. Over 1700 cases of arson in which over 300 business places and houses were completely destroyed by fire during wanton acts of terror. Losses of over US$ 20 million in the local economy as opposed to an investment of US$2.2 million used to destabilize pre- Independence British Guiana according to U.S. declassified documents. The destruction of the Indo-Guyanese community at the adjoining villages of Wismar
and Christianburg between 24th and 25th May, 1964 followed by the evacuation of 3300 IndoGuyanese persons under the protection of British military forces on 26th May, 1964, exactly two years before Independence and the brutal assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney in June, 1980. The IAC joins with the political parties, religious bodies, trade unions and other civil society groups in the call for inclusion, genuine andlasting national unity in the drive towards economic development and prosperity. The IAC has recognized recent endeavors by certain elements of Guyanese society to ludicrously portray the false impression that Indo- Guyanese were not involved in any meaningful manner in the struggles for Independence from colonial rule and therefore, to counter this anti- national behavior, the organization will resist any attempt, whether intentional or unintentional, whether subtle or openly, to miniaturize, minimize, deny or erase the important role played by Indo- Guyanese during the struggle for Independence. To this end the IAC will be hosting several lectures to highlight the contributions of Indo- Guyanese struggle. The IAC wishes to inform the citizens of Guyana that the organization has heard the call by the APNU- AFC coalition Government for inclusion and social cohesion but feels strongly that this call must be matched by action on the ground and, therefore, now calls upon the government to reach out to the sections of Guyanese society that did not vote for it in May 2015, so that real social cohesion and national unity may be achieved. Let us all resolve to realize the dream of our fore parents and Independence heroes and heroines to make our 50th Anniversary a true national event. The IAC wishes all Guyanese citizens a Happy Independence Day.
Thursday May 26, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Hotels, local businesses cash in on visitor arrival A section of the souvenir shop at Guyana stores yesterday
Returning Guyanese browse through the artifacts on sale in the downtown Georgetown area Guyana‘s 50 th Independence Anniversary and Golden Jubilee celebrations has brought thousands of overseas -based Guyanese and tourists to these shores. During a typical walk in downtown Georgetown, one is likely to bump into several
returning Guyanese and tourists admiring the patriotism displayed in the buildings beautifully adorned with symbols of nationhood, the cleanliness of the restored city and the shopping for locally made artifacts or sampling local cuisine. Hoteliers, car rental ser-
vices and several local businesses have been cashing in on the benefits due to the hike in tourism. But Creole eateries, and craft shops may be among the categories of business in the industry raking in the most benefits. Overseas-based
GPHC doctors attend Zika Management meeting in Barbados Two doctors of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) will from today be attending a Zika management meeting in Barbados. The Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) Zika Task Force was instrumental in organizing the PAHO incident Management System Technical Meeting in Bridgetown Barbados from May 26-27, 2016. Attending the forum are Dr. Ahmad Rafi Rozan, Obstetrics Specialist and Gynecologist, and Dr. Ulanda Haynes, Resident in Paediatrics, both of the GPHC. Dr. Rozan is a specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics spanning the areas of antenatal and perinatal care with interest of decreasing maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity in order to improve quality of lives. Dr. Haynes worked as a General Medical Officer in the Department of Paediatrics at the GPHC since 2013 and is currently a Senior Resident – Paediatrics attached to the said department. The geographical distribution of Zika virus has been steadily increasing since it
Dr. Ulanda Haynes was first detected in the Americas in Brazil in May 2015. Since then, a total of 35 countries and territories have reported autochthonous (locally transmitted, mosquitoborne) transmission of Zika virus in the Americas. Several countries have reported cases of newborns with microcephaly and other conditions associated to Zika virus infection. The Pan American Health Organisation has coordinated a process for developing
Dr. Ahmad Rafi Rozan harmonised recommendations on clinical care for pregnant women and newborns. The objectives of this meeting are to present an updated overview of the situation in the Region and to discuss protocols for clinical care, as well as analyse the challenges in preparations of the health services in the response to the outbreak of the Zika Virus.
Guyanese, Kim Chester and Carl Anthony Brown, are attested to the fact. Both returning Guyanese noted that the favourite part of visiting their homeland is reconnecting with old friends and relatives and indulging in simplicity of Guyanese life. Brown said that he was especially impressed by the warm welcome he received upon his arrival at the airport. “The staff greeted us with hugs and handed memorabilia to help us enjoy the celebrations.” According to Director of Guyana Tourism Authority, (GTA) Indranauth Haralsingh, overseas visitors have been coming from “literally,” all around the world to participate in events. Singh said that tourists are arriving from the Caribbean, United Kingdom, and North America. Some come from as far as Australia. He explained that while Guyana is not known for the hotel culture, lots of hotels have been reaping the benefits as a result of the huge influx of tourist and returning Guyanese currently in the country to participate in festivities. Singh said that several hotels and bed and breakfast facilities registered under the
GTA have been fully booked and doing great business because of the jubilee celebrations. He explained that the tourism authority had conducted a number of training sessions with staff of the various hotel outlets to ensure that the guests receive the best in Guyanese hospitality. According to Haralsingh the list of activities, including the Guyana Festival, the Indigenous culture and folk music festival, the arts and craft exhibition, the Night of Legends Concert and the highly anticipated Independence Day parade should enthrall the visitors. The GTA official said that he is therefore confident that the returning Guyanese, especially those who are visiting their homeland after an extended hiatus, will create unforgettable memories. Officials from several hotels in the city noted that their occupancy rate is 100 per cent. Employees of the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel noted that rooms are fully booked for the entire month. “We may have one or two guests checking out but the rooms are going fast. In cases like these, it is advised that you book your hotel room like weeks before. Some persons
would have booked since last year,” a female hotel staff told this newspaper. The Pegasus Hotel in Kingston and the recently commissioned Tower Suites on Main Street Georgetown are also filled to capacity. Operations Manager of the Tower Suites, Chandrika Hemraj, had reported that all 78 rooms of the establishment were booked for the Jubilee celebration. He had expressed confidence in the hotel‘s capacity to cater to the business class given its central location. The Marriott Hotel Guyana which has 197 rooms has also been filled to capacity. Hotels located outside the city are also raking in the benefits. Officials of Aracari Hotel and resort, located at Versailles, West Bank Demerara and Grand Coastal Inn, Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara, half an hour from the city also reported 100 per cent occupancy. Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations have been highly anticipated for Guyanese at home and abroad. The anniversary is marked with a slew of activities but for many patriotic Guyanese today‘s Independence parade fete is expected to be icing on the cake.
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Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158
Legal Secretary for Anna Regina office. Call: 6950246
Desmond Repair Services Fridge, AC, gas stove, microwave, washer, etc on the spot repairs –Call: (592)678-8683; 613-9181
Driver/Salesman: experienced is an asset - i n t e r e s t e d persons call: 226-9800
Guy Tech Repairs Service & Spares: treadmill, washing machine, refrigerator, dryer, stove, air condition, oven, etc. Call: 684-2119; 680-2377 Guy Tech Repairs Service & Spares: pressure pump, deep fryer, solar system, water heater, remote gate, etc. Call: 684-2119; 680-2377
TOURS J u b i l e e Vi s i t o r s : r i v e r tours, city tours, airport/ out of town trips, Suriname tour – Call:639-2663; 6655171; 692-7270; 223-0056 FOR SALE/RENT American pool table - Call: 277-0578
Thursday May 26, 2016
Kaieteur News
LAND FOR SALE Houselots, gated community, West Bank of Harbour Bridge, concrete road, concrete pave & drain, light & water. Tel: 650-0402/2604988 House lots, Blankenburg, Concrete road, concrete drain, light & water, also 3bedroom houses -$16M. Tel: 650-0402/260-4988 57 Acres Land @ Soesdyke Junction. Ideal for W/S, R/T Shopping mall, farmers market, truck stop, houselot. Call: 265-4180; 615-3054 High value transported land, Greater Diamond, E.B.D $5.8M. Call: 684-7234 Herstelling (corner lot) $3.2M, Eccles -$6M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.3M, Bartica -$2.8M. Call: 6117223; 604-2207
One live in female housekeeper, over 35yrs old and from outside Georgetown. Call: 223-0654 Welder, must know to weld and fabricate- Call: 222-3844
1 Driver @ Technical Services 18-23 Industrial Site Eccles. Call: 233-2745
Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities -$41M –Call: 6629335; 612-3244 Transported property @ Grove $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
Captain to ply from Georgetown to BarticaContact 650-0402 \ 2604124
Property @ Cummings Street; 4 storey building, club, 8 self contain rooms. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536
FAST GROWING FOOD IMPORTERS SEEKING E X P E R I E N C E D SALESPERSON CANTER DRIVERS & BOND WORKERS, BRING APPLICATION & POLICE CLEARANCE. CALL: 2318529; 231-8344
Property @ Enmore – Hope West: building overlooking Foulis. Call: 602-2818; 649-1434
One maid –Call: 691-7271 TAXI SERVICES G R TA X I S E RV I C E . CALL: 219-5000; 2271982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
FOR RENT
FOR SALE
Golden Jubilee Sale: Reduced Prices!! 2004 Toyota IST$2.0M, 2007 Toyota Auris $2.5M. Call: 609-3650; 2268953; 226-1973
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Golden Jubilee Sale: Reduced Prices!! 2007 Nissan BlueBird -$2.4M, 2007 Toyota Rush $2.9M, 2003 Toyota Verossa -$3.3M. Call: 609-3650; 2268953; 226-1973
LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
Vreed-en-Hoop Junction: church, office, lessons place, storage bond, private school, others -$20,000- Call: 603-6400
Toyota Hilux Vigo, ex cab 4WD, gas, 2700cc, 2TR Auto cc, 2006. Call: 616-5595; 6740434
Shop for rent in Lethem 2850sqft front line- Call: 6257171
Rotweiler pups – 622-6646/ 652-8511
Golden Jubilee Sale: Reduced Prices!! 2005 Toyota Raum $2.3M, 2006 Mazda Axela $2.3M, 2008 Toyota Hiace $3.3M. Call: 609-3650; 2268953; 226-1973 Golden Jubilee Sale: Reduced Prices!! 2005 Toyota Premio $2.5M, 2005 Toyota Allion $2.4M, 2007 Toyota Rav4 $6M. Call: 609-3650; 2268953; 226-1973 1 Leyland DAF LF HIAB truck 5 ton HIAB new, hardly used GTT 2960 -$4M. Call: 622-6746 1 FUSO Crane GTT 20 -$4M; 1 HINO ranger wrecker GVV1890 -$4M, 1 HIAB Canter GTT 7140 -$3.5M. (negotiable) Call: 6226746 Hatch Back Axela, fully loaded, low mileage, PS series -$1.850M. Call: 648-4994 AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BRR, RZ & Pitbull, Pajero Junior, Spacio: Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154
PROPERTY FOR SALE
One able bodied clerk. Call: 231-2029; 219-4533
Experienced Drivers with mini bus and hire car licence, also contract vehicles. Call: 6228350
VEHICLE FOR SALE
Corner property in Grove, 1 block from Main Road- Flat House, price negotiable. Call: 1905-626-2572
Toyota Hilux 5L Diesel Engine, stick gear 18” mag rims. Call: 6929577; 229-2379 Pick up GJJ Nissan. Call: 6956466; 673-1013
1 Exclusive Three bedrooms apartment @ First Bridge Diamond -$70,000. Call: 2255533; 225-5258; 615-2622 Lower 2 bedrooms apartment @ Paradise Public Road, E.C.D. Security Deposit required -$40,000 monthly. Call: 625-9939 1 Semi furnished studio apartment & 1 fully furnished 2 bedrooms apartment in Industry. Call: 619-2388 Commercial Public Road property located @ Eccles, Access to Harbour Bridge & East Bank Public Road. Call: 233-6517; 622-1957; 638-0595 House for rent @ Eccles, E.B.D-Call: 655-0700
TO LET Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park, recently renovated with free Wi-Fi, fully tiled -$70,000. Call: 227-5194 New self-contained 3 bedroom house, upper flat, security cameras; security lights, window screens @ Diamond, E.B.D. Call: 2260880; 603-0067
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807 Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494 LEARN TO DRIVE Soman, Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997
Barrels for sale @ Diamond, 19th Street, Fourth Corner, EBD –price $8,000 & Ladies bands -$500. Call: 216-2654; 684-0064 1 Houselot @ Crane Housing Scheme; 1 two storey house @ La Parfaite Harmonie. Call: 626-4841 or 683-6674 Pure Dachshund puppies, dewormed -$15,000. Call: 2160521; 694-3567 Transported property @ East Bank Public Road triple lot for sale- Call: 233-6517; 622-1957; 638-0595 MOULDINGS, SPINDLES, HAND RAILS, PINE CUPBOARD DOORS 16X27 -$3200 (KNOT FREE)- CALL: 621-1278 1 Complete high volume 3 stage water purification system, UV light, water tanks, reasonably price, owner migrating. Call: 649-8430 One barber chair- Call: 6605043 VACANCY Cashiers for supermarketCall: 624-0033. 1 Cook & 1 maid. Call: 624-0033. Security In store (daytime) –Call: 6803863.Driver for water truck. Call: 680-3863 Bond clerk, security officer, office assistant, cooks, tractor drivers, cashiers/ waitress, accounts clerk, civil engineer. Call: 6034 5 4 1 / chungsvacancy@gmail.com
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM
33.6 Acres Farm Land @ Kuru Kuru Linden Soesdyke Highway, one garden tiller. Call: 225-7794; 679-1151
EDUCATIONAL $20,000 Discount For CXC 2016 Student, 9 Course Diploma in Computers @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-EnHoop/Parika. Call: 264-3057 Computerized Accounting 4 Courses $35,000.00, PCRepairs $35,000, Graphics Courses $35,000@ MicroGraphics, Vreed-EnHoop/Parika. Call: 264-3057 VACANCY One washbay worker needed. Call: 672-0352; 689-5830 I.T Network Technician, Email CV to jobs@awngy.com
Cook/baker for the Interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020 5 Waitresses @ R&V Sports Bar E.B.D. Free Meals and accommodationCall/ whatsapp: 661-8802 Exist for cashiers/sales clerk. Apply in person with written application to Nirva Supermarket. Call: 227-5771 Exist for 1 nail technician with knowledge of facials, pedicure & massage. Call: 696-7337 for details.
Thursday May 26, 2016
PAGE 41
Kaieteur News
Nurses in strong show of The mischievous intentions of Donald Ramotar support for GPSU DEAR EDITOR; We, the nurses and members of Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), disassociate ourselves from the article by Mr. Sase Singh in the Kaieteur News of May 11, 2016. The article shows clearly that Mr. Singh is spreading misinformation and trying to misinform the readership and is not au fait with the nurses/ GPSU relationship. In this regard he is not competent or privileged to speak on our behalf. Our continued relationship with the GPSU has resulted in several successful representations being made that redound to the benefit of the members (nurses). These include: 1. Compensation for higher education 2. Increase in uniform allowance 3. Increase in meals allowance 4. Risk allowance for nurses attached to the Psychiatric Hospital 5. Representation that resulted in the reinstatement of several nursing staff 6. Education programs locally and overseas, that benefit nurses 7. Representation for Gratuity payments to nurses at the Linden Hospital Complex 8. Among other benefits While we recognize that they are adverse conditions facing us in the daily execution of our duties we are caring people who take into consideration the safety, health, care and well been of our fel-
low humans. It is in this regard we will continue to offer due care and consideration, under the guidance of our Union, when it comes to respond to the conditions facing us. This does not mean that we will indefinitely sit idly by and allow our rights to be trampled upon continually. Mr. Singh stated that and quote “if one evaluate the past salary deliberation between the GPSU and the Jagdeo/ Ramotar administrations, one can find a history of underperformance, weak militancy, and poor advocacy.” It seems as though Mr. Singh has just awaken from his Rip Van Winkle - like slumber, since he fails to recognize the Jagdeo/ Ramotar administrations as rogue administrations that care not for good Governance, Rule Of Law, the Constitution or the ILO Conventions ratified by the Parliament of Guyana. Our Union made repeated calls for Collective Bargaining Agreement to be honoured. However, this fell on deaf ears which resulted in us, nurses, led by our Union, taking protest action in the 2013, 2014 & 2015. While we the nurses agree we all deserve a living wage one must recognize that the GPSU is not the only stake holder; the Ministry of Labour plays a pivotal role in the Industrial Relations climate and we are aware that many time matters that were sent to them by GPSU for conciliation were not resolved or
some were not even dealt with, for example in 2013 when the GPSU approach the Ministry of Labour for conciliation in the Wages and Salary dispute an imposition was made and the Ministry of Labour shelved the matter. Also many nurses are still traumatize after been shot with pellets in the 1999 strike and some still have pellets in their bodies. It is not for Mr. Singh to advocate a change in the leadership of the Union. The Union is a democratic organization where every member has a chance to elect the leaders of the Union, once the rules of the Union are being observed, and this is done every four (4) years. With respect to the suggestion of an interim pay out we, the nurses, welcome this suggestion and we are of the firm view that our Union will not object to same but continue to make representation and demand that negotiations for Wages, Salaries and Allowances be commenced and concluded expeditiously. We, the Nurses, feel insulted with reference being made to the GPSU as the George Daniels Union. Just in case you are not up to date with information; George Daniels absconded and deserted the GPSU at a most critical and crucial time in the history of the union. Let it also be known that without the GPSU, the most outstanding union in Guyana under its current leadership, our conditions of service would have been worst off Nurses’ Representatives
done with the endorsement of the Permanent Secretary (PS) Vibert Welch thereby excluding other Amerindians who will no longer be asked to provide catering services for Amerindian heritage month celebrations and other functions. Let me repeat these ae mere allegations. Is Vice-President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, Sydney Allicock not aware that unacceptable practices
are taking place in the ministry he heads on Thomas Street? If he is aware then President Granger needs to have both Roberts Anil Roberts and Minister Allicock transferred to another ministry or demit their respective offices. In the meanwhile, TIGI needs to launch an investigation into the conflict of interest situation of Anil Roberts, a senior Public Servant at the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs. Edward Bristoll
Is there conflict of interest at this Ministry?
DEAR EDITOR; On the matter of conflict of interest in government ministries, another ministry I am urging the anti-corruption watchdog group Transparency Institute of Guyana (TIGI) to investigate is the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs. The principal regional development officer (PRDO) Mr. Anil Roberts who according to Amerindians is alleged to have several cars is presently in a conflict of interest situation at the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs. Roberts is the owner of an indigenous restaurant by the name of “Tocuma” which is situated on Waterloo Street and one Colin Andrews is the manager. Roberts it is alleged is using his position at the Ministry to get all of the Ministry’s catering contracts for Amerindian dishes. It is further alleged this is
DEAR EDITOR Ex-president Donald Ramotar wrote an article under the heading “The racist tactics of the APNU/AFC regime” I am convinced after reading this article that the aim is mischievous in that it creates incitement to divide the population and destroy all efforts of social cohesion. The article began by stating that Indo-Guyanese and Amerindians suffer from the racist policies of the current regime especially with regards to mass dismissal in the public service. It was further pointed out that this is rampant in state corporations including Guysuco and the Guyana Revenue Authority. Mr. Editor, incompetence and corruption were the hallmarks of the operation of Guysuco. Wrong investments at Skeldon and Enmore, industrial unrest, poor marketing decisions, failure to downsize and diversify, poor returns on investments, nepotism and political appointments are contributory factors which saddle poor taxpayers with continuous and considerable bailout money. With government trying to correct this situation this hypocritical pronouncement, especially by one former member of the board, is nothing less than paradoxical and atrocious. Shake up at G.R.A. was long overdue. At that organization nepotism and political appointees destroyed the essence of the chain of command in management and left a lot of room for dictatorial practices. Furthermore confidential information was disseminated contrary to constitutional regulations. As far as tax imposition was concerned this was skewed in favour of the wealthy where lack of information, bribery and political patronage saw them paying far less than they should. This resulted in hundreds of millions in leakages and starved the nation of essential developmental funds. The poor were made to pay more as VAT which was regressive, fell heavily on them. Mr. Ramotar should be ashamed to hurl criticism especially
when all these atrocities and many more prevailed under his watch. Mr. Editor, after a long time Amerindian can now feel that they are an integral part of our society. There is an Amerindian Vice President and some well distinguished Amerindians Ministers. Regular visits are made by Amerindian ministers and the First Lady to evaluate Amerindian communities and help out with their problems. Other ministers too are looking into the burning issues of land demarcation, illegal mining on their territory and environmental issues affecting their livelihood. In addition, Amerindian students are helped with transportation through President Granger initiative; there are better conditions at their school and dormitories and more resources are made available to Amerindian students. With regards to current treatment meted out to Amerindians one can safely conclude that pride and prestige are continuously restored to our indigenous people. Mr Donald Ramotar biased article continued by stating that Afro Guyanese support for the PPP result in them being targeted. Kwame Mc Koy is mentioned as a peaceful Afro Guyanese citizen against who trumped up changes are brought, including changes against Mark Benschop. Ramotar says he is innocent. The article further went on by stating that under the Coalition violence was directed against McKoy to the extent that he suffered a broken nose and had to be hospitalized. Mr. Editor, In spite of what is mentioned this individual had to be rescued by a compassionate president on Election Day otherwise he would have been a part of our history by now. Nothing is mentioned about the incident where he deliberately hit down somebody with his vehicle or was mention made of hitting somebody in their face with his gun. This individual, as other incidents have proven, has unlimited power and he was made immune
from persecution. On many occasions the police were told to leave the “gentleman” alone. Actually Mr. Ramotar never imagined the consequences when the shoe would be on the other side of the foot where culpable individuals will have to face the music. Mr. Editor the article further stated that lease of Afro – Guyanese farmers were cancelled and given to members who claimed that they belonged to a Coop. Mr. Ramotar and the PPP should have the least to say about land policy. These people have given away our rich forest and mining areas to people who to my mind are foreign mercenaries rather than foreign investors. Even Amerindians ancestral lands fell under this scheme. Thanks to the present government for reversing these contemptuous acts. Mr. Ramotar’s sympathy for Coop societies shows his acute ignorance. He should remember the Rosanante Coop of Parika where Afro Guyanese lands were taken away by Jagan Government and given to Indian farmers. The Coop sector, which should be part of our trisectoral approach to development, was given lands to carry out their activities, with the PPP rise to power, the PPP began to destroy these societies with fabrication so that they can set their hands on the lands and make money or give it over to their supporters, or give it to anyone who can be compromised in other ways. Mr. Editor, Mr. Ramotar has evolved and graduated to be a misinformer. His aim is to use propaganda to cover lost ground by his party. However, two things are apparent: there is a demographic shift which is nullifying gains made by ‘Apan Jaat’ policy; the opposition has more than four years to weave their deception during which time tremendous shortcomings will develop in their approach, and this will put them in a worst position than they were in at the 11th May, 2015 election. N. Mohamed, Region 2
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Thursday May 26, 2016
Kaieteur News
President Obama’s representative meets with President David Granger
Mr. Juan Gonzalez, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, United States Department of State, met with President David Granger, yesterday, at the Ministry of the Presidency. He was accompanied by United States Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway, Commander Michael White of the United States Embassy in Guyana, Captain Robert Landolfi, US Coast Guard and Ms. Dawn Leavitt. Mr. Gonzalez is in Guyana for the Golden Jubilee Anniversary of Independence Celebrations. Mr. Gonzalez said that it was an honour to be in Guyana for the celebrations. Guyana is a beautiful country with beautiful people, which shares cordial and friendly relations with the United States. “I am happy to be here representing the United States. The first thing the President and I discussed [was] the amazing reservoir of goodwill that exists between the United States and his government and the people of Guyana, and our commitment to working towards advancing the prosperity of not just Guyana but the rest of the Caribbean. “There are a lot of Guyanese in the United States so there is a familiar relationship between the United States and the people of Guyana. So coming here, even though it’s my first visit to Guyana, it is almost like a homecoming,” he said.
President David Granger shares a light moment with Mr. Juan Gonzalez,
Covent Garden Primary turns 50 ...Guyoil to construct $2M music facility for students
The cornerstone for the Covent Garden Primary School was laid on May 26, 1966. The school will be celebrating with Guyana as the nation recognises its 50th year of Independence. It was built by persons in the community as an independence project to accommodate children in the community, rather than having them travel to Providence Primary. The Ministry of Education has reinforced music as an important aspect of a child’s overall development. As a result, the ParentTeacher Association (PTA) of the school thought it fitting to mark this occasion by embarking on a project to build a music room in the school compound.
The Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil), in collaboration with Trade Winds Tankers, has got on board to fund the project to the tune of over $2M. Yesterday, various representatives of the company and members of the PTA conducted a sod-turning ceremony to initiate the project. Guyoil official, Reggie Bhagwandin stated, “On behalf of Guyoil in partnership with our shippers – Trade Wind Tankers, to take charge of this project in terms of building the music school. We promise to have this project completed within the next three to four weeks,” He also stated that they are hoping to complete the works so that it coincides with Guyoil’s 40th Anniversary next month. Guyoil in a statement said that it extends congratulations to the Government and fellow citizens of Guyana, as we celebrate 50 years of Independence. Meanwhile, the Headmistress of the school, Stacy Abraham-Gonzalez, expressed gratitude to Guyoil
The sod-turning ceremony yesterday at the Covent Garden Primary in the presence of students and teachers
and Trade Wind Tankers for taking on the project which she said will aid her pupils to explore their creative side.
We have fulfilled all our... From page 20 commits to continued adherence to the regulatory and policy framework of Guyana, and reaffirms its long term commitment to the forestry sector in Guyana.' The total area held by Coffee Day is
approximately 738,000 hectares of forest. VHPI has in the past come under scrutiny after several reports began to surface that the company was exporting raw lumber. The exportations of logs rather than processing the timber
locally, has long been a concern since numerous promises have been made by the previous administration and foreign investors about valueadded operations. The promise of valueadded has been seen as a “sugar coating” to enable the export of large quantities of logs, particularly to China and India, even though there is little job creation in Guyana or value enhancement in this sector.
Thursday May 26, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Approximately 8,000 people infected with HIV – Health Minister - about 500 new cases recorded annually There are currently about 8,000 individuals living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Guyana. This is according to Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, who revealed that there are about 500 new cases recorded annually. Some 200 of these infected individuals die each year of complications related to the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the Minister disclosed. AIDS is the syndrome caused by HIV. But a great deal of progress has been made over the years, to tackle the scourge of HIV. Part of the efforts, according to the Minister, has included the introduction of strategic programmes aimed at helping to eliminate the transmission of HIV from mother to child. Cuba is reportedly the only territory to achieve the elimination of HIV and Syphilis. Minister Norton is confident that, “Like Cuba has done already, if we continue improving on our management we should be able to achieve that goal in the near future.” The Minister’s remarks were made yesterday during a press briefing at the Brickdam, Georgetown, Ministry of Public Health boardroom. The press briefing was intended to share with the
From left: Dr. Martin Ouditt, Minister George Norton and Dr. Edward Greene. media plans for Guyana’s participation in the Upcoming United Nations High Level meeting on HIV/AIDS. The meeting which will be held at the UN Headquarters in New York from June 8 – 10, 2016 will be attended by Minister Norton. The Minister said, “It is important for us as a country to have representation at these high level meetings so that the strategy and political declarations that will come out of these meetings would be in sync with what would allow us to, at least, by 2020 be able to achieve the 90-90-90 goal.” The 90-90-90 goal is one that speaks to the achievement of 90 per cent of
persons being tested and knowing their HIV status, 90 per cent should be placed on treatment and 90 per cent of those on treatment should have an undetectable viral load. This is required if the UNAIDS strategy to eliminate HIV by 2030 is to be realised. “Now that is a tall order and we might not be able to achieve that unless we adapt this fast track approach, and it might mean much more than doubling up; we might have to triple-up...” said Minister Norton. For this reason, he added, “We have to evaluate every effort that is out there to see how best we can adapt and improve the management of
NFMU used special 'Govt. formula' to determine payment by companies From page 51 auditors said that Singh again wrote the Prime Minister recommending that in the interest of equity, fixed fees should also be established for U-Mobile. In that letter, Singh calculated a proposed fixed fee. The former Prime Minister approved the proposal on December 8, 2006. “Curiously, while Mr. Singh indicated to the former Prime Minister that the new formula for the GTT fees needed to be gazetted, his letter regarding Cell Star/U-Mobile contained no such assertion. Importantly, we confirmed with the NFMU that the new formula was never gazetted. “With respect to fees for subsequent years, Mr. Singh informed Ram & McRae that it was NFMU's intention to establish new fixed spectrum fees for the period 2008 to 2014 since both telecoms providers would have expanded operations,” the auditors said. “However, it appears that no action was taken to revise the applicable fees or bill the companies for the years 2008 to 2014. In the absence of any invoices, GTT and U-Mobile both made payments on account during the period 2008 to March 2015, amounting to $720 million and $610.7 million respectively. It was not until ten years later in the case of GT&T, and nine in the case of U-Mobile, that Mr. Singh on April 22, 2015 approached Dr. Roger Luncheon, former Head of the Presi-
dential Secretariat, requesting confirmation of the Government's approval of the annual spectrum fees for the period 2008 to 2015 for GT&T and U-Mobile to be the same as that invoiced for 2007 (GT&T – $180 million and U-Mobile – $135 million).” The auditors said that the NFMU needs to address in some more logical and legal manner, the payment of fees by all telecommunication operators and to ensure that such rates are properly gazetted.
HIV/AIDS and related complications.” Sharing the spotlight with Dr. Norton yesterday was UN Secretary General Special Envoy on HIV and AIDS, Dr. Edward Greene, and UNAIDS Country Representative, Dr. Martin Ouditt. They all emphasised yesterday that Guyana, included among the Caribbean Region, accounts
for the second highest prevalence of HIV. Sub Sahara Africa has the highest rate. But while there has been progress, Dr. Ouditt stressed that “business is not finished. If we are talking about being at 58 per cent of people living with HIV (who are) receiving ART (Anti Retroviral Therapy) and we want to go to 90 per cent by 2021, you can see that we still have some work to do.” This, according to Dr. Ouditt, is the state of affairs in the majority of countries. As such he noted that the time of the high level meeting comes at a most opportune time when the world has to make a serious decision. But, according to Dr. Greene, the Caribbean has a unique structure in the Caricom Single Market and Economy. He pointed out that within Caricom, “We have a unit called the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV/ AIDS...supported by UNAIDS, PANCAP has been identified by the UN system as an international best practice.” The reason this has occurred, Dr. Greene noted, is
because the Caribbean Region has a reasonably good governance arrangement in which all countries participate. According to him, “There is a shared responsibility at the regional level...unlike many other regions the Caribbean is noted for a consolidated approach and functional cooperation in negotiation,” Dr. Greene noted. He, moreover, added that the Region will be embracing this very spirit of regional cooperation at the planned high level meeting led by Caricom and PANCAP with the support of UNAIDS. “What we are hoping for...is that perhaps we can make an impact on the political declaration to our advantage,” said Dr. Greene as he made reference to a regional consultation, by way of webinar, which saw a great deal of good inputs. According to Greene, when ending AIDS is taken into consideration, “For us, small countries in the Caribbean, we can do it if we consolidate our position and we collaborate in shared responsibilities...”
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Thursday May 26, 2016
Kaieteur News
Education - a crucial factor that aided independence Fifty years ago the education sector was not only controlled by the churches but it was also very male-dominated. But as the sector evolved over the years it became increasingly state managed and also allowed for women to gravitate to the profession. This notion was yesterday emphasised by President of the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), Mr. Mark Lyte. “We are seeing more female educators even becoming managers. That was a new thing because only men were seen as dominant figures in managing education. In fact men were dominant in many fields,” Lyte noted. According to the teacher of 23 years, what obtains now is that in addition to there being even more female managers, they are now the dominant gender in the education system. There has been a vast reduction in males in the sector. “In some schools there are no male figures.” But this is not necessarily a bad development since, according to Lyte, “Females have really risen and that is due to equal education opportunities being offered to both genders.” He pointed out that in the education sector of today, “We are seeing both teachers and students being offered scholarships to
GTU President, Mark Lyte improve their level of education.” And it has been education that has been the very pivotal factor in helping Guyana to become an independent nation. Guyanese today are no doubt embracing a sense of pride. Today marks 50 years of independence from British rule. Guyana became an independent nation on May 26, 1966. Today is indeed a milestone to celebrate with an abundance of pomp and fanfare. According to Lyte, education not only helped to realise the auspicious goal of independence but it will help Guyana to achieve even more in the future.
“It was because of education that our founder leaders...(Cheddi) Jagan and (Forbes) Burnham and these other guys who led our country were able to see that we cannot remain a state that is dependent on somebody else; we needed to achieve our own independence and have our own leaders,” said Lyte. He asserted, “Had it not been for education, persons would not have seen the need for independence, therefore education played a pivotal role in the acquisition and achievement of independence...it was the educated leaders who were the driving force behind this realisation.” He in deliberating on the link to education and independence, however, noted that free education was only realised in 1976; 10 years after independence. Although education is recognised as the key to Guyana’s gaining independence, Lyte observed yesterday that even after attaining independence there is still more that must be done. “As a developing state we have a far way to go...I recognise that we have many things that we need to do to be where the rest of the world is,” said the GTU President. Among these he mentioned an improved remuneration package for teachers. And according to him, “If we can be where the rest of
the world is then we can have an improved education workforce. We find that it is this issue of remuneration that has also been causing male educators to shy away from the sector.” Lyte also stressed the need for Information Communication Technology (ICT) to be fused into the regular education programme. “When we look at where we are educationally, when it comes to ICTs, we are far behind...we are in a modern technological age but we are still far behind...some schools don’t even have access to internet services,” related Lyte. He noted that the public education sector should have been directing more focus to this area to improve the delivery of learning. “I don’t know of any school that gets its internet service paid through the Ministry of Education...those who have would have gotten it through their own efforts or through the Parent Teachers’ Association...but to get the education sector to a particular standard we should recognise the important services that should be offered,” asserted Lyte. The GTU President also lamented the fact that there are classrooms around the country that still have poor infrastructure including poor ventilation, no lighting and some that are not even classrooms but auditoriums
separated by boards. Some classrooms are simply not conducive for learning even as the country celebrates 50 years of Independence, Lyte highlighted. He noted, however, that the evolution of the sector over the years did allow for education to become decentralised whereby it is controlled by the individual regional administration. According to Lyte who has been advocating for improvements in the sector since taking up the reins of the GTU, there have been noticeable improvements as it relates to training both at the Teachers’ Training College and the University of Guyana. He said that there have been structured formal education programmes, a feat that was brought to fruition through the efforts of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development. According to Lyte, while there have been achievements and challenges in the sector, there is no denying the fact that education has been playing and continues to play a major role in Guyana’s development. He, moreover, noted that teachers should therefore be saluted today for a task they have been bestowed with and have been faithfully honouring - to mould a nation that today celebrates 50 years of Independence.
Alleged cocaine trafficker for High Court trial, co-accused freed A man was yesterday committed to stand trial in the High Court for the offence of trafficking in narcotics; while his co-accused was freed after they made an appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Shemroy Robertson, 31, of 101 Mandela Avenue; and Odinga Chase, 29, of 169 East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme were jointly charged with the offence earlier this year. The charge alleged that on January 15, at Princes Street, they had 1.156 kilogrammes of cocaine in their possession for the purpose of trafficking. At yesterday’s court hearing, Magistrate McLennan told the court that a prima facie case was made out against Robertson based on evidence led by Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) Prosecutor, Konyo SandifordThompson As such, she committed him to stand trial in the High Court at the next sitting of the Demerara Assizes for the indictable offence. He was also admitted to bail in the sum of $600,000. With regard to Chase, the Magistrate said that no evidence was produced by the Prosecutor to prove the essential elements of the offence. She subsequently dismissed the charge against him. When asked if he had anything to say in defence,
Robertson told the court, “I am innocent of this charge.” He opted to reserve his defence for the High Court. According to court facts, Custom Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU) ranks were in operation on the day in question, when Chase surrendered to ranks having exited a motorcar driven by Robertson. Robertson drove off and CANU officer, Andrew Yarde, drove up beside him on Bent Street, Werk en-Rust. Yarde told Robertson to pull over, but he did not comply and a bag was soon after, thrown out from the vehicle. While evading the police, Robertson became involved in an accident and was later found hiding in a house at Mandela Avenue.
The Magistrate’s ruling comes following the closure of the CANU’s case. Attorney Peter Hugh who appeared on behalf of the men had submitted that a prima facie case had not been made out against Robertson or Chase. Hugh had told the court that there was no evidence to suggest that Chase had knowledge or possession of a prohibited substance. According to the lawyer, the only evidence led against Chase was that a bag containing narcotics was thrown from a car he was in. Hugh had related that Robertson was the driver of the vehicle and pointed out that the prosecution’s witnesses failed to state how many occupants were in the car at the time of the busts.
Shemroy Robertson
FREED: Odinga Chase
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Cameron says EU referendum turnout is greatest concern for ‘In’ Reuters - Those fighting for Britain to remain in the European Union are making good progress but getting young people to register and turn out to vote is the ‘In’ camp’s greatest concern, Prime Minister David Cameron said yesterday. Surveys show young people are far more likely to be in favour of remaining in the EU, but also far less likely to vote. An estimated 43 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds took part in last year’s national election, far below the overall turnout of 66 percent and consistent with previous elections, where turnout in that age bracket has been below average since at least 1964. Cameron, the de facto head of the ‘In’ campaign, said election turnout was “definitely something that is concerning”. “I feel we are making good progress with this argument, particularly about Britain being better off if we stay in,” he told reporters during a flight to Japan for a summit of Group of Seven (G7) ad-
vanced economies. “Probably my greatest concern is doing everything we can in the next week in order to get people to register to vote, particularly young people because this is absolutely a vote about their future.” The deadline to register to vote in the June 23 referendum is June 7. In February, Britain’s electoral watchdog said 770,000 entries had been removed from the voting register in December due to a change in the way people have to sign up to vote. Cameron did not say what extra steps the government would take to boost youth registration, but earlier on Wednesday a campaign video urging young Britons to vote to stay in the EU backfired, with people taking to Twitter in droves to denounce it as patronising. With less than a month to go, opinion polls present a mixed picture, with some saying the “In” camp has a big lead and others putting the two sides neck-and-neck.
Cameron’s Conservative Party has long been divided over the issue of the EU, and his team believe ‘In’ needs to win by a large margin to bury the “Europe question”. Asked how big a win he needed to settle the issue, Cameron said: “A referendum is based on a simple majority. I want to get as many votes as I can for the case of staying in a reformed European Union but I am not going to try and make any forecasts.” Last week, the leader of the anti-EU UK Independence Party Nigel Farage said if the result were as close as 52-48 percent for In, the debate would be “unfinished business”. “There are some people for whom their life’s work and their core belief is that Britain must get out of Europe - I have respect for people who hold a very strong view,” Cameron said. “I disagree with them but I am sure there will be some people who will go on. There will always be some people who go on making that argument.”
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Forensic audit shows…
GM bought Land Cruiser without Board approval The Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) has been making both wasteful and unreported purchases, including the purchase of a duty free 2005/2006 Land Cruiser for then General Manager, Nizam Hassan, which the Board of Directors did not know about. This is according to forensic auditor, Saykar Boodhoo, who carried out an audit into the entity spanning 2012 to 2015. According to the auditor, the 2013 purchase of the used vehicle was juxtaposed by the fact that a perusal of the board minutes revealed no discussion or knowledge of the vehicle’s purchase at the time. In addition, no other quotations from suppliers were provided. This, he stated, pointed to the vehicle being sole sourced; it did not go through the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) which deals with government procurement. “The warranty offered on the vehicle was for the earlier of three months or 60,000 miles,” the auditor related. “On a comparative basis, in 2014, a brand new 2013/2014 Nissan Navarra 4X4 Double Cab Pickup Motor Vehicle was purchased for $6.2 M duty free with 36 months or 100,000 Km warranty.” “There is no vehicle log book for the Toyota Land Cruiser and there is no documentation to show the odometer reading of the vehicle at the time of purchase,” the auditor also observed. “The duty free price paid for the used 2005/2006 Toyota Land Cruiser may have been significantly higher than other vehicles on the market.” In response to the red flag raised by the auditor, GMC’s management did defend the situation. They stated that four quotations were actually collected to procure the Land Cruiser. Also it was alleged that three were submitted to NPTAB, for approval via the quotation method. “(A) request was sent to the Ministry of Finance through the Permanent Secretary requesting release of finance to procure vehicle using the quotation method,” management said in its response, adding that NPTAB approved this. According to the auditor, however, when full details on the purchase of the Land Cruiser were requested, no other quotations were provided by either GMC’s accountant or the Administrative Assistant, a Sophia Jordan, who was listed as the custodian of the Purchase contract for the vehicle.
“It is interesting that no explanation was provided in management’s response as to why only three of the quotations were sent to the NPTAB,” the auditor said. “It is the auditor’s opinion that the authenticity of the newly found quotations is highly questionable.” The auditor made it clear
“Efforts should be made to ensure that government funds are expended in accordance with laws and fiscal policies.” According to the auditor, GMC had in 2012 collaborated with the Agriculture Sector Development Unit –Ministry of Agriculture (ASDU-MoA) to purchase a generator. This
“The GMC Board needs to put systems in place to ensure that procurement policies are not violated or circumvented. The Board also needs to hold management accountable for management’s indiscretions.” that the GMC board needs to put systems in place to ensure that procurement policies are not violated or circumvented. He also stated that the board needs to hold management accountable for their indiscretions. More wastage After reviewing expense vouchers, it was unearthed that GMC has been spending government funds to purchase alcohol for GMC’s social meetings. He made it clear that to be spending Government funds to purchase alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited. “GMC’s management should become familiar with rules and regulations pertaining to Government expenditures,” the auditor said.
was done through the Rural Enterprise and Agriculture Development Project for a total of $19,874,320. “The generator provides standby power to GMC’s Office building at Robb and Alexander Streets,” the auditor said. “GMC was required to pay $3M of the cost of the generator with the balance being paid from the grant. However the auditor made it pellucid that the idea was not thought out as “it appeared that no intelligent process was used to assess GMC’s needs for a standby generator.” He stated that the generator purchased is a 280 KVA three phase generator, which is typically used in an industrial manufacturing environment. “GMC does not
A Toyota Land cruiser of the corresponding period have any equipment that requires three phase electricity,” the auditor. “All of GMC’s equipment utilizes single phase electricity.” Recommendation The auditor recommended that the process used to assess GMC’s capital needs should be reviewed. He also stated that management and GMC’s Board should be more involved in GMC’s capital expenses planning. “The government should make a determination as to where a three-phase generator of this type is required,” the auditor stated in regards to the $19.8M generator. “The government should seek permission from the funding source of the Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Development (READ) project grant to assign the generator to other government use where it can be more effectively and efficiently utilized.”
Former GMC General Manager Nizam Hassan
US based Guyanese accused of killing wife in 2012 freed After two Preliminary Inquiries for the murder of his wife in 2012, Guyana-born US citizen Ramdhanie Persaud, called ‘Prakash’ or ‘Prak’, 51, is now a free man. He walked out of the Reliance Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday after Magistrate Marissa Mittleholzer upheld no case submission by defence Attorney at Law Murseline Bacchus. Persaud was on trial for murdering his wife of 27 years, Bibi Shameena Deen. The man is alleged to have shot the woman during a dispute at their home around 23:00 hrs that night. The woman who operated a shop at the home was found with bullet wounds to the head and chest. Persaud reportedly fled the home while the victim’s 13-year-old son was attempting to summon help after hearing his mother’s screams. The couple had two sons, 13 and 16. The man had denied that he killed his wife. He had told investigators that he was
away all day at his farm and when he came home during the night he heard that his wife died and people saying that he killed her. He became afraid and ran away and hid in the bushes. He subsequently gave himself up in company with Attorney at Law Mursalene Bacchus. A postmortem performed revealed that she was shot at close range in the head and chest. Cause of death was given as shock and haemorrhage due to gunshot injuries, laceration to the brain and a fractured skull. The man who lives in the United States was previously placed on a one-year bond, after he had been charged for assaulting the woman. The alleged murder weapon was subsequently found at a residence in New Forest following police investigation. In his first preliminary inquiry it was ruled that a prima facie case was made out and he was committed to stand trial in the high court. How-
ever Attorney at Law Bacchus had challenged the ruling and took the matter to the High Court before former Chief Justice Ian Chang who had quashed the committal and ordered a new trial before another Magistrate. Attorney Bacchus had also successfully petitioned the High Court to have the Magistrate make certain statements available to the Defence. The lawyer had moved to the High Court after his request for the statements was denied. It was the first time such an Order Nisi was made in the country compelling the prosecution to make statements of a witness available to the defence for inspection and cross examination on the basis that the witness had refreshed his memory from those statements. The Judge had also ordered that the Magistrate cease hearing the matter until the determination of that application, and that a copy of the statements be made available to the defence.
Ramdhanie Persaud, called ‘Prakash’ or ‘Prak’ In his no case submission, Bacchus argued that the state has failed to make out a case against his client and he should be discharged as is provided for by section 69 of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act, Chapter 10:01 The lawyer also submitted that during the trial there was no direct or circumstantial evidence that the accused did any harm to the woman or to connect the accused to the crime, even remotely. He concluded that the prosecution has not made out a case for the accused to answer. The Prosecution which was conducted by Sergeant Orin Joseph called 10 witnesses. There were 15 during the first
PI. Prosecutor Joseph had countered that there was enough evidence presented and that at no time did the defence discredit the prosecution’s story. After listening to both sides and perusing the various submissions, Magistrate Mittleholzer concurred with the defence that the Prosecution has not made out a prima facie case. She concluded that there is no evidence that the accused killed the woman. The Postmortem examination concluded that the deceased died from gunshot injuries. A security guard who was a key witness in the trial was also shot dead before he could have testified.
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Guyana has resources to banish poverty forever -President Granger President David Granger has called on all Guyanese to begin the mission now to expand Guyana’s economy, to ensure equality, to improve education, to protect the environment and to provide employment for all. His call was contained in his Independence Day message to the National Assembly. The Guyanese leader is confident that this can be achieved since Guyana is not a resource poor country and Guyanese ought not to be a poor and dispossessed people. “Our country is endowed with bountiful resources – both human and natural – to banish poverty forever. We have always been known to possess the values of selfsacrifice and solidarity,” President Granger stated. He reiterated that Guyana is committed to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which obligate the country to end poverty in all its forms. The Head of State stated that Guyana has pledged to eradicate extreme poverty and to halve all other forms of poverty by 2030. According to the President, in order to achieve these goals, Guyana must realign its economy to generate the wealth that would allow for poverty reduction. “We must improve and sustain higher economic growth in order to raise our entire population out of the depths of extreme poverty.” And this will be aided by the enrichment of the economy with the discovery of petroleum. “We look forward to preparing our people and the economy for the exploitation of this rich resource. We shall create a
sovereign wealth fund to ensure that all generations benefit from the gains that are expected to flow from this discovery.” According to the president, the national economy must be reshaped to reduce dependence on the “six sisters – bauxite, fish, gold, rice, sugar, and timber.” The president said that Guyana’s economic policy over the next four years will be determined by the transition to greater valueadded production. Touching on the occasion that is being celebrated today, the golden jubilee of independence, President Granger said that Guyanese are paying tribute to the generations of men and women who were part of this historic and heroic struggle for self-determination. He said that Guyanese are now enjoying freedom today because of their consciousness, courage and commitment to the cause of freedom. “We pay homage to all those who were part of this process. We recall the martyrs of the Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo revolts during the dark era of enslavement. We recall the martyrs of the protests at Leonora, Devonshire Castle, Rose Hall, Ruimveldt and Enmore, during and after the era of indentureship. “We recall the labours of Hubert Critchlow, Cheddi Jagan, Forbes Burnham, Peter D’Aguiar and Stephen Campbell, which eventuated in national Independence. “Guyanese, today, honour our Heads of State – David Rose, the first Guyanese Governor General, his successor Edward Luckhoo
and Arthur Chung, our first President – for their civility and for the stability, which their office imparted to our young state,” Granger declared. He said that the Guyanese people’s ardent aspiration and arduous struggle for political Independence moulded their national identity. Independence, he added, infused the qualities of audacity and tenacity in Guyanese and it fortified their determination to be masters of their own destiny. It created new institutions on which to erect the pillars of the new nation. “Independence created the need for new institutions to preserve our achievements, to promote the development of our nation and to protect our peoples’ rights. We created our own Court of Appeal as our highest court. We refashioned our public and police services to ensure a better quality of life and human safety. We established the Guyana Defence Force to stand guard over our country’s territory. “We improved access to education, electricity, health care, housing and potable water. We established massive agricultural, drainage and irrigation schemes, and industrial estates to put our people to work. “We created institutions to provide social protection such as the National Insurance Scheme. We created banking institutions to promote savings and provide credit for our people.” Granger said that Guyana, in a relatively short period of time after Independence, improved its economy to provide a higher standard of
living for its people. “ S u c c e s s i v e administrations, throughout the past five decades, have continued to add to our national assets and extend our public infrastructure,” the President said. He stated that Guyana has made progress in ensuring greater opportunities for its people, who will continue to demolish class and geographic inequalities, especially between the hinterland and the coastland, and between the urban and rural communities. Guyana’s hinterland possesses its richest natural resources but despite this endowment, it remains underdeveloped and plagued by poor infrastructure and environmental hazards. And President Granger is committed to ensuring that the disparities in development and in households between the hinterland and the coastland will be reduced if the nation is to become a more equal nation. “We will continue to work towards the development of an inclusive and integrated plan to close the gap between hinterland and coastland. The plan will involve improved internal communication – aerodromes, bridges, causeways, highways,
President David Granger stellings and telecommunications “ and public services such as education, health, human safety and social security. “We will also create stronger regions administered by ‘capital towns’ in order to develop hinterland and rural communities more rapidly. Three new capital towns “ at Bartica, Mabaruma and Lethem “ have already been created. A fourth will follow at Mahdia. Every region, in the end, will be administered and directed by a ‘capital town.’ “Guyana, therefore, will promote respect for equality before the law and equal
protection of the law. This includes the guaranteed rights of citizens, equality for women and the participation of citizens in the decisionmaking of the State, in accordance with the Constitution. We will achieve these through the institution of an inclusive system of governance and the holding of regular, free and fair elections.” The President insisted that education is the gateway to greater opportunities, adding that it is the means to a more equal society. It is a pathway towards improved well-being and it offers an escape from poverty.
King’s Jewellery presents President with Golden Jubilee pin
Proprietor of Kings Jewellery World, Mr. Looknauth Persaud affixes the Golden Jubilee pin onto President David Granger’s lapel while Mr. Rohandev Persaud looks on at the Ministry of the Presidency. President David Granger yesterday received the first gold pin from a limited edition collection, featuring the Golden Jubilee logo, from King’s Jewellery World. The pin was presented to the President by Proprietor of the store, Mr. Looknauth Persaud and his son, Mr. Rohandev Persaud. In an invited comment, Mr. Looknauth Persaud said that the pin was specially
manufactured to mark Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Only 100 pins were produced. “We wanted people to have something to commemorate the 50th Anniversary. Most countries or most organisations will celebrate milestones and we did this with the jaguar because we thought that this would be a fitting memorabilia for people to wear. It is some-
thing to be proud, it is made with gold and Guyana is a gold producing country,” he said. The Presi d e n t e x pressed his gratitude for the gesture, noting that it is heart-warming to see Guyanese so excited and enamoured about the Independence Anniversary celebrations. Replicas of the pin are also available.
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Region 8 REO should... From page 4 based on the media reports on a number of issues that many REO’s are campaigning and working in a political manner however thus resulting in many regions expressing their frustrations and disgust over their performance or non-performance. However, while we have our own share of problems in Region 8, we are satisfied that it has nothing t do with the problems that some of the other regions are faced with. We therefore would like to publicly express our appreciation and continued support t the performance of Downes as we firmly believe that he is a man who is bent on achieving results thus his determination, dedication, commitment and most importantly discipline. The Honorable Minister of Communities Mr. Ronald Bulkan should take note of the work and performance of
this REO as I am sure that should his performance be emulated and/or replicated in other regions then the smooth flow of getting things done administratively would not be as stagnant and/or stalled as the residents of many regions continues to express. Mr. Editor we therefore would like to express to REO Rafel Downes that he certainly deserves a pat on his shoulder. Regards Claire Edwards, Patrick Marks Sherlock Jupiter Andy Thomas Phyllis Jones Coleen Thuknauth Sherwin Hinds Patricia Josiah Anthony Etwaroo Michelle Benjamin Erlene Hunte Lydia Jack Racheal Smith Annette Michael Singh
Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition...
Team 25 master wet conditions to win Linden title - Classic 6 places third Team 25 led by former national mid-field ace Collie Hercules mastered the wet conditions better than Wisroc and this resulted in them being crowned this year’s champions of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Linden Futsal Competition which ended in the wee hours on Wednesday morning, at the Mackenzie Market Tarmac. Played before a massive outpouring of fans who not only braved the persistent rain, but waited for hours just to see the two finalists square off for the title which went to Team 25 via a 2-1 margin of
Thursday May 26, 2016 ARIES (MAR. 21APRIL 20) Don't give your heart too readily. Expect to have problems with the ones you love. Sit back.
LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) Make arrangements to spend quality time together. Your personal partner may be less than willing to accommodate you today.
TAURUS (APR. 21MAY 21) Your self confidence will attract members of the opposite sex Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with, but try to do things by the book. You may cause a fuss if you come on too strongly in public.
SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) Don't settle for less than the best. Groups and organizations that indulge in social events to raise money will be conducive to meeting new and exciting lovers.
GEMINI (MAY 22JUNE 21) You may find your mate somewhat perturbed. Balance is required if you want stability. You're in the mood to spend money.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Your partner may not understand your mood swings but if you are willing to communicate, a lot of grief can be avoided. Stay mellow. Limitation could set in if you've been spending too much.
CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) You will be able to dazzle others with your obvious charm and your outgoing nature. You can make money through your creative efforts. Do your own thing. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Opportunities to make advancements through good business sense are apparent. You must consider yourself for a change. You can expect changes at your work place. VIRGO (AUG. 23 SEPT. 23) Stay out of other people's affairs. Someone you live with may cause drastic alterations in your usual routine. Try to be reasonable.
CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) Children may cause limitations. Uncertainties about your home may cause tension. You may want to take a look at your direction in life. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) Romance and social activity will be a promising combination. You need time to think things through. Don't hold back. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) Sports, physical fitness programs, exercise in general will make you feel better and show some pretty quick results. Someone you live with may cause drastic alterations in your usual routine.
victory. On target for the winners were Hercules and Kennard Tyrell, who netted in the third and 31st minute respectively, while Orandy Wills 39th minute strike proved to be a mere consolation for the losers. The result meant that Team 25 took home $400,000 and the Championship trophy, while Wisroc’s second placed finish earned them $150,000 and a trophy. Team 25 grabbed the lead when Hercules’ fierce rightfooted shot deflected off a scrambling defender and rolled over the goal-line. It was perhaps a signal that the night belonged to Team 25. Shortly after, another proof that it was going to be Team 25’s night was when Wisroc’s Mark McLean swiveled neatly and hammered a thunderous rightfooter that crashed on to the crossbar and sailed into touch for a goal kick. The half came with Team 25 clinging to their 1-0 advantage and all to play for in the final period. The new champs came out in the half and seemed content on preserving their lead with Hercules pulling the strings and directing the show and this strategy seemed to frustrate the opposition and they conceded another goal this time off the boot of Tyrell. It came in the 31st when he raced down the right side on a counter attack that left Wisroc with one player defending against two and he swept in Hercules pass for a 2-0 lead. However, undaunted by their plight, Wisroc continued to fight and was rewarded with a goal one minute before full time when Wills weaved past one defender following a cross and fired into an open goal. It was all that they were able to muster before the final whistle sounded to hand Team 25 the title and the top prize. In the third place playoff, Classic-6 cruised to a comfortable 5-1 win over High Rollers to grab $100,000 and a trophy, while the losers took away $75,000 for their effort. Earlier, a fan Yanic Cornette won a Guinness branded cooler following a draw, before the commencement of the final. Among those in attendance were Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste, Linden Branch Manager Shondel Easton and Outdoor and Events Manager Mortimer Stewart.
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Ninvalle for Swiss AIBA Congress Guyana is expected to be represented when AIBA meets next Wednesday to vote on if to allow professional boxers at the upcoming Olympics. Guyana Amateur Boxing Association president Steve Ninvalle is scheduled to depart early next week for Lausanne, Switzerland as a member of AIBA Executive Committee when the organization holds an Extra Ordinary Congress on June 1. The Congress was called specifically to deal with amending the organization’s constitution to make it possible for professional boxers to be welcomed at this year’s and future Olympics. An AIBA invitation to National Federation presidents and secretary generals stated “The motion to amend Article 13(J) of the AIBA Stat-
utes is a historical cornerstone for the future development of our sport since it allows AIBA and its National Federations to determine boxer’s eligibility status and extending to the applied rules of the sport and athlete’s at events organized or endorsed by AIBA within the territory or jurisdiction.” The invitation which was signed by AIBA president Dr. Chin Kuo-Wu added that “as AIBA enters its 70th year and celebrates boxing’s rich history, this proposal to amend Article 13(J) ensures it will be at the forefront of the international sports movement and empowers Member Federations to decide which boxers to enter into competition. I look forward to seeing you in Lausanne for this important milestone for the advancement of our sport.”
GOA introduces Olympic-bound Troy Doris to Guyana
Steve Ninvalle In earlier times, AIBA had frowned upon the mixing of amateurs and professionals during sanctioned competitions. Ninvalle created history in November 2014 by becoming the first person from CARICOM to be elected to the prestigious Executive Committee of the world’s second most powerful sport organization.
Olympics bound Troy Doris (third, left) pose with GOA President, K. A Juman Yassin (second, left), Chef-de-Mission, Garfield Wiltshire (left), AAG President, Aubrey Hutson (right) and his family members yesterday at Olympic House. The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) yesterday introduced United Statesbased, Troy Doris, to Guyana.
Four teams advance as Mayor’s Cup action continues Saturday and Sunday Four teams advanced following the opening set of matches in the Annual Mayor’s Cup football tournament last weekend. The action is set to continue this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, with double headers at the respective Den Amstel and Victoria grounds. Last Friday at the Victoria ground, Grove Hi Tech became the first team to move onto the next round of the knockout tournament when they squeezed past Buxton Bakewell by a 1-0 margin. Joining them were home side Victoria Kings who had to work hard to overcome Agricola on penalty kicks 5-3 after the scores were locked at 2-2 following regulation and extra time. It was sweet revenge for the Victoria Kings
Lennox Arthur after losing to Agricola last year in a key encounter. The action shifted to the
Den Amstel ground on the West Demerara on Sunday last with Pouderoyen beating Soesdyke 2-1. Host Den Amstel then got past Kuru Kuru 4-2. The losers were guilty of squandering several chances that could have changed the result. Meanwhile, the tournament continues on Saturday at Den Amstel with Beavers taking on Eagles from 2:00pm, while at 4:00pm, Uitvlugt challenge Herstelling. Sunday the games are fixed for the Victoria ground on the East Coast with BV Triumph clashing with Mahaica from 6:30pm, while the nightcap pits Golden Grove against Cougars at 8:30pm. Coordinator Lennox Arthur, the former National footballer and later Coach,
who has been behind this tournament for 22 years, is encouraging fans to come out and support the games. Arthur noted that the teams are battling for the Mayor’s Cup and a first prize of $700,000 donated by Aruwai Resort, second $300,000 and the Ansa McAl trophy, third $200,000 and the John Fernandes trophy and fourth $100,000 and the Ministry of State trophy. Ricks and Sari has also donated hampers which will go to the winning team. The tournament’s top goal scorer will get a three piece suite compliments of AH&L Kissoon Furniture Store. This year’s tournament has been engrafted to form part of the 50th Anniversary Jubilee celebrations.
GSCL Inc/NSC Independence T20 re-scheduled for Saturday The Independence T20 Softball tournament which is being organised by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc in collaboration with the National Sports Commission will now commence on Saturday. The competition was set to bowl off last weekend but play was called off with out a ball being bowled due to the inclement weather which left the venues waterlogged. The teams have been
Thursday May 26, 2016
Kaieteur News
placed in two zones and will play each other once with the top two from each zone going through to the semi finals which will be contested on Sunday; the final will be played on June 4. Zone A is comprised of Choke Success Masters, Parika Defenders, Fisherman XI and Tropical Springs while zone B includes Ariel, Albion, Regal and Mike’s Wellman. Matches are slated for the Malteenoes Sports Club,
GNIC SC, Gandhi Youth Organisation and Ogle SC. The winning team will take home a trophy and $200,000 while the runner up will receive a trophy and $50,000. In the opening fixtures Choke Success Masters will face Tropical Springs, Parika Defenders will play Fisherman XI, Ariel will take on Mike’s Wellman and Albion will face Regal. In the second round, Suc-
cess will battle Parika, Fisherman XI will challenge Tropical Springs, Albion will entertain Ariel and Regal will take on Mike’s Wellman. The third round will see Success facing Fisherman XI, Parika playing Tropical Springs, Ariel matching skills with Regal and Albion doing battle with Mike’s Wellman. Mike’s Copy Centre, Ink Plus and WJ Enterprise have joined Regal Stationery and Computer Centre and Regal Sports as the sponsors. Action gets underway at 09:30 hrs.
Doris, who will represent Guyana at the Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil is currently in Guyana with his family for the Golden Jubilee of Independence. He is the number three world ranked triple jumper, who trains in Chicago. GOA and the Athletic Association of Guyana discussed details of the 27 year old athlete’s representation of Guyana at Olympic House “I am very excited for this opportunity to represent Guyana. But my intention is to be a catalyst. I initially wanted to represent Guyana, which was my priority; trying to get a medal is beautiful, of course it will be great to get a medal, but how well can I try to exploit the talent in a good way in Guyana? Like I said, I want to be a catalyst to try to get more Guyanese athletes involved in field events”, Doris said yesterday. “Knowing how track and field works, we know everybody has good and bad days.
I will always hope for a medal,” he said when asked about his chances at the Olympic Games. “I just know how my training is going and what I am capable of… trying new things with my Coach and the directions that’s going, I feel that I will reach the finals and I know once I am in the finals I will try to get a medal for Guyana,” he added. Before competing at the Olympic Games, it was disclosed that Doris will take a month in Greece then compete at the Diamond League meets in Norway and Switzerland on June 8 and 14. He is among four Guyanese athletes who have qualified for the Olympics to-date. The others are Brenessa Thompson, Aaliyah Abrams and Winston George. The Olympic Games will be held during August 5-21. According to Games ChefDe-Mission, Garfield Wilshire three swimmers will also attend the Games on universality conditions.
Associations receive... From page 63 the fraternity can be very disruptive to the actual playing of football. Every deal that the GFF signs he said, would be similar to NAMILCO. ”We have strong commitments for the Under-15, we’re going to see that in a matter of weeks, exceptionally strong commitments for Under-13 grassroots and exceptional strong commitment for Under-19 and we’re going to be following the exact model. We are securing sponsorship for all nine (9) associations, so you guys are going to be relieved of the burden that you have been carrying over the years where you have to go out and fish.” With this move by the fed-
eration, Forde noted that he would still like to see associations using initiative and filling gaps. Selected players from the Under-17 will be further exposed under the guidance of specially trained Youth Development Officers twice weekly at various Academy Training Centers. ”They are going to be exposed to consistent technical and tactical training, so my thought process tells me that at the end of the four-year cycle for my executive we’re going to have the most diverse and the most technically and tactically sound national team.” Apart from the cash received, each association was presented with a pair of goal nets, a set of balls and jersey’s.
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 26, 2016
PAGE 63
Golden Mile race returns on Sunday P
rofessional Key S h o p a n d Windjammer International Hotel will on Sunday host a Golden Mile Road Race beginning at 704 Sports Bar and Lounge at 4pm. The event received the blessings of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) yesterday. “Me and my friend, Carey Griffith decided to go into athletics to help out athletes. This one mile will be different; we wanted to change the flavor from 5km and 10km races,” one of the organisers of the event, Kwame Ridley of Professional Key Shop told the media at the launch of the event at 704 Sports Bar.
Providence Stadium will be ready for Tri-Nation... From page 66 friendly Football encounter. “A part of the ground near that square was damaged by Football and we have to dig out that piece and replant grass but that should not be a major cause for concern,” explained the experienced Curator. He also said while grass should be left on the track it’s unlikely that it will play much different than it usually does, which is slow with some turn for the spinners. Australia, South Africa and host West Indies have all included three spinners in their teams in anticipation of the slow nature of not only the Providence pitch but also those throughout the region. Meanwhile, tickets went on sale on Monday at the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) office on Regent Street and yesterday at Providence. According to the GCB, sales have been going well, adding that tickets can also be bought online. Those who buy tickets outside of Guyana will be given a bar code which they must submit when they get here to collect their physical ticket. When Kaieteur Sports visited the venue which can accommodate 15,000, work was being done to repair seats in the Green Stands and replace the seats in a section of the Orange Stands.
Stakeholders take a photo opportunity during the Golden Mile Road Race launch yesterday at 704 Sports Bar and Lounge. “We hope the athletes show up. There are a lot of big prizes up for grabs, but we do not want to mention it on air,” he added when asked about the prize monies, admitting that $75,000 will go to the winner of the race. The race will proceed west along Lamaha, South into Carmichael Street and finish in front of the Oasis
Café, the building that also houses Professional Key Shop. Windjammer’s Carey Griffith said that he will be sponsoring a grand prize for the winner. “We have a grand prize for the winner from Windjammer that will be announced on the day. We want to see long distance racing expand,” he said.
Meanwhile, AAG President, Aubrey Hutson gave the event his blessings, stating that he is happy to be part of the event. “It was not on the calendar, but we are happy to be part of it. We will ensure all statutes of the IAAF are kept,” he said, encouraging the organisers to continue to support athletics.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday May 26, 2016
Renegades confirm they are not going to re-sign Chris Gayle
Chris Gayle
Australia’s Melbourne based Big Bash franchise, Melbourne Renegades, have confirmed that they are not going to re-sign West Indian star batsman, Chris Gayle, for this season’s tournament. Renegades chief executive, Stuart Coventry, said that the club is looking elsewhere to fill its overseas quota. “We’ll unveil our international signings soon and Chris (Gayle) isn’t part of those plans,” Coventry told News Corp. The decision of the Renegades to not call upon Gayle’s services effectively ends the West Indian hopes of featuring in this season’s tournament, with the remaining clubs having already signed or having shown no interest in the Jamaican. Dwayne Bravo could be a replacement for Gayle, according to reports… (cricbuzz.com)
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 26, 2016
PAGE 65
Sheltez Tennis Club/Homesafe Security Jr Tournament...
Heimraj Reasul, Nicola Ramdyhan take top honours By Sean Devers T h e S h e l e z Te n n i s club/Homesafe Security Junior Tennis tournament served off on May 5 at the National Racket Centre on Woolford Avenue and saw competition in four categories. In the boys under-12 Jeremiah Kalekeyzi progressed to the final compliments of two walkovers defeated Vadeanand Reasul 4/0, 4/0 In the girls U12 category there was plenty of rivalry as the youngest of the Kalekeyzi siblings; Paula kalekeyzi battled Akeila Jones, but it was the experienced Jones who was victorious 4/0, 4/0. In the girls and boys U14 category there was stunning play in both draws. Kalacya Fraser was the victor defeating Ciara Pooran 4/1, 4/1 but that score did not reflect the performance as Pooran came out swinging her racquet fiercely but in the end the more experienced Fraser prevailed. In the boys U-14 draw Heimraj Reasul was the victor defeating Jordan Beaton 4/5, 4/1. It was a game of fierce power-hitting and clever shots as Reasul came out firing in the first set. He was leading Beaton 3/0 before his opponent staged a spirited fight back and broke Reasul to finish the set 5/3. In the second set, Reasul quickly found his stride as he came out with clear and precise serving to throw Beaton off while he finished with cross court shots to bring the match to an end. In the girls U-18 division, crafty Nicola Ramdyhan taught Shivani Persaud a Tennis lesson,
throwing down monster serves and ground strokes to win 6/2, 6/0. The boys displayed exciting Tennis throughout with Joshua Kalekeyzi, who had surprised those present when he defeated the tournament’s number one seed Keenan Persaud, before playing his heart out in his semi-final loss against Jordan Beaton. In the final, Heimraj Reasul the eldest of the Reasul brothers, got the better of the talented Beaton. Reasul was on fire, throwing down hulk-like serves and booming ground strokes which Beaton had no answer for and registered an emphatic 6/0, 6/1 victory. At the conclusion of the tournament the prizes were presented to the winners while Orande Dainty thanked the youngsters for participating and the Guyana
Winners in the Sheltez Tennis Club Homesafe Security Junior tournament show off the trophies and medals. Lawn Tennis Association (GLTA) for endorsing the first Junior Club Tournament for the year.
National Coach Shelly Daly-Ramdyhan said it was her dream come true to see a tournament for children so
young and described the competition as a success. Maurisa Johnson spoke on behalf of the Sponsors
Homesafe Security, while several parents were present to share the moment with their proud off-springs.
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Thursday May 26, 2016
Alphonso, Grogan donate gear Providence Stadium will be to junior boxers in Linden ready for Tri-Nation series
Linden Alphonso (second, right) hands over some of the gear to Coach, Orlan Rogers while two of the boxers strike a pose. A damaged section of the ground caused by Football. Linden Alphonso and Ronald Grogan donated a quantity of boxing gear to junior boxers, Akea Lamazon, Omar Pollard and Duel Augustine of Victory Valley’s Pocket Rocket Boxing Gym in Linden recently for their outstanding performances. The three boxers won gold medals at the recently held National Junior box-off
and are currently in training for a tour to Suriname. In addition to the athletes, Coach, Orlan Rogers also benefitted from a donation from the benevolent Linden duo. The presentation was a follow-up to the boxing equipment that the US-based individuals donated in November last year. “As former Victory Va l l e y r e s i d e n t s w e
appreciate the efforts that they put in on a daily basis. We know what it means to not have and we see this as a perfect opportunity to give back to our community and help maintain our strong boxing tradition,”Alphonso said. They informed that it is such support that produced the likes of Terrence, Jestus Craig, Conrad Wilson, Colin Douglas and Pocket Rocket Coach, Rogers. The boxers, who all attend Secondary Schools in Linden, were reminded that academia is just as important as sports, hence the need to stay in school.
By Sean Devers The Guyana National Stadium at Providence was constructed for the 2007 cricket World Cup and has hosted two Tests and 13 ODIs. Preparations for next month’s Tri-nation ODI series are being done at Guyana’s only International Cricket venue. The first three matches in the series which starts on June 3 will be played at Providence, as International cricket returns to Guyana for the first time in over three years. The last time an International game was played here was in 2013 when West Indies beat Pakistan by 37 runs in the second ODI of the five-match series.
West Indies face South Africa in the series opener before playing Australia on Sunday June 5 while Australia and South Africa do battle on Tuesday June 7. This is the first time in the history of Caribbean cricket that every venue for an ODI series will use floodlights. All matches are Day/Night games and will commence at 13:00hrs. Head Curator Wazim Habib says the ground should in top shape by the time the series starts and informed the only minor concern is a small section of the field which was damaged earlier this month when the Golden Jaguars opposed Canada U-23 in a (Continued on page 63)
Kaieteur News
Thursday May 26, 2016
PAGE 67
NAMILCO/GFF Flour Power Nat. U17 League
Associations receive $150,000 and equipment ahead of kickoff By Franklin Wilson Managing Director of the National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO) Mr. Bert Sukhai yesterday presented cheques valued at $150,000 to each of the nine (9) participating associations in the NAMILCO/GFF Flour Power National U-17 League. Ye s t e r d a y ’s c h e q u e represents the first half of a two part payment that will assist each association with the administration of the tournament in relation to referees fees and other commitments. The governing body also received a cheque from the title sponsor of the tournament; Mr. Sukhai disclosing that the overall cost for the five-year deal with the GFF is in the vicinity of 35 million dollars which caters for inflation during the said period, an investment that is worth the while, he posited. Sukhai noted that it was the company’s pleasure to develop the game at the junior level, noting that players from this competition will eventually form the core at the national level. Prior to inking this deal, NAMILCO, for eight years was the sponsor of the One Love Inter Club KO tournament which involved teams from various associations but now the focus has shifted to youth development. ”The objective of having a league is worth the investment that we are making and I’m sure the company will also benefit from the sort of publicity that you guys would be giving us over time. We thought it was a good investment that we have gone into and we’re hoping that the various teams are playing not only for themselves but they are playing for the football federation, for the country and for NAMILCO.” The Managing Director also noted that he is expecting well run tournaments in the various
associations that will in due course, redound to moving the game to another level. GFF President Wayne Forde, in thanking Mr. Sukhai and NAMILCO for partnering with the federation to build a solid foundation for the sport, reminded that the company has been a faithful investor in the sport even in tough times over the years which underscore the fact that they are a committed and responsible corporate partner. Forde noted that this level of development has been lacking for many years at the national level and while the players will be ambassadors for the sponsor and federation, so too will be the administrators of the tournament. ”I want to implore the administrators of the tournament to do everything within their power to ensure that fair play prevails, that the rules are followed, we don’t have players that are outside of the age category, these are the kinds of things that can bring negative press to a very, very good idea.” The GFF boss noted that the reason for the five-year deal is to ensure that if his executive is not re-elected, the new body will not have to run around to get sponsorship but will have at least one year to sort themselves out noting that the political turmoil within (Continued on page 58)
Managing Director of NAMILCO Mr. Bert Sukhai (5 left) and GFF President Wayne Forde (5 right) along with reps of the some of the GFF affiliates after they received their cheques yesterday at the GFF office. th
th
t r o Sp Linden Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition...
Team 25 master - Classic 6 wet places third conditions to win Linden title
Managing Director of NAMILCO Mr. Bert Sukhai (5th left) and GFF President Wayne Forde (5th right) along with reps of the some of the GFF affiliates after they received their cheques yesterday at the GFF office.
NAMILCO/GFF Flour Power Nat. U17 League...
Ninvalle for Swiss Associations receive $150,000 AIBA Congress and equipment ahead of kickoff
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