Monday November 27, 2017
Let there be due process DEAR EDITOR, I refer to Mr. Johnson’s letter in Stabroek News on the 25/11/2017, ‘There has been an Apparent Absence of any Clear Process of Dealing with the Complaints of BHS Students’. To my mind, Mr. Johnson’s allegations and rants at every level - at the level of the school, the Ministry of Education, and the Police ought to fall early based on his own doing. He has sullied the investigative process and helped support the suspicion that he has a personal interest in pursuing this matter. How else can one explain his incessant tirades since he first broke the story on Friday 17, November, 2017, and his lack of a mandate to pursue this issue? Further, Mr. Jackson’s alleged wrongdoing is said to have been covered up by the present and immediate past heads of the school’s administration. Without evidence, I smell libel and slander against those heads. It appears to me that Mr.
Johnson feels he can say and do as he pleases without consequence. Indeed, if I were any of these persons, I would surely seek legal advice to address Mr. Johnson’s allegations against them. As for the person at the centre of this imbroglio, Coen Jackson, from what has been told to me, Mr. Jackson has a Diploma in Communication and BSc. in Business Management from the University of Guyana. He also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Bradford (UK), and has been an outstanding teacher of Economics and Financial Services at The Bishops’ High School for over a decade, without a single degrading accusation or complaint lodged against him. For this reason and more, he should be accorded the right to due process and consideration. Yours truly, Kevin Anthony
Will the AFC accede to Ralph Ramkarran? DEAR EDITOR, After reading the news article “AFC must give up gov’t posts to save credibility, support – Ramkarran” (Sunday SN, 26th November 2017), I wondered if Ralph Ramkarran considered the ramifications of his ruminations. Let us say, for argument sake, that the AFC did give up government posts would this not lead to worsening racial polarisation in Guyana? When the AFC was formed, its founders said that they were not going to join with the PNC nor the PPP because they wanted to end
racial voting. Yet, the AFC contested the General Elections of May 2015 in a coalition (APNU+AFC) led by the PNC. The AFC, with dwindling support, fortunes are now intrinsically tied to the fortunes of the PNC. As one blogger noted on SN Blog/Forum that “...the strategy used by the PNC was one of rewarding AFC members with a disproportionate number of ministries and great personal privileges. The AFC was expected to give up policy making to the PNC. When you trade your core principles for private
privileges you cannot effectively address the major problems like the inconsistency of Cummingsburg Accord and constitution, comp l e t e rewrite of the constitution, and building an independent and meritocratic civil service....” The AFC is no longer credible as a Third Political Party and is just an appendage of the PNC/R much like the WPA. Will the AFC give up political power to restore its credibility and support? Yours Faithfully Sean Ori
Giving too much to the Town Clerk DEAR EDITOR, It’s mind boggling that you would give the Town Clerk so much latitude to attempt to delude us, that all is fine, but that critical observations are obtuse and inappropriate. Please reinvent your limitation standard on the length of letter submissions. The TC’s verbiage was tortuous reading with disagreements followed by comments that his disagreements are not in reality disagreements but still have to be viewed as serious. Pure verbiage from him,
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t h e T C . Ye s … i t w a s tortuous reading. And of course he had to lay blame on the community of not paying their fair share, plus not honouring their liabilities. Further embellishment there was of the miniscule work the City did in the past and now no longer do. Aw k w a r d c o m m e n t s flowed on the poor financial management of the City and vacuous comments on intents to improve equally flowed. I agree that the TC is an excellent PR writer but that
is the extent of his limitation. He has demonstrated his gross inability to do the task of TC and should have been removed from that post many, many moons ago. His harsh and cruel treatment of those vendors still resonate. Plus his secret dealings on the parking issue are still alive. He is an apology for a TC. And that accumulated leave he would not take? The Minister should send him off on permanent leave forthwith. Carl Veecock
Good faith or a random decision? DEAR EDITOR, On Tuesday November21, 2017 a group of Mayor and City Council workers led by Kurt Clarke, a Treasurer Department staff, informed regular and potential vendors that the Council has authorised vending on the Eastern side of the road, in front of Stabroek Market ( The’ No ‘, ‘ No’ area) and on Regent Street. Interested vendors were required to submit their names and were told that the Council will be collecting Weekly rates but that such rates will vary, depending on the type of goods being sold. However, they did not indicate when such a Council revenue earner would commence. The Guyana Market Vendors Union is of the view that the Council’s compassion for these wage earners is commendable, whereby Vendors operating on a small scale are being
given an opportunity to ply their trade in an orderly manner. Surprisingly, on Friday evening another group of Council workers led by the same Kurt Clarke, and included Revenue and Security personnel were collecting moneys from vendors in varying amounts, ranging from $1500 to as much as $5000 three days after selling the idea. Questions for City Hall — —1) Did the Market and Public Health Committee which is chaired by the Deputy Mayor initiate this Christmas season road selling exercise that traditionally commences around December 15 each year? 2) Is it a Road sale opening exercise or a permanent arrangement? 3) Who set the rates in the form as it was collected on Friday and why? 4) Are the spots being
rented to Vendors or the Rates collected represent a cleansing fee? The Guyana Market Vendors Union is of the view that it would have been more appropriate if a standard fee was charged for each spot instead of what was witnessed on Friday 24.11.2017. Also, if the ongoing exercise was not hatched and proposed by the Market and Public Health Committee then endorsed by full Council, then by whose fiat was it implemented? Finally, it is the Union’s opinion that even though this City Council exercise appears to have been done in good faith, implementing same contrary to the Councils Standard Operational Procedure, is a recipe for Corruption. Eon Andrews President Guyana Market Vendors Union
A Guyanese Canadian claims discrimination DEAR EDITOR, I have been a Canadian citizen for forty-three years but I was born in Guyana and I love my Guyanese heritage. My husband was born in Trinidad and he is also a Canadian citizen. We always travel together with Canadian passports. I have been visiting Trinidad – a country I love – every three to four months for a maximum of ten to twelve days for the past twenty-four years with no problems. On my most recent visit, I was interviewed by an immigration officer after my arrival at the airport. The officer questioned me about my visit but focused on the fact that I am a Guyanese. The officer said to me, “You are supposed to have a visa to enter Trinidad.” My husband asked her, “Why a visa?” The officer answered with what seemed to be a scornful attitude, “But she is a Guyanese. I will let her go this time but remember next time she will have to have a visa.” I felt as though I was discriminated against.
The officer should have known that Canadians do not need a visa to enter TT. I have many Trinidadian family and friends. We love each other. We get along great. Before this interview with the officer, I used to hear whispers that Trinidadians did not like Guyanese and vice versa. I never thought I would ever witness it. This kind of abuse has to stop now! I would like the officer to know that Guyanese are
people too. We are humans that deserve to be treated with compassion and respect just like everybody else. We are not of a lower class. We all should be so proud of our heritage. I feel angry, embarrassed and humiliated by this negative experience that I will never forget. I strongly recommend that this officer undergoes proper immigration training to improve her conduct. Angry and Disappointed
An open letter to the President DEAR EDITOR, Messrs D. Granger, M. Nagamootoo, K. Ramjattan, R. Trotman, Basil Williams, Harmon, David Ramnarine, & all APNU/AFC members of the Republic of Guyana Parliament, please put an end to this inhumane crime meted to an innocent animal, a calf in a Police compound in Berbice. Please, note that Karmic Justice never fails to deliver Justice. Thank you, Sirs. Regards Fnb.
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Monday November 27, 2017
An innocent man is Two bribe-taking policemen are accused of sexual predation tarnishing the image of the force DEAR SIR, Would the recently launched Sexual Offences Court, deal with allegations of “purported sexual molestation”? It is a breath of fresh air, amidst the obnoxious scent emanating from within the capital city, compliments of the incompetent M&CC inability to rid the city and its environs of the unsightly and accumulating garbage pileup. It’s my sincere desire that a subsequent response can be forthcoming from the relevant judicial authority to investigate and eventually prosecute delinquent adults, who singularly or in tandem with others, by their deafening silence in a specific instance either condone or are in support of an untruthful fabrication of “Sexual Molestation”. Editor, first and foremost I speak as a man and as a victim of the dastardly act. The issue was orally highlighted publicly, in the
presence of the alleged victim’s younger sister. The collateral damage was done mentally to the young sibling, in the presence of the alleged aggressor, who happens to be her father. Can this young kid ever in her life again, erase the inflicted mental scar of her father as a “child molester”? How many more men in our society today are not victims of this heinous crime being foisted upon us menfolk, but many of whom are not intellectually capable enough to publicly air their grievances? By the way, what of the downtrodden, penniless, poor and powerless that our political system have failed, albeit judicial reform? In erstwhile even the church that one of the instigators attends had failed to intervene and act righteously, in the dispensation of righteousness and justice. From a personal perspective, the specific Church, is a symbolism of the “Anti-
Christ” since its teachings are not in conformity to God’s wills and his physical embodiment, Christ Jesus! Meanwhile I faced the reluctance of a previous potential employer, not wanting to provide employment based on the existing scenario at the time. Interestingly, would the Sexual Offences Court, recommend the awarding of financial costs in my favour, due to loss of income, and prosecute the instigator(s) while providing counselling for the young sibling, at the behest of the Child Protection Agency. I do hope the publication of this letter, attracts the attention of the relevant authorities, who can advise on the next step forward towards building a case against the instigator(s), one of whom resides in Henry Street, Werk-en-Rust with the two females and their mother. All for your information and guidance. Respectfully yours, Lester Sealey
DEAR EDITOR, On Sunday, November 19, 2017 about 2.30 pm I called my chauffeur, to take me to Charity to meet with some friends .On my return trip home, I saw two young traffic cops standing by the junction next to a lorry opposite Shashie’s pharmacy . I knew that a campaign was on by “G” Division for the holiday seasons to curb crime. I was happy because this is a busy area with a lot of lawless mini buses driver speeding and making a sudden U turn on the public road. My chauffeur dropped me off about 4.pm, and parked my car. I went upstairs and sat on my verandah watching my chauffeur ride out from my gate with his motorcycle for his home. He was pulled over by the two young traffic policemen. I suspected they were asking
him for his licence and fitness. After a while I saw him walk back to my house a stone’s throw away. He asked me to borrow $ 5,000. I asked him what he would do with the money. He told me that he is going to give it to the two policemen because they demanded it before he was released. He did not have his fitness with him at the time. He told the policemen to keep his motorcycle while he would go to collect the fitness at Mainstay where he lives and return with it. One of them told him that he will let him go if he gave them $5,000. He told him that he hadn’t the money on him, that he would borrow it from a friend and bring it back to him. He collected the money from me. I saw him walk back and give it to one of the traffic policemen. From where I was
sitting I could see everything that was taking place because it was open air on the public road. When he reached home he gave me a call and told me what transpired. These two policemen he told me wanted $ 10,000. Anyhow he pleaded with them he hadn’t that kind of money on him. They took the $ 5,000 and allowed him to go. This was happening in the full view of the public. These policemen did not realize that other people in their houses were seeing their action. This kind of behavior does not auger well for the Guyana Police Force. Residents welcomed the campaign and they promise to cooperate with the commander and the police force in curbing crime in the region. Yours faithfully, Concerned Citizen
Singer’s shoddy customer service DEAR EDITOR, In this modern age where customer service is vital for any business to operate, I am faced with a dire experience at Singer Guyana Inc. I purchased a few household items in July 2017 and a warranty of six months was given for these items. Last week I had some technical challenge with the stove I purchased. A report was made of the issue to the service department and I was told that a security deposit had to be made for a technician to inspect the stove. I went ahead and placed the security deposit of $4,000.00, although I had an issue in doing so since a warranty covered a period due to manufacturer’s defects. The supervisor and another staff clearly explained that when the technician inspects the item and nothing is wrong in regards to proper usage a refund is guaranteed. I was surprised when I visited on the 25th November
to hear that no refund can be given since the technician did a demonstration to light the stove using the electric ignite. I asked to speak to the manager. The said supervisor of the technical department ignored me totally and went on her own business. After I approached her a second time she said the manager is out and I have to come back, in a rude manner. I left and went home. I then decided to call the company to speak to Ms. Lord (Manager) and was told by the operator (Ms. King) who placed me on hold to take another call after I explained my frustration and the reason to speak to Ms. Lord. What is excellent customer service for a business to survive? We have so many competitors out there who sell the same products and for the same price. The only thing would keep your company alive is
the service. Furthermore, I would never do business again with this company and would not recommend anyone to support a business that doesn’t have customers’ interest at heart. I wish to bring this to management’s attention. Is this the way we treat customers? Ms. Lord, I would like you to invest in a workshop to train your staff about excellent customer service and the way we handle customers’ complaints. The operator Ms. King needs to be trained to be more efficient in dealing with customers and the same goes for the supervisor of the technical department. I will continue to follow up with the manager to have her input on this since the matter was not handled the way it should and the staff did not give clear instructions. Raghubar
Habits are not the product of one decision — They’re the result of repeated choices that eventually become automatic responses. How can you know your true spiritual condition? By the company you keep and the choices you make. When you’re free to go, where do you choose to go? Whose company do you prefer?
Monday November 27, 2017
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AFC risks losing ‘corn and husk’ despite having power to overthrow Govt. - Dr. Hinds By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell The Alliance For Change (AFC) can end up being the political party to, in Guyanese parlance, ‘lose corn and husk.’ This would be the case if the party does not begin to make more demands in government at the policy making level and does not insist in being included in the handling of matters such as the appointment of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman. Political Analyst, Dr. David Hinds made this observation yesterday during an interview with this newspaper. The interview came on the heels of the publication of an analytical piece written by Dr. Hinds. The columnist noted that the AFC is losing popularity among the voters who placed trust in that party as a force to deter corruption and dictatorship in a government where the PNCR is the main player. In his article, Dr. Hinds noted that managing coalitions is always a delicate undertaking. He said that the major partner invariably tries to manage the Government in its own image, while the minor partner or partners try to prevent this. If they succeed in doing so, the minor parties accumulate influence for themselves within the Government. “If they fail, they either leave the coalition, or they stay and function as toothless
poodles with little say in the overall direction of the Government.” Dr. Hinds said that that is the big challenge for the two substantive junior partners in the present coalition government– Working People’s Alliance (WPA) and AFC. Dr. Hinds said that the PNC monopolizes power within the Government. He said, however, that the PNC must be mindful of the reality of the Cummingsburg Accord which guarantees the AFC 40 per cent of the Cabinet and substantial parliamentary representation. “The AFC has a clear and present veto—it could bring down the Government anytime it chooses to,” noted Dr. Hinds. In speaking to this newspaper, Dr. Hinds explained that all it takes is one AFC Member of Parliament to join with the PPP to pass a vote of no confidence against the government. Dr. Hinds noted that while the Cummingsburg Accord is not a document with legal standing, if the President or the APNU violates it, the AFC by withdrawing their support which would have legal and constitutional consequences—the fall of the government. Dr. Hinds said that while Cabinet is the theoretical centre of power, under Guyana’s system, the presidency is a separate and more powerful centre of power. And, of course, the PNC controls the
presidency whose power flows directly from the Constitution. “The AFC found out this brutal truth after the fact as they negotiated a disproportionate chunk of Cabinet posts and parliamentary seats. These did not amount to substantive power. The AFC’s only real power is the power to topple the Government, while the PNC has a majority in the Cabinet and the National Assembly in addition to the all-powerful presidency.” In his article, Dr. Hinds chronicled the history of the AFC that ended up with it being a party mostly supported by Indians. (Entire article can be read at http:// guyanacaribbeanpolitics.com/ ?p=8896). He opined that once in office, the AFC soon forgot about the political dynamics that brought them into Government. “They never sought to balance the exercise of ministerial office with holding together the tenuous dynamics within the party…they became power-drunk. Here were great patriots who had put up their hands to be counted, but apart from Nagamootoo and to some extent Ramjattan, they had no history of struggle and sacrifice—they came to politics from the top.” “In the end, they ignored their reason for being. They had no conversations with that fragile Indian constituency that brought them to office — they did not try to
Political Analyst, Dr. David Hinds broaden it. They spent more time in Georgetown than on the Corentyne, West Berbice and Essequibo. The party functioned through the ministries. The never sought to serve as a check on the PNC. Perhaps they couldn’t, since they had played all their cards in the negotiations of the Cummingsburg Accord.” Dr. Hinds said that the AFC leadership, from all indications, decided that their only relevance lies in Government. Yet, there is not a single government policy that bears the imprint of the AFC. OUT OF CARDS Dr. Hinds said that the AFC is probably now beginning to see its mistakes. “The party has now called for the renegotiation of the Cummingsburg Accord. But what is their bargaining chip?”
Dr. Hinds noted that the Indian supporters are dissatisfied with the stance of the party and Nigel Hughes, the party’s link to African Guyanese, has left the executive and is no longer one of the prominent faces of the party. By the time it came for the selection of the GECOM chair, they had nothing to bargain with.” Dr. Hinds said that while it is now known that the AFC was not fully in support with the President’s unilateral appointment of the GECOM chair, the party simply cannot demand any policy initiatives. “That was not part of the Accord which was limited mainly to seat allocation in the Cabinet and the National Assembly.” LOSE CORN AND HUSK Dr. Hinds is of the opinion that the AFC may end up losing the majority of its supporters and may still have to endure being a toothless poodle in a government. The political analyst said that the AFC’s credibility with its mainly Indian Guyanese constituency is severely compromised because that constituency is very wary of the PNC and only signed on to the coalition because of the AFC’s promise to keep the PNC in check. “If the AFC is to regain any credibility, it would have to take a more aggressive stance against unilateral and potentially unpopular actions and
policies by the APNU-PNC partner. But it may be too late for that, since the AFC has already co-owned much if not all of the government's agenda. To bail out now would be most awkward,” said Dr. Hinds. He said that the most the AFC can do is to make more policy demands that would potentially favour Indian Guyanese. “And if they do that, they would have to admit that they are an Indian Party.” WHATABOUT WPA? Dr. Hinds is an executive member of the WPA. He did not say much about the party but said enough for one to deduce that the WPA is not in a much better off position than the AFC. Dr. Hinds said, “The PNC has neutralized the potential WPA threat by sidelining the APNU, in which the WPA is the second largest partner. While the WPA has a big voice within the APNU, it has a very tiny voice within the Government. But the APNU has little to no say in the Government and despite the WPA’s belated pleadings that arrangement is not likely to change much, if any at all. I am not optimistic that the PNC would cede much political space to the WPA and the WPA has not yet worked out the delicate balance of over sighting Government while being a very junior partner in the Government.”
Finance Minister unveils Budget 2018 today By: Kiana Wilburg After months of planning, Finance Minister, Winston Jordan is set to present Budget 2018 in the National Assembly today. The occasion would mark yet another instance where the coalition administration has brought a budget before the start of the fiscal year. According to Minister Jordan, this is a feature that is expected to characterize the Government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency and accountability. The presentation of budget 2018 today is also in keeping with Jordan’s determination to change the manner in which national budgets are presented. He even revealed that early budgets will become the new tradition. Jordan recalled that the 2016 and 2017, budgets were presented fairly early, and noted that this was not done in recent memory. “And I can tell you that it is already having benefits on
Finance Minister, Winston Jordan the citizens, on the stakeholders and the economy. Under my watch, I promise you that this will be a tradition as opposed to a one-off event.” The Member of Parliament said that no budget can be said to be proper if it does not start before the new fiscal year. “And I think that this has been a grave error of ours over the last three decades with all
these late budgets. I know people will run and say that the Constitution gives us up to March, but I rather suspect that we have overused that,” expressed the Finance Minister. Jordan had said that he does not believe that such an approach to national budget is used in other parts of the world. He had said, “I don’t think there is anywhere in the world where you can expect something like that or see the budget being presented as late as three months into the new fiscal year.” The politician said that the new regime is hoping that it can bring some sanity back to the budget process and when it is presented. Additionally, the Finance Minister was tightlipped all year about some of the fiscal goodies that would be included in the budget. He did note however that there would be no new taxes for next year. Since coming to office, the coalition administration has implemented close to 200 tax
measures. Furthermore, the Finance Minister and his budget planning team held meetings with several stakeholders across Guyana regarding their recommendations on what budget 2018 should have. One such stakeholder was the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). The Chamber made a number of suggestions to the Finance Minister. The Chamber noted that Guyana’s uneven growth has led to some concern. As it relates to the forestry subsector, this continued to show a decline in 2017 as output contracted by 18.2 percent during the first half of the year following the 13.1 percent decline at the end of June 2016. The Chamber noted that it received many complaints that the 2017 budget measure to increase the tax burden on the stakeholders in this sector has had a negative impact. As such, it recommended that there be a review and a subsequent removal of Value
Added Tax (VAT) on finished goods in this sector. The Chamber also voiced its concerns regarding Government’s plans to cut back on large scale sugar production through the closure of four estates. GCCI believes that the Government would be wise to have a transitionary period to allow for private investors to acquire the four estates. The body said that this would allow for a smooth continuation of operations and reduction in job and other economic losses. Along with its call for the removal of VAT on private tuition, the Chamber also called
for the government to produce a Plan Of Action. It believes that such a document is necessary since confidence in the economy is waning. With regard to the oil and gas sector, the Chamber said that Guyana has a proven history of successes and failures due to the transformative nature of oil revenues. As such, it suggested that an allocation in the budget be made for the best experts in the field to provide policy, legislation, and regulations on the sector especially as it relates to the Sovereign Wealth Fund and the Expenditure of oil revenues.
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Monday November 27, 2017
Has Govt. secured ‘financial support’ for locals in ExxonMobil contract? By: Kiana Wilburg The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is questioning whether Government’s contract with USA oil giant, ExxonMobil, includes provisions for the development of local products and services. Specifically commenting on this matter recently was GCCI President, Deo d a t Indar. The businessman said that it will take more than just a mere policy paper to get oil giants to support local development. In this regard, he cited the case of Nigeria. The GCCI President recalled that the Government of Nigeria did not depend on a policy paper to ensure ExxonMobil gave monetary support for the development and support of its local products and services. In fact, the administration ensured that this was negotiated upfront and placed it into the contract that it signed with the oil king. It was this foresight that led to the country drawing down on millions of dollars recently for development purposes. ExxonMobil provided $975 million to support indigenous operators. The funds are expected to enable indigenous companies that face many challenges; including limited funding to fi-
- asks Georgetown Chamber of Commerce
Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman nance different projects and programmes. ExxonMobil is one of Nigeria’s highest producers of crude oil, accounting for almost 600,000 barrels per day of crude, condensate and natural gas liquids. The American company has been in that African country for over 40 years with a track record of operating a world class facility in the country. It also looks forward to boost crude oil production there. Because of the contractual safety nets employed by Nigeria, ExxonMobil was even made to invest heavily on human development in Nigeria which was very significant in bringing about competition for national growth. The company was also made to invest
massively in community development in areas of education and infrastructural development, while ensuring sustainability on the long-time benefit. Over 700 graduates benefitted from the company’s skilled training, and majority of them have been employed by various oil and gas companies in Nigeria. (https:// www.vanguardngr.com/2017/ 11/hope-rises-local-contentexxonmobil-ncdmb-provide975m-n61-18bn/). “I cannot say if our government has negotiated on Guyana’s behalf in this regard because we have not seen the contract we have been asking for, for some time. These things have to be negotiated upfront so that when you get into production, you have something you can go back to and say to the oil company, ‘you are supposed to help with a university wing that is supposed to help with this or that…” The GCCI President added, “But if you don’t, you won’t get it when the oil companies get into production. We are at a loss right now. We don’t know if the government did this for the nation.” Strategic Advisor and former Minister for Energy in
Trinidad and Tobago, Kevin Ramnarine, recently advocated that having a local content policy would not be enough. He too, insisted that it must be backed by legislation if one intends to really compel companies to utilise local goods and services for the oil and gas sector. He shared that Trinidad only woke up to Local Content around 2004, but this was pretty late for the Twin Island Republic. In spite of the late start, Ramnarine said that the country made the decision to fabricate offshore platforms which were previously manufactured by other nations. “So from 2003 to 2017, we fabricated eight offshore platforms in Trinidad. These used to be fabricated in the United States of America or Mexico before we started it…There is a local content policy in Trinidad. But now, having the benefit of hindsight, it should be legislated.” Ramnarine added, “The sooner you get there the better, or it will take a lot longer to get there. You have to have the power of law to compel the companies to use local goods and services.” Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman has already indicated that it is very likely that come year end, Guyana will have in place, a robust Local Content Policy for the oil and gas sector. Trotman reminded that the Government has retained
the services of world-renowned expert, Mr. Anthony Paul. The Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC) noted that Paul was keen on completing and having distributed for consultation, the first draft policy. “The idea for this is that we could not move to legislation without first having a policy. Legislation should follow policy rather than the reverse, and so it was thought that we should craft the policy before 2020…” Guyana’s draft Local Content Policy has been criticised in recent months for lacking provisions which would safeguard against exploitation by companies. The draft speaks nothing of how to avoid procurement fraud, conflict of interest and favouritism, among other crucial areas. Instead, the draft Local Content Policy framework seeks to address the suite of opportunities that may arise and the approaches to be taken in selecting and developing opportunities related to enhancing the capabilities of Guyanese nationals and businesses. The Policy articulates that this will be done through training, development and employment initiatives (Capacity Development), ensuring availability of ownership participation for qualified Guyanese equity interest (Ownership Value), supplier development provisions for goods and services by locals to support sec-
GCCI President, Deodat Indar tor operations (Local Content); and well-tailored social contributions for greater impact and benefits (Societal Benefits). It also describes what will be done to ensure that the activities in the petroleum sector are conducted in a manner that transparently secures the maximum benefit for the people of Guyana, while recognising the limitations of the country and holding all actors accountable to the present and future generations of Guyanese who are the owners of the nation’s petroleum resources. Additionally, the draft policy recognises that the petroleum resources of Guyana belong to all its citizens, and represent an asset of significant intrinsic value, which, once removed, diminishes the wealth of the nation, unless there is transformation in value from resources below the ground to improved quality of life above it for current and future generations of Guyanese. The draft says, “Guyana will approach the development of its petroleum resources, people and businesses in a pragmatic, transparent and accountable manner. This will be conditioned by existing circumstances and an analytical approach to understanding the resource, the activities it engenders and our input capabilities. We shall pursue strategic opportunities for local capacity development and participation that give us the maximum possible benefit now and in the future.” The Policy also states that Guyanese will participate in a manner that gives preferred access and opportunities to improve and enhance the country’s capabilities so that it can become internationally competitive and in the end, the country will progressively provide a greater amount of future services. Capacity development, to enable more value retention, will be treated as an investment, rather than a cost, the policy outlines.
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The Minister has no power to ‘remove’ Seelall Persaud Citizens often fail to appreciate the link between protecting the Constitution and justice for the average citizen. For most citizens, constitutional breaches do not impact on them and are therefore of no importance. It is only after their freedom is restricted through unlawful arrest or detention; when their movement is restricted at ports of exit; when government seizes their lands or revokes their leases or when they are the victims of a political witch
hunt that they begin to appreciate how important it is to protect the Constitution. It is the Constitution which is their protector. If breaches of the Constitution are not opposed and challenged, then the rights of citizens are going to be flattened. In a landmark decision (Endell Thomas v The Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, No. 47 of 1980), the Privy Council made some important observations
DEM BOYS SEH
which are relevant to what is taking place in Guyana. Lord Diplock observed that under a party system of government such as what existed after Independence in Trinidad and Tobago and in other Commonwealth countries which are patterned after the Westminster model, “dismissal at pleasure would make it possible to operate what in the United States at one time became known as the “ spoils “ system upon a change of government, and would even enable a Government,
De Top Cop got to sue Rum Jattan It look like if Rum Jattan over step he bounds. He jump and write a letter and tell de Top Cop fuh stay home till next year. When dem boys see de letter dem think that Rum Jattan had de power. Now de Chat-3 seh that he don’t have no power to send home de man. Of course dem have a service commission that would deal wid de Top Cop. De service commission ain’t in service because it get old and a new one got to tek over. Dem ain’t set up de new one. Dem boys believe that when dem don’t have no service commission de Minister got de power. Now de Chat-3 seh that de law telling Soulja Bai that he got to set up a tribunal. Rum Jattan is a lawyer. He got to know wha he doing. De Chat-3 is another lawyer and he got to know wha he saying. Is that kind of confusion mek dem boys never study law. One seh this and another seh that. Then dem got to call a judge to decide who right and who wrong.
Fuh mek a lang story shaat, de Top Cop should just walk in he office and see wha Rum Jattan can do. He is done de Top Cop suh he ain’t got to worry bout promotion. He ain’t got to worry bout he pension because de same law seh that nobody can tek wha you done wuk for. And de Top Cop done wuk fuh he pension. Dem boys seh that this thing ain’t looking good. If anybody got a Top Cop in any country drilling like a yo-yo de whole world would be laughing. Fuh sure that is wha happening. Imagine when de Top Cop go to ah international forum before he retire all he friends gun be laughing at him. Dem might even call him yo-yo. Rum Jattan seh he got de authority to send home de Top Cop suh dem boys waiting to see if de Top Cop gun go to court wid de Chat-3 as ee lawyer to determine de matter. Talk half and wait fuh another court session.
composed of the leaders of the political party that happened to be in power, to dismiss all members of the public service who were not members of the ruling party and prepared to treat the proper performance of their public duties as subordinate to the furtherance of that party’s political aims.” Lord Diplock continued, “In the case of an armed police force with the potentiality for harassment that such a force possesses, the power of summary dismissal opens up the prospect of converting it into what in effect might function as a private army of the political party that had obtained a majority of the seats in Parliament at the last election.” In order to protect public officers from summary dismissal, the Constitutions of most independent Commonwealth States provide for public officers to be appointed, disciplined and dismissed by Service Commissions. This is intended, as Lord Diplock noted, to insulate public servants, teachers and police officers from political influence of the government. The Chief Justice (ag.) of Guyana recently reinforced this point. The Commissioner of Police enjoys security of tenure under the Constitution
of Guyana. He cannot be removed from office by executive fiat. In the case of Thomas v Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, Lord Diplock said that “to ‘remove’ from office in the Police Force … embraces every means by which a police officer ’s contract of employment (not being a contract for a specific period), is terminated against his own free will, by whatever euphemism the termination may be described, as, for example, being required to accept early retirement.” The power to remove a police officer in the public interest resides with the Police Service Commission. The Minister of Public Security has no such power. To place such powers in the hands of the Executive would frustrate the constitutional protections accorded to police ranks. In the case of the Commissioner of Police, he cannot be dismissed at pleasure, not even by the President. He cannot be removed in the public interest either by the Minister of Home Affairs or the President. The Commissioner of Police enjoys security of tenure. His appointment requires the approval of the President and the Opposition Leader. So even the President cannot appoint the Commissioner on his own; so why does anyone believe that a Minister who possesses no executive
authority would have such powers, regardless of whether there is just cause of the removal. There is a provision within the Constitution of Guyana which relates to the removal of certain constitutional office holders. The persons concerned can only be removed by virtue of retirement, resignation, mental incompetence or for misconduct. In the case of the latter two cases, namely mental incompetence and misconduct, a tribunal has to be established to investigate these charges. It is shocking to learn that the Commissioner of Police’s leave is being extended by executive fiat. This is unconstitutional. ‘Prak’, of all people should know this. There are persons who do not like the present Commissioner of Police. They must be reminded that the issue is not the person but the principle. Just as how the government can trample on the Constitution to send someone into early retirement, the same government can do this to any ordinary public servant, teacher of police. What can be done to Seelall can be done to you. And who will protect you if that should happen?
Monday November 27, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Sending Police Commissioner on leave amounts to suspension or constructive dismissal Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan continues to stand by his decision to send Police Commissioner, Seelall Persaud on ‘special leave’ in the ‘public interest,’ even as accusations surface that the decision may be unconstitutional and smacks of political interference in the work of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). Former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall told Kaieteur News yesterday that Constitutional independent office holders like the Commissioner of Police can’t be forced to take leave. “It amounts to suspension or constructive dismissal. This is simply to circumvent the regime of security of tenure which the constitution accords to the Commissioner of Police,” Nandlall stated. As it relates to suspension or dismissal, Nandlall noted that Article 225 of the Constitution which applies to the Commissioner of Police provides that the holder of that Office shall not be removed or suspended from the exercise of the functions thereof. except in accordance with the provisions of the Article. The Article lists only two grounds upon which the Commissioner of Police can be removed from Office, and it relates to the Commissioner’s inability to perform the functions of his Office, whether arising from infirmity of body and mind. The second ground for removal is for misbehavior. Additionally, Nandlall noted that the Article provides that if the question of removal arises (and it can only arise on the two grounds stated above) then the President must establish a tribunal, consisting of a Chairman and two other persons, who are judges or former judges or persons qualified to be judges, who shall investigate the question of the Commissioner’s removal from Office. “When that tribunal is established, only then the President has a power to suspend the Commissioner from performing the functions of his Office. That tribunal shall then report to the President and recommend whether or not the person should be removed from Office,” Nandlall said. He said what Guyana is witnessing is a complete disregard for the constitutional process which must be undertaken as prescribed by the Constitution if a Commissioner of Police is to be lawfully suspended. “The entire regime of security of tenure that the
- unconstitutional to force him out of office, says former Attorney General
Former Attorney General and Member of Parliament, Anil Nandlall
Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan
Constitution has accorded to the Office of the Commissioner of Police is being ignored, eroded and trampled upon by the political diktat of a Minister, who seems to be taking instructions from a phantom,” Nandlall stated. In a letter dated November 23, 2017 to Persaud, Minister Ramjattan, indicated ‘it is the considered opinion of the administration that you should be and directed to proceed on special leave with effect from November 24, 2017 until further notice’. The Minister has since explained ‘until further notice’ to mean that Persaud will remain on leave through the Christmas holidays and will return late January after he completes 56 days of additional leave. “I have the authority and I so advised him as to the special leave. I feel in
the circumstances explained in my letter that he will come back immediately after the holidays when those temporary initiatives would have been completed,” Minister Ramjattan had said. T h e l e t t e r, s e e n b y Kaieteur News, indicated that the Minister was advised to inform Persaud of the decision which was made in the public interest. The letter also stated that the decision is to allow for continuing initiatives and innovations being pursued by the force’s temporary administration to be completed before Persaud’s resumption of duty. Persaud had been on accumulated leave since July 10. He should have resumed official duties on Friday. He was then to
Police Commissioner, Seelall Persaud proceed on pre-retirement leave next year with retirement by April 2018. Minister Ramjattan said that he had spoken with Persaud on November 23, a day before he was expected to resume duty, about the decision to have him proceed on ‘special leave’. NOAUTHORITY But Nandlall argued that the Minister has no authority to write the letter in question to the Commissioner and questioned who advised the Minister to inform the Commissioner. “Advised by whom? Even the President cannot send such a letter. That letter
amounts to a suspension of the Commissioner of Police from performing the functions of his Office. Such a suspension is clearly prohibited by Article 225,” Nandlall maintained. The former AG expressed the view that the Minister of Public Security has no authority over the force or the Commissioner of Police other than a general power to give policy directions. He stated that this is not a matter of conjecture, but a matter of law and based upon the clear language of section 6 of the Police Act, which has been the subject of interpretation by local courts on a number of occasions. The Constitution provides that the Commissioner of Police shall be appointed by the President, acting after meaningful consultation with the Leader of the Opposition and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission. According to Nandlall, it is equally clear that the Police Service Commission exercises no disciplinary control over the Commissioner. “Certainly this amounts to political interference and attempt to politicise the force. This is exactly what the People’s National Congress did in the past Governments.
They are simply incapable of acting democratically and in accordance with the Constitution. It is in their nature to act like Authoritarians,” Nandalall stated. Further, Nandlall noted that the Minister must be ‘ashamed as a lawyer’ to author such ‘unvarnished ignorance’ by mentioning ‘public interest’. The former AG stated that if the framers of the Constitution intended the Police Commissioner to be removed on the ground of ‘this nebulous term public interest’ they would have said so in the Constitution and they would have defined what ‘public interest’ means. “This is simply a concoction of Mr. Ramjattan which he uses to subordinate the Constitution,’ Nandlall stated. He maintained that Persaud, as the Commissioner of Police, does not hold office at the opinion and pleasure of the coalition government. It was pointed out that Government should take note of the recent decision by the Chief Justice dealing with similar constitutional concepts, specifically in relation to the letter written by Minister Joseph Harmon giving directions to the Police Service Commission.
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Kaieteur News
New Sexual Offences Guidelines…
Special provisions should be made for survivors of sexual crimes Special provisions have been outlined for vulnerable groups under the new guidelines on sexual offences matters. The booklet, which was released earlier this month, has outlined a number of provisions for persons who fit the criteria of survivor care and protection. According to the document, the basic care and support services that can be mandated by the court to include provision of a supporter to be with the child or vulnerable complainant or witness during a forensic interview or subsequent interviews. “Once a witness has been identified as vulnerable, there is potentially a long period before the trial takes place so that care support services will be needed and in some instances, witness protection services may also be needed.” Additionally, the guidelines highlighted that these services should be meted out to any member of the Indigenous community, where there is evidence that the complainant has been ostracized or targeted for harm by persons within the community. The services should also be considered where there are close family ties and the traditional mechani sms. However, before a witness or complainant is considered vulnerable, a number of factors should be taken into consideration, including calls by the police or prosecution for special measures to be implemented to protect such persons. “There should also be considerations and adequate provisions for complainants or witnesses with disabilities. The presence of any disability may impair the complainant or witness from giving evidence.” The document stated that considerations should also be made as to what facilities will be needed to ensure they are able to give the best evidence possible.
Special provisions for survivors of sexual crimes Also, it is recommended that provisions be made for people with experiences that may cause traumatic, emotional or psychological distress to the complainant or witness. “In the case of sexual offences, there is high likelihood that the sexual violence incident alleged has caused psychological and emotional trauma and that having to re- tell the intimate details of the event in the court may cause severe psychological distress to the complainant that may impair his or her ability to give evidence.” The booklet further noted that owing to the repeated nature of the offence such as incidents such as stalking or several sexual assaults on a child may have caused disruption in everyday life as well as psychological or emotional trauma. “All witnesses and those who may be vulnerable or in need of witness protection may require support before the trial.” But a vulnerable witness and witnesses in need of protection will require additional services. “The question of whether a witness is vulnerable shall be considered at first and all subsequent pre- trial hearing may be raised by the prosecutor, the police, the complainant or the court. Usually, if there is a victim support unit, the issue of survivor care will usually be dealt with outside of the court by the prosecution or the police.”
Monday November 27, 2017
Gagging of Petroleum Commission employees is an anti-corruption measure The Ministry of Natural Resources is claiming that the “Duty not to disclose information” clause that it inserted into the Petroleum Commission Bill is in fact an anti-corruption measure. However, anti-corruption and transparency advocates contend that the clause needs to be restricted in order to be effective. In an article last week, this newspaper highlighted the clause which says, “Subject to this Act and any other applicable law, a person who is a member of the Board or officer or member of staff of the Commission shall not disclose any information, which he may have obtained in the course of his employment.” Further, the Bill states, “A person who ceases to be a member of the Board or officer or a member of staff of the Commission shall not disclose any information, which he may have obtained in the course of his employment for a period of ten years, and shall not be employed by, work for or be contracted by any operator under regulation for a period of two years.” The Bill said that a person who leaks information is guilty of committing an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $5M and to imprisonment for three years. In response to article, the Ministry of Natural Resources has said the government remains committed to transparency and accountability, not only within the oil and gas sector but also in all sectors. “This commitment for transparency and accountability has been demonstrated through efforts made by the government to implement (Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative) EITI which is a global standard that promotes transparency and accountability in the oil, gas and mining sectors. Guyana’s application for candidacy has been accepted and Guyana is now an implementing country of EITI. EITI brings together Civil Society, Industry and Government, each having an equal stake in monitoring how natural resources derived monies are generated and expended.” Further, the ministry pointed out that Guyana is not the first country to insert stringent penalties within the petroleum sector’s regulatory framework for breach of a duty not to disclose information. It was noted that Tanzania’s Petroleum Act 2015, Section 106, stipulates a fine or jail time for disclosing confidential information. So do the laws of Uganda (Pe-
- Natural Resources Ministry
Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman
President of TIGI, Dr. Troy Thomas
troleum (Exploration, Development and Production) Act 2013 Section 32 and Trinidad and Tobago's (Petroleum Act, Section 35). However, while those countries stipulate a fine or jail time, Guyana has adopted both measures. Further, there are several transparency measures taken by the countries highlighted by the ministry that Guyana has chosen to overlook. Nevertheless, the ministry said that the clause “is aimed at deterring those whose hope to benefit from the improper disclosure; thereby providing another means of fighting corruption. It is one of many anticorruption strategies which have to be employed in the proper management of the petroleum sector and is very consistent with international norms.” It was political analyst Dr. David Hinds who said that government has to balance confidentiality with transparency. Dr. Hinds said that the clause needs to be qualified and restricted with the identification of what sort of information would be illegal to disclose. The Ministry said that the Petroleum Commission Bill 2017 is the subject of widespread consultation, the aim of which is to take on board input from numerous stakeholders so that the finalized Bill reflects a collective effort to create a nationally applicable and internationally relevant law. “We continue to thank all stakeholders for their vigilance as together we strive to bring Guyana to preparedness, not only for oil production in 2020, but also for the continued exploration and growth of the sector.” The “Duty not to disclose information” clause in its current state contradicts another piece of legislation taken to the National Assembly by this Government. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Ba-
sil Williams recently laid two crucial Bills in the National Assembly: The Protected Disclosures Bill and the Witness Protection Bill. Williams explained that the Protected Disclosures Bill 2017, sometimes referred to as the ‘Whistleblowers Bill’, marks another step by the Government towards full compliance with the Inter-American Convention against Corruption (1996). He said that the Bill would assist in combating corruption and other wrongdoings. He said, too, that the Bill seeks to protect persons making those disclosures from detrimental action and to establish the Protected Disclosures Commission to receive, investigate or otherwise deal with disclosures of improper conduct and for other connected matters. President of Transparency Guyana Incorporated (TIGI), Dr. Troy Thomas, said that the government’s inclusion of a “Duty not to disclose information” clause in the proposed act is ominous. He said, “It tells me that there is really no commitment to transparency as it relates to the oil industry. Why should such a bill state that people can be jailed for releasing information?” Dr. Thomas questioned, “Why didn’t they say that persons can release information on corruption?” Dr. Thomas said that overall, legislations in Guyana are seemingly designed to give pelicans “enough room to maneuver. In this way, they do not ultimately have to be accountable, and you are seeing this as a common thread throughout the various Acts.” Dr. Thomas said that he finds it odd that politicians do not want to be held accountable, “but they can hold me accountable for finding information and releasing it.” (Abena RockcliffeCampbell)
Monday November 27, 2017
Kaieteur News
Cubans vote in municipal elections with eye to leadership change
A Cuban casts his vote at a polling station in Havana Vieja neighbourhood in Havana, yesterday. HAVANA, Cuba (AFP) — Cubans choose municipal councillors yesterday in island-wide local elections that are the first step in a Communist Party-supervised process that will culminate next year with the election of a successor to President Raul Castro. No opposition candidates are competing in the elections for the more than 12,500 council seats. Instead, voters will choose from among 30,000 candidates selected by acclamation in neighbourhood assemblies. More than eight million people are eligible to cast ballots but voting is voluntary. Ballots are secret. Cuba’s only direct election, the municipal vote is the first step in a tightly controlled, multi-step process for
choosing leaders at higher levels of Government. It culminates in February with the election of Castro’s successor as president, in what will be the first generational change of leadership since the 1959 revolution led by his brother Fidel. For the first time in nearly six decades, Cuba’s president will not be named Castro or be a member of the old guard that came to power during the revolution. yesterday’s balloting comes a day after Cuba marked the first anniversary of Fidel Castro’s death. All signs point to current first Vice President Migel DiazCanel being chosen to replace 86-year-old Raul who succeeded the ailing Fidel as president in 2008. Diaz-Canel, a 57-year-old
engineer, slowly climbed to the top rungs of the Cuban hierarchy over a three decade career under Raul’s mentorship. Castro is expected to remain head of the all-powerful Communist Party, however. He would be 90 when his current term ends in 2021. Cuba’s electoral system, designed to perpetuate the country’s communist system, provides for municipal council elections every two and a half years, and mayoral and parliamentary elections every five years. The council members elected yesterday will propose half the candidates for election to the provincial assemblies and the parliament, which will then elect the council of state and the president.
ST. LUCIA POLICE REPORT INCREASE IN CRIME CASTRIES. St Lucia CMC – The police in St. Lucia say there has been an increase in reports of crime for the period January to September 2017, with a total of 14,654 up from 13,359. According to statistics released by the Central Intelligence Unit, for that period this represents an increase of 1,295 or 10 percent in reported crimes when compared to the same period in 2016. Over the period, total crimes declined during 2013 to 2016 but increased in 2017 and of the 14,654 cases reported for this year, 14,530 were accepted. “Crimes accepted showed a similar pattern to reported
crimes, reflecting a decline from 2013 to 2016, then increasing slightly between 2016 and 2017 by 1,218 crimes. “Moreover, detection rates during the period showed gradual increases from 2013 to 2015, however, 2016 had an akin percentage to 2015. 2017 recorded the highest detection rate of 56 percent of accepted crimes being detected. With the exception of 2013, detection rates remained above 50 percent from 2014 through 2017,” the release stated. Summary Offences recorded the highest number of cases – 55 percent, followed by Offences Against Property – 23 percent and Crimes Against Person – 16
percent. These three categories accounted for 94 percent of the total crimes recorded island-wide. Sexual Offences recorded their highest total in 2017, realising a 17 percent increase from the previous year. During the period January 1 to September 30 there were 40 homicides recorded islandwide. When compared to the same period in 2016, there were 21 homicides. During the same period, January 1 to September 30 the police recorded a total of 38 islandwide when compared to the same period in 2016 where 20 murders were recorded, revealing an increase of 18 murders.
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Monday November 27, 2017
Kaieteur News
Zimbabwe’s Mugabe ‘glowed’ with relief after he quit – priest FOR RENT
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C H I S H AWA S H A , Zimbabwe (Reuters) - Robert Mugabe’s face “glowed” with relief when he agreed to step down as Zimbabwe’s president last week under pressure from the military and his party after 37 years in power, the priest who mediated his resignation said yesterday. Father Fidelis Mukonori, a Jesuit priest who is a close Mugabe friend, laughed off a report by the privately owned Standard newspaper that Mugabe cried and lamented the betrayal by close lieutenants when he agreed to resign. “When he finished his signature his face just glowed, no weeping unless there were angels weeping somewhere,” Mukonori told Reuters after mass at the Chishawasha Catholic mission just outside the capital Harare. “For me it was a sign that he was accepting that ‘ah this is done’, he is relieved, not that he is aggrieved but relieved.” He said Mugabe realised it was the end of the road two days before he resigned, when he saw 60,000 Zimbabweans protesting and demanding he quit at the Harare grounds where he was inaugurated as prime minister in 1980. His signed resignation letter was read out on Tu e s d a y, a s p a r l i a m e n t heard a motion to impeach him. Sources have told Reuters Mugabe was defiant when he met army top brass on Nov. 16 - which was the start of an extraordinary five-day standoff between Mugabe and Zimbabwe’s supreme law on one side, and the military
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Father Fidelis Mukonori who had seized power, his party and Zimbabwe’s people on the other. The 93-year-old president finally accepted defeat only after he was sacked by his ZANU-PF party and faced the ignominy of impeachment. Mugabe’s fall after 37 years in power was spurred by a battle to succeed him that pitted his former deputy Emmerson Mnangagwa, who had stood by him for 52 years, and Mugabe’s wife Grace, who is 52. Mnangagwa was sworn in as president on Friday and all eyes now are on whether he will name a broad-based government or select figures from Mugabe’s era. Mukonori said Mugabe had wanted a gradual and smooth transition of power to Mnangagwa, whom he had fired as vice president two weeks ago, but this was thwarted after Mnangagwa failed to immediately return from exile in South Africa. The Standard newspaper, which has been critical of Mugabe and his government over the years, urged Mnangagwa to “walk the talk on graft”. At his swearing in ceremony, Mnangagwa said he valued democracy, tolerance and the rule of law and would tackle corruption. He has also urged citizens not to undertake “vengeful retribution”. The new government is already moving to bring some of Mugabe and his wife’s close associates to court.
Monday November 27, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Egypt attack to spur on Saudi-backed Indian police ask interfaith Muslim military alliance - Crown Prince
couples: Is it love or terror?
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (C) poses for a photograph with chiefs of staff of a Saudi-led Islamic military counter terrorism coalition during their meeting in Riyadh yesterday. REUTERS/Faisal Al Nasser RIYADH (Reuters) Saudi Arabia’s powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said yesterday an attack on an Egyptian mosque that killed more than 300 worshippers would galvanise an Islamic military coalition that aimed to counter “terrorism and extremism”. Top defence officials from 40 Muslim-majority nation’s met in Riyadh yesterday. They are part of an alliance gathered together two years ago by Prince Mohammed, who is also Saudi defence minister. The crown prince has said he would encourage a more moderate and tolerant version of Islam in the ultraconservative kingdom. Prince Mohamed told delegates that Friday’s attack in Egypt “was a very painful occurrence and must make us contemplate in an
international and powerful way the role of this terrorism and extremism”. Gunmen carrying the flag of Islamic State attacked the mosque in North Sinai. The group of Muslim nations, called the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition, has yet to take any decisive action. Officials say the group would allow members to request or offer assistance to each other to fight militants. This could include military help, financial aid, equipment or security expertise. The group, which will have a permanent base in Riyadh, would also help combat terrorist financing and ideology. “The biggest threat from terrorism and extremism is not only killing innocent people and spreading hate, but tarnishing the reputation of
our religion and distorting our belief,” Prince Mohammed told officials from the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Iraq and Syria, at the forefront of the battle against Islamic State, are not members, nor is mainly Shi‘ite Muslim Iran, the regional rival to mostly Sunni Saudi Arabia. Qatar, originally part of the alliance, was not invited to yesterday’s meeting after Riyadh led a group of states seeking to isolate Doha, saying it supported terrorism. Doha denies this. Abdulelah al-Saleh, a Saudi lieutenant general and the coalition’s secretary general, said Qatar was excluded to help build a consensus for launching operations. He also said the group was not aimed at creating a Sunni bloc to counter Iran.
NEW DELHI/ KOCHI, India (Reuters) India’s Supreme Court will begin hearing a case today that prosecutors say shows how Islamic State sympathisers are using “Love Jihad” – marrying Hindu women and converting them to Islam – to win recruits and spread their message. Over the past 28 months, the National Investigation Agency has picked up dozens of interfaith couples in the southern state of Kerala to question them about their marriages. The women - all Hindus who married Muslim men – were asked “extremely personal” questions during the interrogations, two police officers from the agency said: “Did you sleep with your husband before getting married? Did he suggest you visit Islamic shrines before marriage? Did he blackmail you before you converted to Islam?” They were looking for cases of “Love Jihad”, a term publicized by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and other hardline Hindu groups soon after they helped propel Prime Minister Narendra Modi to power in
2014. It refers to what these groups say is an Islamist campaign to convert Hindu women through seduction and marriage. Police investigations at the time found no evidence of any organised strategy, and the claim was widely ridiculed. But since then, the NIA began focusing on Kerala - a southern state along the Arabian Sea with strong economic links to the Middle East. It investigated 89 cases of “Love Jihad” and found nine to be alliances planned by people linked to the Islamic State, two NIA sources said, requesting anonymity because the investigation is ongoing. The NIA plans to present evidence in all nine cases to the Supreme Court. The agency declined to disclose the evidence they have. But in two of the cases the agency was examining money sent from an Islamic school in Iraq to the women’s bank accounts, and in another case a woman and her husband had shared IS videos among people in their Kerala village, the sources said.
Akhila, 24, who converted to Islam in 2016 and took a new name, Hadiya, arrives at the airport in Kochi, India. REUTERS/Sivaram V
Pakistani Islamists clash with police, paralyse cities
Police retrieve their motorcycles which were burned during clashes with protesters near the Faizabad junction in Islamabad yesterday. REUTERS/Caren Firouz FAIZABAD, Pakistan (Reuters) - A hard-line Islamist party’s activists
clashed with security forces in Pakistan’s capital and other cities yesterday, officials said,
paralysing Islamabad a day after a failed clearing operation killed several
people and wounded some 150. The religious activists, who accuse a government minister of blasphemy for a change in the wording of an electoral oath, burnt several vehicles outside the capital before withdrawing in an uneasy stand-off at a protest camp they have occupied for two weeks, police said. Despite orders from the civilian government to the army on Saturday night to help restore order, no military troops were at the scene around the protest camp in Faizabad, on the outskirts of the capital, witnesses said. The military’s press department did not respond to queries about the government’s order. Yesterday’s evening, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqabal said the paramilitary
Rangers force would be authorized to handle the demonstrations. At least seven people, including a policeman, were killed on the previous day, when several thousand security forces tried to disperse the protesters, according to local media reports and a provincial official At least 187 people were wounded in Saturday’s clashes, said the provincial official who asked not to be named. Police superintendent Amir Niazi said at least 80 members of the security forces were among those wounded. Throughout yesterday, baton-armed supporters of the Tehreek-e-Labaik party blocked several main highways, roads and arteries in major Pakistani cities, paralysing traffic and daily
life. In the eastern city of Lahore thousands of the Islamists camped outside the provincial parliament and attacked the house of a minister, prompting police to fire teargas shells, a Reuters reporter witnessed. Just outside Lahore in Faisalabad city, their supporters attacked and tried to torch the house of another minister, police official Niaz Mirza said. Smoke billowed from the charred remains of a car and three motorcycles burnt yesterday morning near the protest camp. On Saturday, protesters also torched seven prison trucks, three police vans, a television van and a gas station - all of which were seen still smouldering the next day.
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Monday November 27, 2017
Thousands of Romanians rally against ruling party’s judicial overhaul BUCHAREST (Reuters) - Tens of thousands of Romanians rallied in the capital Bucharest and dozens of other cities yesterday, protesting against a widely criticised plan by the ruling Social Democrats to overhaul the judiciary. The PSD-led coalition, which holds a robust majority in parliament, is drafting an overhaul that the European Commission, foreign diplomats and thousands of magistrates have criticised as placing the justice system under political control, potentially weakening an anti-corruption drive. A special parliamentary commission started debating the bill last week, with the ruling party aiming to have it approved by the end of the year. The commission is headed by Florin Iordache, who resigned as justice minister in February after a decree on corruption that he drafted triggered the biggest street protests since the 1989 anti-communist Romanian revolution. That decree, which was eventually rescinded, would have effectively shielded dozens of public officials from prosecution for corruption. “Thieves, Thieves,” shouted thousands of protesters in front of the government’s headquarters yesterday. “We want justice, not corruption. PSD is the red plague.” An estimated 30,000 people marched to parliament in Bucharest, while roughly 20,000 held rallies in about 70 cities.
Monday November 27, 2017
Kaieteur News
Dominica PM thankful for aid from Trinidad PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CMC – Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit Saturday night thanked Trinidad and Tobago for the aid sent to his hurricane battered island “saying nothing impacted me more than the image of that long snake of loaded containers making its way to the Port of Spain docks for shipment to Roseau, Dominica”. Dominica was hit by Hurricane Maria on September 18, killing at least 28 people and leaving billions of dollars in damages. Skerrit, who attended a special “Thanksgiving Mass” at the St. Theresa’s RC Church at Bartaria along the east-west corridor here, said the response from Caribbean countries and the global community to the hurricane had been tremendous. “The spirit I saw displayed by Trinidadians and other Caribbean nationals in the aftermath of these hurricanes told me the bond that exists between us is much more than geographical…Let’s not be in doubt, my dear brothers and sisters, the Caribbean is one.”. He said he was thankful to the people of Trinidad and Tobago for their efforts, for housing Dominican students studying here and realising that there is no quick fix to the situation in his Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country that was hit by the Category 5 storm. “To date, nothing impacted me more than image of that long snake of loaded containers making its way to the Port of Spain docks for shipment to Roseau, Dominica,” Skerrit said, noting that nothing compared to the spirit of Trinidadians in times of need as it lifted the spirit and souls of his people.
Skerrit told the congregation that climate change was real and the Caribbean was on the frontline of the threat, insisting that the region’s response must be united and strong. He told reporters afterwards that the need for shelter remains a major concern for his administration given that 98 per cent of the housing stock on the island had either been destroyed or partially destroyed. But he said he remained confident that Dominica would survive with its roads being cleared, farmers planting crops and businesses were beginning to open. “We are resilient people. We are not sitting on our hands and worrying about the future. We are working to make the future brighter for ourselves so we are pressing on.” On Saturday, Greg Rawlins, the representative for the Inter American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) said that his organisation was committed to supporting the rehabilitation of the agricultural sector in Dominica as he presented seeds for short-term crops to Skerrit at The Green Market in Santa Cruz. Skerrit said that every single seed would be planted on fertile soil as he recognised the importance of agriculture to his country. Rawlins said that the seeds were donated by local farmers under the initiative “Get Dominica Growing Again. “We want to help the farmers get back into production to earn an income and start back building their communities,” he said, noting that the seeds included tomatoes, cabbage, beans, pumpkins, bell peppers, beetroot and carrots.
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Australia on brink of victory after England crumble BRISBANE (Reuters) - A pulsating Ashes opener that had promised a grandstand finish will more than likely end early with a handsome win to Australia after Steve Smith’s side pushed within 56 runs of victory at the close of day four yesterday. The teams will return to the Gabba today to go through the motions, with Australia openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft looking to mop up the winning runs after protecting their wickets with aplomb after tea. Australia were 114 without loss at stumps, with Bancroft (51) celebrating his maiden halfcentury in his test debut after vice-captain Warner (60) raised his 25th as shadows crept across the ground. “Obviously a great day for our team, to finish the way we did with the bat, none down with 56 runs to get,” Australia paceman Mitchell Starc told reporters. “Heading over to (the second test in) Adelaide, England will have to chase us. “I’d rather be in our changeroom than theirs.” The denouement happens on Sunday but the game broke open after lunch, however, when England’s middle order suffered a ruinous collapse for the second time in the match. The loss of captain Joe Root for 51 before the first break was a blow but there was still hope as Moeen Ali and Jonny Bairstow drove
England to 155 for five. From there it went sour as the tourists fell for 195, the capitulation triggered by a third umpire decision that may be debated for years to come. Having breezed to 40, Moeen was beaten by spinner Nathan Lyon and wicketkeeper Tim Paine whipped the bails off in a flash. The all-rounder’s foot was planted squarely on the line and long, tortuous deliberations followed as New Zealander Chris Gaffaney pondered various angles. None of the footage showed Moeen’s foot safely behind the line, so Gaffaney sent him packing. It was Lyon’s third wicket of a fine test for the offspinner and England’s breaking point after three days of mostly valiant cricket. They lost 4-40 and their last three wickets for 10 runs as Starc awoke to trample on their wafer-thin hopes. All-rounder Chris Woakes added 30 runs with Bairstow but his uneasy 57-ball knock ended on 17 when caught in the slips by Smith after being worked over by a short ball from Starc. Left to carry the tail, Bairstow instead threw away his wicket for 42 with a ramp shot over the slips that went straight to third man. Stuart Broad was Starc’s third victim four balls later when he feathered a nick and Pat Cummins wrapped up England’s innings with another bouncer that harried Jake Ball sent to fly slip.
Mitchell Starc took three wickets to send England hurtling towards the end of their innings ©Getty Images Smith’s epic, unbeaten 141 on day three will take on an even greater significance, given the scant contributions of England’s batsmen in their second innings. Root made the only half-century for his team, but it will be a footnote in the match and he concedes an emphatic first-up defeat in his ongoing duel with Smith.
“Obviously very disappointed,” said Moeen. “I thought the first three days we played well and we were in the game and then today we let ourselves down with the bat. Scores: Australia 328 (Smith 141*, Marsh 51) and 0 for 114 (Warner 60*, Bancroft 51*) trail England 302 and 195 (Root 51, Bairstow 42) by 56 runs.
Record-breaking City march on, Everton’s woes continue LONDON (Reuters) Manchester City restored an eight-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 come-from-behind win at Huddersfield Town, while Everton’s season went from bad to worse following a toothless 4-1 defeat at Southampton yesterday. Huddersfield appeared on course to earne an impressive point against City but Raheem Sterling bundled home a fortunate 84th-minute winner for the visitors after Sergio Aguero had earlier converted a penalty to cancel out Nicolas Otamendi’s own goal. With a 12th victory in 13 games, Pep Guardiola’s City have made the best ever start to a Premier League season and lead second-placed rivals Manchester United by eight points. Southampton’s Charlie Austin scored twice as they coasted to victory over managerless Everton, while Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez scored a 92nd-minute winner as they climbed into the top four with a 1-0 victory at stubborn Burnley. City did not sweep aside Huddersfield as many expected, but the manner of their post-match celebrations illustrated how important victory was on a winter’s evening in Yorkshire. They may have had many more eye-catching performances this season, but Sunday’s victory was typical of title-winning sides.
Raheem Sterling scored his eighth league goal of the season, and his 12th in all competitions. (Reuters) A rapidly-maturing Sterling, who has scored 12 times in 18 games this season in all competitions, won the penalty that led to Aguero’s equaliser and was in the right place at the right time late on to score after Gabriel Jesus was denied. “Today was a game that epitomised the Premier League - winter is here, it’s colder, it’s harder to move the ball, they defended well,” said City captain Vincent Kompany after his side reached 37 points from a possible 39. “I feel the team deserved the win, we kept at it, even being 1-0 down we believed.” United are second on 29 points after a 1-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday followed by Chelsea
(26), who drew 1-1 at Liverpool (23), Arsenal (25) and Tottenham Hotspur (24). EVERTON WOES Everton have scored just 13 league goals since the departure of striker Romelu Lukaku to Manchester United in the close season, while the 28 they have conceded is the most of any side in the top flight this term. On the south coast, Dusan Tadic gave Southampton a deserved lead with a neat finish in the 18th minute before Everton equalised when Gylfi Sigurdsson’s long-range effort went in despite hitting the crossbar twice and the post once. Austin restored the home side’s lead with a close-range header in the 52nd minute
before adding a near carboncopy second to double the advantage six minutes later. Steven Davies added a fourth with a superb effort late on as Everton’s despondent players capitulated after the break. The Toffees, who sit two points above the relegation zone with 12 points, have now won only once under caretaker manager David Unsworth. “I take responsibility, but we all have to as well,” said former Everton defender Unsworth. “We’re in a tough place and things have to change quickly. “Confidence is as low as it has ever been. The club has to decide (on a new manager) and the sooner that happens the better. The players need
this resolving. “What I see is a happy squad but I’d rather have an unhappy squad that’s winning. I want what’s best for the club and I hope the players do too.” NERVELESS PENALTY After top-four contenders Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool failed to win on Saturday, Arsenal capitalised but were indebted to Sanchez’s nerveless late penalty against Burnley. Arsenal have now won three successive games against the Lancashire club with goals on or after the 90th minute. “In the first half we didn’t
find our game, they stopped us from playing very well,” said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. In the second half it was a question of the final ball and patience, not making a mistake at the back,” Asked about the late penalty decision, the Frenchman said: “From outside it looked 100 percent (a penalty). And regarding the battle for Champions League qualifying places, he added: “It’s early, (the top four) changes from one week to another. We wanted to win away from home and we did it. Let’s focus on the next one.”
IAAF continues its ban on Russian athletics MONACO (Reuters) - Russia still has not met key requirements for the reinstatement of its athletics federation and an International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) ban instituted in 2015 will remain in effect, the global governing body said yesterday. The IAAF’s council unanimously approved the continuation of the suspension, following a recommendation by its Russia doping taskforce. The decision comes despite denials by Russian political and sports leaders of doping problems in the country. No timetable was given for reinstatement. The decision means Russian athletes will not be allowed to compete under their country’s flag at March’s world indoor championships in Birmingham, England, unless the IAAF’s “roadmap” to reinstatement is met. Athletes whose drug-testing history has been reviewed, however, will be allowed to participate as neutral athletes as they did at August’s world championships in London. Russian leaders’ refusal to admit that a state-sponsored doping program existed has been a key sticking point in lifting the ban, which was instituted in November 2015 after the McLaren report discovered widespread doping in Russia.
Monday November 27, 2017
Seam attack key to series result, says Estwick LINCOLN, New Zealand, CMC – Assistant coach Roddy Estwick believes West Indies fast bowlers will have a critical role to play if the Caribbean side are to make an impact in the two-Test series against the Black Caps starting next month. Coming off the recent Zimbabwe tour where spinners were vital because of the slow, turning tracks, Estwick said the conditions in New Zealand provided the opportunity for the Windies attack to show their quality. “Obviously the spinners played a bigger role in Zimbabwe because the pitches were low and slow and the ball spun quite a bit,” Estwick said following yesterday’s second day of the three-day tour match against New Zealand A. “Here in New Zealand the ball bounces a lot more and carries through a lot more to the keeper, so you expect your fast bowlers to really do the bulk of the bowling. “It was a good that the fast bowlers got a run out [on Sunday]. You’re trying to cover all your bases depending on which pitch turns up in the first Test match.” Frontline pacers Shannon
Gabriel, Kemar Roach and captain Jason Holder all turned in solid shifts, while Miguel Cummins and the uncapped Raymon Reifer also impressed, as the hosts were dismissed for 231 in their first innings at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval. West Indies had declared at their overnight 451 for nine. Estwick said it was important for the pace attack to use the outing to familiarise themselves with conditions, ahead of the Test series. “They’re trying to get accustomed to the conditions, the different lines and different lengths you have to bowl,” he explained. “The pitches are completely different to what we encountered in Zimbabwe so all in all it was a very good day.” West Indies arrived here last week on a quest to win their first series on New Zealand soil in 22 years. They beat minnows Zimbabwe, 10, in a two-Test series in Bulawayo last month, to win their third Test in eight outings this year. Estwick said the Windies’ performances had been improving steadily, and this had been in part owed to the outstanding work from the seamers.
Assistant coach Roddy Estwick … says seamers will be critical to West Indies’ performance. “The fast bowlers have gone well for the last year. During that time you would realise we’ve won a Test match in every series so the fast bowlers have been doing a decent job,” he contended. “What we have to try and do now is look to do even better in this series, so the fast bowlers are going to be very, very important. The thing about it is to get some miles in their legs, make sure they’re up and ready to go at New Zealand from ball one.” The first Test gets underway at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on December 1.
Sammy fireworks help Riders regain winning touch
C H I T TA G O N G, Bangladesh, CMC – Inspir a t i o n a l captain Darren Sammy narrowly missed out on one of the fastest-ever Twenty20 halfcenturies as he helped Rajshahi Kings break a two-match losing skid with a convincing 30-run victory over Comilla Victorians here Saturday. Opting for first knock at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Kings piled up an impressive 185 for seven off their 20 overs, with Man-of-the-Match Sammy smashing an unbeaten 47 from just 14 deliveries. England’s Luke Wright got 42 while opener Mominul Haque chipped in with 23. Sammy arrived at the crease at 125 for five in the 17th over and proceeded to belt a four and halfdozen sixes in a destructive innings, adding a astonishing 44 runs off 11 deliveries for the eighth wicket with Mohammad Sami (5 not out). Significantly, the former
West Indies captain also plundered 32 from the final over of the innings bowled by young left-arm seamer Mohammad Saifuddin – the most expensive over ever in the Bangladesh Premier League. Starting the over on 17, Sammy picked up a boundary to square leg off the first delivery before depositing the second ball over the ropes at long on. He sprinted two to deep mid-wicket off the third and then carted sixes over longoff, cover and straight overhead – off the last three legitimate deliveries of the over. Saifuddin, who had previously proven miserly in a three-over spell, ended with three for 50. In reply, captain Tamim Iqbal stroked 63 off 45 balls at the top of the order while Shoaib Malik chipped in with 45 from 26, but Victorians were dismissed for 155 in the final over. Fast bowler Mohammed Sami was brilliant with four for nine from four overs while former Barbados and West
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Indies all-rounder, Dwayne Smith, picked up two for 27 with his medium pace. In the feature match of the doubleheader, West Indies superstar opener Chris Gayle struck 33 as Rangpur Riders’ revival continued with a threewicket win over Chittagong Vikings in a dramatic finish. Set a challenging 177, Riders reached their target off the final ball of the innings when Thisara Perera clobbered fast bowler Taskin Ahmed for a six over midwicket, with three runs required. Perera finished on 28 not out while Mohammed Mithum top-scored with 44 and captain Mashrafe Mortaza, 42. Gayle faced 25 balls and counted a four and three sixes, putting on a valuable 60 for the second wicket with Mashrafe after New Zealander Brendon McCullum perished cheaply for 15 in the sixth over. Vikings had earlier tallied 176 for seven off their 20 overs with South African Stiaan van Zyl top-scoring with 68 off 40 deliveries.
57th National School C/ships LAUNCHED The 57th year of the Guyana’s schools cycling, swimming and track & field championships which is jointly organized by the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Teachers’ Union was official launched yesterday inclusive of the ceremonial march past of the 15 participating districts at the Leonora Track and Field facility on the West Coast of Demerara. The venue is hosting the games for the first time and defending champions District 11 (Upper Demerara/Kwakwani) are tipped to hold onto their crown after retaining most of their champion athletes, with South American champion Compton Caesar being one of the few omissions. Present at the opening ceremony were representatives from the government and the Guyana Teachers’ Union, in addition to the officials and athletes that both participated in the march past event. Dr. George Norton, Minister of Social Cohesion, with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport,
Margaret Augusto and Rickie Williams capture first Gold Medals during his address noted that, “School sports are a big deal and we all must recognize the significance that early competitions play in the lives of potentially great athletes. I encourage everyone, the coaches, parents and teachers to do whatever you can to help us foster our athletes’ talents.” Meanwhile, Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry, explained that as we come together to witness this championship let, “Sportsmanship be paramount”, while reiterating the commitment of her ministry for Physical Education (P.E.) in all schools, “P.E. helps make it possible to produce disciplined, committed and focused students and athletes, who will become our next generation of leaders and nation builders.” As the stakeholders were making their feature addresses, Rickie Williams of
Chase’s Academic Foundation won the first Gold medal of the competition from District 11 (North Georgetown Zone) after finishing well ahead of the pack in the 10km road race event. Williams noted after the race that his approach was to pace himself during the first half of the 10k then run it the last half hard which worked to his success. District 9’s Margaret Augusto won the female division of the 10k. The 16year-old lass of the deep South Rupununi’s Achuwib Secondary School related that this is the first time she has been participating in the national event and she didn’t expect the race to be so hard but she held her own and ran through. The track and field events will continue on a daily basis for the remainder of the week at the Leonora venue with action running off from 09:00hrs. (Calvin Chapman)
Windies bowlers shine as NZ A struggle
Seamer Kemar Roach … turned in an impressive shift with the new ball. LINCOLN, New Zealand, CMC – West Indies were in an excellent position to push for a win on today’s final day after their bowlers earned them a healthy first innings lead on the second day of their three-day match against New Zealand A. Off-spinner Roston Chase (2-7) and leftarm seamer Raymon Reifer (2-27) both finished with two wickets apiece, while the pace attack put in a solid shift, as New Zealand A were turned over for 237 in their first innings. Todd Astle, batting at number eight, stroked an aggressive top score of 68 while Tim Bruce gathered 46, Beil Broom, 27, and captain Tom Latham, 24.
In their second turn at the crease, West Indies were 53 for two – an overall lead of 267 runs – with opener Kraigg Brathwaite unbeaten on 33. Following the visitors’ declaration at their overnight 451 for nine, Test batsman Jeet Raval perished cheaply in the fourth over of the morning – edging seamer Kemar Roach to captain Jason Holder at third slip for one to leave the hosts on seven for one Captain Tom Latham also failed to secure time at the crease ahead of the opening Test, falling for 24 off 55 deliveries after pulling seamer Holder to Shimron Hetmyer at square leg. Veteran first class batsman Neil Broom chipped in with 27 off 46 balls in a 34-run, fourth wicket stand with Bruce but was one of three quick wickets to fall for 25 runs as the hosts slipped to 114 for six. Astle and Bruce came to their side’s rescue, however, putting on 64 for the seventh wicket to prop up the innings. The right-handed Astle stroked 10 fours and a six in an 81-ball knock while Bruce faced 71 balls and counted seven fours. When Bruce fell to speedster Shannon Gabriel, Astle added a further 46 for the eighth wicket with Logan van Beek (21) before Chase wiped out the tail quickly. Scores: WEST INDIES 451 for nine (Sunil Ambris 153, Shai Hope 110, Roston Chase 49, Shane Dowrich 35, Jason Holder 31; Lockie Ferguson 5-67, Logan van Beek 2-60) and 53 for two (Kraigg Brathwaite 33 not out). NEW ZEALAND A 237 (Todd Astle 68, Tom Bruce 46, Neil Broom 27, Tom Latham 24; Roston Chase 2-7, Raymon Reifer 2-27).
Monday November 27, 2017
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Turbo KO Football
Police and Camptown to face-off in Final By Sean Devers Under a clear night and floodlights, the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue was transformed in a hive of activity on Friday evening when a large crowd saw City side Camptown FC and Police FC win their semi-final games in the inaugural Turbo Knockout Football tournament to march into the finals. Camptown, led by a goal from their Keeper Richie Richards from the penalty spot, beat Poudroyen 1-nil in the first semi-final, while in the feature game Police, urged on by very vocal contingent of supports defeated Grove Hi Tech FC 3-1 as Quacy Holder netted a brace and Rawle Haynes scored the other goal. The lads from East Bank pushed their more decorated opponents in the opening stages of the contests and had plenty of ball possession but it was Police who fired a warning shot in the 15th minute when Travis Jones beat the Grove Hi Tech’s defence but his shot was well saved by Custodian Seon Simpson. Police would open the scoring in 38th minute when Quacy Holder collected a corner and found the back of the nets to the delight of the fans in the ground and those
Mervin Squires goes around the ‘Wall’ to score Grove High Tech’s consolation goal at MOE ground on Friday night. (Sean Devers photo) watching from the Seawall. Grove Hi Tech frequently got into Police’s half but most of the game was played in the middle with passes being regularly intercepted by opposition players as Police Goalie Dares Frank looked very organised between the uprights. Holder doubled the Cop’s lead a minute before the end of the first stanza after collecting a cross from the right and drilled the ball against a strong Atlantic breeze past Simpson to leave
the score 2-nil for Police at half-time. The second half saw the Lawmen picking up the pace and their raucous fans becoming more and more animated as the beers flowed on the side lines and when the fitter Policemen began to outsprint their Grove Hi Tech counterparts their good natured taunting of the opposition fans and the linesman reached a crescendo. It was soon Hi Tech fans turn to celebrate when Mervin
New Era Entertainment Mohammed’s tournament kicks off
Action in the match between Nut man All Star and Trendsetters at the MSC. Last Friday night at the MSC hard court the round robin stage of the New Era Entertainment Mohammed’s tournament got underway with five games. West side ballers defeated Hardball 4-2, Customs defeated Russians 2-1, Trendsetters & Nut man All Stars drew 2-2, High Rollers defeated Red line 2-1 and NK’s ballers defeated
East side Jammers 8-3 in the action held. Futsal action is set to continue on December 1st and 2nd at the MSC hard court from 6:30pm with six matches each night. The winner of the tournament collects $500,000, second place $150,000, third $50,000 and fourth place a trophy. The finals would be staged on December 26th, Boxing night.
Squires beat the wall and an otherwise efficient Frank to make it 2-1 in the 48th minute but that was the last success for the East Bank team as Strikers Holder, Haynes and Jones made constant raids on Hi-Tech’s goal. Simpson, who did a
decent job in Goal, was beaten for the last time in a fairly competitive game with Grove Hi Tech in an all-out attack, desperate for the equaliser and Haynes found the back off the net to give Police their third goal of the night in 73rd minute.
Police then beefed up their defensive end to protect their lead and when the final whistle was blown their fans celebrated as if their team had won a World Cup. In the first semi-final, Camptown FC spearheaded by 44th minute goal from the penalty spot by their Goalkeeper Richie Richards, beat West Demerara’s Poudroyen FC 1-nil in an encounter which lacked intensity. Poudroyen got the first shot on Goal in the first five minutes but failed to finish as Richards made an easy save. Camptown enjoyed more possession but their forwards lacked the killer instinct and at half-time the score read Camptown 1, Poudroyen nil. And so it remained for the rest of a contest which poor passing from both sides with the highlight being when a toddler racing onto in the middle of the action and luckily was unhurt as he weaved his way between the players before he was picked up by a player and handed his to a female relative.
Kendall’s Union Sports Club in blood drive The Kendall’s Union Sports Club has vowed to move away from being the traditional sports club and delved into community and other activities. The Club which has developed over the years from just a cricket club to a sports club is situated at No19 Village East Coast, Berbice. Over the years it has been involved in a number of community activities including programmes for school children and the elderly. The club on the 18 November held it first blood drive in collaboration with the New Amsterdam Hospital (Blood Bank). The activity was held at the Club Pavillion and included members of the club and community. According to club president Albert Budhoo the activity was very successful and the club aims to do similar exercises in the future. The club would like to thank those who came on board and donated blood. He will also like to thank the Health Officials who teamed up with them to make the activity possible and the success it was. (Samuel Whyte)
Club Secretary Janette Baker (left) and President Albert Budhoo giving blood during the exercise.
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Kaieteur News
East Berbice Corentyne gets $11.5M for ground rehabilitation works
Minister Dr. George Norton (right) hands over the $11.5M warrant to the Deputy Regional Executive Officer of Region Six, Mr. Claude Henry. The Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth, and Sport, Dr. George Norton, recently returned to Berbice where he handed over a total of $11.5M to the Region for the Rehabilitation and enhancement of a number of grounds in the area. The presentation was made during the Ministry’s sensitization session, which was held at the Rose Hall Town Primary School, Corentyne, Berbice (Region Six). The activity was for stakeholders of the Regional Democratic Council, Mayor and town Council and Civil Society in the region. Deputy Regional Executive Officer Claude Henry collected the cheque on behalf of the Region. The grounds earmarked for rehabilitation are the Youth Friendly Space in New Amsterdam, Sisters Village Ground, East Bank Berbice, Glasgow Basketball Court,
East Bank Berbice and the No. 76 Village Sports Ground, Corentyne, Berbice. Minister Norton urged the beneficiaries to ensure that after the upgrades are completed at each of the venues, they are to make sure that the facilities are properly maintained and used for their intended purpose. He added that no one, especially the youths, should be denied access to the venues which will aid in the further development of athletic capabilities and skills in the region. As outlined by the Ministry, the Youth Friendly Space New Amsterdam Ground will undergo works of land-filling, fencing, and the addition of a basketball court at the sum of $4M. The Sisters Village ground will see repairs being undertaken on the fence, the construction of a gate and two wooden pavilions to the sum of $4M. The Glasgow basketball court
will be upgraded to a multipurpose facility to the tune of for $1.5M. The sum of $2M has being put aside to be used on the No 76 Village sports ground which will see infilling and landscaping being done. Also during the interaction, Minister Norton used the opportunity to present South American Youth Games Silver Medalist, Jermaine King, with a silver National Sports Commission medallion. King, who hails from Berbice, also received a basketball and football from the Minister. The lad competed at the South American Youth Games held recently in Chile in which he won a silver medal in the 100M. The Minister also handed over sports gear to the Head Mistress of the Rose Hall Primary School to aid its Physical Education programme. (Samuel Whyte)
HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC – United Kingdombased wicketkeeper Okera Bascome has been cleared to play for Bermuda after being ruled out of a major tournament in the United States last year in a controversy over eligibility. The Bermuda Cricket Board (BCB) successfully lobbied the International Cricket Council (ICC) to
amend its player eligibility regulations to prevent it from disallowing Bermudians living overseas from representing the island. The issue arose last year when Bascome was denied the chance to play for Bermuda at the ICC World Cricket League Division Four tournament in Los Angeles, because of additional development criteria imposed
on certain events even after an extensive appeal process. BCB chief executive Neil Speight said then that Bascome had not spent enough time on the island over the past few years to be eligible to represent Bermuda. Bascome did not qualify under strict ICC regulations, even though he was born on the island to Bermudian parents. He lives in England and only returns home during the summer when he plays for St George’s. Strict guidelines had been put in place to prevent countries from exploiting the rules in order to have players play for them, said Speight, who put forward a case to have Bascome made eligible.
WDFA/Derrick Josiah Memorial K.O
Den Amstel and Pouderoyen to contest final
Quessey Alleyne Pouderoyen FC
Jamal Pereira Den Amstel FC
Coby Kingston Den Amstel FC
Den Amstel and Pouderoyen will face off in the final of the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) organized Derrick Josiah Memorial knock-out competition following respective semi final wins over the weekend at the Den Amstel and Wales community Center grounds. Yesterday at the Wales ground, West Bank Demerara, Pouderoyen, led by a brace off the boot of Quessey Alleyne defeated Young Achievers 2-0. Alleyne was on target in the 1st and 85th minutes to lead Pouderoyen in to the final. The first semi final which
was played on Saturday afternoon at the Den Amstel ground produced a humdinger of a battle between old rivals Uitvlugt Warriors and the home team, the latter prevailing in the end on kicks from the penalty mark after regulation and extra time ended with the score locked at 1-1. Following a fierce and goalless first half, Uitvlugt it was that took the lead in the 63rd minute through a Casper Evans strike. Den Amstel never lost focus despite trailing and was rewarded with the neutralising goal ten (10) minutes to full time when
Jamal Pereira rocked the back of the nets. Neither team were able to score again so kicks from the penalty mark was required to decide the winner. The heroics of Den Amstel’s goalkeeper, Coby Kingston made the difference as Den Amstel prevailed 5-4. The winner of the competition in memory of the late Josiah, a former Assistant Commissioner of Police and West Demerara FA Executive, will pocket $200,000 with the losing finalist set to earn $100,000. The third place match has at stake $50,000 and $25,000 respectively.
GT BEER/BFA/Candy Boss Eight-aside Football in Berbice continues
Wicketkeeper Bascome cleared to play for Bermuda
W/B’ce suffer another last... From page 32 although he was dumped for sixes by Kevin Sinclair and Harris he had the last laugh when Harris (7) tried to turn one that spun and spooned a catch back to Johnson who held a brilliant one-handed return catch to send Sinclair (16) on his way at 69-8. Motie lofted Sankar for a couple of sixes before he was bowled by the leg-spinner before Wintz wrapped up the innings by bowling Duthin for nine.
BEACON SCORERS: Delon Cadogan, Christian Galloway, Kimba Braitwaite and Shevas Lyken. Action in the GT BEER/BFA/Candy Boss Berbice eight-a-side football competition continued last Sunday as Beacon FC disposed of Arsenal 4-1 in Sunday night’s game. Scoring for Beacon were Delon Cadogan, Christian Galloway, Kimba Braitwaite and Shevas Lyken, while Keen Williams netted the lone goal for Arsenal. The night also saw Georgetown Police chalking up their second win. Kester Douglas scored the game’s lone goal in
the in the 45th minute against Mahaicony FC 1-0. Young Strikers of Manchester inflicted a 3-0 drubbing of Edinburgh Gunners who had won their two previous matches. Striking for the Strikers were Ester Collins who scored in the 15 minute, Marcello Reis 29th minute and Sherwin Nicholas almost on the stoke of half time. Young Strikers are on three points from two games.