Kaieteur News

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AIETEUR NEWS

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

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Thursday Edition November 28, 2019 - Vol. 12 No. 48 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

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for 2020 elections

Online readership yesterday 123,295

GCCI and GMSA unaware of members unable to get same

tax breaks as foreign companies Boy, 7, dead, family hospitalised GNBA mulls regulatory after driver ploughs framework into pedestrians for internet broadcast Angry parent assaults primary school teacher

Dead: Nirfan Nezamdeen

Witnesses fearful of testifying against suspected gang members

RUSAL selling electricity to businesses at commercial rates

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Kaieteur News

Thursday November 28, 2019

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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The Petroleum Sector and Local Content...

GCCI and GMSA unaware of members unable to get same tax breaks as foreign companies - Promise to undertake review

By Kiana Wilburg

I

n the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed between Guyana and ExxonMobil, there is a provision which states that subcontractors and affiliate companies of the American oil giant would benefit from tax breaks on all imports for the oil sector.

But this very clause has stirred a debate in the local business community. At the heart of the discourse are claims that the condition only benefits foreign companies.

Making these utterances have been the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and of recent, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA).

But when asked about specific cases where locals have not been able to access the same concessions available to foreign companies, the private sector bodies could not say.

Specifically, GMSA President, Clinton Williams, said that he does not have all the information on members who would have been placed at a disadvantage.

He said, however, that the Association has already started the process of collecting information in this regard. “...It is a work in progress,” he added.

Williams acknowledged that GMSA has not had any discussion with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on how many locals have been facilitated with tax breaks ver s u s f o r e i g n companies.

This newspaper

confirmed with GRA that this type of data is closely monitored.

Furthermore, GMSA sent out a statement to the media on Tuesday where it stated that, “...Local manufacturers continue to face the hardship of being unable to enjoy the same benefits as foreigners entering into the country primarily to maximise the benefits associated with the new oil and gas industry.”

Even as it urged the government to undertake an evaluation of the concessions granted for the oil sector, it provided no clear-cut examples of “the hardship” being experienced or whether these companies would have requested GRA's assistance in accessing tax breaks but were turned down.

President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce Industry (GCCI), Nicholas Deygoo, admitted that while he is not au fait with the number of Chamber members who are unable to access tax waivers, he disclosed that a discussion on this and other related matters is expected to take place soon with GRA. Following that meeting, Deygoo, who has been a staunch advocate for a Local Content Policy and accompanying Legislation, committed to questioning his members on this issue.

As for the Private Sector Commission (PSC), its current Chair, Captain Gerry Gouveia, told Kaieteur News that he has not received any complaints on this matter from his members.

He noted that the

GCCI President, Nicholas Deygoo

GMSA President, Clinton Williams

PSC Head, Captain Gerry Gouveia

GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia

Commission's mantra has been, and will continue to be, the creation of a policy that puts Guyanese first.

He also took the opportunity to note the importance for local businesses to start the process of upgrading their skills and capacity to meet the demands of the oil sector.

I n S e p t e m b e r, t h i s newspaper would have

published an excerpt of an interview with GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia, who emphatically stated that he is a proponent for local companies being given a fair opportunity to compete alongside foreign enterprises in the oil sector.

He subsequently promised that locals will be given tax breaks that foreign

firms enjoy while noting that he will not sit and wait for a policy to make this happen.

The tax chief did express fear, however, that some companies may want to abuse the process to bring in

dual purpose products.

But the Commissioner General, in no uncertain terms, said he will guard against this with foolproof mechanisms that are at his disposal.

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Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL Guyana is thankful for much

I

t is the quintessential American holiday, but Guyana has been blessed with so much that it is timely and appropriate for this paper to extend greetings through saying: Happy Thanksgiving! Guyana.

There is no question that thanksgiving is appropriate from the citizens of this land overflowing with almost every natural gift imaginable.

As to whether it is a timely occasion or a happy state of affairs in this country may it be subject to inquiry and some dispute from a couple of quarters.

Regardless, it is all there, save for the usual squalling and ugly oozing, so audible and palpable before a disbelieving world.

The rest of the world has good grounds on which to disbelieve the divisive power priorities of groups and the self-serving visions of countless crass individuals.

Brethren in the region would be thankful for a fraction of what we have, covetous neighbours look on angrily (but happily), while we dig holes in the river, dig the spirit out of each other, and dig what they say belongs to them.

Without missing a beat, we still partner with others to continue digging at soil and soul, which brings a special joy, not just on a sacred Thursday in November (as in America), but throughout the year here in Guyana.

That’s the national joy and delight.

It is appropriate for us, Guyanese, to be thankful because of what we have, of what it can do for us, and where it can lead us.

No longer should we feel compelled to seek the welcome of lodging and acceptance among strangers in foreign lands.

No longer should we be willing to allow ourselves to be humiliated and converted into the human doormat of socalled friends, whether close by or far away; or those looking to exploit us, whether we go there, or they come here.

We have oil to be thankful for, notwithstanding draining contract and known overheads and still unknown exposures.

Now if only we could work out the intricacies of our knotted love-hate relationships, then there just be so much more for which to rise every day and be truly thankful.

Other places have droughts, while it seems that we have more water than we know what to do with it. Other places—bigger and more advanced than us by far—have smog that strangles the life out of them, while we still have that precious something called fresh, clean air.

There is no need to legislate that just yet, only to be thankful that we do exist in such a pristine state.

Oh, and there are those places right over there and the others way out there across the oceans that have disasters and devastations, while all we have is the manmade disaster of each other and the devastations we inflict on one another—scaremongering and inciting, race-baiting and race-hating, dividing and ruling, in the age-old practices of crafty men since time immemorial.

Those are our now public family secrets, our bared Achilles heels, our agonising crosses that we carry around all the time and even wear as badges of honour.

It is because of the latter components present in nation politics and community fellowship,—in ourselves, too—that is can be argued with some degree of authority, that now is not the most timely moment to be thankful or there is reason to find anything happiness-inducing from the gifts, which abound in this land.

For there can be no ignoring (despite the current quiet on all fronts) the ongoing, deep-seated venoms about lists and elections, and the significances of those.

Those are the buckets of dirty water that rain on Guyana’ s parade.

Come to think of it, that might not be water at all.

Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.

The legacy versus the betrayal of Walter Rodney DEAR EDITOR, I commend Dr. David Hinds for his excellent writing about The Walter Rodney Legacy. Dr. Hinds resurfaces memories, history, and salience of a great Guyanese hero whose life was snuffed away while still in his prime. (I prefer not to be polemical as to whether he was assassinated or killed or murdered; or whether it was misadventure as some like to obliquely and indecently imply.)

It is apropos to remind all of us — the old but especially the young — as Hinds points out, of this valiant fighter for bread and justice and democracy. This name of Walter Rodney must never be blotted out or erased, as is being attempted in some quarters. I make the bold presumption that a generation of young Guyanese do not know of Walter Rodney because there was/is a deliberate or benign obscurantism to cover up or blur, and revise a part of

Guyana’s history.

David Hinds was there and so was I; and my memories are still vivid. (I have a tidbit about Rodney, which I will share some other time – non-political – which makes it personal.)

The WPA of which David Hinds appears to be the most prominent and prolific spokesperson, has been dealt a deathblow after Rodney was killed ingloriously by “ s h a r p e r s t e e l ” . W PA personage of stature — Rupert Roopnarine, Joshua Ramsammy (deceased), Eusi Kwayana, Moses Bhagwan, Clive Thomas, Andaiye (deceased), Jocelyn Dow, Tacuma Ogunseye, Kenneth Persaud (deceased), Rohit Kanhai, Wazir Mohamed, Omawale, and others in the periphery, and thousands of the grassroots, (and Moses Nagamootoo who shared many podiums with Rodney) — must be recognized for their fearless role in the struggle for freedom and justice. A pervading fear

It is time for real nationalists to stand up to this ‘confounded nonsense’ DEAR EDITOR, I am in full agreement with E. Naughton’s demand that the Government of Guyana “bring Guyana Goldfields to book” (Letters, KN 27/11/19). However, it should not stop there. The government needs to rein in all foreign capital and companies that have been running riot for too long in this country. Those who refer to these corporate predators as ‘investors’, never ask the question - investing in whose interest? Truth be told, our Government’s ‘free for all attitude’ has turned the opportunity for foreign investment into an open invitation to plunder. Foreign capital tramples on the labour laws and sovereignty of this country, and successive governments, from the Hoyte administration through the Jagan and Jagdeo administrations, to the present Granger administration, have allowed them to get away with it.

The only time Guyana displayed the courage and patriotic fervour to stand up to foreign capital was during the years of the Burnham administration.

Only last week, at the

opening ceremony of the 2019 Guyana International Petroleum Exhibition ( G I P E X ) , S e n i o r Vi c e President, Upstream Oil and Gas Deep Water, Hunter Farris, publicly stated that the company remains steadfast in its commitment to begin developing a third oil field in the Stabroek Block. In his keynote address, he declared ”we remain committed to bringing ‘Prosperity’ online as early as 2023". He brazenly announced this time frame, despite the fact that the Government of Guyana has placed this Field Development Plan on hold on advice from the Department of Energy (DoE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

We are looking more and more like a ‘captured state’ every day. It is time for real nationalists to stand up to this ‘confounded nonsense’. We must end the tragic state of affairs that has our people wallowing in poverty while their national patrimony is looted.

Yours faithfully, Gerald A. Perreira Organization for the Victory of the People (OVP)

subsequently gripped the land – fear for the physical safety of self and family – fear that commanded silence and/or behavioral complicity; fear that infected the mindset of most or all of those in the hierarchy of the WPA. I myself experienced this visceral distress, and this became the push factor for me to leave my homeland.

David Hinds is an honourable man. He is never afraid of repartees. He claims to be a “Rodneyite” and I believe him; but this is where I respectfully depart.

What I find troubling is the obvious duplicitous stance that he and other WPA public figures have taken in recent years. Recently, Tacuma Ogunseye and Eusi Kwayana have written defensively in response to Gail Teixeira’s critical analysis of Hinds’ article.

Others have since written about Walter Rodney. I particularly like Peeping To m ’s c o n t r i b u t i o n .

However, Tacuma Ogunseye and Eusi Kwayana did not address the “betrayal”; they rambled about other disparate tangential matters, thus clouding and sidestepping the pertinent question of betrayal.

But the truth is an imperative, and must be addressed. As I said, I was there, and now I am upset and angry because of current

attempts to confabulate the issue as others have done before. Have these WPA figures undergone intellectual diapause or cerebral menopause? No, it is all well measured!

The professed leaders of the WPA (except perhaps Wazir Mohamed, Moses Bhagwan and Rohit Kanhai) have disgraced the stature of Walter Rodney. They went to bed with the PNC during the formation of APNU with poorly disguised rationale.

The marriage was not truly consummated. They “aided and abetted” (that the best way I can say it) the abortion of the Cheltenham Commission of Inquiry, consciously acceding to moral impotence. Many have found solace in the bosom of official positions for rewarding comforts. The big question is Why? Why the dishonourable s o m e r s a u l t a n d metamorphosis? Why negate history? Why the disavowal of your comrade? Martin Carter is so fitting: “The mouth is muzzled by the food it eats to live.” But it is more than that…. Is it also an atavistic regression of the “mattey” praxis? Is it also for security within the new ACDA? Note that David Hinds coincidentally espoused Pan-Africanism.

To me those (including (Continued on page 5)

What is progress?

DEAR EDITOR, The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines progress as a forward or onward movement (as to an objective or to a goal): Advance or: gradual betterment, especially: the progressive development of humankind.

Factories have been instrumental in modernization and delivering technological advance to all societies. Whether Capitalism, Socialism, Communism, dictatorship or democracy, the factories have delivered all our appliances, vehicles, electronics, medical equipment and many other advances that define modernity and have improved the quality of life of billions. Nothing is perfect therefore everything has benefits and drawbacks. Has the cost of modernity been too high for mankind’s long term survival?

One of the major contributors to global warming is factories. They release greenhouse gases and other pollutants.

Global warming and other environmental degradation present an existential threat to human survival. I am not saying to stop using factories to produce, but we need to use technology to mitigate the environmental damage. This can be done, but profit will be lowered so it will not be done.

The other aspect of worshipping big business is the huge tax break big companies (factories) get when they come to developing countries like Guyana. They will eventually leave after they have exhausted our resources. Will helping local entrepreneurs be a better model? That’s what South Korea, Japan and China did.

Let’s engage in discussion on what progress is for Guyana.

What is Guyana’s goal or final destination?

Yours truly Brian E Plummer

Thursday November 28, 2019

Minister’s decision was guided by Section 105 of the Income Tax Act Chapter 81:01 DEAR EDITOR, Permit me to respond to Mr. Christopher Ram’s letter in the Stabroek News of November 25th, 2019, by immediately referring to the relevant law.

The Honourable Minister of Finance acted on the advice of the Commissioner General and pursuant to Section 105 of the Income Tax Act Chapter 81:01. Section 105 of the Income Tax Act provides as follows: “The Minister may make regulations, subject to negative resolution of the National Assembly, to provide for the remitting wholly or in part of the tax payable by any person or category of persons on such income, in respect of any year of assessment, and in accordance with such conditions as may be specified in the regulations.This section was amended by Act No. 13 of 2008 with a marginal note of “Power to remit taxes”.

It should be noted that Marginal notes are short explanatory notes placed in the margin of the bill which may be seen as the title of the section to which they relate.

Prior to 2003, section 105 of the Act provided that “The President may remit, wholly or in part the tax payable by any person in respect of any year of assessment if he is satisfied that it will be just and equitable to do so.”

However, in 2003 section 105 of the Act, giving the President the power to remit tax was repealed in the Fiscal Enactment (Amendment) Act No.15 of 2003.

However, by Act 13 of 2008, section 105 was reinstated in its current form as stated above.

It is clear that the repeal in 2003 intended to remove the power to remit from the President. It is also apparent that, relying on the intent of the section prior to 2003, the new section 105 reinstated in 2008 was intended to do the same thing, that is, to allow for the remission of tax.

However, this power to remit was given by the legislature to the Minister instead of the President, under the expressed condition that such power to remit by regulation, is subject to the oversight of the National Assembly by negative resolution.

This was made clear by the Hansard of July 30, 2008 when the Bill was presented to the National Assembly by the then Honourable Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, MP. [Section 22(1) of the Interpretation and General Clauses Act Cap. 2:01 provides the expression “subject to negative resolution of the National Assembly” when used in relation to the making of subsidiary legislation shall mean that such subsidiary legislation shall be laid before the National Assembly with all convenient speed after the making thereof and if the National Assembly within such period as shall be prescribed by standing order of the Assembly resolve: (a) That the subsidiary legislation shall be annulled the subsidiary legislation

The legacy versus the ...

From page 4 Eusi whom I have great respect despite difference in ideological stance) who are now reacting to the public condemnation of their paralytic dithering are trying to justify, trying to save face, or trying to be relevant. Faustian bargaining to me. Hypocrisy to say the least. Betrayal in my opinion.

Those of us who pontificate and think of ourselves as pillars of virtue and mortality have an ethical duty to be responsible, and to demonstrate in deed and action what we profess. “It isn’t what we say or think that defines us, but what we do.” Thus, we should endeavour to do what is right, not what is easy, convenient and expedient, nor being disloyal and traitorous. Do I sound angry? You bet I am.

I end with Walter’s prescient words: “For a small nation, Guyana has produced a discouragingly large number of lackeys and stooges who hide in the shadow….”

Yours truly, Dr. G. Girdhari New York City

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shall be void as from the date of resolution; (b) That the subsidiary legislation shall have effect subject to the specified amendments, the subsidiary legislation shall have effect subject to such amendments.]

Section 105 did not at any time (in 2003 or 2008) refer to section 13 of the Income Tax Act, but conferred a discretion in the President, and then the Minister, to remit tax. This certainly appears to be an additional section allowing for the remission of tax.

This section it appears (and it is strongly argued) allows for a discretion to be entertained on a temporary basis for a specific time in contrast to section 13 which provides for permanent exemptions which may apply in every year of assessment, e.g., the emoluments of the Chancellor and Chief Justice (referred to by Ram), and “income earned by artistes during festivities which were certified by the Minister of Tourism and approved by the CommissionerGeneral.” (Also referred to by Ram).Further even in section 13 the Minister, the Minister of Tourism and the Commissioner- General, were conferred with discretion.

Hence, the conferring of a discretion on the subject of remissions by Minister is not unheard of under the Income Tax Act. Section 105 adds the same tier of oversight. Ram has completely ignored section 105, and may be essentially ignoring the amendment conveniently.

Godfrey Statia Commissioner General Guyana Revenue Authority

On matters of interest to Lindeners DEAR EDITOR, I use this opportunity to share my views on some matters of interest to Lindeners and Guyanese as a whole.

Quite recently, the Mayor and Town Council of Linden in collaboration with the Bauxite Company, BOSAI, and other interested groups and concerned citizens, refurbished and beautified the Memorial Monument, situated south of the Republic Avenue.

That in itself is clearly a demonstration that Lindeners are a people who do things with the little we have.

On behalf of the Linden Tourism Association and myself, we extend congratulations for a job well done.

The Linden Tourism Association is under serious and constant verbal attack by some citizens of Linden who are unaware of their non-involvement that causes Linden to regress, whereby outsiders have to come to Linden and criticize and perform functions that can be done by Lindeners.

Let’s look at our surroundings, how we dispose of our garbage, how our taxi and mini bus drivers speak, dress, and attack passengers on our streets.

As a proud Lindener, I know a change will come, one of our taxi drivers who is always well dressed and stands out among the rest is Mr. Dean Millington aka Lie Low. Congratulations, keep on doing what you are doing Mr. Lie Low. While Guyanese are talking oil, oil, oil, tourism is said to be the second largest rev-

enue earner presently, therefore, let’s educate ourselves and continue to produce foods, it’s the best way forward for the small man. The time has come to recognize ethnicity and political division is taking us nowhere.

Let’s remember, we cannot live separately, therefore, we are better together.

B. Winslow Parris

Have a heart, Guyana DEAR EDITOR, I have never heard of any other country that charges a fine for being illegal in their country and if they are, it is inhuman.

Guyana has been practicing this as though they don’t have a heart.

How can a person or persons that overstay their time in a country, be charged a fine and if not paid, be sent to prison for some time, before being deported?

This practice was last done on 11/21/2019 in the

Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

If it was like that all over the world, Guyanese and others would still be suffering in foreign jails today. Guyana’s courts, in passing such judgment, is sickening I do hope changes can be made, to rectify this inhuman practice.

Guyana stop embarrassing yourself, you don’t need the cash.

Respectfully, JC Grant-Stuart Snr. Toronto, Canada

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Thursday November 28, 2019

NO CUTTING OF MABARUMA RUBBER TREES DEAR EDITOR, I write again on behalf of trees - those silent workhorses within our midst that toil (often thanklessly) every second of their existence to remove dangerous toxins from the environment and produce the oxygen necessary for human survival.

This time it’s the stately rubber trees of Philbert Pierre Avenue, Mabaruma that are under siege.

It is truly saddening that, a century after their planting by a son of that soil, some of the current residents of that community are agitating for their destruction in order to expand the roadway. I have read news articles reporting that the decision will be made

by Mabaruma residents.

While I respect local authorities and decision-making processes, I maintain that the fate of these trees is one that concerns the wider Guyanese community, not just the residents of central Mabaruma.

The ‘Rubber Walk’ is a well-known tourist landmark of the area and unforgettable to all who have ever visited; even people who no longer live in Mabaruma retain fond memories and deep love for those trees.

Evidence of this is in the fact that over two thousand people signed an online petition pleading for the rubber trees to be saved (see selected comments below).

It would truly be a tragedy if these trees are destroyed; I urge that the sentiments of the petition signers be heeded. The fact is that there IS an alternate road route that could be widened to facilitate more vehicular

traffic without cutting these trees. In fact, the Minister of Public Infrastructure, Mr. David Patterson, has stated on social media, that his ministry was actually not in favour of cutting down the trees and had submitted a proposal to the Mabaruma authorities to enable road expansion without destroying the trees. [“MoPI (Ministry of Public Infrastructure) acknowledged the significance of these trees, and presented a program which did not affect the trees in any way..” – Facebook comment on Nov 18, 2019].

Surely the MoPI’s proposal is one to embrace, since it has the backing of engineers and technical experts and will meet the community demand for a new road while simultaneously saving these trees.

I urge the Mabaruma authorities and residents to demonstrate true environmental leadership and make the rest of their fellow Guyanese proud, and to heed the technical wisdom of Minister Patterson and his staff.

It is also important, in my opinion, that funds be spent to hire professional tree pruners to prune the rubber trees to prevent dead or damaged branches from falling and causing harm to persons or property.

Sincerely, Sherlina Nageer Selected comments of petition signatories: · “Those trees are iconic.

Been there for decades. Treat them as both heritage and endangered.” · “Back in 2017 I visited

Mabaruma for the first time and the sight truly captivated me. First time seeing trees so tall! It will certainly be a shame to have this scenic beauty destroyed.” · “We need to plant more trees not cut them down.” · “We need to save more trees as a country to help in the combat against Global Warming.” · “Set o’ backwardness. Leave and nurture the trees. They are part of your natural patrimony. FIND AN ALTERNATE ROUTE!” · “There is always a way around. Bend the road. Tree saving should be of utmost importance especially in these times we are living in. The age of the trees also should be taken into consideration.

They are landmarks…” · “I love the rubber trees.

They make a visit to Mabaruma so special. They whisper lovely secrets all day long. Generations have had history with those trees. The air has benefitted from them.

Pls don’t cut them down. Remember the tragedy of the teak trees in New Amsterdam.” · “I am signing on behalf of my grandchildren and the lungs of the earth. Future generations in Guyana need to see the beauty and rich history of their country’s natural environment.” · “These trees are to be cherished at all costs, no getting rid of them. They are iconic to the Mabaruma sub region.” · “I signed because although I have lived in Trinidad for many years my childhood years were spent at Mabaruma. Those rubber

trees are precious to me. I have never forgotten them. I would be heartbroken if they are destroyed.” ·“My wife had her primary schooling in Mabaruma and took me to see the scenes of her childhood. The rubber walk stood out as an environmental treasure and area of beauty. It would be criminal to destroy them.” ·“It’s ridiculous that people will even consider cutting these trees down. The only iconic thing I know of Mabaruma is these trees. I have never been there and this sticks out in my mind about the place. These trees also provide shade from the hot sun and I am sure it’s very relaxing to walk under just as the trees in Main Street in Georgetown. No way. It must not be cut down.”

·“I lived at Mabaruma in the early 60’s and those rubber trees were there, welcoming us every time we walked down the rubber walk. They are iconic! Please find a way around it. Be creative!

Please!” ·“A green economy does not mean green paint, it means trees.” ·“This street (in all my travels locally) is quite unique. Good to learn of its history. Shouldn’t this be a national treasure?” ·“I grew up at Mabaruma.

I knew the rubber trees when there was forest on both sides and when the trees did not wear white skirts. I took walks here as a child and picked up rubber seeds to see the faces on them. ·I have seen a flock of monkeys with their young

passing overhead. I remember them being trimmed by someone very high up their trunks.

I remember their shade and coolness.

I have treasured these memories all my life. I have not visited Mabaruma for a long time and hope to in the future. I look forward to seeing the rubber trees. Sometimes in life we possess a treasure and are unaware of its great value. I am a person of Mabaruma and I am crying out for the trees to be allowed to live. They belong to the soul of Mabaruma.” ·“Because trees matter; we need them in order to survive. The lesser they become, the harder for us humans.” https://www.change.org/ p/mayor-of-mabaruma-savethe-rubber-trees-ofmabaruma-no-cutting

My response to 3 sins I have been accused of by Freddie Kissoon DEAR EDITOR, I readily admit being a flawed character to anyone who finds me out, or else provide an explanation if I can.

Colleagues alerted me that I have been accused of 3 sins

by Kaieteur News (KN) columnist Freddie Kissoon in the KN of Nov 22.

1) I belong to an organization that “could not arrive at a decision on (Donald Rodney’s) victimisation claim”.

Let me state that at no time in my conversation with Mr. Rodney did I mention what we failed to reply to. He had come to us in confidence, and since he did not mention the nature of the request, I was constrained to not mention it either.

Mr. Kissoon therefore erred when he presumed it was about the victimization.

Transparency Institute Guyana Inc. (TIGI) agrees that Donald Rodney was victimized.

I have since asked Mr. Rodney if we could disclose what it was about, and he consented. So, I hereby reveal that he was asking us to help find a lawyer who would take up his case. We could not. But since he did not inform us if he had found a lawyer, we treated the matter as a continuous search.

2) Mr. Kissoon felt I conceded he had the right to write about what he (presumed he) overheard only because others were there. He must have forgotten my history of often being in minority and even solitary positions.

3) The third sin is that I only read Stabroek News (SN).

To this I must say that: a. I am a limited person. I have many things to do, and cannot afford the time to read all newspapers and consider everything in the media except they be brought to my attention. b. I respect the commit-

ment and expertise Mr. Kissoon devotes to national issues, but while his universe and mine sometimes intersect, they do not coincide. c. Nothing is free except the grace of God. I choose to subscribe to SN. I feel that my subscription, and those of others, lends a measure of independence that I value. Other media must be funded somehow. Who knows if a few large contributors influence their agenda?

The withdrawal of government ads from SN by different governments indicates that SN is worthy of my limited reading time.

TIGI president, Dr. Troy Thomas, will address this and other issues raised by Mr. Kissoon in his column. At TIGI we do not rush into replies and conclusions. If this is a fault, please understand that we have to consult with others, and it takes time.

Alfred Bhulai TIGI director

Thursday November 28, 2019

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Oil industry is unforgiving; we must get it right the first time Energy Dept. official tells leadership conference

A section of the gathering at the Leadership Development Conference Guyanas oil sector will not wait for Government to manage it right. It is an unforgiving sector, so it is important to get it right the first time around.

That is according to Se-

nior Legal Officer at the Department of Energy, Joanna Simmons, who delivered opening remarks at the Leadership Development Programme held by Zoywins Consultancy at the Arthur

Chung Conference Centre, yesterday.

Simmons said that the Energy Department is speeding to ensure it secures all the tools and support it needs to get the sector ready for First

[From left] Senior Legal Officer, Department of Energy, Joanna Simmons; CEO of Zoywins Consultancy, Dr. Mavis Benn

Oil, which is on track to arrive in just a matter of weeks.

Simmons is coordinator for the Guyana Petroleum Resources Governance and Management Project, which is intended to support the enhancement of legal and institutional frameworks and the strengthening of the capacity of key institutions to manage the oil and gas sector in Guyana.

The project is being funded through a US$20M loan from the World Bank.

She said that the industry is constituted by persons who are trained to do their jobs excellently, because, “In this industry, its a very unforgiving industry. You dont have much time to do it over, if you dont do it well in the first instance.”

Her comments set the stage for the conference, attended by several bureaucrats and aspiring public sector leaders who are looking to develop their management potential.

Former Georgetown Mayor and Chief Executive Officer of Zoywin s Consultancy, Dr. Mavis Benn, said of the oil sector and Guyanas 16 significant discoveries, that Guyanese have not fully grasped the change that is about to manifest in this society; that “Guyana will develop like a little Dubai.”

“Thats why leadership development and enhancement is so necessary in this country,” Dr. Benn told the conference.

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Thursday November 28, 2019

RUSAL selling electricity to businesses at commercial rates

Revelation that the Russian-owned Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc. (BCGI) is selling excess electricity generated from its operations, to the Hururu Amerindian Village—at similar rates charged by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL)—has led to even more damning revelations against the company.

President of the People’s United and General Workers Union (PUGWU), Lincoln Lewis, yesterday told Kaieteur News that the issue of the sale of electricity was raised unsuccessfully with the company officials in the past.

He explained that RUSAL is not only selling the excess

electricity it produces to nearby villagers but also to businesses in the locale and is charging commercial rates.

According to Lewis, when the matter was raised in the past, the company claimed to be lawfully engaging in the sale of electricity—using the rate it charges. Lewis noted, too, that there are rumours circulating of an imminent layoff planned

by RUSAL at the beginning of next month.

He told this publication that the company appears to be getting ready to sell of its heavy-duty equipment, which was imported duty-free.

The heavy-duty trucks, excavators and other such equipment were earlier this month brought out from

Kurubuka site, Upper Berbice River, Region Ten and taken to the Berbice area where they remain under guard.

Lewis told Kaieteur News that he has since spoken with some contractors who have related that they are preparing to travel to the Berbice area to negotiate the sales with the company.

Regarded as one of the biggest bauxite companies in the world, RUSAL established a poor track record with workers in Guyana, firing more than 50 of them in 2009 for striking for better working conditions and wages. That matter was never resolved.

Earlier this month in another dispute, workers refused to work for one month.

They held out in Aroaima, another location in Region Ten, before Government brokered an uneasy deal for resumption of work.

The condition was that talks would start for better pay.

Lewis told Kaieteur News that the company has begun to employ a worrying tactic where it is now taking workers on contract and they are being told that they have to pay their own National Insurance Scheme contributions among other mandatory deductions.

The Russian company over the years has failed to declare a profit but has been shipping out bauxite without fail.

Guyana has not ‘de-recognised’ United Kingdom in CARIFORUM- EU Agreement

T

he Ministry of For eign Affairs wishes to provide some clarity on the content of an article as was carried by the Kaieteur News under the subject “Guyana officially de-recognises

UK in trade pact with EU”, published on November 26, 2019.

While Guyana did sign the CARIFORUM- UK EPA on March 22, 2019 and a Memorandum of Understanding indicating its willingness

to provisionally apply the agreement should the UK leave the EU with no agreement by the October 31 deadline, the agreement only takes effect when the UK actually formally leaves the EU.

The UK was initially scheduled to exit the EU on October 31, 2019 but subsequently received an extension to January 2020.

In light of that fact, the (Contineud on page 22)

Thursday November 28, 2019

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

GECOM needs to get its house in order The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is in a mess. The problems which the Commission and its Secretariat are encountering reflect a palpable lack of understanding of data science.

If GECOM wishes to extricate itself from its present conundrum, it should hire the services of a qualified statistician. Such a person would help to clear up much of the confusion existing over the large number of uncollected identification cards and the massive number of “non-hits” in the fingerprint cross-matching exercise. GECOM’s Secretariat is light years behind the rest of the world in terms of employing statistical measures to improve its analysis of data.

It is appalling that in the 21st century, GECOM has not resorted to these tools to help it resolve its data problems.

One set of data problems concern those persons who

have not collected their national identification cards.

Some persons have reportedly not uplifted cards issued more than ten years now.

Guyanese are the first to clamour to be registered. But when the registration is completed, they do not bother to turn up to collect their identification card until they are forced to do so.

There are two ways in which GECOM can accelerate the collection of these cards.

It should ask the government to legitimise all the old forms of identification and make it mandatory for persons to use the new identification card for official transactions.

The second method which can be used is to offer a $5000 incentive for persons to collect the identification cards.

Either of these methods will lead to persons storming the registration centres to uplift their identification cards.

One Commissioner of

GECOM is concerned as to whether the large number of uncollected cards could mean that many of those who have not done so are either dead or out of the jurisdiction. In either case, this should not be a problem. Those who are dead cannot vote and those who have migrated cannot be denied the right to vote.

But there is a way to verify whether the large numbers of uncollected identification cards belong to the dead or to persons who now reside outside Guyana. All that GECOM has to do is to hire a qualified statistician who will extract a representative sample from the list of uncollected identification cards.

A small sample of 300 names should be sufficient enough to be representative.

A physical check for these persons’ addresses at their registered address should be done and this would provide some information as to if the

Dem boys seh ...

Is sheer madness When de police ketch dem criminals and when de judges and magistrates send dem to jail de people does glad. Yesterday, people start to find out dat de people who controlling de jail don’t want some criminals in deh.

So dem boys want to know if just like how people frighten de criminals if dem prison wardens frighten dem same criminals.

One man get a good jail sentence fuh armed robbery. While he was in jail, a man who kill a prisoner before stab him. Dis armed robbery man only come out of jail in August and he going back. He get ketch wid a gang who police backup de odda day.

Sometimes people does wonder if jail serve any purpose these days. People going in and coming out of jail like when people using a turnstile. Dem boys believe dat is because dem getting three and four square meals, a place to sleep, no bills to play and dem don’t have to wuk.

De human rights people insist on good treatment fuh de prisoner and because of de

good treatment, de prisoner committing crime as soon as he come out of jail because he like de good treatment.

Anodda thing dat got dem boys shaking dem head is how people rushing fuh kill demself. Dis is Road Safety Week. Every year when is Road Safety Week, nuff people does dead pon de road.

Tuesday three vehicle crash. One truck crash into a bank fence. Then de police corner three men and dem crash into anodda fence. Before de day done, a third vehicle crash into a fence. It kill de two people inside.

Yesterday, anodda car see a crowd of people and crash into dem. How dat happen, only de Man Above know. But de driver kill a li’l boy and got he mudda and he sister dem in hospital. Is bare madness.

Parents going in school and beating teacher because de Ministry seh teachers shouldn’t fight.

Talk half and know is sheer madness.

person has moved to a new address, has migrated or is dead.

The political parties do not have to wait on GECOM to do this. In fact, they should be doing their own verification. If is it found that there are large numbers of dead persons on this list of the names of uncollected identification cards, and if these names also appear on the Official List of Electors, then it means that the list may be terminally contaminated The other controversy concerns the cross-matching of fingerprints. One opposition-nominated Commissioner has reported that some 13,000 fingerprints, from persons who are not new registrants, have not received ‘hits’ during the cross-match-

ing of fingerprints.

In other words, the system has not matched up these fingerprint obtained during the recent house-house-registration with the fingerprints in the old database.

This is an excessively large number of unmatched fingerprints. Hypothetically, it would seem to suggest that the problem may be with the cross-matching exercise rather than being a case of fraudulent registrations.

Again, there are statistical tools which can help to determine whether there are fraudulent registrations involved or whether the problem is cross-matching process.

GECOM, therefore, has to up its game. It is squabbling unnecessarily instead of us-

ing statistical tools to help analyse some of the data problems, which are emerging.

This failure suggests that Guyana is going backwards rather than forwards.

Unless there are assurances that technically skilled persons, including statisticians, would be placed in the Commission permanently, then the international community should cease all financial assistance to the Secretariat.

GECOM has to get its house in order and do so quickly.

GNBA mulls regulatory framework for internet broadcast Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) announced yesterday that the authority has kicked off its Citizen Monitoring Programme, promising a collaborative approach to scrutinising the upcoming Regional and General Elections.

Chairman of the GNBA, Leslie Sobers, noted that the authority entered into discussions with Guyana Elections Commission, (GECOM), and the Ethnic Relations Commission, (ERC), for a joint approach to media monitoring of the airwaves and cable in the ensuing months.

Sobers said that the GNBA is aiming to secure its position as a viable, wellorganised, well-run stakeholder-inclusive regulatory body in Guyana and the Caribbean.

He noted, further, that given the overarching aim, the citizen monitoring programme forms part of the authority’s strategic plan which is designed to give effect to GNBA’s vision.

Sobers stressed that the citizen monitoring programme (a pilot project) is by no means the first aspect of the strategic plan to be operationalised.

“Previously, we had drafted and publicised the broadcasting guidelines, in an attempt to clarify and simplify, for our broadcasters, the legal framework within which they operate; the broadcast policy of Guyana and their obligations as licencees.”

The GNBA Chairman added that the standard against broadcasters is set out in the Broadcasting Act of 2011 and its Amendments of 2017.

“Regular stakeholder engagements, a promise to which we lived up to, were held with regularity; these en-

gagements also formed part of that strategic plan.”

Sobers said that the citizens will be able to draw to the attention of the authority, the shortcomings and infractions committed by broadcasters and also to indicate whether in the various broadcast operational zones citizens are receiving unhindered access to information.

The monitoring will be in keeping with the Broadcasting Act. Persons desiring to become a voluntary citizen broadcast monitor can access the Citizen Monitoring Registration Form and the Complaints Form on the GNBA website. The Authority’s Complaints Procedure can also be accessed on the GNBA Website.

The Citizen Monitoring initiative will be reviewed in June 2020. Meanwhile, Sobers pointed out that in regards to the elections coverage, broadcasters should be reminded that though they may be sympathetic to the policies, plans and projections of a particular political party, their obligation to the Guyanese People is a professional non-partisan approach to information dissemination, as contemplated by the Broadcasting Act.

“The Broadcasting Act established that broadcasting in Guyana must follow the tenets of pluralism and that political and other controversial issues be treated in accordance with fairness and balance.

“That is our country’s inherent fairness doctrine which instructs how such issues must be presented to our citizens.” He said that Section 32.

Paragraph (i) of the Broadcasting Act of 2011 stipulates that in the granting of licences and in the setting of conditions, the Authority shall ensure that “programmes dealing with controversial public policy or matters of political or industrial controversy must meet standards of fairness and balance, accuracy, maintaining a proper balance and respect for truth and integrity and always ensuring that opposing views are not misrepresented.”

In this regard, Sobers said that the authority will be paying keen attention to what pertains on the airwaves in the run up to National and Regional Elections.

This attention forms the basis for our proposed joint monitoring operations with the media monitoring units of GECOM and the ERC.

PAGE 10

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Minibuses, their passengers, streetlights, the European man I saw something on Regent Street this week, so I decided to investigate for myself. I have an obligation to do so because I am writing about what I saw; therefore, I need to research it. I was coming out of a store on the northern section of Regent Street when some folks at the entrance of a store on the opposite side, yelled out, “Freddie watch, watch.”

The police clipped a car and was towing it away be-

40

cause it was on the yellow sign that says, “bus stop”.

For years now, the police have designed an area of about twelve yards on popular streets with the words, “bus stop.”

It is simple to understand.

The bus halts on that space to pick up passengers.

The problem with Guyana is that it is a stupid place. The minibuses do not stop on that sign because passengers do not go on that spot to catch a

bus. On any normal day, you will see people putting their hands out to catch a passing minibus and they are standing right where they came from – a shop, a store, GPL office, GWI office, market square, commercial bank, etc.

People do not walk toward the bus mark and wait there to catch a bus.

On any given day, you will see the conductor pushing his head out the window yelling for passengers. I see this daily and have been seeing it for years. There is one of these designated areas just a few yards to the north of Survival Supermarket on Vlissengen Road.

Many times, I have to wait until the minibus pulls out of the driveway after picking up customers right in front on Survival. They do not walk towards the bus park area and the minibuses slow up when they reach Survival looking for passengers.

After the tow-truck took away the vehicle, I spent half an hour walking up and down Regent Street to see two

things – if passengers will stand on the designed area and if the buses will stop there.

I started at the Ministry of Agriculture opposite GCC. Two women came out, waited there and a minibus stopped for them. A woman and a man came out of the Public Service Union office and caught a bus at the junction of Shiv Chanderpaul Drive and Regent Street.

From the Ministry of Agriculture, I ended my observation outside Bounty Supermarket. Not one, I repeat, not one, minibus stopped on the allocated spot. Not one, I repeat, not one passenger, caught transport by standing on the designated area. Don’t take my word for it – please check it out.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure in response to my column on non-functioning traffic signals and street lamps referred to my observations as “gross exaggeration.” I live at Turkeyen. I have to use the Railway Embankment almost four times

each day or night. I am on the Railway Embankment every night.

In my column, I listed four lamps that I saw with lights on the Embankment road from Sheriff Street to UG Road. I was wrong. It is six. Let me repeat-- there are only six streetlights working from Sheriff Street to UG Road. Last night, I took a friend with me to count them. His name is Timal Huggins who is a friend of many second tier AFC leaders. If saying four rather than six is a gross exaggeration, then I apologise. What I will not apologise for is the following statement. For four years now, this state of affairs on the Railway Embankment is going on. I say without fear of contradiction, all ministers from president right down must have seen that deplorable situation. This is one of the main roadways in Region Four. Once you are going by car to the eastern coast of Region Four, and to Regions Five and Six and to Suriname, you have to witness that area of darkness from Sheriff Street

Frederick Kissoon onwards. Once you travel in the night to the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Giftland Mall and the Aquatic Centre, you cannot miss that pitch darkness.

I went to the Eugene Correia airport with my wife a month ago. The airport road has no working lamps and from Ogle to Industry on the Embankment road, there are no street lamps.

While waiting, a gentleman with a European accent engaged me and wife in light conversation. His guest came and he said goodbye. They had to travel from Ogle to Sheriff Street in darkness.

What did they say about my country that has been Independent for 53 years now?

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Thursday November 28, 2019

Timber sales up as industry records US$18M in first half - 61 concessions awarded recently to small operators

Minister Raphael Trotman The participants of the programme yesterday.

Local sales for timber are up despite a slight downturn in exports for the first half of the year. The disclosures were made yesterday by Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, during a presentation to the participants of the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) Project’s budgeting/accounting training for the National Steering Committee of Community Forestry Organisations (NSCCFO).

The training is set to allow the representatives of the

NSCCFO to better understand the fundamentals in accounting, documenting and business transaction, recording financial transactions, standard costing and financial statements.

This training is another step as Guyana continues to advance its readiness under the FCPF Project to Reduce Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+).

The Ministry said it remains committed to the development of Guyanas forest resources, also the protection of communities

and building the capacity of forest operators.

According to Trotman, during the first half of 2019, Guyana earned US$18.8M from timber exports and while this is marginally down from the corresponding period last year, demand on the local market has been increasing fuelled by expansion in the construction sector.

“As a result, log production grew by 6.8 percent,” he said.

It was also revealed that within the past few weeks, some 61 concessions were awarded to

small and medium scale, local operators, including forest-based communities and local cooperatives.

“I must note as well that we are aware that there are some challenges that have continued to dodge us in the sector and remain committed to engaging you as we work to find long term solutions.”

Trotman acknowledged that government is very aware that despite the gains made, that the story for some associations is not a rosy one.

“To this end, I have asked the organisers for us to have a dialogue on Friday, before you leave, about the future of community forest associations as we embrace a greener economy.”

Meanwhile, during the forum, the Minister insisted that forestry continues to be a significant contributor to Guyanas economy, both as a source of generating revenues for the country and in terms of providing a livelihood for its people.

“Eighty-five percent of our total forest sector production comes from small and medium scale operators of which, between 20 and 25 percent come from indigenous and forestbased communities.

“This is a significant change in trend from pre-2016 when, over 50% of production was coming from foreign operators and large concessions.”

He disclosed that during the first half of 2019, the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Natural Resources and its partner agency and projects have continued to facilitate activities and measures aimed at building capacity and creating a favourable environment for the industry to thrive.

These include an increase in the duration of leases granted to small concession holders, areas less then 20,000 acres, to threeyear leases instead of two.

“This is intended to improve

the planning and management cycle of small concessions thereby strengthening sustainable use of the areas and also improve the economic planning of forest production.”

Training was also provided to 62 Community Forestry Organisations representing 543 members of which 35 percent of the participants were women.

“The training allowed the groups to bring themselves in compliance with the requirements of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and as a result, over 10 groups have submitted evidence of their compliance with NIS to the Guyana Forestry Commission.

This is also a significant step towards community groups satisfying the social requirements under the Guyana Timber Legality Assurance System and sustaining their socio-economic livelihood,” the Minister told the participants.

“While we have recognised the need to build capacity, you have responded with a desire to be trained and your commitment to follow through is evidenced by your presence here this morning. It is small, yet significant steps like this one that are a testament of the partnership that is possible between government and stakeholders to ensure the sector continues to perform well.”

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Thursday November 28, 2019

Speed kills:

This minibus turned turtle yesterday afternoon at Cove and John, East Coast Demerara. Reportedly, a number of schoolchildren were in the bus, and were injured. An eyewitness said that the bus hit another, spun out of control and toppled. The road was wet. (Deoraj Nauth photos)

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Thursday November 28, 2019

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Boy, 7, dead, family hospitalised after driver ploughs into pedestrians

A

seven-year-old boy is dead, his mother, sister and two other persons including another child are

hospitalised after a reckless driver ploughed into them while they were standing along the Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice Public Road

Angry parent assaults primary school teacher

A

grade one teacher attached to the Winfer Gardens Primary School was on Wednesday morning attacked by an angry parent who accused her of beating her child. The injured teacher, Yolanda Jackson, said that the incident occurred mere moments before she commenced teaching her class.

Jackson explained that the p a r e n t a c c o s t e d h e r, demanding to know why she reportedly hit her child.

According to the teacher, she denied the allegations and told the mother that she had no issues with the child.

But this only appeared to only anger the mother more as she continued to demand answers. Jackson reportedly told the mother that she would investigate to find out what exactly happened in an attempt to quell the tense situation. At the moment, Jackson relayed that she was

The injuries sustained by the teacher body slammed by the angered parent in full view of students at the school. The mother, not satisfied, continued to rain blows on the teacher and only stopped after others at the school came to Jackson's aid.

The woman then left the school.

The injured Jackson was taken to receive medical attention for the laceration, which she received to her face. The teacher is pursuing legal charges against the angry parent and the matter has since been reported to the authorities.

yesterday afternoon.

It was a scene of absolute chaos and horror when bodies were seen scattered across the parapet and in the nearby trench.

Police sources have disclosed that the driver of the car is in police custody at the Fort Wellington Police Station.

Dead is Nirfan Nezamdeen, a student of the Latchmansingh Primary School, while his mother, Ameena Diaram, is in a critical state at the (continued on page 21)

Ameena Diaram with her now dead son, Nirfan Nezamdeen, and injured daughter

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Thursday November 28, 2019

Wanted bulletin for suspect in AK-47, Traffic cops freed drugs find in Sophia on bribery charge

P

Steve Richard Bacchus

olice are seeking Steve Richard Bacchus in connection with last Monday's North Sophia raid that netted an AK-47 assault rifle, a handgun and narcotics.

A bulletin issued, yesterday, stated that Bacchus is wanted for questioning in relation to posse s s i o n o f f i r e a r m , ammunition, and narcotics.

Police gave his age as 27 and his last known addresses as Lo t 'E' North Sophia, and Lot 71 Block 'F' North Sophia, E.C.D. Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Steve

Richard Bacchus is asked to contact t h e p o l i c e o n telephone numbers 226-6978, 225-8196, 226-2870, 226-7065, 227-1149, 226-7065, 225-6940, 226-9834, 911 or the nearest police station.

During Monday's joint intelligence operation, police also unearthed 66 rounds of ammunition and over 32 kilograms of cannabis.

Two persons, a construction worker and his wife, have since been taken into custody. Police had stated that they were seeking a third suspect.

FREED: Chris Brown

S

enior Magistrate Leron Daly y e s t e r d a y dismissed a bribery charged level against traffic ranks Chris Brown and Mark Collins. The Magistrate upheld a no-case submission made by the men's lawyer.

Last year, Brown and Collins both pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that on December 7, 2017, last, at Ruimveldt Police Station, they corruptly obtained from Iyana Hutson, the sum of $10,000, as an inducement or reward for foregoing to charge Dwayne Dover with a traffic offence.

They were both released on bail pending a trial at the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts. According to information, the two traffic ranks were lured into a sting operation. On the day in question, Dover who was driving a Canter truck along

Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was intercepted for an alleged traffic violation. Dover was said to be the supervisor of a contractor.

Brown reportedly then solicited $15,000 to forgo the charge. The driver contacted his supervisor who wrote down the serial numbers of some bills. He then notified a police sergeant at the Ruimveldt Police Station of the incident and gave him the serial numbers.

The contractor then went to the Ruimveldt Police Station where he handed over $10,000 to Brown, who allegedly gave it to another traffic rank. The two ranks were later searched and police retrieved the cash, with the corresponding serial numbers, in their pockets.

Kaieteur News understands that following the charges, Brown was dismissed, while Collins was interdicted.

Port Kaituma braces for no electricity until Christmas

R

esidents of Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD), Region One are expected to brace a “little more” without electricity while the situation is currently being resolved.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The Hinterland Electrification Company Inc. (HECI), Horace Williams, said technicians had stripped the entire engine to determine the exact mechanical issues.

He said some of the spares that had to be sourced were not available in Guyana. “These parts had be imported which took some time to arrive,” said Williams.

The CEO continued that these are the main reasons behind the delayed repairs.

Currently, technicians are carrying out the necessary repairs but are unsure of when it will be completed.

However, Williams said that the company is aware of the losses and how greatly Port Kaituma is affected and are doing everything possible to restore electricity quickly.

The CEO promised that Port Kaituma will not have a “Dark Christmas”.

Residents staged two days of protests in front of the Port Kaituma Power Station calling for the management of Port Kaituma Power Light (PKPL) to step down.

Protestors became outraged after they had suffered one month in darkness and received silence on the restoration of electricity from the relevant authorities.

Businesses had also suffered great losses.

The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) was contacted to look into the matter and later responded that HECI is currently resolving the issue.

Kaieteur News

Thursday November 28, 2019

PAGE 19

Scrap iron galore as GPL decommissions Versailles, Anna Regina power plants The old, decommissioned Anna Regina power plant, Region 2

S

crap iron from two decommissioned power plants are up for grabs. Earlier this week, the state-owned Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) in an advertisement published in Kaieteur News announced that scrap iron at the old Versailles, West Bank Demerara, and Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, is for sale.

According to GPL, the bids are for three lots.

The first one would be the decommissioned Versailles Power Station including an undetermined amount of underground metals and scrap metal in the compound.

Lot 2 would be the decommissioned Anna Regina Power Station including an undetermined amount of underground metals.

The third lot is a number of

transformers comprising various metals and oil at Anna Regina. “The buildings and scrap metal are sold on an “as is, where is” basis. Bidders must provide sufficient evidence of “registration with” and “certification” by the Ministry of Business.

According to GPL, bidders are only allowed to submit one bid per lot.

Bidders for the scrap metals at the two decommissioned plants must include a deconstruction plan inclusive of a timetable for various activities and evidence of access to or o w n e r s h i p o f machinery/equipment to be used. With regards to the transformers, bidders have to submit a plan showing how they intend to remove them inclusive of containment of

the oil.

“After payment, scrap metal and decommissioned buildings must be removed within the proposed timetable.

Removal and transport of the scrap material from the location would be the responsibility of the bidder.

Successful bidders would be required to provide a list of employees who would be working at these respective locations.”

Family offers reward for info on Bourda woman's murder

A

lmost two months after 67-yearold Marva Oudkerk was found dead in her Lot 241 Bourda Street, Georgetown home with a mosquito net tightly wrapped around her neck; the victim's daughter, Makada Oudkerk, is still hoping that one day she will receive some closure about her mother's sudden departure.

This has moved the family to offer a reward in an effort to solicit information that can aid them in finding the perpetrators behind the death of their loved one.

According to sources, a video footage obtained from a nearby CCTV camera revealed that there was someone gaining entry into the home of the deceased on that fateful night.

However, a definite identification of that person is not clear at this point of the police investigation.

It is believed that the woman met her demise between 16:30hrs on Wednesday, October 9, and 18:30hrs Thursday October 10, last. According to reports, the woman was found lying on her bed with a mosquito net tightly wrapped around her neck. She was last seen alive by her daughter the previous day.

67-year-old Marva Oudkerk Initial investigations have revealed that the woman was killed while trying to fend off bandits that gained entry into her home by removing several flooring boards. An undisclosed amount of cash and jewellery were removed from the building. At the time of the incident, the woman was living alone.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

Kaieteur News

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Thursday November 28, 2019

North R/veldt Multilateral gets Lawn Tractor from Old Students' Association

T

he Old Students' Association (comprising chapters from the USA, Canada and Guyana) of North Ruimveldt Multilateral Secondary School made a timely donation of a John Deere E140 Lawn Tractor last Thursday, during a simple ceremony at the institution's location on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown.

Making the presentation on behalf of the Association was Vice-President of the local chapter Rendell Harry.

Headmistress Allison Cosbert collected the gift in the presence of fellow old students and those currently attending the school.

H a r r y, w h o w a s accompanied by the Old Students' Association's local chapter Treasurer, Karen Yaw, Executive Committee Member, Linda Bradshaw, and old student/Sales Account Manager of General Equipment Guyana Limited, Harold Baboolall, told the gathering that the Association has been in existence for almost 15

years, during which they have executed many other projects, working in tandem with its sister chapters in the USA and Canada.

He said the continued interest shown by its members has been remarkable and unwavering over the years, adding that it is testimony to the foundation that was laid during their time at the school. “While I cannot speak for everyone that attended this wonderful institution, I am sure that the unfaltering commitment that we continue to show towards the further development of this school is resounding proof of the benefits we derived during the time we spent here,� Harry stated.

He spoke of additional support for the school, including a heavy-duty, multi-purpose photocopying machine to reduce the cost of printing materials for the benefit of the teachers and students The Old Students' Association (OSA) had also presented the school with

Vice-President of the North Ruimveldt Multilateral Old Students' Associationlocal chapter Rendell Harry makes the presentation to Headmistress Allison Cosbert in the presence of past and present students of the school books, sports equipment, appliances for the Home Economics Department, computers and instruments for the school's steel orchestra, to name a few, and according to the VP, many more projects are on the horizon.

The Association also implemented a feeding programme.

Meanwhile, Ms. Cosbert thanked the OSA for its continued assurance to assist in improving the areas where they (the school) lack equipment, and at the same

time giving students every opportunity to perform at their optimum.

Opened in September 1975, North Ruimveldt Multilateral Secondary School (familiarly referred to as Multi) was the brainchild of the then Prime

Minister Forbes Burnham. It was one of five such institutions that were setup to make the student experience a well-rounded one. The others were located in Linden, Berbice, Essequibo and East Coast Demerara.

Thursday November 28, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Witnesses fearful of testifying against suspected gang members charged for attempting to kill “Spoil Child” Witnesses have conveyed to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) that they are fearful of testifying against two men who are currently on remand for attempting to murder Teon “Spoil Child” Allen, a former policeman and the suspected leader of a gang in Linden.

Early this month, the charred remains suspected to be that of Collin Rodney, 36, the main witness in the murder Preliminary Inquiry (PI), of his cousin Marlon Rodney, was found in a burnt motorcar at Mahaicony. It was reported that Collin had left home for court when he went missing.

On November 4, a bedridden Lashawn Lewis and Renard Caesar, were jointly charged with attempting to murder Allen.

It is alleged that on October 5, last, at La

REMANDED: Renard Caesar

REMANDED: Lashawn Caesar

Penitence, Georgetown, they discharged a loaded firearm at Allen, with intent to commit murder. Chief Magistrate Ann

McLennan had fixed yesterday for commencement of a Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the charge. However,

Corentyne’s businesses help former reporter with brain aneurysm

Teon Allen when the matter was called, Police Prosecutor Inspector Neville Jeffers told the court that the witnesses have related that they are fearful of testifying against the two accused men.

As such, the Chief Magistrate adjourned the case until Friday, December 6.

Police had stated that there was an ongoing issue between Allen and the MOB Family, a gang comprising persons from Linden and French Guiana. On the day of the shooting, Allen was reportedly purchasing vegetables from La Penitence Market, Georgetown when

the occupants of a black car drove up next to him.

Moments later, three persons exited, two of them allegedly being Lewis and Caesar. They all carried firearms. Several rounds were discharged in Allens direction, but he managed t o e v a d e t he bullets.

According to reports, when Allen got to a safe location, he returned fire, injuring Lewis.

The attackers ran away, leaving the injured Lewis on the scene. He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, admitted under police guard and later charged. Kaieteur News had reported that Allen had moved to Georgetown to seek refuge from the MOB Family, but apparently he was followed by his assailants.

On Tuesday, Allen was shot and arrested by police after he attempted to evade a roadblock at Rahamans turn, Houston, East Bank Demerara.

According to police sources, the incident occurred around 4:20pm, just as the afternoon traffic began to build-up. Sources say that Allen and two other men, both ex-police ranks, were in a heavilytinted vehicle. Allen was said to be driving.

Police reportedly

requested him to stop at the roadblock, but he did not and proceeded to fire a shot at the police.

According to the source, the police exchanged fire and the men in an attempt to evade the bullets veered off the road and crashed into a nearby fence.

The men immediately surrendered to police and were arrested.

Officers with assistance from the Canine Unit searched the vehicle and an unlicensed .9mm pistol was recovered along with a quantity of cell phones. Allen has had a long history with police for a number of criminal offences.

While he was before the courts for having an illegal AK-47 in his possession, he was arrested and charged for harbouring wanted men, Uree Varswyck and Mark Royden Williams, who broke out of the Camp Street Prison on July 9, 2017 during a fire and riot. bJust two months ago, he was charged w i t h discharging a firearm with intent to commit murder.

Police had issued a wanted bulletin which stated that Allen was wanted by police in Linden for the attempted murder of Denise Grant and Tiffany Mc Deth, in Amelias Ward, on September 2, 2019.

Carter Center accredited as 2020 elections observers Parbattie Austin receives the donation from Secretary of the Chamber, Annie Latcha. She is flanked by Chamber President, Mohammed Raffik and members, Poonair Bhigroog and Imran.

The Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC), in keeping with one of its corporate responsibilities to assist those in need, has made a monetary contribution to ruptured brain aneurysm patient, Parbattie “Ravina” Austin of Overwinning Village, Berbice.

Austin is scheduled to undergo an emergency sur-

gery for her condition as soon as possible. She underwent a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan at the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital recently.

The surgery which can only be done at a private facility, NeuroSpine Services Inc. in Georgetown, will cost her $6.4 million.

A condition that has seemingly altered her life,

Austin with the help of her husband, a police Constable, four children, relatives and friends, has managed to gather almost half of the amount required to execute the life saving surgery.

Businessman and President of the Chamber, Mohamed Raffik, expressed his hope that the surgery can (Continued on page 23)

Boy, 7, dead, family hospitalised...

From page 17 Georgetown Public Hospital.

Kaieteur News understands that little Nezamdeen's sister was also a victim and is hospitalised while a female adult and two other children who are yet to be identified were rushed to GPHC as well.

Reports are that the driver of the vehicle was speeding when he lost control of his vehicle and smashed into the

two adults and four children who were standing along the roadway awaiting transportation.

The car then ended up in a trench but little Nezamdeen was trapped underneath.

Public spirited persons rushed over to the scene and immediately rendered assistance. One person was seen on footage removing the seven-year-old's lifeless body

that was tucked under the front bumper of the car. He was still clad in his uniform and carrying his backpack.

Commander-in-Charge of Region Five, Yonnette Stephens, told this publication that they are currently gathering details of what exactly occurred but confirmed that three children and two adults are hospitalised and the driver is in custody.

The Carter Centre has been accredited to observe the 2020 elections, an official of the Guyana Elections Commission, (GECOM) confirmed yesterday.

Kaieteur News understands that the Carter Centre team will be in Guyana before and after the elections.

Last March, a Carter Center delegation led by Jason J. Carter, chairman of the Carter Center’s Board of Trustees, was in Guyana and held meeting with key stakeholders to learn about the challenges facing Guyana and to assess whether the Center could assist Guyanese going forward.

Guyana moved into constitutional uncertainty after March 22, which marked the end of a three-month period following a contested vote of no confidence and the deadline to hold elections.

Carter Center had issued an official statement following meeting with officials of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

Among other things, the Center had called for the immediate convening of the

National Assembly to extend the 90-day timeline for elections.

The Center also said that GECOM commissioners have recognised that the current voters list is bloated.

The Center has been working with Guyana to ensure free and fair elections since 1992.

Its founder is former US President Jimmy Carter who has visited Guyana on a number of occasions, including for the 2015 elections.

In 2015, the Carter Centre brought six medium term observers comprising three

teams of two persons each, which were deployed in regions.

The Carter Centre then had at least 30 short-term observers deployed closer to the Election Day. A total of 42 persons are expected to complete the Carter Center’s Observer Mission.

The preliminary logistical plan for the medium term observer teams, include one team to cover Regions Two, Three and Seven; another for Regions Five and Six with one for Regions One, Eight and Nine.

PAGE 22

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Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Cane Grove labourer charged for wedding house beating that left man paralysed Nineteen-year-old Jermain Holder was on Tuesday slapped with an attempted murder charge for the severe beating he and others gave 22-year-old Hansraj ‘Kevin’ Durga, leaving him in a paralyzed state. Holder was not required to plead to the indictable charge read by Magistrate Marissa Mittleholzer at the Mahaica Magistrate’s Court. He was released on $100,000 bail and the matter will be called again on December 17, 2019 for statements.

Kaieteur News understands that the incident occurred on November 3, 2019.

Relatives disclosed that Durga was at a wedding house when an argument ensued between his cousin and

some other men.

He reportedly asked for the peace to be kept but this action turned the men’s attention to him (Durga) and they proceeded to rain severe blows on him.

He was later discovered by his sister lying unconscious in a pool of blood.

Family members immediately rushed him to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital from where he was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

As a result of the beating, Hansraj Durga is currently left in a paralysed state unable to function without assistance. He also suffered memory loss, a fractured skull, brain haemorrhaging and a fractured shoulder.

Man who allegedly wounded colleague, caught three years later After three years of evading the police, Ryan Lowe was on Tuesday brought before the court to answer to an attempted murder charge. The defendant appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates Courts.

Lowe was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which stated that on November 23, 2016, at Dumpsite Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD), he wounded Leroy Cummings with intent to commit murder.

The court was told that the defendant and the victim are known to each other and they both work at the Dumpsite located in Eccles, EBD. On the day in question, the defendant and some other colleagues were drinking while the victim was asleep in a hammock.

The defendant went over to the victim and dealt him two

lashes to his knee to wake him up. He then confronted him over some alleged stolen items and the two men got into an argument. This angered the defendant who took a knife and dealt the victim several stabs to his body.

The defendant then made good his escape and went into hiding. The victim was rushed to the hospital and treated for his injuries. After evading the police for three years, Lowe was arrested on November 18, 2019.

The police prosecutor told the court that the injuries the victim received are life threatening and due to the said injuries, the victims left arm was amputated.

After listening to the information that was disclosed during the hearing of the matter, Chief Magistrate McLennan remanded the defendant to prison and the matter was adjourned to December 11, next.

Guyana has not...

From page 8 existing CARIFORUM- EU agreement remains legally binding on trade between Guyana and the UK and the recently signed CARIFORUM-UK agreement has no legal basis once the UK remains a part of the EU. The Ministry recognises that the language of the Order as was published in the Official Gazette of Guyana dated November 1, 2019, to which the Kaieteur News article makes reference, would create some degree of confusion among our trading partners, at the policy level, and for traders more particularly.

Therefore, necessary steps will be taken to ensure that this is corrected. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to advise all traders that the UK has not been de-recognised in the CARIFORUM-EU trade pact and that the agreement therefore continues to govern bilateral trade between Guyana and the UK. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

Thursday November 28, 2019

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

Passengers cheer as bus driver, conductor hang out of moving bus

The minibus on the pedestrian crossing letting off passengers (Facebook).

The driver dangling his feet outside while the bus moves along the roadway.

Corentyne’s businesses help former reporter... be done at its earliest “because this is a matter of life and death for her”.

He opined that the Ministry of Public Health should have stood the cost of the surgery for the mother of four.

“We would like the government to put the rest since she has already got almost half of it already,” he said. He further stated that in such a situation where treatment cannot be given by the public health department “it is government’s responsibility to ensure that monetary finances are being made available so the person can get treatment, so we are calling on the government.”

Businessman Poonai Bhigroog and member of the Chamber also called on the government to intervene and assist “because people can’t afford to do it overseas. And to do it locally, it is expensive, but I do wish her all the best and hope the surgery is a success”.

Austin said she is very grateful for the amount given and is also thankful for any amount donated to her.

Austin added that she is currently on medication that has to be taken every four hours.

“I know there is a need for the surgery because Dr. (Amarnauth) Dhuki mentioned to me that the condition, the aneurysm, is like an inflated balloon and a sneeze or a cough can cause a rupture and I might not make it to a hospital”.

She expressed confidence in Neurosurgeon Dr. Amarnauth Dhuki, who will

be carrying out the surgery and stated that she has faith in God. The mother of four noted that thus far, a take-away lunch was held with great support that assisted with a lot of the funds so far. Her husband, Constable Austin, said he is currently on annual vacation leave until next month and has been with his wife every step of the way since “she can’t do anything for herself”. Currently, the sole breadwinner of the home and caretaker of his wife, he is hoping that the money will be accumulated fast enough so that her surgery can be done.

He added that he was hoping that it could have been executed while he was on his annual leave, but he is still confident. According to the husband, the Guyana Police Force is aware of his wife’s condition.

The couple is appealing to the public to assist them in offsetting the expenses of the surgery so that she can live a normal life again.

Persons interested in assisting can contact Austin on telephone number: 670-0345 or donate to her Republic Bank account. The account number is 962352050698. Persons can also make donations to her GoFundMe account: https://www.gofundme.com/ f/ruptured-brainaneurysmsurgery ? sharetype = teams&membe r= 3097822 & rcid = r01-15722809083136df60570cf94645 & pc = w a_ co_ campmgmt_ m&utm_ medium = social&utm _ source = whatsapp & utm _campaign=p_lico+share-

By Shikema Dey From speeding to driving under the influence of alcohol, road recklessness continues to be an issue of concern in Guyana.

In fact, it has even escalated to the level where drivers completely disregard the safety of passengers in order to engage in childish and irresponsible antics just for fun.

This happened to be the very case when on Tuesday morning, a 30second video on social media shocking the nation; a minibus conductor was filmed hanging out of a speeding vehicle, dancing to a popular song with the side door open.

Even more shocking, the passengers in the vehicle

seemed to condone the behaviour and cheered him on.

As if that were not dangerous enough, the video panned to the front of the bus where the driver, took his foot off the controls, opened the door of the moving bus and dangled it outside as he continued to barrel down the road.

The video garnered thousands of comments with many persons questioning the sanity of the driver and the passengers.

Traffic Chief, Linden Isles, when contacted by Kaieteur News stressed that such reckless behaviour will not be condoned by the Traffic Department. He, too, was left shocked after viewing

the video.

Although the origin of the video is unknown, the Traffic Chief is calling on anyone with information to contact the Traffic Department in an effort to see that swift action is taken.

“These particular things cause accidents! Look at the nonsense that they are doing, on the roadway, in the public domain!”

Isles stressed that not only should the driver and conductor be blamed but also the passengers who stayed in the vehicle comfortably and allowed the act to happen.

“The Traffic Department alone cannot stop this lawlessness. We need the assistance from members of the public and various

stakeholders.

They need to chip in; they need to bring information, and they need to help us to deal with the lawlessness.”

The lawlessness continued into the day when another minibus driver was photographed stopping at an intersection in the middle of the pedestrian crossing on Regent and Camp Streets.

The multicoloured bus bearing registration number BXX 4505 stopped in the middle of the road and was letting off passengers.

Meanwhile, despite losing 1,869 persons in road fatalities over the past 16 years, drivers continue to disregard the road safety rules meant for their protection.

PAGE 24

Grandfather gets 19 years for killing reputed wife Leonard Allan, 64, a pensioner of Burnham Avenue, Rosignol, West Coast Berbice, who earlier pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter for killing his reputed wife has been jailed for 19 years.

Allan, an alcoholic, was charged with between July 3 and July 4, 2018 of killing Shabana Ishack, called “Babita”, 40, of No2 Village, East Canje, Berbice. The woman was reportedly battered to death du r i n g a drinking spree at his R o s i g n o l , We s t C o a s t Berbice home.

The accused appeared before Justice Brassington Reynolds in the Berbice High Court. Following his guilty plea, a probation report was ordered.

The state’s case was presented by Attorney-atlaw Seeta Bishundial.

State appointed attorney Siand Dhurjon represented the accused.

The probation report which was presented by Probation and Social Services Officer Odessa Semple detailed Allan as having a bad track record. It described him as being abusive and being fingered in his previous wife’s death.

In a victim impact report which was requested by the court, the aunt of the deceased reported that Ishack death has had a severe impact on the family.

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Lennard Allen It was reported that Ishack had visited Allan’s home and they were imbibing alcohol. The pensioner asked Ishack to cook him some food. He reportedly got upset and told Ishack that he was not pleased with how the food tasted.

He then allegedly ordered the woman to consume the entire pot of food, and when she refused, in a fit of rage, he began to physically assault her until she bled to death.

Neighbours had contacted the police to inform them that the woman was lying lifeless on a bloodsoaked bed in the small one story wooden building.

The pensioner was sitting

near the body when the police arrived.

It was reported that it was a norm for the woman to visit Allan and they would drink and argue. The dispute would sometimes lead to the woman being physical abuse.

A post mortem examination conducted on the body of Ishack by government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Bridgmohan revealed that she died from shock and h a e m o r r h a g e , Bronchoaspiration along with multiple injuries about the body.

A caution statement reportedly given by the accused along with a bicycle bar, which was reportedly used to commit the crime was admitted into evidence.

His lawyer Dhurjon, in a plea of mitigation, asked for leniency stating that the incident was cause due to both the accused and decease drunken state.

Justice Reynolds before passing sentence stated that he has taken all that was reported in the matter including the probation report and the plea of mitigation. He also looked at the severity of the crime and the victim impact report.

He stated that was starting at 25 years, but subtracting five years for the guilty plea and one year for time served, leaving a total of 19 years.

Houston, E.B.D. roadblock drama…

One of captured men was released from long prison stay just three months ago Jason Burnette, one of the three men who was captured last Tuesday at a Houston, East Bank Demerara roadblock, was only released from a lengthy prison term three months ago.

Prison officials revealed, yesterday, that Burnette, also known as Troy Burnette and Jason Gonsalves, was convicted on two counts of armed robbery, and for unlawful and malicious wounding and possession of arms and ammunition.

He was given a nine-yearsentence, which was reduced to six years imprisonment. Burnette was scheduled to be released on February 11, 2019. However, due to misbehaviour, his prison term was extended to August 7, 2019.

“He was an extremely troublesome prisoner up to his last days here,” an official said.

In May 2017, Burnette had to be hospitalised, after he was stabbed by murder accused, Akeem Edwards. His attacker had allegedly killed a Mazaruni Prison inmate in 2014.

Court records show that in January 2010, Burnette was remanded on two counts of robbery under arms and possession of firearm and ammunition c h a r g e s .

It was alleged that on January

18, 2010, Burnette, who had a firearm, robbed Tonnette Henry of a gold chain, five gold rings, a pair of gold jingles, valued at a total of $440,000 and a laptop, property of Carib Diamond Drilling Company, valued at $180,000.

It is also alleged that on December 30, 2010, Burnette robbed Andrew Davis at knifepoint of one cell phone, one silver ring and $860 in cash.

Burnette was also accused of having in his possession, on January 18, one snub nose .38 revolver and five live rounds of .38 special ammunition without being the holder of a firearm licence.

Burnette, ex-policeman Teon “Spoil Child”Allen and Shaquille George, were apprehended on Tuesday while allegedly attempting to evade a roadblock near Rahaman’s Turn, Houston, East Bank Demerara.

Allen was shot and the suspects ended up crashing their silver grey Toyota Allion PWW 6650 at the scene. Police recovered a firearm from the trio.

Crime Chief Michael Kingston told Kaieteur News yesterday that investigators will be placing the suspects on identification parades to ascertain whether they are connected to any recent

armed robberies.

“We are reviewing a long list of statement of people who were robbed, because in their statements, they would have given descriptions. Once this process is completed, we will begin the identification parades.”

Allen has had a long history with police for a number of criminal offences.

While he was before the courts for having an illegal AK47 in his possession, he was arrested and charged for harbouring wanted men, Uree Varswyck and Mark Royden Williams, who broke out of the Camp Street Prison on July 9, during a fire and riot.

Just two months ago, he was charged with discharging a firearm with intent to commit murder and released on $50,000 bail.

He was also wanted by police in Linden for the attempted murder of Denise Grant and Tiffany McDeth, in Amelia’s Ward, on September 2, 2019.

Commenting on the fact that one of the suspects, Jason Burnette, was recently released from prison, the acting Crime Chief said that he recently expressed concern about the number of convicts who were returning to a life of crime after their release.

DPP recommends wounding charge instead of attempted murder charge for Kitty resident A mason, who was facing an attempted murder charge two months ago, now has to make his court appearance for the lesser consequential charge of felonious wounding.

Quincy Evans, a 24-year-old mason, of Gordon Street, Kitty was charged on September 23, last, with attempted murder. This charge initially stated that on

August 25, 2019 at Gordon Street, he wounded Joshua Williams with intent to commit murder.

However, that charge was withdrawn against him and now made to read that on August 25, 2019, at Gordon Street, Kitty, with intent to maim, disfigure, disable or cause grievous bodily harm, he wounded Joshua Williams.

This comes as a result of le-

gal advice from the chambers of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).

This was presented yesterday by in the Georgetown Magistrates Courts to Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan who is presiding over the case.

Evans was instructed to return to court on December 3, next, for the continuation of his matter.

Previously the court was told that on the day in question, Evans with a sharp object in his possession approached Williams who was standing on Gordon Street, Kitty.

An argument arose between the two men which led to Evans inflicting several wounds to Williamss body.

An injured Williams was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and was hospitalised.

Evans was charged for the offence after the reported matter was investigated.

The magistrate placed Evans on $120,000 bail with conditions that he lodges his passport to the court as well as to not make contact with or make anyone contact the victim.

He is to also report to the Kitty Police Station every Friday until the hearing and determination of the matter.

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Open Doors capture Windball Cricket, Football titles at annual Special School Games

The two teams along with Officers of the NSC and teachers of the two top placed schools.

O

pen Doors cap tured this years Windball Cricket and Football titles in the Na-

tional Sports Commission Sponsored 4th Annual Special School Games played at the National Gymnasium.

Open Doors defeated David Rose in both finals.

In the Windball Cricket final, David Rose after win-

Thursday November 28, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your parents or another couple close to you may be quarreling, and you might be expected to take sides.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Someone you know well could be saying one thing to you while your intuition tells you another. Your friend is probably troubled by something embarrassing.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) A female friend may seem to be upset with you and might not admit it. If you ask what's wrong, she'll probably say, "Nothing." Use your intuition to deduce what's bothering her and then try to make it up to her in some way.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Emotions might run high with today's astral energies.

Your friends may be snapping at each other and even getting into quarrels. Stay out of it!

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Some people with whom you spend a lot of time could get into a debate over spiritual or metaphysical concepts. This could make you and everyone else very uncomfortable.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Disagreements and hot tempers could hinder the completion of an important project.

There may be a detail to the plan that some people just can't agree on.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You might have gotten home later last night than is good for you, and you may feel a little tired and dragged out.

Take your vitamins and don't use coffee as a stimulant.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your emotions may cloud your intuition today. You might not pick up on the thoughts and feelings of others the way you normally do, and you could feel at a disadvantage.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Today you might feel especially passionate and desirous of some time alone with your significant other. However, your partner may be detained by other responsibilities or might not be in the mood.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Your significant other may be expected at your house tonight but not show up, and may not even communicate with you.

This might cause you to be understandably worried.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Someone you need to contact for information may be temporarily unavailable. You might have to try to find whatever you need somewhere else.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You're probably doing better financially than you have for a long time, but you still might not have reached some of the monetary goals you'd set.

Open Doors along with Sports Organiser with responsibility for person with disability Wilton Spencer (2nd right). ning the toss batted first and made 73-1, off their 6 overs, with Odeil Gibon hitting 27, Joshua Goodman

26 and Ramesh Harinarine 10.

Open Doors replied with 74-0 for the win.

In other matches played

Saint Barnabas 46 1 with Dwayne Griffith 22, Matthew Boyer 10.

David Rose replied with 471 with J. Goodman making 12.

Harold B. Davis scored 41- 3 and Open Doors responded with 42.

Saint Barnabas made 493 with I. Dash 28. Defending Champions Diamond fell short at 431.

In the Futsal 7-A-Side compet i t i o n : i n t h e f i nal; Open Doors beat David Rose 2-nil.

Other games resulted in David Rose 2, Saint B a r n a b a s n i l , Open Doors and Saint Barnabas played to a n i l a l l d r a w a t r e g u l at i o n t i m e . O p e n Doors won on penalty kicks 1 nil.

After good...

From page 34 But the Sportsman who grew up in Queenstown, Georgetown, gravitated to cricket because of his uncle, the late Guyana and West Indies B team opener Andrew Lyght.

Now that this tournament is done, Barnwell, who was first selected for Guyana in November 2008, plans to take a few days break before resuming training to give himself a chance of getting into the four-day team.

“Of course I plan to enjoy the Christmas season with my family,” Barnwell added.

Asked about his chances being selected for the West Indies, Barnwell, who also played for the Windies A team said, “Once I have life I have hope, just want to put in more matching performance and give myself a good chance. I have no plans at the moment for CPL which is far from now, so I just want to focus on whats in front of me next, and that’s preparing for the fourday tournament,” Barnwell concluded.

PAGE 30

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

MMZ Future Youths are Bibi Farida Asgarally Memorial 25-over champs

MMZ Future Youths MMZ Future Youths Captain Collecting The winning trophy from Ms. Naseema Khan.

Meten-Meer-Zorg Future Youths beat Meten-MeerZorg senior team by 42 runs when the teams collided in the final of the Bibi Farida Asgarally Memorial 25 overs cricket match, played at the West Meten-Meer-Zorg Center ground last Sunday.

The seniors won the toss and insert the youths and were bowled out in 24 overs for 155. Openers Jermain Maxwell and guest player Tevin

Imlack put together 19 before Maxwell was bowled for five

by Levroy Miggings.

The youths slipped to 39 for 4 in 11 overs before Imlack and veteran Seymour Evans put on 49 runs for the fifth wicket. Evans was caught on the boundary for 29 which includes three sixes. Imlach who was holding the innings together was brilliantly caught by Rabindra Dasrath on the second attempt at short

mid-wicket for a workman like 71 with four sixes and four fours. Travis Mohamed, who has just returned from club cricket in Canada, was the pick of the bowlers with 3 for 21 with his right arm leg spin and was supported by Miggings with 2 for 19 and Javid Shafeek 2 for 27.

In reply the most experienced team showed their worth upfront as openers Rabindra Dasrath and DJ

Adrian Johnson put on 32, before Johnson was bowled by his cousin Sheldon Alexander for 25 with four fours and one six . Miggings was the next best batsman with 23 as all the others batsmen struggled against a steady bowling attack, with Sheldon Alexander capturing 4 for 23 from his five overs.

Seymour Evans had 2 for 23 and Captain Jermain Maxwell 2 for 38 as MMZ Seniors were

GTM/RCCI/RFA U-17 male and female Tourney

Guyana Rush Saints emerge as champions Guyana Rush Saints male and female teams emerged as the respective champions when the inaugural GTM Insurance Company sponsored Under-17 tournament under the auspices of the Rupununi Chamber of Commerce and organised by the Rupununi Football Association, concluded last weekend.

The three-day tournament, which was played between November 22-24, saw seven (7) male and four (4) female clubs and contesting at the St Ignatius Village Sports Ground.

The male clubs were Guyana Rush Saints, Surama, Tabatinga, Terminators, Rising Stars, Shiriri and Far East United Sports Club.

On the distaff side were Guyana Rush Saints, Terminators, Tabatinga and Far East United.

Tabatinga Football Club ended as the runner-up teams in both segments of the competition. Chief Executive Officer of GTM, Mr. Roger Yee and staff which included Ronald Nandlall, Travis Peters, Rayon Bostwick, Pheon Dryden and Rolando Sugrim were present for the duration of the tournament.

Mr. Yee, who shared feature remarks at the opening

bowled out for 113 in 19 overs.

At the presentation ceremony Alexander collected the best bowled trophy, Evans was judged man of the match and Imlach was given the best batsman trophy for his 71.

The winners collected $10,000 and a trophy while the runner also received a trophy.

Shabir Hussain, a former resident of the village and one of crickets most successful President in encouraged the players remain committed and spoke on the importance of discipline.

He also reminded them of the glory days of West

Demerara cricket under his administration.

Daughter of the late Asgarally, Ms. Naseema Khan reminded the players of her mom who passed away 18 years ago, stating that she was a Muslim Leader in the West Demerara. She also spoke on the strong ties her mom had with the cricketing fraternity, adding that her mom was excited to see her son Ejaz Asgarally don the national colours for three years and her grandson Azurdeen Andy Mohamed playing at the ICC youth world cup in New Zealand in 2010 for the USA.

Clippers manhandle Mavs...

Guyana Rush Saints female Captain, Ms. Alicia Isaacs Mr. Roger Yee, CEO of GTM presents receives the winners trophy from Guyana Rush Saints Captain, Ofancy CEO of GTM, Mr. Roger Yee. Winter with the #1 trophy. and closing ceremonies, expressed his companys delight to partner with the two entities as they sought to give back to the people by empowering the youths.

He {Mr. Yee} said he was particularly impressed with the fact that young females were afforded an equal opportunity to showcase their skills and talent like their male counterparts whilst in-

forming that the company would continue to invest and empower youths across Guyana. GTM he noted has an excellent track record of support for sports and athletes in Guyana.

The champions, Guyana Rush Saints female and male teams were duly rewarded with trophies and medals as were the respective runnerup teams as well as the Ref-

erees who officiated throughout the tournament.

President of the Rupununi Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mr. Daniel Gajie including the people of Region 9 are very happy for this year’s U17 tournament sponsorship.

GTM has definitely signaled their intention to continue sponsoring football for the youths.

From page 32 Beverley, clamped down on Doncic, who entered averaging 30.6 points per game, third best in the NBA. The Mavericks were also the second-best scoring team in the NBA at 119.1 points per game.

George shot 5 of 9 from the field and 4 of 6 from 3-point range in the first quarter. The Clippers went 7 of 11 (63.6 percent) from beyond the arc in the opening 12 minutes but hit just 39.3 percent from the field overall during the quarter.

The fast start helped the Clippers to a 62-46 halftime lead, with the Mavericks shooting just 31.4 percent from the field in the opening two quarters. They finished at 38 percent in the game while the Clippers converted 42.3 percent.

Doncic had 15 first-half points but was just 2 of 9 from the field and 0 of 5 from 3-point range, though he did go 11 of 11 from the free-throw line.

Seth Curry finished the night with 13 points for Dallas, and J.J. Barea added 12 points in just his third game of the season.

The Clippers built their advantage to as many as 22 in the third quarter when they shot 54.5 percent from the field, and they led 93-77 at the start of the fourth.

Lou Williams had 21 off the Los Angeles bench, and Montrezl Harrell added 12 as the Clippers won at Dallas for the first time since November 2016.

(Field Level Media)

Rahkeem Cornwall...

From page 32 Ihsanullah then took on Warrican, hitting mostly down the ground and towards midwicket. The two added 56 for the second wicket, a partnership that included Ahmadi lofting Cornwall for six and four off successive deliveries. In between, Ahmadi offered another chance off Cornwall, gloving one down the leg side, but Dowrich couldn’t reach it in time.

The lofted shot that brought Ahmadi most of his runs also led to his dismissal, and proved to be the turning point of the day.

Thursday November 28, 2019

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

Gold for Money claim Lloyd Rollins High intensity battles expected as Rio Indoor Streetball continues tonight Birth Anniversary Dominoes title The National Gymnasium for the next round. Next on the depart the tournament Action in the Lloyd Rollins tournament on Sunday last at TSC.

Gold for Money emerged champions of the Lloyd Rollins Birth Anniversary dominoes competition which was contested on Sunday last at Transports Sports Club.

Led by John Chance and Clearance Whitehead with 16 and 14 games respectively, Gold

for Money chalked up 77 games to win the final ahead of Fresh Cash with 70 and TNT on 66 games. Leroy Edwards made 17 and Ewie Gordon scored 14 for the runner up side while Leroy Griffith marked 15 for TNT. Edwards was named man-of-the-match.

Letter to the Sports Editor Guyana played poorly in the Regional Super50 cricket Dear Sir, Let me state upfront, Guyana did not deserve to be in the semi-final of the Regional Super50 cricket tournament simply because they played very poor cricket, especially in their last match against the USA which they had to win to qualify for the semi-final. I watched most of their matches and one thing was clear our batting was not up to par for 50 over cricket. We were also found wanting in many other areas such as fielding and catching, and so I was not surprised that they were beaten by lowly USA. I would like to focus on their last match against the USA. Poor bowling especially

by Pestano, Reifer, Hemraj and Mohamed allowed USA to score 230 runs in their allotted 41 overs.

With the constant stoppage for rain throughout the match, commonsense will tell you that you have to go hard in the early overs in the event of Duckworth Lewis, yet people like Capt. Johnson and Reifer were batting like they have 50 overs to make the runs. After the last stoppage for rain and the revised target was 221 runs in 36 overs at an asking rate of 7.2 runs per over, they made no attempt to get up to the asking rate and by the time Foo came to the crease the asking rate was over 10 runs per over.

Foo tried his best scoring

41 runs off 22 balls, but got no support from the other end and Guyana lost by a mere 8 runs. People like Johnson,18 runs off 33 balls, Reifer 33 runs off 45 balls and Ramaal Lewis 10 runs off 15 balls could not get going, resulting in Guyana not making the semi final. Besides Foo, Bramble with 38 runs off 41 balls (who was needlessly run out by Barnwell) and Barnwell himself who made 54 runs off 47 balls were the only batsmen who showed intent that they wanted to win the game for Guyana.

I cannot end this missive by addressing the poor selection policy of Mr. Rayon Griffith and his fellow selectors with regards to selecting our 50 overs squad. Yes, we have done great in the Regional Four Day competition, but we cannot select the same players for 50 over cricket, which is a vastly different game from four day cricket.

Leon Johnson and Tagenarine Chanderpaul are not 50 over cricketers. They bat too slow and their strike

rate is poor.

The same goes for Kemol Savory. Although he made 70 odd runs in one match, he nearly caused Guyana to lose that match by his painstakingly slow batting.

How on earth was the youngster Ronaldo Ali Mohamed sent as a replacement for Beaton when we were trying to qualify for the semi final and we had far more seasoned and attacking one day cricketers in Guyana. Give me a break, we can do better than this. No wonder Guyana has not won the Regional 50 over tournament for 14 years now. We cannot do the same thing over and over every year and expect different results. When par score in 50 overs cricket is 300 plus runs, we are struggling to make 200 runs. This is a wakeup call to our selectors, please get it right next year. It is time for us to win the Regional 50 over tournament. It is long overdue.

Thank You. Yours Faithfully, Imtiaz Bacchus.

R. Sookraj and Son Outback...

From page 35 Ground East Canje presented the sponsorship cheque for the tournament to President of the BCA Krishnanand Raghunandan and Vice President Steve Leung at the Outback Adventures Resort.

Interested persons can make contact with President of the BCA Krisnanand Raghunandan on 667-0433, Vice President Steve Leung 644-9721, Kriskal Persaud 626-2386 or Professor Gomes at the UGBC on 610-3345 for further information.

on Mandela Avenue will be the battleground tonight when the fate of the several high profile community teams will be decided in the final group stage round of the inaugural Rio Indoor Streetball Championship.

The opening match will witness Broad Street against Ol Skool Ballers at 19:30hrs.

A win for Broad Street will seal their place in the knockout round, while a victory for Ol Skool Ballers would keep their chances alive of progressing as a third placed unit.

In the second match from 20:00hrs, undefeated Showstoppers from West Demerara face-off with Stabroek Ballers, another side who are desperately in need of a positive result.

The Avocado Ballers and Beterverwagting [BV] clash at 20:30hrs will be an intriguing affair as both teams are currently on three points. A win for either seals their place in the knockout stage.

Unbeaten Leopold Street will take the stage against Tiger Bay from 21:00hrs, with the latter searching for their first win in their bid to qualify

list will be Future Stars and Albouystown-A from 21:30hrs. This match mirrors the Avocado Ballers and BV encounter as a victory seals their berth to the elimination round.Finally at 22:00hrs tournament favourite Bent Street battles newcomer LA Ballers, who must win to stand a chance of progressing from the group stage.According to an official release from the tournament coordinators, Three Peat Promotions, “The final night is expected to be an epic and grueling showcase of talent and skills.

Many of the teams are still battling for a place in the elimination round so effectively tonight is the start of the knockout stage.

Effectively eight teams will

following the conclusion of the night, which adds to the drama of the tournament.

The teams have performed admirably and have certainly enthralled and entertained the fans who have supported the event since its inception. Fans can expect another wonderful night of action.” The correspondence further said, “We are also say thanks to the Guyana Police Force [GPF] who have performed splendidly in carrying out their duties to ensure that the incident has been incident free. We are expected another banner night heading into what promises to be a monumental knockout round as the teams battle for an historic first prize of $1,000,000.”

PAGE 32

Kaieteur News

Thursday November 28, 2019

Rahkeem Cornwall seven-for gives West Indies the edge on turning pitch Rahkeem Cornwall picked up a career-best 7 for 75 as Afghanistan squandered a sound start to be dismissed for 187 on the first day of the inaugural Test at the Ekana Cricket Stadium.

In response, West Indies lost two early wickets before John Campbell and Shamarh Brooks took them to 68 for 2 at stumps, 119 behind Afghanistan’s first-innings total. With the surface offering sufficient help to the spinners, run-scoring may become even more difficult as the game progresses.

On a turning track, the most difficult delivery to negotiate is the one that goes straight, and the newest entrants to Test cricket discovered it first-hand as Cornwall ran through them.

Three of his wickets came off balls that spun little, while one turned significantly less than what the batsman expected. Playing only in his second Test, Cornwall showed great control over line and length, especially during his first spell in which he sent down 21 overs either side of lunch.

Having been 84 for 1 at one stage, Afghanistan lost six wickets for 27 runs and slipped to 111 for 7.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Afsar Zazai and debutant Amir Hamza added 54 for the eighth

wicket before Cornwall struck again, dismissing Zazai off the last ball before tea. He then picked up the final wicket after the interval.

The collapse was triggered by Jomel Warrican, though. Having added 56 for the second wicket with Ihsanullah, Javed Ahmadi holed out to long-off off the left-arm spinner. After that, Cornwall was all over the opposition. In the last over before lunch, Ihsanullah tried to defend one from the offspinner but the ball went on straight and Shai Hope pouched the edge at first slip.

After the break, Rahmat Shah fell to a sharp offbreak with Jason Holder taking his second catch at leg slip. Nasir Jamal, the other debutant, looked to work one on the leg side but the ball went with the arm and Hope pouched it at first slip. Lack of turn and extra bounce did for Asghar Afghan, who edged a cut to wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich to complete Cornwall’s maiden five-for.

Holder got rid of Rashid Khan from the other end before Zazai and Hamza staged their brief recovery. The West Indies captain once again turned to Cornwall for the breakthrough and the offspinner didn’t disappoint.

Zazai shouldered arms to one he expected to spin down the

Primarily an offspinner, Rahkeem Cornwall is also a more than handy batsman. (Getty Images) leg side only to be trapped in front of the stumps for 32.

Hamza and Yamin Ahmadzai added 22 for the ninth wicket before the last two wickets fell on the same score. Afghanistan’s innings ended 30 minutes into the final session, and lasted 68.3 overs in all.

Earlier, it had seemed like a mistake from Holder when he opted to bowl, citing moisture in the pitch, on a hazy morning in Lucknow. While a couple of deliveries did seam and bounce - especially from the captain himself - there was hardly any venom in them to trouble the Afghanistan

DMW hockey festival launched - 5 Trinidadian teams included The 15th edition of the annual Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey festival was launched yesterday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) with five teams from the twin island republic of Trinidad &Tobago being confirmed.

The tournament, which hit off last evening, will go until Sunday evening at the same venue.

During the launch, Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) President Philip Fernandes recounted the years of the tournament, saying, “I thought it was worth revisiting the roots of the tournament because I think its important.”

He paid homage to veteran commentator Joseph Reds Pierriea who gave the GHB president the idea, adding, “He basically brought the inspiration and belief that we could do this thing successfully.”

The idea of a tournament for cash prizes that made teams from across the region was unheard of in hockey at that time Fernandes said, and they had to thank Reds for

that as well as the donation of the first set of prize monies in 2002.

Along with Reds, he thanked the title sponsors Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) under the Diamond Mineral Water brand for being on board since day one as well as Ansa McAl who has been on board in the form of Carib and STAG beers and now Lucozade brand.

On behalf of the title sponsors, Brand Executive Larry Wills contended that, “The tournament represents 16 great years for Diamond Mineral Water. We continue to show the support that is necessary for the development of sport in Guyana.

There is no letting up from us at this moment. We want to see our sportsmen and women develop.”

Treiston Joseph, Corporate Communications Officer of Ansa McAl, was also on hand for the launch added, “ANSA it’s an integral part of the hockey development in Guyana. We wish all the teams local and foreign a great success.”

The newest partner in the

Hockey Family ExxonMobil through their representative Nicholas Yearwood told the gathering, “We are very committed to being a good community partners to sports. We are going to continue evaluating opportunities for partnerships not only in hockey but other discipline.”

Last years finalists Queens Park return alongside the Trinidad and Tobago Defense Force in the mens class with George United (players from across different clubs in Trinidad), expected to compete in the females.

Two times defending champions Queens Park veterans also return as well as three time champions Fatima will make a return after being absent last year.

Apart from the teams, the GHB has also invited officials from Trinidad to assist in the officiating of the games.

The winners of the Mens and Womens championships will take home $1000USD each, while the runners up will pocket $500USD. The Veterans winner will also take home USD$500.

openers.

Having scored 21 and 87 on his Test debut against Bangladesh, Ibrahim Zadran once again showed the temperament of a proper Test opener. He was decisive in his footwork, whether defending on the front foot or back, or even while leaving balls outside off. And when the West Indies seamers pitched the ball up in search of movement, he drove them through the covers.

With West Indies playing just two seamers, Holder was forced to bring Cornwall on as early as the ninth over, and the offspinner found turn straightaway with the red Kookaburra. In his second over, he got Javed Ahmadi to inside-edge one but the ball hit the pad on its way and went past wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich.

He wasn’t to be denied for long, though. Ibrahim tried to sweep a sharp offbreak hard and was caught at leg slip, with Holder diving onehanded to his left. The batsman didn’t look happy with the decision and it wasn’t conclusive from replays either if there was any bat or glove involved.Ahmadi and (Continued on page 32)

Clippers manhandle Mavs for 6th straight win Kawhi Leonard scored 28 points, and Paul George added 17 of his 26 points in the first quarter as the Los Angeles Clippers extended their winning streak to six games with a 11499 victory over the host Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday.

George and Leonard were playing together in a road game for the first time, and they were on the court as teammates for just the fourth time overall.

Luka Doncic had 22 points and eight rebounds, and Kristaps Porzingis added 15 points and 10 boards for the Mavericks, who saw their five-game winning streak come to an end. Dallas lost a home game for the first time since Nov. 8.

The Clippers defense, led by guard Patrick (Continued on page 26)

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) dribbles the ball in the second half against the LA Clippers at Staples Center. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports NBAHeadshots)

Kaieteur News

Saturday November 09, 2019

PAGE 33

Balram Shane annual memorial Volleyball tournament touted a great Success PMTC retained senior competition with GTCPM emerging as junior winners

T

he seventh edition of the Annual Balram Shane senior Inter Club Volleyball Competition organised by the Berbice Volleyball Association was held on Sunday last at the Albion Community Centre Hard Court.

Six teams participated in the days competition which saw play in both the senior and junior categories.

There were four senior teams and two in the junior category. The four senior teams were Port Mourant Training center (PMTC), No. 52 Survivors, Black Bush and Rollers of New Amsterdam. The junior teams were Rollers and Guysuco Training center Port Mourant (GTCPM).

The senior teams were first involved in a round robin playoff with the two

Sponsor Deonarine Balram and President of the Guyana Volleyball Federation Levi Nedd stoops in front row among the players in the competition. top teams being Rollers and PMTC. They then contested the final with defending champions PMTC winning 2-0, the scores were 25-21,

Sponsor Deonarine Balram pose with the winning PMTC team as they show off their silverware after the competition.

Abrams Zuil Secondary overcome Open females XI The Young Guns Sports Club developmental programme for Under 15 male and all age female cricketers culminated on Sunday last with a 20-over two innings game which saw Abrams Zuil Secondary U15 male team getting the better of the Open female XI by seven wickets at the New Opportunity Corps ground on the Essequibo Coast.

Batting first the Open female XI managed 68 all out. Analesia D’Aguiar scored 24 with three fours while Kumarie Persaud made 17. Benny Persaud grabbed 4 for 11.

Abrams Zuil Secondary responded with 69; Benny Persaud made 30 with four fours and Royden Morris 14.

Nathalie Chaitram claimed 3

Analesia D’Aguiar for 9. Batting second time, the Open female XI made 71; Analesia D’Aguiar led with 32 which included three

fours and one six.

Set 71 to win, Abrams Zuil Secondary reached their target for the loss of four wickets, Kemual Henry scored 19 not out with one four and one six while Ramesh Seeram made 13 not out. D’Aguiar, Divine Ross and Kumarie Persaud had one wicket each.

Abrams Zuil Secondary received a trophy donated

by Patrick Rooplall. Benny Persaud and Analesia D’Aguiar were given trophies for their performances. The programme was organized

by Coach Forbes Daniels and Debra Daniels. They have expressed gratitude to the staff of NOC for their support.

25-16.

They took away the coveted Balram Shane trophy and $20,000 while Rollers received the second place trophy and $10,000.

No52 Survivors received the third place trophy and $5,000.

The junior category saw GTCPM defeating Rollers 20, the results being 25-16 and 25- 15. They took home $10,000 for the win with Rollers collected $ 5,000 for placing second.

In his comments,

sponsor Deonarine Balram t h a n k e d t h e B VA f o r organising the competition and congratulated the winners. He also thanked the teams that participated and expressed his intention to abort the tournament.

H o w e v e r, a f t e r s o m e persuasion it was decided that the Albion Community Centre along with other favourable relatives and well-wishers will continue the activity. Mr. Balram will still inject his input.

He also expressed thanks

to all who supported the venture over the years in making it the success it has been so far.

The Balram Shane cricket and volleyball competition is played annually. It is sponsored by Rose Hall Town Business man Deonarine Balram of the Balram Shane General Store. In Memory of his father Balram Shane The cricket competition has been played for over 20 years.

Albion won for the 15th time this year.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 34

Thursday November 28, 2019

After good Super50 with the bat Barnwell looks ahead to a possible 4-day selection

By Sean Devers in Trinidad At 32, Christopher Barnwell seems more mentally settled, more responsible, more confident and talks about God and family.

His 351 runs scored in this years Regional Super50 makes him the sixth highest run-scorer in the tournament.

His aggregate included three fifties with a highest score of 89, an average of 43.87 and a strike rate of 99.71.

A very good, if not outstanding performance for the Guyana Jaguars, who failed to qualify for todays semi-finals which sees West Indies Emerging Players opposing Barbados at the Queens Park Oval.

The DCC right-handed batting All-rounder spoke about his performance in this tournament in which he was the leading run-scorer for his team.

“I’m not satisfied with the performance, because I could have scored a lot more runs. I was guilty of playing a few rash shots. But I will still give thanks for the little God bless me with in the tournament,” said Barnwell, whose highest score in this format is an unbeaten 99 scored last year.

“Yea I am disappointed not getting the century, but at the same time nothing

happens before its time, so I just have to trust the process,” said Barnwell, who has 10 fifties and 30 wickets from 59 games in 50-overs cricket.

He revealed that his main goal was to perform and help his team to win the tournament.

With the knowledge that leaders Red Force had beaten West Indies Emerging Players by 10 wickets, the Jaguars just had to beat last placed USA to clinch the last semi-final spot but in the end the USA secured an eight-run win to sink Guyanas hopes of winning its first 50-over title since 2005.

Speaking about that mustwin game, Barnwell said, “A few things went wrong in the bowling department. We didnt stick to our strength and in the batting department, our set batters kept getting out after we got a decent start…… plus we did not play that last over too well,” said Barnwell.

Barnwell feels Guyana could do better in the 50-overs format if the players demonstrate a more positive approach. “We have to be a bit sharper in the field, we also need to be more mentally tough, have to be hungry to win,” opined Barnwell, who has also played six T20 Internationals for the West Indies between April 2011

Brian Tiwari birthday tournament on Sunday shifted to Uitvlugt ground Play in the Brian Tiwari birth anniversary 9-a-side I n t e r - Wa r d f o o t b a l l Tournament, which is set to conclude on Sunday, has been shifted to the Uitvlugt ground due to moves made by the sponsor and birthday boy himself.Originally fixed for the Den Amstel Community Centre ground starting 4:00pm, the start time remains the same, but the venue is the Uitvlugt ground. Tiwari had made moves to have the event staged there and secured the services of the venue for the final day.The competition is set to be explosive with the home teams gunning to keep the prize money on the Westside.The tournament has been organized by former national coach Lennox Arthur and its down to the final 12 teams following action last weekend. Seven of those teams come from the West Demerara area and they are set to represent well.

Two

Georgetown and one each from East Bank and the Venezuela lads are all set to play to get into the money round of the tournament in honour of the businessman.

The first prize is $200,000 and the Bradley Gabriel trophy, while second, third and fourth place finishers will take home $100,000 and the Kane Gabriel trophy, $60,000 and $40,000 respectively.The winners of the opening salvo of games starting at 4:00pm on Sunday will advance to the respective quarters and semis then the final and third place playoff.

Sundays fixtures are as follows: Sunday December 1 Wales vs. Soesdyke Gaza vs. Plaisance Pouderoyen vs. Hurry Ate Den Amstel Kings vs.

Timehri Den Amstel vs. Crane West Side Spartans vs.

Casa Coima

and July 2013.

When asked about his limited bowling opportunities in this tournament, Barnwell, who has three five-wicket hauls in First-Class cricket, explained that due to the make-up of the team there were many bowling options so there was no need for him to bowl much.

Often referred to as a local cricket bullyBarnwell has been guilty of not reproducing his domestic form at the Regional level in the early part of his career. So what has

changed? “I have a more relaxed mind……I’m more focus. For the past two seasons I have change my mind-set, I just want to be positive,” disclosed Barnwell, who has a century and 10 fifties from his 53 First-Class games.

Barnwell, who turns 33 on January 6, is the son of former National Footballer Chris Barnwell and nephew of former Guyana Footballer Dion Barnwell and is a very good Footballer himself.

(Continued on page 29)

Chris Barnwell’s 351 runs were the most for the Jaguars & the 6th highest in the Tournament.

Thursday November 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 35

28th Clinton Sammy Classic T&T R. Sookraj and Son Outback Adventure Space Gym’s Lindon Muscle Burnett sponsors Berbice Chess Association event The Berbice Chess cops Middleweight top spot Association (BCA) has Known as one of the biggest shows in the Twin Island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Guyanese Lindon Burnett popularly known as Muscle flexed his way to the first place in the middleweight category at the 28th Clinton Sammy Classic held at the Thick Village Community Centre, Siparia.

The Space Gym Instructor who also received substantial sponsorship from his employer, turned heads as well as swayed the judges pens in his direction as he was the better athlete of the three competitors in his category.The former Mr. Guyana said that he had taken an eight year hiatus from the competitive stage and only came back for the Stage of Champions Show, last month where he placed 2nd in the middleweight class.He said he had just one month to prepare for the T&T assignment and was happy with his showing.

Among the prizes that

Lindon Muscle Burnett

Burnett won was a getaway weekend for two at the Cocoanna Beach House in Mayaro but was unable to take it up due to him having to travel back home.The annual event is organised by, Always give God the Glory Muscle and Fitness Gym and

sanctioned by the T&T Body B u i l d i n g Federation.Categories i n c l u d e d G y m S h o w, Lightweight, Middleweight Heavyweight, Novice, Miss Figure, Classic Physique, B e a c h B o d y a n d M r.

Physique.

secured sponsorship for another Open Chess competition this Sunday 1st December in Berbice. The Association will be staging the R. Sookraj and Sons Outback Adventures Open Rapid Chess competition.

The one day tournament which will be played at the University Of Guyana, Berbice Campus, (UGBC), Tain Corentyne, Berbice and is expected to see all the top Chess players in the country participating.

The competition will be played for seven rounds using the Swiss System format with each player being allotted 20 minutes per game. Registration begins at 09:00 hrs with play set to commence at 10:00hrs.

Cash, trophies and other incentives will be presented to the top players all compliments of the R. Sookraj and Sons Outback Adventure Tourist Resort.

The R. Sookraj and Sons General Stores in New

President of the Berbice Chess Association Krishnanand Raghunandan (centre) receives the sponsorship cheque from Harvendra Soojraj Operations Manager of R Sookraj and Sons Outback Adventures, while (at left) Steve Leung, Vice President of the BCA looks on.

Amsterdam and its Outback Adventure Resort in Betsy Ground, East Canje are prominent fixtures in Berbice.

The recently opened Outback Adventures Resort has a swimming pool that caters for adults and kids.

The resort offers a number of activities including swimming classes, catering services and caters for both

adults and children. The Sookraj Business conglomerate is known for their benevolence in a wide cross section of activities.

The sponsorship of the Chess Competition is just a continuation of such largess.

Yesterday Harvedra Sookraj Operations Manager of the R. Sookraj and Sons Outback Adventure of Betsy (Continued on page 31 )

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Rahkeem Cornwall seven-for gives West Indies the edge on turning pitch

Rahkeem Cornwall celebrates a wicket © AFP

From left, Tricia Fiedtkou, Exxon’s Nick Yearwood, Treiston Joseph, Phillip Fernandes, Larry Wills, Devin Munroe at the head table during yesterday’s launch.

DMW hockey festival launched - 5 Trinidadian teams included Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8452, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.