Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Saturday November 11, 2017

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

A new playbook for consolidating power

(Republished from The Washington Post – By Fareed Zakaria, Opinion writer) The news out of Saudi Arabia has been startling. A country famous for its stability to the point of stagnation is watching a 32-year-old crown prince arrest his relatives, freeze their bank accounts and dismiss them from key posts. But on closer examination, it should not be so surprising. Mohammed bin Salman is now applying to Saudi Arabia what has become the new standard operating procedure for strongmen around the world. The formula was honed by Vladimir Putin after he came to power in Russia. First, amplify foreign threats so as to rally the country around the regime and give it extraordinary powers. Putin did this with the Chechen war and the danger of terrorism. Then, move against rival centers of influence within the society, which in Russia meant the oligarchs — who at that time were more powerful than the state itself. Then talk about the need to end corruption, reform the economy and provide benefits for ordinary people. Putin was able to succeed on the last front largely because of the quadrupling of oil prices over the next decade. Finally, control the media through formal and informal means. Russia has gone from having a thriving free media in 2000 to a level of state control that is effectively similar to the Soviet Union. Naturally, not every element of this formula applies elsewhere. Perhaps the crown prince will prove to be a reformer. But the formula for political success that he’s following is similar to what’s been applied in countries as disparate as China, Turkey and the Philippines. Leaders have taken to using the same ingredients — nationalism, foreign threats, anti-corruption and populism — to tighten their grip on power. Where the judiciary and media are seen as obstacles to a ruler’s untrammeled authority, they are systematically weakened. In his 2012 book “The Dictator’s Learning Curve,” William J. Dobson presciently explained that the new breed of strongmen around the world have learned a set of tricks to maintain control that are far more clever and sophisticated than in the past. “Rather than forcibly arrest members of a human rights group, today’s most effective despots deploy tax collectors or health inspectors to shut down dissident groups. Laws are written broadly, then used like a scalpel to target the groups the government deems a threat.” Dobson quoted a Venezuelan activist who described Hugo Chávez’s wily blend of patronage and selective prosecution with an adage: “For my friends, everything, for my enemies, the law.” Classic centralized dictatorships were a 20th-century phenomenon — born of the centralizing forces and technologies of the era. “Modern dictators work in the more ambiguous spectrum that exists between democracy and authoritarianism,” wrote Dobson. They maintain the forms of democracy — constitutions, elections, media — but work to gut them of any meaning. They work to keep the majority content, using patronage, populism and external threats to maintain national solidarity and their popularity. Of course, stoking nationalism can spiral out of control, as it has in Russia and might in Saudi Arabia, which is now engaged in a fierce cold war with Iran, complete with a very hot proxy war in Yemen. Dobson, however, did end the book expressing optimism that, in many countries, people were resisting and outmaneuvering the dictators. Yet what has happened since he wrote the book is depressing. Instead of the despots being influenced by democrats, it is the democrats who are moving up the learning curve. Consider Turkey, a country that in the early 2000s seemed on a firm path toward democracy and liberalism, anchored in a desire to become a full-fledged member of the European Union. Today, its ruler, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has eliminated almost all obstacles to total control. He has defanged the military and the bureaucracy, launched various kinds of

Jagdeo’s law comes back to haunt him DEAR EDITOR, It should be recalled that it was Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP who amended the constitution to place the clause that states “Provided that if the Leader of the Opposition fails to submit a list as provided for, the President shall appoint a person who holds or has held office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such judge”. This clause was placed in Bill No. 2 of 2000 by Jagdeo and the PPP while they operated on the false premise that they would never lose power. Clearly it is Jagdeo and the PPP that laid the basis to move away from the Carter Formula. That is what happens to persons of Jagdeo’s ilk whose desire is power and not the promotion of democracy. The intention of Jagdeo and the PPP was to have a mechanism to subvert the Carter Formula if they couldn’t find someone on the opposition list to serve their

interest. To this end, they amended the constitution, and put in place a clause permitting him to act unilaterally and legally at the same time. Unfortunately for the megalomaniac, he and the PPP lost power in 2015. Now their own doing has come back to haunt them. It is Jagdeo’s desire to act unilaterally, that led him to make a unilateral decision, constitutional. Why is he crying foul when he placed the clause in the constitution? The lesson to be learnt is that law should be made for the good of all and not for the extant dictator, in this case the dictator Jagdeo. President Granger is expected to operate based on law and he did, using the law created by Jagdeo and the PPP. It is therefore laughable that Jagdeo and the PPP could be deeming the President’s action unilateral. The President’s action is constitutional. It was the PPP and Jagdeo’s desire to act unilaterally as they did throughout their term in office that led them to, rather than promote democracy, place a clause in the constitution that has returned to haunt them.

It must be the irony of the century for Jagdeo to call anyone a hypocrite; that Jagdeo is the indisputable hypocrite in Guyana is well known. To be both corrupt, and a hypocrite, is the summit of indecency – in this regard Jagdeo is unchallenged. The English dictionary defines a hypocrite as “a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion” or “a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs and feelings,” and I add, in contradiction to his actions. By all definitions, Jagdeo is the chief national hypocrite. This man who throughout his Presidency violated the constitution now purports to be protecting it. Has Jagdeo forgotten that the law states that Government funds must be placed in the Consolidated Fund and during his reign of arbitrary use of power he never did operate based on law? Has he forgotten that he did as he liked with the Lotto Funds in violation of the law? Jagdeo must be reminded while he imposed a rule which said that if you got land from the government you couldn’t

sell it until you would have owned it for ten years. Hope he recalls that he broke that rule. Jagdeo has a legal right to talk. What he doesn’t have is a moral right to do so. His actions as a President were the nadir of national lawlessness. As for respect, I am glad you don’t respect President Granger. That you don’t respect him is because he has ended the lawlessness and has a different philosophy to yours. We don’t need the respect of a man who allowed murders to go unsolved, drugs and violence to dominate our society, a few including he (Jagdeo) to get rich at the expense of the people. I am dead sure that at the end of this President’s tenure he will not have to defend illgotten gains. Unfortunately that is not true of Jagdeo and the PPP leadership. One author once noted that leaders should “practise what they preach or change their speech”. Guyana awaits your change of speech, Jagdeo, so that we will not see you as a hypocrite. Aubrey C. Norton

At last! Prosecution looms for corrupt state officials DEAR EDITOR It is indeed very good news, as to the Deputy Director, of the State Assets Recovery Agency(SARA) announcing at the just concluded Anti-Corruption Sensitisation Seminar that the Agency has compiled “25 solid cases”. He has assured that these will be executed shortly, pending the acquisition of a building and other support material. Of comfort, is his assurance that the attorneys are ready to take the necessary action. I do believe that the public has gradually come to the realisation as to the voluminous work required to investigate these cases, before assembling an air tight file against these state thieves. This is a fact that the indefatigable deputy director al-

luded to, when he underlined the challenge of going after persons where large sums of money are involved and their capacity to hire the best “legal brains.” He went on to state the necessity of proper investigations, lest the State lose its cases in court. On this note, he is correct. In fact, it is a reminder of what the former US Charge D’Affaires, Brian Hunte, cautioned before his departure, when he urged patience, in expectation of prosecution, because the paper trail usually takes years. This is what the barefaced People’s Progressive Party/ Civic, has been taking advantage of – the delay in action being taken. But even they know that such bombast has to be short-lived, and that the day of reckoning must come. It is amazing as to the ex-

tax and regulatory actions against opponents in the media, and declared one potential opposition group, the Gulenists, to be terrorists. The rulers of the Philippines and Malaysia appear to be copying from that same playbook. This is not the picture of democracy everywhere, of course, but these tendencies can be spotted in far-flung areas of the world. In countries such as India and Japan, which remain vibrant democracies in most respects, there are elements of this new system creeping in — crude nationalism and populism, and increasing measures to intimidate and neuter the free press. President Trump, for his part, has threatened NBC, CNN and other outlets with various forms of government action. He has attacked judges and independent agencies. He has disregarded long-established democratic norms. So perhaps even in the United States, some people are moving up this dangerous learning curve as well.

pectation/cum mind set, of the chieftains of the PPP/C, despite the hypocrisy of Bharrat Jagdeo. Their many statements convey the understanding that it is quite correct for their former high officials to pillage the State, without the prospect of judicial action. Not surprising, since it reinforces why there has been wholesale theft of state funds and other type, unabated for years et cetera. It is instructive to note, that no minister, or high state functionary had ever been removed from office/sanctioned in any manner, for corrupt practices during the two decades plus years of PPP/C rule. And this is not to say that such activities were not known. They were, since state audit reports were giving pointers. And as an aside, it is observed that the Auditor General is very much vocal these days, than at any other time, as he makes his annual findings known. For all the criticisms hurled at the late great Forbes Burnham, he had a better love for country than these great pretenders and unpatriotic crooks. Those whose memories are still good, will remember that he ordered the setting up of a special Magistrate’s Court to prosecute those who stole from the State. Many senior public-sector

functionaries were found guilty and jailed. Among them were a former secretary to the now defunct Guyana State Corporation, who had also been a permanent secretary, for his involvement in a massive Ministry of Trade fraud; a former General Manager of the Transport & Harbours Department; and then legal advisor at the now defunct Guyana National Co-op Bank, who fled the jurisdiction before sentence was handed down. I stand to be corrected, by also alluding to the then head of the Re-migration scheme, who was arrested at his home for irregularities and another, who had been director for a very important State Coop Agency, reportedly caught red handed in activities that amounted to theft. Ministers were also sanctioned, by being removed from their positions. Such had been the difference between the two sides, in such an important issue as state theft, and other acts inimical to the welfare of Guyana. “How such high-volume thievery could be allowed to take place without any intervention by the former PPP/C administration?” They outlined the meaning of patriotism in the most vulgar of ways. It was akin to cruelly carving up Guyana for shares to the various criminal cliques. Regards Earl Hamilton

Saturday November 11, 2017

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KaieteurNews

Is this another attempt to control a Service Commission? DEAR EDITOR, I noticed the November 6, 2017, Stabroek News’ article on “President reviewing names for new Police Service Commission…. Ramjattan says new Commission may come in time for Christmas promotions”. The article pointed out that the three-year life span of the Police Service Commission (PSC) expired on September 4, 2017 and according to Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan; President David Granger is currently in the process of finalising names for the reconstitution of the Commission. The article also correctly pointed out that President Granger has already been accused of disrespecting Article 226, Section (1) of the Constitution, which states: “In the

exercise of its functions under the Constitution, a Commission shall not be subject to the direction or control of any other person or authority”. This announcement by the Minister of Public Security that the President is finalising the names for the Police Service Commission by December is astounding. Is this another case in the making of yet another violation of the constitutional provisions? Is this another attempt to control the Police Service Commissions as was also earlier done with the Public Service and the Judicial Service Commissions? There is no ambiguity with regards to Article 210 (1) of the Guyana Constitution, which provides for the appointment of the Police Service Commission as follows:“The Police Service Com-

mission shall consist of – (a) a Chairman appointed by the President acting after meaningful consultation with the Leader of the Opposition from among members appointed under subparagraph (c); (b) the Chairman of the Public Service Commission; ( c) four members appointed by the President upon nomination by the National Assembly after it has consulted such bodies as appears to it to represent the majority of the members of the Police Force and any other such body as it sees fit”… Therefore, the President has no nominations of his own, nor, does he have any role in the nomination process. Instead, it is the Parliamentary Committee of Appointments to Commissions

which has been given this responsibility under Article 119C of the Constitution. This Committee, since these constitutional amendments were made in 2001, has consulted with and produced four names, as required each time, that have been approved by resolution in the National Assembly by a simple majority. Those names, once approved by the National Assembly, are then sent to the President to swear in. On four occasions over the years to the last appointed Police Service Commission, both Presidents Jagdeo and Ramotar have appointed the parliament-approved members of the Commission, and meaningfully consulted with the Leader of the Opposition on their selection from amongst the four as to which one will

THE HYPOCRISY OF JUAN EDGHILL

Dear Editor,

I have come to the conclusion that some people are prepared to sell their very souls for paltry pittances. Here I am speaking about Mr. Juan Edghill who is a self-proclaimed Bishop. Edghill has not aligned himself or perhaps has forgotten some of the words as written in the Bible, such as “Thou shalt not steal.” His apoplectic behavior in and out of Parliament is to appease Jagdeo and others in the PPP in order for him to be seen as being dependable, legitimate and committed to the PPP. Like Jagdeo and his cronies in the PPP, Edghill is not concerned about the plight of the poor and the working class. Whenever the works of SARA or SOCU are mentioned in Parliament Mr. Edghill seems to go into uncontrollable convulsions. I have never seen a person who said he is innocent become so uneasy at the mention of two legitimate Government institutions. If the so-called or self-proclaimed Bishop is concerned about righteousness or about living the right way, then why is he is so afraid of SARA? He was told dozens of times that SARA would only investigate those

individuals who have been suspected of stealing the nation’s money or property. However, Edghill continues to confuse himself and being a hypocrite the by loudly proclaiming that he is representing the rights of Guyanese. Today, Juan Edghill seems to have answers to all of Guyana’s problems.While he was Junior Minister of Finance, he was aloof, arrogant and seemed clueless about the issues affecting the masses. There is no evidence that as Junior Minister Edghill piloted or advanced any programme or policy to help improve the economy and the lives of the poor. He seemed quite content to have narco-dollars flooding the streets while at the same time preaching against

the sale of illegal narcotics when and where convenient. It should be pointed out that as the chairman of the ERC, Edghill failed miserably to stop the extra judicial killings of more than 400 young black men and he did not even order an investigation either. The selfproclaimed Bishop seemed unconcerned about the commandment, “Thou shalt not kill.” In the midst of the PPPC stealing and corrupt practices, which have convinced some of its supporters and members that their leaders were kleptomaniacs, but not Juan Edghill. In fact, the pretentious Bishop had the gall to claim that”had Jesus been around at election time, he would have voted for the PPPC.” Only a heathen would make such blasphemous re-

marks? The majority of persons in the Christian community were quite perplexed at this foolish and utterly abhorrent statement. I would suggest that Juan Edghill re-read the story of Balaam. God used several means to discourage Balaam from going astray but he was hell-bent on pleasing the political masters and of course benefiting handsomely in return. He eventually died in disgrace. Juan Edghill seems to be on the same path because he is afraid of reprisals from Jagdeo if he tells him the truth and about the wrongdoings of the PPP. This should be his first duty to the maker and not the God of the PPP. George Archer Brooklyn, New York

be the chairman. “Meaningful consultation” as defined in the Constitution means that the President and the Leader of the Opposition have to concur on the name of the Chairman. This model of a parliamentary consensual mechanism which has been enshrined in the constitution also applies to the way in which the other two Service Commissions-Judicial and Public— and the rights commissions are ap-

pointed. Thus, the statement by the Minister on behalf of the President is not only absolutely wrong but extremely worrying in the face of the now repeated and consistent violations of the Guyana Constitution by this President. We shall be watching closely to see how this issue evolves. Gail Teixeira, M.P., Chief Whip Parliamentary Opposition

City Hall is a financial mess Dear Editor, City Hall’s Public Relations Officer (ag) Debra Lewis very smugly and nonchalantly, informed the press that three of the city’s four garbage disposal trucks were down for repairs, whilst garbage was piling up every were. This is less than a week after the Director of Solid Waste Management announced that the trucks were back on the streets cleaning up Georgetown. It seems as though this lady has a penchant for reporting half the story about the City Council, and in many instances, half the truth. What the PRO failed to report, was that the Council’s Mechanical Workshop was being starved of all resources, including tools and spare parts, rendering it incapable of properly repairing and maintaining the city trucks. The financial resources City Hall is outlaying to source back-up trucks from contractors could be used to retool the workshop and purchase the necessary vehicle

spares. But then again, maybe Council administrators benefit in more ways than one from outsourcing repairs of their vehicles and outsourcing garbage collection. She failed to report that in the midst of this crisis where garbage is overflowing everywhere, where the city is flooded, where the crime rate in the city is up, that the Fantastic Four and others took off on an expensive and useless junket to the Far East. She has failed to report that after one of her colleagues was involved in the statutory rape of a minor on a municipal premises, the ‘King’ and Queen of the City were involved in a cover up, taking two months and after much pressure to report the matter to the police and the child protection agency. One could only hope that they would be dealt with by the relevant authorities, so that executive lawlessness at City Hall would stop and an (Continued on page 06)

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Saturday November 11, 2017

If America is tired of mourning gun violence she must take action Dear Editor, America — Oh! say can you see — what is happening to thee ? — Gun violence is eating away at your national soul. Already battling her own evils, America is now caught up in yet another mass slaying. The lesson to be learned from this ghastly carnage is that there will be more such shootings. The usual reaction will follow, ones that we have seen and heard far too often: non-stop media coverage, opinions of weapon analysts, lowering of flags at half mast, moments of silence, offering of thoughts and prayers, and a day of national mourning. Tragedies such as the latest one at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas have become a part of everyday American life while the world watches on as helpless spectators. Mass shootings have become the new normal and responses have become ritualised. The inability of the American government to react legislatively following the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in Newtown, Connecticut in December 2012, and the death of twentyseven innocent individuals, has caused America to go into mourning once again. Following the shooting, President Obama in a televised address said, “We are going to have to come together and take meaningful action to prevent more tragedies like this, regardless of the politics”. America preferred to talk

her way through, looking instead for reasons not to address the real issue, such as semi-automatic weapons that could be modified or bumped up, or high occupancy magazines. If the killer is Black, then the actions are blamed either on his upbringing or Black people’s proclivity for committing crime. Should the shooter be Latino, then gun control talk is replaced by talking about building walls and banishing people. Muslim shooters are people, who hate real Americans, and a white shooter is suffering from a mental health issue and it is too soon to politicise a tragedy. All of these excuses fall pitifully short of dealing with the real issue. None of them protect us from becoming the next victim or being thrown into mourning by the next tragedy. But how often will America mourn? Again what America needs most of all is action to lower the gun toll, thereby less mourning. By far, the United States is the world leader in the number of guns in the hands of civilians. In other more advanced countries, stricter gun laws have curbed suicides, gun accidents and homicidal violence. Granted, in a country that is inundated with 300 million firearms, some criminals will always be able to obtain guns, and there is a likelihood of higher gun death rates than

Europe. However, generally we have established policies that reduce the toll of harmful or deadly products around us. No single solution, just cumulative efforts. Like what is done with cars — seat belts, driver’s licences, air bags, crackdown on drunken driving. With swimming pools — childproof gates, fences, pool covers. It is what should be done with real guns? When will learning take place? The Port Arthur massacre in April 1996, the worst mass murder in Australia’s history, shook the country to its core. A lone gunman, Martin Bryant, opened fire on tourists in a seaside resort in Port Arthur (former penal colony), Tasmania, killing 35 people and wounding 23 more. There had been mass shootings before, but this massacre served as fuel to the pyre. Twelve days after the massacre the Australian Government, led by the then Prime Minister John Howard, announced a bipartisan deal with state and local governments to enact sweeping gun-control measures. Underlying the push was an extensive buyback of more than 600,000 semi-automatic shotguns and rifles, or about one-fifth of all firearms in circulation in Australia. The new gun laws prohibited private sales, required that all weapons be individually registered to their owners, and also required that gun buyers

present a “genuine reason” for needing each weapon at the time of the purchase. (Self-defence did not count.) The National Firearms Agreement, a legislation that outlawed automatic and semi-automatic rifles as well as pump-action shotguns, was subsequently introduced by the Australian government. A nationwide gun buyback scheme also saw more than 640,000 weapons turned in to authorities. There had been 11 mass shootings in Australia in the decade before the Port Arthur massacre, but not a single once since. In the U.S., ladders kill about 300 people yearly, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has produced seven pages of rules about ladders. On the other hand, the Federal Government is still struggling to reduce gun deaths, with a toll more than 100 times as high. According to the State Department, billions of dollars are being spent on tackling terrorism, which killed 229 Americans worldwide from 2005 to 2014. In the same 10 years, including suicides, some 310,000 Americans died from guns.The central issue in this tragedy is guns, but the gun lobby will vehemently state, as always, that this is not a time for politics. Gun control has always proven to be the nemesis of the American Government, with the NRA (Notable Resistance

“Vulgarity” should not be used by President Granger Dear Editor, One of the critics of last Thursday’s protest was The President himself calling the protesters “vulgarians.” Now, this is the most diabolical, hypocritical and very low blows of all time, statements coming from a person and party that is known to be the architect of “vulgarity.” No one in the PNC can in its truest sense be called “decent” moral or above board in their deliberations. One would have to use a microscope, an electron microscope at that to find one. Everybody in Guyana, yes, everybody in the world knows who they are and what they represent. In this regard, Mr Granger is baring himself before the public’s view as very hypocritical whenever he uses this kind of language to describe the protest action carried out by The Opposition - the accusing finger points right back at him. He, or anyone in his cabal for that matter of fact, can categorise The PPP/C as vulgar because history is replete

of such atrocities by his party, instances too numerous to mention. I call it the two Vs, vulgar and violent; these are the two words that aptly describe The PNC, and they use these in copious measure whenever the situation is not in their favour. Let me remind Mr Granger that all, I repeat, in every election, the PNC were vulgar and violent, with the last election the vulgarity and violence being sustained up until the time of the result. The violence only ended when the desired result went their way. That was the only thing that stopped the vulgar display and the ever present violence. So that clause of my argument is a foregone conclusion. What the People might not have seen last Thursday was that there was a counter— a Pro-Granger group, a counter offensive to the PPP/C’S Protesters who were doing their vulgar display. There on the very square was a counter offensive group (not very large) but very lewd and vociferous

shouting vile expletives at The Opposition’s crowd. It was a shameful display. One guy even dropped his pants and bared his genitals right in the presence of the police officers. These occurrences was carried by the PNC Sympathetic media and splashed across on Youtube. If this is not vulgarity then what is? I thank God for the Peace Officers who were there to separate the two groups, because the marauding mob had already thrown down the barricades and were advancing towards The Opposition Protesters. I shudder to think of the fate of The Protesters had the (supporters) had their way. These are the vulgarians Mr. Granger and crew should be talking about. For historical records I was told that an education minister was known to have taken off her panties and threw it in the face of Peter D’Aguiar, while calling him a “putagee” traitor. This was done during the 1960’s. My Guyanese Countryman related that this incident took

place in the hallowed chambers of Parliament itself. If this is not considered sick and the lowest of lows then what is? But if that is not a strange phenomenon when one viewed the vulgar display by a supporter of the PNC in Sophia who urinated on the PPP’S Flag in plain public viewing. Isn’t this vulgar? Isn’t this lewdness down to its lowest? Even the Former PPP guys like Nagamootoo who crossed over to the PNC when he would have joined that vulgar group became corrupt himself and called out to Dr Jagdeo as “The Coolie bully.” This incident again was done in parliament. It just goes to show when you join them you behave like them. Birds of one feather! So Mr President, please be careful with the use of such terminologies as “vulgar.” It is really an indictment on your party. In Guyanese history, violence and vulgarity are the signature statements of your party. Respectfully Submitted Neil Adams, Everton Adams

Always) blocking every reasonable step. Lives that matter are being lost while America’s gun battle rages. Instead of the pugilistic display and animosity against each other, if the various sides can be less ideological and more driven by evidence that works then thousands of lives can be saved. The left must drop the bigotry and duplicity, and the right can drop the obstructionism.

It is too soon to ascertain what if anything could have prevented this tragedy, and perhaps nothing could have, either. But if America cannot learn and has not learned from this recent carnage, then sadly she will have to continue mourning for there will be more such shootings. More action equals less mourning. Yvonne Sam

Beware of more cash advances to City Hall Dear Editor, The recent assurance given by central government at a post-cabinet press conference to the two garbage contractors who provided their services for waste disposal to the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), but who were not paid over $400 million, that it would consider picking the tab and settling the debt, sounds benevolent and commendable on the surface. However, if one were to look carefully at such a proposal, one would realise that it would be extremely reckless of a government to open its purse strings to a municipality that has not been audited, has not had its accounts examined or qualified or published for more than two decades. Giving the Georgetown City Council close to half a billion dollars in another bailout, would only empower and encourage that council to rack up another debt soon after by crediting goods and services that it cannot afford and in many instances does not need. The Council must say what it is doing with the property rates that it receives to cover refuse collection and disposal. Does the council only use it to fund large delegations jaunting around the world? What is it doing with the special monthly garbage collection fees that they charge the private sector? Every other agency in the world seeking a loan, grant or other financial relief whether from a bank or else where, is required to open its books for scrutiny. The Georgetown City Council has received billions of dollars over the years but is not required to financial inspections done to their records. The last Auditor General’s Report which was specially done regarding a $300 million given by the Government had found several “discrepancies”; in the way the allotted amount for restoration initiatives was spent by the City Council. There was no evidence of the payment vouchers being certified by the accountant or any other authorised officer, approval by the City Treasurer was not seen on many payment vouchers and there was also no evidence of the Finance Committee approving a large quantity of payments. The basis of award of several contracts for the weeding of parapets, desilting of drains and cutting down of trees in various areas around Georgetown could not be determined due to the unavailability of the relevant supporting documents, the report further noted, and as a result, it could not be ascertained whether proper transparency and accountability was exercised in the awarding of contracts. And in spite of all of this and the fact that nothing has changed at City Hall, the government would still consider doling out more than $400 million to the Council again? How does it know that the sums, being presented by the Council as indebtedness, are accurate? With thanks, Riley Matthews

City Hall is a financial... (From page 05) example made of others. She failed to mention to the press that City Hall is totally bankrupt with mountains of debt owed to the Guyana Power and Light, the National Insurance Pension Scheme, the Guyana Revenue Authority and every private sector agency that was fool-

ish enough to give them credit. PRO please remember what Abraham Lincoln once famously said, “You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all of the time.” Sincerely, Nadine Jerrick

Saturday November 11, 2017

Republic Bank reporting improvement in bad debts situation

AND THE BAND KEEPS PLAYING When I passed it at first, I thought it was a life-sized portrait of a rock star. But when I circled the block, I discovered that it was a billboard image of the Minister of Finance, advertising the upcoming 2018 National Budget. I just cannot explain why any government would erect such a huge billboard to advertise a forthcoming Budget. The measures in the Budget are supposed to create its own interest. You do not need a billboard with the image of the Minister of Finance to hype interest in the Budget. It is a sign of political desperation. The billboard is interesting. It depicts the smiling image of the Minister of Finance. There is an image of a road which curls around a depiction of the Bank of Guyana. An airplane is flying overhead. The billboard speaks about the road to the good life, and there are landmarks engraved on the road surface showing the journey to the good life, beginning with the 2015 Budget, then moving on to the 2016 and 2017 Budgets. But what caught my attention most was that the road curved around the image of

the Bank of Guyana. I know that road well. It leads to Muneshwers Travel Service, where you can buy a plane ticket to go overseas. With the image of a plane flying overhead, it struck me that perhaps, at the subliminal level, there is a suggestion that the road to the good life may begin with the Budgets, but certainly ends with that plane ride to greener pastures outside of Guyana. Guyanese are going to be foolish if they are waiting for the good life to be delivered by the APNU+AFC government. It is not going to happen, even if oil production begins in 2020. That oil production is dependent on what happens with the UN Good Offices Process. If the process is extended, as is expected, Exxon will not likely commit to oil production because the political risks are too high. There is no way, with Maduro consolidating his position in Venezuela and the opposition further fragmenting, that Exxon is going to risk commencing production. They may say that they will do so, but that is a decision which they will reassess when the time comes.

But even with oil, the good life will not come. The best chance Guyanese have of the good life is to get on the next plane out and go to the United States where the good life can be had by all. It is interesting that the billboard features that image of the Bank of Guyana. An analysis of Guyana’s international reserves, appearing in another newspaper yesterday, revealed that these have dipped below US$600M. This is not bad. Guyana does not need a higher level of reserves. What is disappointing is that this situation has been caused by what is claimed as a decline in export flows and capital flight. So it seems that Guyanese are indeed pursuing the good life, overseas. They are sending their money outside, because they are not certain if this road to the good life ends up in the Demerara River. One of the good things about Guyanese is that they have always been able to see beyond all the propaganda and political rhetoric. They see beyond the billboards. They know that the Guyanese economy is heading for the rocks. They have seen the decline in sales. They see

Dem boys seh...

Exxon teaching people ‘No tricks, no living’ Exxon never like de Waterfalls paper, because it tell everybody how de Waterfalls paper attack it from de time it announce that it find oil. De truth is that all de Waterfalls paper was doing was to mek sure that de people of this country get de best from de oil. Things reach de stage that when Exxon tun up fuh a meeting, if a reporter from de Waterfalls paper is there, is done de meeting done. Dem boys seh that when you do nutten fear nutten. If you go to a party and you don’t plan to eat all de food, then regardless of what people she, you gun do de right thing. Things got to be sweet, because Exxon dropping money. Dem just drop $70 million to Iwokrama. De other day dem drop another set—$10 million. Dem boys seh de company can’t claim that as expense, because that is wha dem big companies does do. Every cent dem spend or give away dem does claim as expense. But dem boys believe dem buying dem way into people heart, just like how Jagdeo use to

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do. When Jagdeo was in power, dem had more contractors than wuk. Anybody wid a hammer was a contractor. Now dem boys worried how all of a sudden dem don’t have contractors to do projects. De government put aside a lot of money to do certain things but when dem check, de money ain’t spending. Contractors just not there to do de wuk. Soulja Bai come in and dem same hammer contractors run in dem hole. That is why de wuk can’t done and de project dem slowdown. Of course, Jagdeo talking, but dem boys know that nuff of de wuk he claim that he contractors use to do was kak wuk. Six weeks after de wuk done de place bruck up again. Then money got to spend again to do de same wuk. Well if dem boys feel that was progress, dem now wake up and realize that Jagdeo was only wasting dem money. Talk half and watch tricky and trawnie at wuk.

money being wasted on trivialities such as billboards and on pomp and parades. They know that things are not going right in the economy. And so they are not spending as they would normally, and those who can do so, are sending their money for safekeeping overseas. The Budget will be read soon, but there is nothing which is likely to be announced that will stop the capital flight or the human exodus. Guyanese know a sinking ship when they see it. Just look at the available dates to obtain an interview for a US visa. People are still applying. They want out. When the Titanic went down, it was said that the band kept on playing. The pomp, the ceremonies and the billboards cannot save a sinking ship.

T r i n i d a d i a n headquartered Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited has recorded a $35M increase in profits this year, but it’s bad loans figures will continue to be of some concern. In its published financial statements for the year ended September 30, 2017, the bank reported that its Guyana operations netted $2.738B in profits. This would be an improvement over the previous year’s $2.703B. While its loan impairment expense net of recoveries dropped this year to $675.7M, from $786.6M (about $110M), it would not be anything to

smile about. Banks are reporting that businesses and property owners are facing problems, with quite a number of persons rescheduling their debts. Republic Bank’s biggest competitor, the Guyana Bank For Trade and Industry, suffered a major fraud this year of almost $1B, that will likely impact its performance. Republic Bank’s retained earnings have risen to $14.1B from $13.26B. The bank’s interest income has risen also from $7.67B to $7.70B, with other income amounting to $2.5B as compared to $2.3B the previous year.

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Saturday November 11, 2017

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Nagamootoo’s “Phantom of the Opera” In an article by Moses Nagamootoo in the Chronicle headlined, “Phantom of the Opera,” he applies the term to Bharrat Jagdeo. He wrote, “But Opposition Leader, Bharat Jagdeo, one-time president, also wanted centre-stage and, like the Phantom of the Opera, he came back to haunt the House.” A cynical observer of politics can turn around Moses’ application to Jagdeo and use it against him. Moses chooses the wrong analogy to describe Jagdeo’s narcissism. He would have been better off using a character from the great plays of Tennessee Williams. Jagdeo does not want to accept that life has its begin-

ning and ending. Like the main character in most of Williams’ plays, Jagdeo refuses to see his time has passed. I can think of Flora “Sissy” Goforth in “The Milk Train Doesn’t Stop Here Anymore,” (made into one of the most boring movies ever; “Boom!” starring husband/wife team Taylor and Burton). Moses’ column should have been titled, “Jagdeo relives Tennessee Williams,” instead he chose the play that strongly mirrors his political career, “Phantom of the Opera.” You know who comes to mind when slips like these occur? Sigmund Freud. It is possible deep in his subconscious Moses is aware that the analogy suits him. In real

life, Erik is Moses and Christine is Guyana. At the Palais Garnier, Erik demands that Christine play the lead role in “Faust.” In real life Moses demanded that he succeed Cheddi Jagan. When the theatre’s management refused, terrible consequences followed. The lead actor Charlotte’s voice turns into that of a frog’s and the theatre director is killed by a falling chandelier, all the doings of Erik. He then abducts Christine. The PPP refused Moses his request and terrible consequences followed. Moses went over to the AFC and tore down the PPP. But it is in the ending of the play that bore the most pointed resemblance to Moses’ political evolution. Erik didn’t want Christine to go with Raoul, but he eventually gave them his blessing and moved on. This is what Moses has done. Like Erik who couldn’t get Christine, Moses

Frederick Kissoon couldn’t get Guyana (meaning he couldn’t be president), so he gave Guyana (Christine) to the PNC with his blessing. Throughout the play Erik wears a mask. Is Moses wearing the mask of mediocrity to hide his failure to acquire Guyana (Christine)? Is it not time that someone shouts out “Will the real Nagamootoo please step forward?” Moses is on the stage daily and the mask is so tightly sewed on that hurricane winds cannot rip it off his visage. One day, he tastes a new variety of mangoes on a farm. Another day, with garland swinging on his neck, he shakes the hands of school

children on a visit. On another occasion he can be seen on top of a bicycle testing its effectiveness from a new factory. On yet another occasion, he is eating a new species of watermelon. He goes to the interior to open a pepper sauce factory. He stops over in Berbice to hand out graduation certificates from a well known Berbice High School. He is in Essequibo gazing at the lovely black belly sheep imported from Barbados. He is in Lethem taking photo shots with rodeo cowboys. He graces the halls of a wing of a new district cottage hospital. He deputizes for the president in sharing out boats, bicycles and buses and the village heads are enthralled. This is the politics of Moses Nagamootoo since 2015. Where is the transformational politician that has chalked up fifty years in politics? It is fifty years in a country that hollers out for modern changes and has been doing so since the colonials in London “called it George” in Georgetown in 1966.

As a young journalist Moses almost bankrupted the PPP, because it lost a libel suit against Prime Minister Forbes Burnham. The judgement was heavy. Moses wrote that the PM’s fence at Castellani House was electrically wired and a cow stepped onto it and got electrocuted. That was overt forty-five years ago, but the laws of libel in Guyana remain the most anachronistic than most democratic countries. Is Moses going to change them before he rides away into the sunset which I heard is in 2020? He has the portfolio for constitutional reform, but that looks like it will have to wait until after 2020. So what is the legacy that Moses will leave? I will leave him with a few lines from “the Music of the Night” from the Broadway version of “Phantom of the Opera” “Close your eyes, for your eyes will only tell the truth, And the truth isn’t what you want to see, In the dark it is easy to pretend, But the truth is what it ought to be”

Swedish radio channel ‘hijacked by Islamic State propaganda song’ Listeners to one of Sweden’s most popular radio stations heard an Islamic State group recruitment song on the station’s frequency for about 30 minutes on Friday morning, reports say. Mix Megapol’s owners b e l i e v e t h e s t a t i o n ’s frequency was hijacked to play the song, For the Sake of Allah. The problem affected listeners in the southern city of Malmo.

The hosts of Mix Megapol’s morning show were unaware of the problem while broadcasting from Stockholm. The pop-style song with lyrics such as “We will march to the gate of paradise, where our maidens await” has been used in IS propaganda videos to try to lure fighters from the West to Iraq and Syria. Jakob Gravestam, marketing director of Bauer media who own

Mix Megapol, said they believed someone interfered with their frequency using a pirate transmitter. “A lot of people have called us about this. We are very happy that people are vigilant and we treat this very seriously,” he told local news website 24 Malmo (in Swedish). The station confirmed it had reported the incident to police and the national Telecom Agency.

India rounds up beggars ahead of Ivanka Trump’s visit

Beggars sit inside a dormitory in Hyderabad on November 8 (CNN) Police in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad are doing a lastminute sweep to get beggars off the streets ahead of Ivanka Trump’s visit later this month. The unprecedented order was given by the city’s police commissioner earlier this week and will last for two months, according to V.K. Singh, the director general of prisons in Hyderabad. P r e s i d e n t T r u m p ’s daughter is scheduled to attend

the Global Entrepreneurship Summit in the city — one of India’s tech hubs — at the end of November. Despite the timing, authorities deny they are rounding up beggars because of her visit. “It’s a permanent drive,” Singh told CNN. “The government, since 30 years, has been trying to figure out what to do about them.” The commissioner plans to renew the order after it expires, he added. Speaking on a wider issue surrounding

Hyderabad’s begging crisis, Singh said: “There is a mafia or a network behind this who force people to beg or kidnap some children and force them into begging.” Begging is a criminal act in Andhra Pradesh state under the Prevention of Begging Act 1977. But the recent campaign to move Hyderabad’s beggars off the city’s streets only started in late October, prompting speculation that it was in preparation for the summit.

Vehicle strikes 3 students outside high school in France (CNN) A vehicle was intentionally driven Friday into three students outside a high school near the southern French city of Toulouse, injuring them, the country’s interior ministry said. A driver was arrested after the collision, and the Toulouse prosecutor has been called to investigate, the ministry said. The vehicle accelerated as the students crossed a road, the interior ministry said. The collision happened outside Saint Exupéry high school in the Toulouse suburb of Blagnac, according to CNN affiliate

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Saturday November 11, 2017

BFM TV. Initial information about the conditions of the injured — identified by authorities only as Chinese students — conflicted. The interior ministry said the students were slightly injured; BFM reported that two were in serious condition. Toulouse Prosecutor Pierre-Yves Couilleau said Friday evening that two students remained hospitalized and one had left the hospital. The driver has a history of mental illness, the interior ministry said in a statement. The incident doesn’t initially appear to be related to

terrorism, the interior ministry said.

US woman released from Zimbabwe jail on bail Harare, Zimbabwe (CNN) An American woman facing charges in Zimbabwe of subversion and undermining President Robert Mugabe’s authority was released Friday on $1,000 bail, according to the legal group representing her. Martha O’Donovan, 25, was granted bail at a court hearing Thursday after being detained November 3. “She has been released to US Embassy officials. That’s all we can say,” said Kumbirai Mafunda, a spokesman for Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights. O’Donovan was detained after reportedly tweeting that Mugabe — one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders — is “a selfish and sick man.” She denies wrongdoing. The next hearing in her case is scheduled for Wednesday. Her bail conditions include reporting twice a week to the police, surrendering her passport, not interfering with witnesses and residing at her home until the case is finalized. Defence attorney Obey

Martha O’Donovan Shava of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights said Thursday that the charges against his client were “concocted.” “There is no substance in what the state is saying,” he said. “It is not Martha O’Donovan which is the real target here. But the whole idea behind the charges is to discourage people from putting their ideas on social media, and it is about a clampdown on social media by the state.” O’Donovan, who works for a satirical video website, is the first person to be accused of plotting to

overthrow the government since last month’s creation of a cyber security ministry intended to police social media. When the Ministry for Cyber Security, Threat Detection and Mitigation was announced, presidential spokesman George Charamba told reporters that the new office was intended to “trap all rats” that abused social media. Mugabe has long been criticized for corruption and abuse of power. At 93, he has ruled Zimbabwe since 1980 with little opposition.

Russian foreign ministry says retaliation against U.S. media could begin next week (CNN) Russia is threatening action against U.S. media outlets operating there as soon as next week. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova said Thursday in an interview on Russian television that Russia is working on practical steps in response to U.S. government pressure on Russian-government

owned media operating in the U.S. Zakharova did not specify which outlets would be targeted or what the actions would be. Last month, Russian officials sent letters to news organizations in Russia that are backed by the U.S. government, warning them of possible “restrictions.” Pyotr Tolstoy, the deputy

speaker of the lower house of Russia’s parliament, said Friday that lawmakers could respond by passing a reciprocal foreign agent law for media outlets, according to TASS. “Tit-for-tat steps will be taken, which will impose the same restrictions that Americans are trying to impose on Russian media,” he told TASS.

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Tender Board’s role in ensuring...

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK;Guyanapassport application. G r a p h i c s design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVE MARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. PASSPORT, PERMANENT & VISITOR VISA APPLICATION, PROFESSIONAL IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT – SABITA IMMIGRATION SERVICES. CALL: 613-3920/625-3767. E a g l e ’s : R e - g a s – l o w prices, washing machine repairs, gas stove, plasma flat Screen, computer repairs & more. Call: 6972969/646-0966

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY- $19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-2274754. Video games and consoles at affordable price. Repairs to video game system .Call:6722566/265-3231 1. Cat 320 BL Excavator, 1. Cat 215 B Excavator, 1. Cat 428 Back- Hoe, 1. Leyland Daft Truck, 1. 8CU.YD. Mack Cement Mixer Truck. Contact: 275-0367, 275-0538/ 683-7225 1. Double Steel Wheeled Road Roller, 1. 9-Wheeled Pneumatic Roller, 1. 450GLNS. Bitumen Spray Kettle, 1. Honda 450 ATV Bike. Contact: 275-0367, 275-0538/ 6837225 Creole chicks, ducklings, ducks, turkey chicks & one fridge. Contact: 610-0901 1 Mitsubishi canter, long base good condition. Contact# 698-8820. Samsung Galaxy J3 $30,000, Samsung Galaxy On5 $32,000, Motorola Droid Turbo $45,000 Tel: 6219604,694-1748

SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. -CosmetologyCourses:$90,000 Technician Course: $35,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257 Qualified Hairdresser & nail technician. At least 1 year experience must be able to work without supervision. Call: 227-1125, 626-6450

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

Nintendo DS Lite $6000, Xbox360 $30,000, NumarkMixtrack 3 with free laptop $60,000 Tel: 621-9604, 694-1748 HP 6730B laptop windows 10 Pro $35,000, HP G62 laptop windows 10 Pro $50,000, Android TV Box fully loaded $18,000 Tel: 621-9604, 6941748 1 Leyland Daf Cement mixer, 1 caterpillar skid steer 236B. 7 mining blocks (North West) Contact# 650-0402 TOLET One business space, located at 177 Charlotte & Alexander St- Kindly call: 689-3462 or 644-3555. Serious enquiries only. Commercial: One bottom flat. 23ft x 60ft. Cornelia Ida Public Road. Tel: 693-3340 Residential: One bedroom house. Cornelia Ida Public Road $25,000 per month. Tel: 693-3340

EDUCATION Day Care and Pre-K classes available in Diamond Call Canadian School 216-6921,216-6922

Furnished one and two bedroom apartment in Nandy Park.Parking available. Call 6194824(for further information) Rooms for Tel#680-9605

B a c h e l o r.

FOR RENT

WANTED

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

Security to work in the interior. Must have Military/ Police background. Age range 35-50. Contact # 2269768

Property for rent - 2 storey house at Republic Park, E.B.D$1200US. Call 647-1773 Furnished two bedroom house, top flat in E.B.D Diamond to rent. 2160644/668-8430. 2 Bedroom apartment to rent. Caneville, Grove E.B.D. $35,000. Tel#653-3328

Experienced Curry cook, Roti/ Puri cook, Cleaners. Apply Hack Halaal. 5 Commerce St. Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic- Call: 223-7500 Monday to Saturday 8:15am-4:15pm Live in & live out Babysitter. Preferably from EBD. Call: 647-1773

3 bedroom apartment in Diamond 3rd Avenue. Tel# 666-6503, 684-7599,695-7427

Loving homes for playful kittens. For enquiries, please call 676-1148

Rooms in Alberttown- Call: 225-9223 2 bedroom apartment in Industry, E.C.D. For more information, Call: 623-7500, 614-3278

Female general domestic.Must have cooking experience. Age 25-45. Call: 629-9450 Experienced male sales attendant, stocktaking knowledge, computer literate, excellent service attitude, Able-bodied. KeyFood McDoom Village. Land to buy in Parafaite Harmonie or anywhere on the West Coast. Tel: 642-1252

LAND FOR SALE BLOCK X SECTION A DIAMOND HOUSING SCHEME. CONTACT: 6115273/ 601-4217, 2330159/216-3093 Zeelugt 1 st Street- 2.5M ParafaiteHarmonie- $1.8 Million, 1.5 Million. Tel# 642-1252 Eccles (Corner lot) $5M ParafaiteHarmonie (High income area) 100ft x 50ft $2M Onderneeming with fence $1.6M. Tel#611-7223/6671960 Herstelling (2nd Bridge) 110ft x 60ft $5M (4th Bridge)$3.5M Farm $3M ParafaiteHarmonie $1.4M Tel#651-1969/656-0701 Eccles New Scheme (Corner Lot) with 12 massive column and foundation $7M on a main road. Tel#656-0701/ 651-1969 SERVICES I N S TA L L AT I O N S , REPAIRS AND PARTS FOR AC, FRIDGE, WASHING MACHINE, STOVE ETC: CALL NICK 627-3206, 6301600 PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale by owner. Lot 46, Long Dam Vergenoegen E.B.Essequibo $4,000,000 Neg. Tel: 628-9390 PEN PAL Overseas male seeks female. Age 29-32. Call or text 664-3119

Male operators to work shift and one cleaner to work at Del Ice Co.,Meadow Bank. Call : 231-1408,642-9191

VACANCY General maintenance man. Age 25-50 Tel: 225-0198 or visit 233 South Rd, Lacytown. Chef and assistant chef. Please call 225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff St. Deskstaff Age 25-40. Tel# 225-0198 or visit South Road, Lacytown. Confidential Cabs. Vacancy exist for one experienced dispatcher. Tel#231-5784 6951961. Cook/ baker and Kitchen Assistant for interior location. Applicants must have experience. Call:618-2020 General handy man to work at hotel. 225-9211 Cashier/ Sales Clerk. Apply in person with written application @ Nirva Supermarket 49 Sheriff& Craig Street, C/ville. 227-5771 Experienced cleaners, Call between 7am and 9am. Tel: 225-8572 One experienced legal computer clerk. Call: 6247087/ 226-4283/258-0213/ e m a i l : husainsaphier@yahoo.com Account support specialist, Customer service representative, Office clerk with driver’s license. Apply to Zip Logistics @ hr@ziplogistics.com We need you, males 18-30 years to work in Garden maintenance, Georgetown. Tel:648-1821 Wanted- One real estate staff agent. Stipend and commission. Contact: 6187483.

CAR RENTAL VEHICLE FOR SALE Allion, Primo, Fielder Wagon, Spacio, Bluebird, 212 Carina, NZE, Honda CRV, Toyota IST, RZ & Pit-bull – Call: 650-7501 1-Caterpillar skid steer loader 236B $3.8M. Contact # 6500402 Mitsubishi Pajero. Best offer accepted- Call: 219-5354 Monday to Friday 8:15am4:15pm, Saturday 8:15am4:15pm Gun Metal BMW 3181. Good Condition. PPP series, 164k mileage. Rim music 1.6 million negotiable. Call: 604-7998. 1-AT192 Carina. Excellent condition Call: 662-9378. Fielder wagon and 19 seater pitbull. Never worked passenger. Both excellent condition. Tel: 664-0802 Unregistered Axela 2011 $2.6M, dark interior, fully loaded, Nissan pickup extra cab $2.2M. Call: 617-5536

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From page 20 the Procurement Act. As such, the GPHC has been urged to “establish appropriate systems to avoid reoccurrences of breaches such as contract splitting and use of procurement methods which are not supported by the Act.” Another interesting recommendation of the PPC is that the GPHC should take appropriate steps to separate Procurement from Finance, in keeping with best practices for these functions. The PPC has therefore suggested that the procurement staff be appropriately qualified and regularly trained in current procurement procedures. It has also been proposed that the pharmacy staff responsible for forecasting the needs of the GPHC should be equipped with the appropriate tools and systems to ensure that the Procurement Department is provided with accurate, timely and relevant information. This, according to the PPC, will ensure that procurement activities are appropriately structured and conducted in accordance with the Act. It is also required that the GPHC urgently assess and plan for adequate storage facilities for pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. In this regard, the PPC has urged that a “concerted effort should be made to identify and source appropriate resources to ensure that these facilities are available soon.” It is the deduction of the PPC that since the GPHC is an independent agency, it should not be subjected to direction and control from persons who are external to the organisation. For instance, the PPC has asserted that although the Minister of Public Health is responsible for policy-related matters, the Minister should not be involved in administrative or operational issues, since this is the responsibility of the hospital’s board. “The Board is responsible for providing oversight and operational guidance to senior management,” the PPC has concluded. Also, the PPC has carefully recommended that in the future, any communication between the Ministry of Public Health and the GPHC should be routed through the Board. It was also outlined that every effort should be made by the relevant authority to ensure that there are no gaps in the appointment of a Board for the GPHC.

Kaieteur News

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T&T hold talks with European Union on Cotonou agreement

Trinidad and Tobago and European Union delegations at talks on Cotonou agreement (Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Photo.) P O RT O F S PA I N , Trinidad - CMC – Trinidad and Tobago yesterday said it held “constructive” talks with a delegation from the European Union that focused on “bilateral, regional and international issues”. A brief statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, noted that the discussions were held within “the framework of Article 8 of the ACP-EU Cotonou Partnership Agreement”. The 2000 Cotonou Agreement, which comes to an end in 2020, is considered a comprehensive partnership agreement between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states and last month, ACP legislators meeting in Brussels called for a “radical departure” from the traditional

relationship with the EU. With less than one year to go before negotiations begin for a new partnership framework between the two parties, one of the key issues of concern for the ACP is the state of preparations, including the shared principles and rationales that would guide the process. ACP Secretary General Dr. P.I. Gomes has already said that the underpinnings of the entire process for a post-Cotonou agreement rest on the fundamental aim of achieving the structural transformation of ACP economies. In its statement, the Ministry of Foreign And CARICOM Affairs said that the discussions “were constructive and focused on …issues including economic relations; climate change; Caribbean and Latin

A m e r i c a n a ff a i r s ; t h e attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals; security cooperation; and work being undertaken by Trinidad and Tobago with respect to its international commitments regarding fisheries management. It said that “both sides also explored opportunities for support from the European Union to enhance private sector investment a n d e c o n o m i c diversification through the use of European Union financing instruments.” The Trinidad and Tobago delegation was led by the Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Dennis Moses while the EU team was led by Aad Biesebroek, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union.

Saturday November 11, 2017

Finance Minister reiterates “no devaluation” of local currency BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - CMC – The Barbados government yesterday reiterated that it has no intention of devaluing the local currency with the Barbados dollar now valued at US$0.50 cents. Finance Minister Chris Sinckler, speaking at the annual conference of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Barbados, said that several buffers are now in place to prevent a devaluation of the local currency. In recent times, the Freundel Stuart administration has disagreed with positions adopted by several economists including former prime minister Owen Arthur that the island should seek to engage in a programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to help revive the e c o n o m y. E c o n o m i c observers have also urged a devaluation of the dollar. But Sinckler, who has already made it known that the government would not adopt such a policy, said “it is true that the reserves position, the bed rock of maintaining the desired peg against the US dollar, is as I highlighted before not in the most comfortable position. “However, the reserves, just about eight weeks of imports, are yet enough to

Chris Sinckler defend the local currency,” he said, adding “Barbados still possesses…second tier resources…which are held by other financial and commercial institutions externally which we can tap into if necessary. “And we do not anticipate such a move however will be necessary but we must ensure that that will not be the case,” he told the conference. Sinckler said that the government would soon be making public the “Barbados Sustainable Recovery Programme” and that the draft would be available from next month. He said the plan would include legislation and would ultimately reduce the cost of doing

business across several sectors here. “The broad objective of the plan, which will be revealed as I said shortly and will be given to all of you here, rest on the following: to boost our foreign reserve earning by creating more attractive conditions for foreign direct investment through a standardised investment inventive regime that is strengthened by incentive legislation and a reform implementation mechanism across public and private sectors. ‘In this regard I think I should say without letting out too much at this stage that we are going to bring legislation to rationalise all of the incentive regimes,” he added.

UWI to remove name of ‘racist’ OECS looking to reduce costs of importing drugs former British governor on FORT-DE FRANCE, based OECS Commission St Augustine hall of residence Martinique - CMC – spent an estimated EC$25 P O RT O F S PA I N , Trinidad - CMC — Nearly a century after being named in honour of a former British governor, Milner Hall, a coed hall of residence at the St Augustin The hall of residence took the name of Milner in 1927 when he contributed to the Imperial College of Tropical Agriculture established in Trinidad, to train white colonialists, with a view to creating a pool of frontier farmers to settle on lands in the Empire taken from natives. Milner saw this strategy as necessary to secure the long-term future of British rule in Africa, Asia and Australia. Milner’s active political hostility to the human and

civil rights of Africans, Asians, and devastated indigenous people, propelled his anger towards the early Pan-Africanists such as Sylvester Williams and Marcus Garvey, as well as Indian nationalists such as Mahatma Gandhi. He was a vehement opposer of Independence movements and saw nationalists as criminal and dangerous subverters of empire, UWI said, noting that M i l n e r ’s r o l e a s a foundation thinker of apartheid has gone largely undetected for decades in the Caribbean. “The global movement to highlight his political crimes in Africa is now connecting to The UWI’s effort to clean-up its internal

colonial legacies as an independent university. “ Beckles, a noted historian, acknowledged that while he wasn’t aware until two years ago while lecturing at the University of Johannesburg that the Milner who committed the crimes against humanity in South Africa in service of the British Empire was the same person whose identity is emblazoned on The UWI St Augustine Campus. “The discovery of this truth has invited The UWI to reaffirm its commitment to the principle of justice for all regardless of race, colour or religion, and to turn its back on all forms of racial discriminatory practices.

Health ministers from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) began a two-day meeting here yesterday examining ways to share scarce resources while improving access to health services for people of the sub-regional grouping. “We are meeting here in Martinique at this critical time and Martinique has deliberately been chosen for this meeting because your health system is the most sophisticated in the OECS and there are many lessons to be learned from your best practices….a lesson of Irma and Maria is that alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” OECS D i r e c t o r G e n e r a l D r. Didacus Jules told the opening ceremony.

Dr. Didacus Jules “Our geographic proximity is both a common vulnerability but it also enables us to respond with neighbourly urgency” Jules said, noting that the Caribbean had changed dramatically post Hurricane Maria and there were natural opportunities to collaborate to deliver better health outcomes across the OECS, Last year, the St. Lucia-

million (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) through the OECS Pharmaceutical Service acquiring medical products. The Commission said that as a result of the bulk purchase, it was able to save five million dollars for the islands of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts-Nevis, Anguilla, Montserrat and the British Virgin Islands. The financial savings in the health sector is among the topics being discussed at the fourth Council of OECS Health Ministers meeting that is also expected to evaluate the member states’ response to non-chronic communicable diseases (NCDs), health human

Saturday November 11, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Saturday November 11, 2017

Gonsalves announces Cabinet re-shuffle

KINGSTOWN – CMC – Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has announced a re-shuffle of his near twoyear old administration with his son, Camillo, being

named as the new Minister of Finance. The 45-year-old Gonsalves will take up the position that was held by his 71-year-old father since

the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) came to power in the December 9, 2015 general election. Prime Mi n i s t e r Gonsalves had been minis-

ter of finance here since 2001, when the ULP first came to office. Prime Minister Gonsalves will remain Minister of National Secu-

rity, Air and Sea Port Development, Immigration and Legal Affairs. But the younger Gonsalves, who retains the portfolios of Economic Planning and Sustainable Development, will however shed ministerial responsibly for Industry, Information, Labour, Postal Service and the Bureau of Standards. Political observers say the cabinet reshuffle could provide an indication of the direction in which Gonsalves wants the ruling party to go as it prepares for a new leader and the country, a new prime minister. The new finance minister will present his first budget to Parliament as early as December or January. Apart from giving his son a new portfolio, Prime Minister Gonsalves, has given A g r i c u l t u r e , F o r e s t r y, Fisheries and Rural Transformation Minister, Saboto Caesar, three of the portfolios that were previously held by Camillo Gonsalves, namely Industry, Labour and the Bureau of Standards. Gonsalves and Caesar are seen as the two front-runners to head

the ULP. St Clair Jimmy Prince will take up ministerial responsibilities for Informat i o n , a n e x t e n s i o n of his former role as director of the Agency for Public Information. As Minister of Information, Prince will also be responsible for the N a t i o n a l B r o a d c asting Corporation, another state-owned media outlet. The new assignment is in addition to his current portfolios of Education, Reconciliation, and Ecclesiastical Affairs. Responsibility for the Postal Service will go to Senator Julian Francis, who is Minister of Transport, Works, Urban Development and Local Government. The Cabinet reshuffle comes at a time when Prime Minister Gonsalves has been kept away from work and miss e d P a r l i a m e n t o n T u e s d a y, a m i d m e d i a s p eculation that he is recovering from injuries he suffered when he was thrown about in his official vehicle as it swerved to avoid another vehicle last week.

Saturday November 11, 2017

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KaieteurNews

Lewis Hamilton dominates Brazilian Grand Prix practice Lewis Hamilton set the pace in second practice at the Brazilian Grand Prix as Mercedes dominated the first day at the penultimate race of the season. Hamilton and team-mate Valtteri Bottas were first and second in both sessions, the new champion just 0.048 seconds ahead of the Finn in the afternoon. Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo was next, 0.228secs off Hamilton and 0.132secs ahead of Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen was fifth ahead of Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen. Hamilton clinched the championship at the last race in Mexico but says he is deter-

mined to win the final two races to keep the pressure on Ferrari going into the winter, following their collapse in the championship. That is a contrast with his approach the last time he won the title early, in 2015, when his team-mate Nico Rosberg won the final three races of the season and used it as a launch pad for a strong start to the following year, which he ended as champion. Hamilton has stamped his authority on the weekend so far, fastest in both sessions and also marginally quickest on the race-simulation runs later in the afternoon when the team practice for the race.

Vettel was closest to Hamilton on race pace, within 0.1secs a lap of the Mercedes on average on the super-soft tyres, with Bottas a similar difference behind and Ricciardo next. But Hamilton was blisteringly fast when he switched to the ‘soft’ tyre more than 0.5secs a lap on average quicker than Bottas, who was comfortably quicker than Ricciardo as the three were all out on track at the same time. ”It’s been a good day,” said Hamilton. “It was pretty exciting to come to the track with the cars being so much faster this year. It’s physically more demanding than before

Saturday November 11 , 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Try to be reasonable. A new image can be the result if you change your look. Don't let friends convince you that you should contribute to something you don't believe in.

tions to worthwhile causes. Stick to your work and avoid emotional confrontations. Social events should be the highlight of your day. You are best to sit back and think it through, rather than add to the ranting and raving.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Property investments, insurance, tax rebates, or inheritance should bring you financial gains. You will be emotional about family matters. You may have a problem keeping secrets.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Try to deal with the problems of those less fortunate; however, don't allow them to make unreasonable demands. Confusion is apparent and you'll need some sound advice if you want to do the right thing.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Look into ways to make your home more comfortable. You could have a change of heart if an old flame waltzes back into your life. Opportunities for romance are present. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You need a break from your daily routine. Your contributions will be valued and helpful. You must consider yourself for a change. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Don't be afraid to talk to close friends or relatives about pressing personal problems. Take matters in hand when it comes to dealing with clients or colleagues. Sign up for seminars that will expand your business awareness. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Don't get involved in joint ventures. Find out all you can; secret enemies may lead you astray. You could easily lose your temper at work. Don't push your opinions or ideas on others. LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You can enhance your reputation by making contribu-

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You can receive recognition for the work you've done. Remain calm and you'll shine. Passion should be your goal. Do some research if you want to find information that you can apply against the opposition you face. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Don't bang your head against a wall. Take the whole family and make it an enjoyable outing. New interests are preoccupying your time. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Your home may be in an uproar and you are best to stay out of the line of fire if at all possible. You can enjoy social events and meet new potential mates; however, avoid being lavish. Take a trip or just spend some quality time with your mate. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may have been too agreeable to someone who just wanted to use you. Don't let children hold you back from doing things you enjoy. If you go shopping, only take what you can afford to part with.

which is great and it’s obviously quite warm out there today. ”Unfortunately, the tyres don’t really last very long, so you only get one or two laps on the short runs. We’re in a decent position, but I think it could be quite close.” ”We planned to run long to see what the tyres were like,” said Vettel. “Car-wise we can fine-tune the balance and that should help us get the pace up for qualifying and race but it will be difficult to match Mercedes.” The demanding Interlagos track provoked a couple of spins, Haas driver Romain Grosjean and Sauber’s Marcus Ericsson both losing control without suffering damage. Ricciardo and both Toro Rosso drivers have been hit with engine-related grid penalties - 10 places for the Australian and Brendon Hartley, who was 17th fastest on Friday afternoon, and a total of 25 for Frenchman Pierre

Hamilton’s crash helmet now features four stars to mark his recent fourth world championship. Gasly, who was a place ahead of the New Zealander. Outside the top six drivers, Force India’s Esteban Ocon was seventh quickest, ahead of the Williams of Felipe Massa, who announced his retirement at the end of the season before the race, Renault’s Nico Hulkenberg and Fernando Alonso’s

McLaren. Alonso suffered engine problems that cut his running and resurfaced during his race-simulation run. His teammate Stoffel Vandoorne, who had a spin when out to do his qualifying simulation run on the super-soft tyres, was three places and just over 0.2secs adrift. (BBCsport)

Transportation provided for... (From page 27) which predominantly is not known for athletics and you have the best in Georgetown and anyone else can come on the same days; working under the same technical and tactical guidance and that itself is a big plus.” The access to free transportation will be less of a financial burden on the pockets of athletes who are eager to develop their discipline. However, it was revealed that in the near future the Leonora Track and Field Centre will be acquiring its own vehicle to transport athletes on a daily basis. In less than three weeks from today, student-athletes and teachers from 15 districts across Guyana will participate in the most anticipated sporting event of the school year. For the first time, the meet will be hosted at the Leonora Track and Field Centre.

At the launch of the 57th National School Championship, Chief Education Officer Marcel Hutson stated that “I believe that we are going to

witness the greatest championship ever… I look forward to see our children’s participation on the synthetic track.”

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Saturday November 11, 2017

Veteran cyclist James Joseph puts Guyana on the map with world record To be recognised by GCF today By Calvin Chapman All eyes are on Guyana in the cycling world after Lindener James Joseph, also known as Joelyn, broke the 200m Flying Start world record at the International Cycling Union (UCI) World Masters Championship in California, exactly one month ago. O n O c t o b e r 11 t h , competing in the 60-64 age group, Joseph recorded the top time of 11.42 seconds in the Flying Start of the Match-Sprint race which bettered the previous record of 11.73 set by Victor Copeland of USA.

The previous record of 11.73 was set in the high altitude conditions of the state of Colorado which is much easier compared to the sea level conditions of California. After qualifying in world leading time for the match sprint, Joseph went on to win Guyana’s first medal at a UCI event when he finished second for silver behind Kirk Sato of the USA; the first of a total of three medals. He competed in the 20 lap Scratch race and ended with the silver medal as well. He then sprinted to bronze in the 500m Individual Time

Trial. Joseph, an overseas based athlete who began his career as a Junior at the Bauxhall Cycling Club in Linden expressed to Kaieteur Sport during an exclusive interview that: “It was a great feeling to see the Golden Arrowhead being hoisted at a UCI World Games for the first time ever. It was an added flavor of delight for me after being an avid competitor for over 40 years to finally have success at the UCI level.” He added that this is the first time that a Guyanese or Caribbean cyclist has set a world record at a UCI championship.

”Joelyn” cycling career got going three years after starting at the Bauxhall Cycling club, now known as Bauxhall Flyers, when he competed in the UCI World Championships in San Cristobal, Venezuela in 1977 where he finished 12th in the Match Sprint. In addition, he represented Guyana at two Olympic Games. In the 1980 Olympics in Moscow, Russia, he finished 9th overall in the Match Sprint and 22nd at the 1984 games in Los Angeles. Not only has Joseph put Guyana on the cycling map with his world record but his participation at the Pan American Track Cycling

Championships in Aguascalientes, Mexico in October, last year, has paved the way for the Land of Many Waters participation in other UCI sanctioned Championships. This is so because the UCI have a system where you have to score points through participation in track competitions they have which will allow a route for member countries to qualify for marquee UCI Track Meets including the Pan American Cycling Championships and UCI S e n i o r W o r l d Championships (Track and Road). The last time Guyana competed in a Senior UCI sanctioned meet was the World Championships in 1977 where Joseph brought 9th four decades ago. And again, Joseph contributed to the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) as his participation at the Pan American Track Cycling Championships has paved the way for Guyana’s return to the UCI Games as the federation has acquired enough points to see them qualify for the Pan American Elite and Under-23 Road Championships. GCF Assistant Racing Secretary, Joseph Britton, hailed James Joseph’s achievements which has help Guyana to return to UCI Senior and Junior meets. Britton explained that, “The GCF’s participation at UCI games has been stagnant for the past 40 years and it was Horace Burrowes, who joined the federation as president in 2015 that laid the initial foundation for G u y a n a ’s r e t u r n t o

James Joseph international cycling governing body championships.” Britton further posited that Burrowes, “Enabled this through constant physical interaction with the COPACI (Pan American Cycling Federation) and UCI, using his own funds for travel and take care of accommodation to various parts of Central and South America for meetings. And fortunately for the GCF, the local federation will have their voices heard as Burrowes has been appointed as a voting delegate on the UCI panel.” The world record holder, James Joseph, extended his gratitude to the President of the GCF for assisting him and cycling in Guyana which he believes will make strides in right direction in the coming years.

Kaieteur News

Saturday November 11, 2017

Gayle among Windies trio to face auction Lahore, Pakistan, CMC – West Indies Twenty20 stars, Chris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo and Carlos Brathwaite are among 500 players who will be up for selection at the Pakistan Premier League draft set for tomorrow. The left-handed Gayle, one of the most sought after batsmen in the game’s shortest format, was released by Karachi Kings following the conclusion of the last PSL season. He managed a mere 160 runs from nine innings last season with the Kings, after representing Lahore Qalanders in the 2016 inaugural t o u r n a m e n t . Bravo, meanwhile, was forced to opt out of his

Chris Gayle commitment to Qalanders last season after picking up an injury during the Australia Big Bash. Brathwaite had been down to represent Quetta

Gladiators but missed out through domestic commitments in the Caribbean. The trio are widely viewed as precious commodities on the T20 circuit and are expected to quickly snapped up in the draft. West Indies players like Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine and Darren Sammy have been retained by their respective franchises. Sammy took the spotlight last season when he captained Peshawar Zalmi to the capture of the PSL title. The new season will feature 34 matches and is set to bowl off early next year. The schedule is yet to be released.

CMRC Final leg drives off today Khan’s Racing revving from Sports Tuner C/ship title The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) will open the two-day event of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championships (CMRC) final leg today with action beginning at 10:00hrs with qualifications and races from 14:00hrs. This weekend, the South Dakota Circuit will be heated as the 27-race programme which is being touted as the biggest to be held at the Timehri Track will encompass good rivalry today and Sunday. In addition, there will be two professional drift cars

from Trinidad and Tobago, as well as, four SR-3 Radicals from Barbados which will bring added attractions for fans. Khan’s Racing Sharima Khan, Guyana’s speed queen, is gearing to have three good races today and tomorrow in her quest to capture a major championship title in the 1500cc sports tuner class. Although Khan is currently competing in the street tuner class of the CMRC, she lies in fourth, while she is second in the Sports tuner class. Sharima has upgraded

her “Pink Beast” from a Honda CRX to a Honda CRX Del Sol and she shared with Kaieteur Sport that she is hoping her monster gets the job done. In a sport that is dominated by men, Khan stated that it does not bother her: “It doesn’t matter when you’re behind the wheel”, and the 22-year-old lass stated that when she began racing five years ago, “I have always been competing against the guys so it’s nothing strange. So I’m ready for the competition this weekend.” (Calvin Chapman)

I will certainly be in the mix battling for supremacy-Shewjattan Group 4 racer Rupie Shewjattan believes that this weekend’s final leg of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) will see him right in the mix battling for supremacy against some of the best drivers in the division. Shewjattan, who drives a Mitsubishi Evolution V, said he was relishing the opportunity to showcase his skills in front of what is anticipated to be a large turnout of motor racing fans, at the South Dakota Circuit. The experienced racer, whose machine suffered structural damage at the last Meet in November following a crash, exuded confidence of doing well against his rivals as he seeks to defend home soil. He said he knows what to

expect, having competed against most of his rivals at previous Meets, adding that he is not fazed by their reputation, but will be going out on the track to be competitive. Meanwhile, his mechanic, Jamaican Garrett Johnson, who did most of the talking pertaining to the car’s preparations, also expressed confidence of the team doing well over the weekend. According to the mechanical expert, they have a rebuilt engine which he expects to perform well, informing that had the car not been involved in a crash at last year’s Meet, they would have been very competitive. ”We had just rebuilt the engine and the machine was

working at its best before the unfortunate incident, but now we are back and aiming to perform even better,” Johnson stated. He noted that they are banking on enhanced straightway speed to keep them in the fray, while Shewjattan’s vast knowledge of the Circuit could prove decisive as well. ”I’m confident that our team has the horsepower and driving talent to make things interesting today and tomorrow,” Johnson felt. Shewjattan extended thanks to his sponsors that include Auto Fashion, Palm Court, Stag Beer, US-based Allied Manufacturers, Prem’s Electrical, Agri Parts, Sankar’s Auto Color and BK International for their support.

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Transportation provided for athletes to train at Leonora Track and Field Centre Athletes are being afforded the opportunity to train at the Leonora Track and Field Centre as transportation is now being provided for those who wish to utilise the facility’s amenities. This was disclosed by the Director of the facility Trevor Williams, during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI).

Williams disclosed that the service commenced approximately a week ago. Sportspersons are required to assemble at Ashmins Trading on High Street at 15:00hrs, where they will be transported to and from the facility, free of cost. Williams said this is a deliberate step by the National Sports Commission and the Ministry of Social Cohesion

to encourage youths to become more involved in sports. He explained that “they themselves now are able to put in more work, prepare better for their meets that are coming locally, regionally a n d p o s s i b l y internationally.” The Director further added that “here it is that you have people from the west (Continued on page 25)

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Saturday November 11, 2017

MYO/Br. Amanat Baksh Inter- Jamaat T10 Softball Cricket Brusches Classic B’ball Final Ten teams to battle for - GT’s Ravens battle Linden’s Jets supremacy from tomorrow Colts and Royals battle for third

Travis Burnett

Akeem Kanhai

City side Ravens Basketball Club, once the darling among clubs in Guyana will seek redemption against Amelia’s Ward Jets when they collide for the top prize of $300,000 in the final of the 6th Biennial Brusches Classic Basketball Foundation competition at the Mackenzie Sports Club, Hard Court, tonight. Last Saturday night’s scheduled showdown had to be put back due to incessant rainfall throughout the day and with fans expected from the city tonight it should be a titanic clash between the finalists. Ravens won in 2013 but lost in the title defence when they opposed Amelia’s Ward Jets in the final two years later by a mere two points. Coach then, Darcel Harris had stated that he was without his Captain Ryan Stephney. Now back at the helm of the club, Harris has the likes of Travis Burnett who is in ripping form and Jermain Slater down inside and will fancy their chances of claiming the title.

Adrian Webster

But their opponents are confident that Stephney’s presence this time around, does not scare them as they have shown that with Akeem Kanhai guiding their offense and defence they can be hard to beat. Kanhai has been instrumental at both ends of the floor and he demonstrated that he can be destructive either way. Coach Kevin Joseph is unnerved about what Stephney brings to the Ravens as he feels that his side can stave off this Ravens side regardless. He has noted that his best shooter, Orin Rose who has not been in top form can be a factor as he was two years ago; when in tandem with Kanhai they dismantled the Ravens’ hopes, with Rose hitting crucial long range shots in the closing moments. In addition to this duo the home side has some talent in the form of Adrian Webster and Donnel Benjamin and his brother Joel playing inside while at the back court are Nathan Saul and Shannon Cadogan.

Ryan Stephney

However, this game will be the night cap as the preceding match is one that neither Colts of Georgetown nor their rivals Victory Valley Royals would want to lose. They both entered this tournament with impressive records but were unable to advance against the eventual finalists. With so much at stake and their pride of course, the national champions Colts should be hoping for a good showing against arguably the top Linden side, Royals, this season. This third place game has at stake $100,000. The winner of the championship will earn $300,000 and trophy while the loser carts off $200,000. Among the dignitaries expected to witness tonight’s action are President of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) Nigel Hinds, Linden Amateur Basketball Association President Lawrence Simon and the main sponsor, Monty Profitt. Jump ball time is 19:00hrs.

Champion of Champions Domino competition hits off tomorrow A tantalizing total of $300,000 in cash and prizes will motivate teams as the Senior Organising Secretary of the Georgetown Domino Association Faye Joseph, who is also the head of the Guyana National Dominoes Federation (GNDF), hosts the Champion of Champions Part 2, domino competition at her residence, 1223 Gauling Place, South Ruimveldt from 14:30hrs. According to the GNDF only teams which won tournaments during the 2017

season are allowed to participate and among those vying for supremacy are Mix Up, 300, All Seasons, PH, Gold For Money, TNT, Turning Point, Thunder, Gangster, Beacons, Masters, Rage, Angels, Medicare, Strikers, Assassins, Transport, GT and Frankie’s. The guest teams are Delta Force, National Insurance Scheme (NIS), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), NA Killers, Scramblers, Determine and Orange Walk. The tournament will be

played on a two-in one-out knockout basis with an entrance fee of $15, 000 per team. The winners will walk away with a whopping $175 000, the secondplaced team $75 000 and third-placed, $40 000. There’s also an incentive of $10 000 for the M o s t Va l u a b l e P l a y e r (MVP). All GNDF rules will be in effect. For more information teams are asked to contact Mark ‘Jumbie’ Wiltshire on 665-5855.

Ten teams placed in Zone A and B will from tomorrow battle for top honours when t h e M u s l i m Yo u t h Organization of Guyana Inter-Jamaat 10/10 softball cricket competition in memory of the late Br. Amanat Baksh of Queenstown Jama Masjid bowls off at the MYO ground, Woolford Avenue, T h o m a s L a n d s , Georgetown. The round-robin competition has attracted teams from Grove, Queenstown, Farm, Enmore

and Land of Canan which comprise Zone A while the Zone B teams are Wakenaam, Adventure, MYO, Diamond/Grove and New Amsterdam. Attractive trophies and cash prizes are at stake in the competition which will conclude on December 3, next with a bar-b-que and food sale where tickets will cost $1000. Prior to the start of action tomorrow, there will be a simple opening ceremony where remarks would be given by MYO officials as

well as children of the late Amanat Baksh. Following are the opening fixtures for tomorrow. 09:00hrs Adventure vs Diamond/Grove 10:30hrs New Amsterdam vs MYO 12:00hrs Adventure vs New Amsterdam 13:30hrs Grove vs Enmore 15:00hrs Queenstown vs Land of Canan

Powerlifting Federation to end year with Seniors’ at Ramada Princess Hotel Body Building athletes to treat patrons

GAPLF President Mr. Ed Caesar (right) shaking hands with General Manager of Georgetown Ramada Princess Hotel, Mr. Ugur Turetgen.

Guyana’s strongmen and women will have the chance to outdo each other for the final time this year when the P o w e r l i f t i n g Federation brings off its final event for the year, Senior Nationals at the Georgetown Ramada Princess Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara. The date is Sunday, December 3rd next with the first lifter set to appear on the platform at 10:00hrs. According to the federation,

weigh-in time for the athletes appearing in Flight A, will be 08:00hrs. The venue is no stranger to hosting the sport as Guyana successfully hosted the 2010 edition of t h e 4 t h NAPF/Caribbean Championships. Patrons can look f o r w a r d t o performances from a number of Body Builders as eth Guyana Amateur Body Building and Fitness

Federation (GABBFF) seeks to support its sister federation. More sponsorship is coming from long time corporate entities, Fitness Express and Buddy’s Gym. Powerlifting Federation President Mr. Ed Caesar recently made a trek to the Providence location of the Georgetown Ramada Princess Hotel to formalise plans with General Manager of that entity, Mr. Ugur Turetgen.

Kaieteur News

Saturday November 11, 2017

Courts Pee Wee Tourney

Marian Academy and West Ruimveldt Primary to clash in today’s final

Malik Barker This season of the C O U RT S / B a n k s D I H s p o n s o r e d P e e We e tournament for Under-11 Primary School boys is set to culminate in grand style with the two best teams in the this year’s tournament clashing for top honours this afternoon from 15:00hrs at the Thirst Park ground. West Ruimveldt’s Ian Daniels, the tournament’s top forward with 10 goals,

Ian Daniels will lead his team’s attacking charge as they seek their first championship title with his individual brilliance. Meanwhile, inaugural winners Marian Academy, a tactically compact unit, will use their wits as they aim for their second title. It is known that Daniels will be gunning for goals today after the leading goal scorer shared with the press after his team’s semifinal

victory last week that, “My dad said that if I’m the top scorer in the tournament, I will receive a special gift from him.” Marian Academy, led by National Under-15 Assistant Coach Devnon Winter, posited following his team’s semifinal triumph last week which was clinched with a Malik Barker goal that his side is well on their way to a second title. ”My team is very good technically and tactically. I do not see any other team (West Ruimveldt) that can beat us. No doubt we will lift this (2017) title. The third place playoff will have its first whistle blown at 14:00hrs and this match is expected to be almost as exciting as the final, the perfect appetizer for the main course. This game will be contested between losing semifinalists, Enterprise Primary that were needled 10 by Marian Academy and Sophia that succumbed from a come from behind charge from West in their 2-1 loss after extra time.

Lancaster chosen for CONCACAF Head of Refereeing workshop The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Head of Refereeing Department, Stanley Lancaster, has been i n v i t e d t o t h e Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association (CONCACAF) 2017 Head of Refereeing Workshop which commenced yesterday and will conclude tomorrow in Miami, Florida. Lancaster will be a part of this the first CONCACAF meeting of all Member Association Heads of Refereeing workshop, which has been developed for Heads of Refereeing to receive critical information

that will help each Member Association direct their refereeing departments in the future. The workshop is meant to be an annual event. In an invited comment, Lancaster said he expects to see a difference in his approach to his duties after completing this workshop: “The knowledge received from this workshop will be a plus for Guyana since I’ll be exposed to the standard recommended by CONCACAF. This knowledge will subsequently be filtered to referees, instructors and assessors through training

Stanley Lancaster and education. Coming out of this we will surely see growth in the standard of refereeing in Guyana.”

Battle for final four slots continues today matches would be contested. Opening at 09:00hrs will be Samatta Point Kaneville and Mocha Champs, this match would be followed by a showdown between Herstelling Raiders and

GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power U-17 League – East Bank FA

Highway United thump Friendship, Diamond win by WO as Herstelling and Mocha draw

Highway United Football Club of Yarrowkabra, Linden Soesdyke Highway. Highway United based at Yarrowkabra, Linden Soesdyke Highway continued their winning ways on Sunday last when the East Bank Football Association leg of the G F F / N A M I L C O Thunderbolt Flour Power National Under-17 Intra Association League continued at the Grove Playfield. The Highway boys defeated Friendship All Stars 3-1, Diamond United gained a walk over from Agricola Red Triangle with the clash between Herstelling Raiders and Mocha Champs petering

out into a 1-1 tie. Netting Highway United were Shawn Steele who fired home in the 35th minute, Tyrone David ion the stroke of halftime and Mellon Joseph in the 56th minute. Friendship’s consolation goal came off the boot of Marlon Dey. Herstelling Raiders took the lead against Mocha in the 2nd minute thanks to a Devon Winter strike but three minutes later, that advantage was cancelled out on account of Esan Pestano’s goal for Mocha Champs. As the league winds

down, three more matches will be contested tomorrow at the same venue. Grove Hi Tech, the only undefeated team will play their final match and will be aiming to end with another win. They will be facing the red hot Highway United side which has said they will be the first team to end the winning streak of the home team. Friendship will open proceedings for the day against Herstelling Raiders from 10:00hrs followed by Kuru Kururu Warriors opposing Agricola Red Triangle.

Central Rupununi prevail at Reg. 9 GTU Inter-District Schools Athletics C/ships 2017

Ralph Green / EBFA U11 League

The battle for the four semi finals slots in the Ralph Green sponsored East Bank Football A s s o c i a t i o n U n d e r - 11 League will continue today at the Grove Playfield where four

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Friendship All Stars. Next u p w i l l b e Agricola Red Triangle and Diamond United with the main event of the morning between Grove Hi Tech and Diamond Upsetters.

Under the sweltering heat below the majestic Kanuku mountain foot came out a sizeable crowd to witness and support their favourite school when the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) Region #9 InterDistrict Track and Field, Schools Athletic Championships were contested from November 13 last at the Moco/Moco Sports Club ground, Central Rupununi. By the end of day two of the championships, Branch #2 South Central was ahead on 220 points with Branch #3 on 194, Branch #1 - 176, Branch #4 – 138 and Branch #5 - South Pakaraima on 60 points, respectively. However, on the final day defending champions Branch #3 Central Rupununi

redeemed themselves by proving once more to be the better of the school in the shorter events with South Central and Deep South dominating the middle distance categories while North Rupununi stepped up to the plate to improve with some good showing in a number of events. South Pakaraimas was not so fortunate and remained at the bottom of the ladder. When the bell rang for the final event it was Central Rupununi which prevailed over their Rupununi counterparts with 467 points. South Central followed with 453 points, Deep South 426 points, North Rupununi 301 points and South Pakaraima with 155 points.

The championship was officially declared open by GTU representative, Mr. Te r r e n c e B r a s h e a n d trophies were donated by Curtis Buckley and family as well as Romanex Mining Company. Meanwhile, 10k champion, Garvin Enrico of Central Rupununi participated at an Invitational 5000m race in neighbouring BonFim, Brazil on Saturday last where he placed second. The junior sensation will certainly be an athlete to be reckoned with at the GTU National Track and Field School Athletic Championships which is slated for later this month at the Lenora Track and Field Facility.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 32

Saturday November 11, 2017

CWI Digicel Regional 4-day C/Ships

Badly wounded Jaguars limp to 53-6 replying to Hurricanes’ 412-9 declared Story and photos by Sean Devers in St Kitts in association with Vnet Communications & Connections Travel A century partnership between Keacy Carty and Montcin Hodge and half centuries from Jamal Hamilton and Terrence Warde and six late afternoon wickets put the Leeward Hurricanes in a commanding position at the end of the second day of their CWI Digicel Regional Four-Day Championship encounter against defending champions Guyana Jaguars at Warner Park yesterday. A laborious 165-run second wicket stand between Carty and Hodge saw the Hurricanes to 223-1 but with Carty’s demise Hurricanes lost three wickets for one run before Hurricanes recovered to declare at 412-9. Carty’s painstaking 82 took 231 balls, 295 minutes and included five fours and a six while Hodge, who struggled to rotate the strike and pick up singles, faced

Terrence Warde edges Rutherford just short of slip during his 52 yesterday.

231 balls, batted for 295 minutes for his 91 which included five fours and a six. Hamilton contributed 56 from 99 balls, 160 minutes with five fours and a six and featured in 69-run

partnership with Warde who made 52 from 125 balls, 142 minutes aided by four fours and a six. Skipper Rakeem Cornwall chipped in with a 23-ball 28 with two fours and two sixes while Chesney

Jamal Hamilton in trouble against Romario Shepherd in his 56 yesterday.

Hughes fell for 31 on Thursday. Sherfane Rutherford (393), Romario Shepherd (264), Kemo Paul (1-48) ensured that six of nine wickets to fall fell to pacers while Veerasammy Permaul

Bowlers give Red Force big edge over Volcanoes – 2nd day, 3rd round Port of Spain, Trinidad, CMC – Steady, if not menacing bowling from Trinidad & Tobago Red Force, led by veteran legspinner Imran Khan, put the skids on the Windward Islands Volcanoes’ batting and tightened the grip on their Regional 4-Day Championship match yesterday here. Volcanoes reached three without loss in their second innings before bad light stopped play, after they were asked to follow on 236 runs behind on first innings, on the rain-marred second day of their round match at Queen’s Park Oval. This followed Khan grabbing 3-46 from 15 overs and three other bowlers collecting two apiece, as the Volcanoes were bowled out for 166 around the time for the scheduled close, replying to Red Force’s first innings total of 402. Kavem Hodge hit the top score of 46 for the

Volcanoes, Tarryck Gabriel made 38 and their captain Tyroine Theophile got 30, but there was little stability for the rest of the batting and the visitors lost their last six wickets for 12 runs in the space of 64 deliveries. Sherman Lewis had led the Volcanoes fight back in the morning period following the Red Force’s o p e n i n g d a y, b a t t i n g rampage. The Grenadian fast bowler ended with a career-best 5-64 from 20 overs, former West Indies Under-19 fast bowler Ray Jordan bagged 3-68 and Barbados-born all-rounder Kyle Mayers snatched 2-79 from 27 overs. Red Force captain Denesh Ramdin added just 12 before he was dismissed for 116 and former Red Force captain Jason Mohammed collected 13 before he fell for 113, but no other batsman on the day reached 20. Their partnership of 213

however, fell short of the Red Force all-time record for the fourth wicket and their separation triggered a slide that saw the home team dismissed about five minutes past the scheduled lunch interval, as they lost their last six wickets for 40 in 68 balls. Starting the day on 334 for three, Red Force cruised past 350 without further loss, but Lewis trapped Ramdin, Mohammed and Tion Webster all lbw in three successive overs to leave the hosts 373 for six. Ramdin, the former West Indies captain and wicketkeeper/batsman, struck nine fours from 170 balls in his 3 ¼-hour stay at the crease, and Mohammed cracked nine fours and one six from 187 balls in just over four hours in the middle. After this, there was token resistance from the tail, and rain offered Red Force a 35-minute respite before they returned and

swiftly went into decline. After lunch, Volcanoes were set back early, when prolific, veteran left-hander Devon Smith was caught at slip off Roshon Primus for three. The wickets of former West Indies batsman Kirk Edwards for 15 and Theophile in the space of four overs – both to Webster – left Volcanoes 52 for three. There was still some fire in the Volcanoes, when Hodge came to the crease and put on 70 for the fourth wicket with Gabriel to take them past 100 and forged a useful stand of 32 with former captain and fellow Dominican Liam Sebastien for the fifth wicket to carry the visitors past 150. When Hodge became the first wicket for left-arm fast-medium bowler Daniel St. Clair, none of the rest of the batsmen showed much fight and they surrendered meekly with Sebastien, Mayers and Shane Shillingford all dismissed lbw.

had 2-104 and Chanderpaul Hemraj took the other for the Jaguars who were on the ropes on 53-6 by the close still 359 runs away from the Hurricanes total. The Jaguars were again off to a horrendous start l o s i n g Ta g e n a r i n e Chanderpaul (3), Skipper Leon Johnson (2), Hemraj (23), night watchman Veerasammy (0), Shiv Chanderpaul (0) and Anthony Bramble (0) as they were badly wounded and left hanging on for dear life at 53-6.Vishaul Singh, dropped at second slip off debutant Stanley Simon, saw his team to the close with the lights in full effect after Bramble hit a catch to mid-off from the day’s final ball. Jeremiah Louis has so far picked up 2-18. Earlier, Jaguars took the second new ball at the start of play with Hurricanes on 1811 and continued to keep the batsmen on a tight leash with Hodge (72) and Carty (61) at the crease. On another day blessed with glorious sunshine the pair batted cautiously before Hodge broke the shackles by disdainfully hooking a short ball from Keon Joseph for six. The 200 was posted in the 100th over to give the hurricanes their only batting point as the pedestrian paced scoring continued. Carty nicked one from Rutherford to Keeper Bramble to end the

partnership which took 295 minutes and was as exciting as watching paint dry. Paul, who saw Shiv Chanderpaul at slip put down two catches off his bowling, soon sent Hodge’s leg-stump cart wheeling without addition to the score before Rutherford struck again by having Nkrumah Bonner taken at mid-on for a duck off a mistimed pull. And at 224-4, Hurricanes had lost three for one run and the Jaguars were in control under overcast skies. Devon Thomas eased the pressure by hitting Rutherford on top of the commentary box but he was soon taken at cover playing a lose drive at Shepherd just before Lunch with the score on 246-5. At Lunch the Hurricanes had slumped from 223-1 to 250-5 with Hamilton and skipper Rakeem Cornwall at the crease. After the interval, the burly Cornwall greeted Shepherd with a six over his head off the first ball of the session before clobbering Rutherford over mid-wicket for another six. Cornwall was dropped by a diving Johnson at slip off Rutherford on 24 but missed a mighty swing next ball and was bowled at 2976. Warde joined Hamilton and cover drove Rutherford for four before using his feet to Permaul and hitting him agonisingly close to a leaping Shepherd at midon. Hamilton reached his 50 from 89 balls, 147 minutes with four fours and a six while the 50 partnership between him and Warde was posted from 101 balls and 78 minutes and by Tea, with rain threatening, the home team was 356-6 with Hamilton on 51, Warde on 28 and the seventh wicket already worth 59 runs. After the break Hamilton was removed by left-arm spinner Hemraj at 366-7 while Louis (6) edged a cut to Permaul to give him his first wicket with the score on 381-8. Just after reaching his maiden fifty Warde was stumped off Permaul at which time the declaration was made leaving Marvin Matthew unbeaten on 21.

Saturday November 11, 2017

Kaieteur News

Sans Souci Primary claim Wakenaam zone Scotiabank Kiddy cricket

Members of the victorious Sans Souci Primary School team pose with Coach Nandkishore Andrews (right). Sans Souci Primary School were crowned champions of the Wakenaam leg of the Guyana Cricket Board Scotiabank Kiddy cricket competition which was contested recently at the Wakenaam Community

Centre ground in Good Success. Sans Souci Primary defeated Arthurville Primary 41 runs in the final. Sans Souci Primary batted first and managed 223 off their allotted 12 overs.

Mohamed Khan made 11. Arthurville Primary were restricted for 182 in reply. Khan returned to take 316. In other games, Sans Souci overcame Maria’s Pleasure Primary while

Arthurville beat Zeelandia Primary. According to the rules of the competition, each team shall commence its innings with 200 runs and 10 runs shall be deducted for each wicket that falls.

PAGE 33

t r o Sp Khan’s Racing revving from Sports Tuner C/ship title

I will certainly be in the mix battling for supremacy-Shewjattan

CMRC Final leg drives off today

Sharima Khan

Rupie Shewjattan and mechanic Garrett Johnson pose next to the Mitsubishi Evo 5 at the Team’s Garage yesterday.

Courts Pee Wee Tourney

Veteran cyclist James Joseph puts Guyana on the map with world record

Marian Academy and West Ruimveldt Primary to clash in today’s final Colts and Royals battle for third

Brusches Classic B’ball Final - GT’s Ravens battle Linden’s Jets CWI Digicel Regional 4-day C/Ships

To be recognised by GCF today James Joseph following his performances in California.

Badly wounded Jaguars limp to 53-6 replying to Hurricanes’ 412-9 declared

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