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Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

A BOLDFACE OBJECTION On Tuesday, General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party, Clement Rohee, announced his party’s objection to the employment of Richard Francois as Public Relations Officer of the Guyana Elections Commission. The ground of the objection was that Francois was politically aligned to one of the opposition parties. Rohee then said that someone performing the duties of Public Relations Officer of the Guyana Elections Commission should be apolitical. Indeed, in colonial Guyana anyone holding public office was not allowed to publicly display any political opinion or affiliation. One could understand that since the public servant was there to serve the entire population regardless of the political affiliation of the person in need of service. A small country like Guyana where everyone knew the other, where people literally grew up side by side it was difficult to insist that the public servant was apolitical. However, there were strict guidelines. Public servants could not be seen on a political platform. Neither could they be seen wearing the political garb of one party or another. This was extended to the media. No reporter worth his salt would be found campaigning for any political party. As his job dictated, he was expected to be neutral. One first saw the politicization of the public service in the wake of the October 5, 1992 elections. Perhaps this had been the case but the various appointees were not exposed to public scrutiny because the political party in power at the time, the People’s National Congress, was there for almost forever so the public servant was not asked about his political loyalty. When the PPP came to office, President Cheddi Jagan made it known that he did not respect what was considered the independence of the public service. He swept the Permanent Secretaries from their desks and put in place his own people. This prompted a flood of questions and the response from Dr. Jagan that when a new American President enters office certain people knowingly resign to give the new President a clean slate. What Dr. Jagan did not recognize was that the public servant did not resign. The people who resigned were the people specially appointed by the President to certain positions. For example the Secretary of State was one of those. It took a fierce protest to stop Dr. Jagan from appointing a politician as Head of the Presidential Secretariat. For the PPP to now talk about apolitical people being appointed to certain positions is to make a mockery of the independence of the public service. Still fresh in the memory was the delay by the government to appoint Justice James Bovell-Drakes as a judge. Indeed, as a young man he was a leader of the youth arm of the then ruling People’s National Congress. It took a protest by the prominent lawyers and the pursuit legal action to force the appointment. At the same time people who were sympathetic to the ruling party were appointed unhesitatingly. So for the PPP to object to a man it accuses of being politically affiliated is to make a mockery of the party’s adherence to the role of the independence of the public service. It has not escaped notice that the People’s Progressive Party seems to have its radar locked on the Guyana Elections Commission. What we find interesting is that the ruling party cannot identify the political party to which this individual is affiliated. This individual, Richard Francois, is qualified for the job. Up until recently, he had worked as a consultant with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Education. He would have produced advertisements for the Alliance For Change three years ago, and a voter education campaign programme that was used by A Partnership for National Unity. Surely his political affiliation would be

Thursday October 09, 2014

Letters... Where your views make the news

Mr. Nandlall has taken the administration of justice to its nadir DEAR EDITOR, It was as predictable as night follows day that Mr. Anil Nandlall’s Office of the Attorney General and the Ministry of Legal Affairs would justify the four-year delay in bringing the Judicial Review Act into operation with the excuse that this was dependent on the making of Rules of Court. (K/N Oct 8, 2014: A little learning can be a dangerous thing). It was even predictable that Mr. Nandlall would shelter under the coattails of his Permanent Secretary, Ms. Indira Anandjit, from which to throw pebbles at me. This is not unlike what he did in the case of the ceremony for the announcement of the launch of the bungled Laws of Guyana by him and his Ministry for which he craves compliments. Mr. Nandlall’s character makes him incapable of any public discussion without resorting to ad hominem comments and attacks, however misguided or puerile. On this occasion, through his employee and alter ego, he again demonstrates that trait, suggesting that I may have read but not understood the provision of the Judicial Review Act regarding applications thereunder. He could not bring himself to think that in obtaining information for my letter on the four-year failure by the Ramson/Nandlall team, I

would have informed myself of the facts regarding that Act and the Rules. I set him up, expecting he would return with the same inanity and misinformation he gave the Director of Public Prosecutions in April 2012 when he publicised the opinion on an appeal by Henry Greene. He did not disappoint. Mr. Nandlall habitually looks for scapegoats to explain his increasingly exposed incompetence, shortcomings and failures. On more than one occasion he has sought to blame the d e l a y f o r t h e operationalising of the Judicial Review Act on the Rules Committee chaired by Chancellor (ag.), Mr. Carl Singh. It seems that neither Mr. Nandlall nor his alter ego is aware that those Rules duly signed by the members of the Rules Committee were laid in the National Assembly on November 18, 2010 as High Court Rules 2010 – No. 4 of 2010. In the National Assembly, of which Mr. Nandlall was a member, the Rules were described as “flawless” by Mr. Ramson, the then Attorney General. Having been laid in the National Assembly, those Rules were ready to become operational on the date of publication in the Gazette, or some later date provided. Mr. Nandlall as Minister of Legal A ff a i r s h a s e x e c u t i v e responsibility for the administration of justice and

it is in him, and him alone, vested the power and the duty to bring the Judicial Review Act into operation. To simply and conveniently blame others from a position of ignorance only emphasises how craven his cowardice is. Under the High Court Act, the Attorney General, or his appointee, is a member of the Rules Committee, which he appears not to know! I must ask, is Nandlall for real? Even if the Rules were still in draft as Nandlall believes, he compounded his poor knowledge by attempting to hoodwink the public into believing that the Judicial Review Act can only be brought into force when the entire body of new Rules of Court is promulgated. And if his alter ego knew a little bit more than Mr. Nandlall does about administration, she would have told him that all that is required is for the justice administration to lift from the New Rules the relevant Part 47, comprising three pages of twelve paragraphs, and publish that Part separately. That is not unusual. There are several recent precedents for the making of subsidiary rules or legislation for specific legal purposes including: 1. The Rules establishing the Commercial Court and setting out the procedures for the operation of that Court; 2. The Practice Direction

Rule establishing the Constitutional Division of the High Court; and 3. The Family (Proceedings and Procedures) Rules 2012 comprising 130 pages. Parenthetically, Mr. Nandlall or his alter ego may wish to explain honestly why more than two years after the publication of the Family (Proceedings and Procedures) Rules, and even longer after the completion of the building to house the Family Court, that Court has still not been established. It is not that Nandlall thinks it is easier to bring up Rules of 130 pages than it is of Rules of three pages: it is that he is afraid to bring the Judicial Review Act of 2010 into being because it would facilitate legal challenges to the Executive’s excesses and breaches of administrative law. It would give to the High Court the power to grant aggrieved citizens injunctions and declarations more easily than are available under the current Rules. Finally, in my view Mr. Nandlall has taken the administration of justice to its nadir, demonstrating all at one time cowardice, ignorance and dishonesty. I truly hope for the sake of this country that it does not get worse, although with Mr. Nandlall and Anandjit I am not confident. Christopher Ram

It is gutter journalism for such old matters to be recast as recent statements DEAR EDITOR, I noted a very interesting development in Kaieteur News of Saturday October 04, 2014. In that edition an article, authored by a Kaieteur News reporter captioned, “Parliamentary contributions of the Opposition… Granger, other APNU MPs ‘ineffective’ in the National Assembly – Chris Ram – that is an unfair and misguided criticism – says Granger” was published. On reading the article I came to the conclusion that Mr Granger was, I dare say, tricked into responding to

something which he thought was a recent criticism, but which in fact was posted on Ram’s website about four months ago. I recalled when Ram’s criticism was first posted it appeared in the local press and Mr Granger had given a very passionate response, stating in no uncertain terms his disagreement with the observation. Editor, I believe you have a responsibility to your readers to ensure that when they receive information through your paper that its context is clear and not misleading.

unclear. He won from among three other applicants. One of them is a known PPP sympathizer, and the other is closely affiliated to an individual who is in the bosom of the ruling party. One could only wonder if either had been appointed if there would have been this objection.

While it could be argued that a reporter is within his/her right to ask a question on a matter raised some time in the past, it is not proper for the reporter not to state that the information contained in the question is not of recent vintage. hile it could be argued that a reporter is within his/her right to ask a question on a matter raised some time in the past, it is not proper for the reporter not to state that the information contained in the question is not of recent vintage. Further, I also believe that since Kaieteur News had carried Granger’s earlier response, it was incumbent on the Editor of the paper (a widely respected person with tremendous experience in the field of journalism) to

have corrected the r e p o r t e r ’s d e l i b e r a t e misrepresentation of information when the story was being put together for public consumption. It is nothing but gutter journalism for matters as old as this one to be recast as a recent statement by Ram or any other writer, particularly when the intention is to hold the responder to a question up to public ridicule. Mr Granger is well advised to be more alert to these nuances in the present political atmosphere and demonstrate when he is being interviewed that he is the person in charge and not the reporter, whose only motivation in these situations is the desire to score big whenever the (Continued on page 24)

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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news

Stricter guidelines needed to Could Mr. Bisram kindly improve the education system clarify his assertion? DEAR EDITOR, During the tabling of the 2014 Budget in Parliament, the Ministry of Education was allocated the largest share of any ministry, to pay teachers’ salaries and improve the system. Over the years many individuals, especially parents have argued that Guyana has not been receiving a fair return on investments made in education. This school of thought has gained traction in many circles, especially with the high failure rate of the hard sciences at the CXC exams over the years. It is estimated that more than 65 per cent of the country’s primary and secondary schools are failing in their education delivery to students. Also emerging from this estimate is a most disturbing fact which is threatening to become a trend. In many of the nation’s underperforming schools there is a lack of effective and transformational leadership. This comes as no surprise, however, especially since those schools have the largest number of poor students and leadership appointed by the PPP, and not based on merit. Most educators would agree that effective leadership is among the most critical

characteristics of effective schools. Effective leadership requires qualities such as having shared vision and goals, as well as promoting teamwork and collegiality. In many of our schools there is hardly any teamwork. A necessary culture of collegiality is all but nonexistent due to the petty and discriminatory politics brought into the education system. The ethos and culture of many of our schools is one of discord, resentment and disunity. The weak management systems in place in many schools have resulted in many irregularities going unchecked. It bears thought that, even with best training from the Teachers’ College, some individuals are just not cut out to be principals, yet many are appointed because of party contacts or who they know at Freedom House. Where a principal has lost the moral authority and respect of his/her staff, it is impossible for that principal to motivate and inspire his/ her staff. As a result there is bound to be a trickle-down effect. The partisan manner in which the minority PPP regime continues to appoint members to school boards adds to the chaos and ill-will

within the education system. The continuation of this practice does not benefit the children, the schools involved, or the society. This contributes greatly to the failing status in which many schools now find themselves. In all of our underperforming schools there are PPP-appointed school boards which are also underperforming. In many instances these school boards are just an extension of the petty politics practiced by the PPP to rubber stamp the party’s decisions. This has been going on for years in many schools and there seems to be no end in sight to this ridiculous practice. The Education Ministry urgently needs to audit the composition of all school boards, and where there are issues regarding conflict of interests and incompetence of board members, this must be remedied with immediate effect. But the Ministry has made no attempt to streamline the composition of boards. The need for more accountability and transparency within the education system is most glaring and must be addressed promptly in order to improve the delivery of outcome to students. Also, there is a lack of Continued on page 24

This is where Guyana’s true potential resides DEAR EDITOR, The only people who can help “fix” this country of ours are the ones who genuinely believe it can be fixed. Such people are few as against the majority who feel staying away from it or leaving is the best option. It depends on collective thinking and action. Such thinking and actions are deemed as “going against the grain “meaning others, even though they may agree on such thinking and action(s) therefrom, would be affected directly or indirectly. Those who chose the “diasporic” route are in a system where personal development is the ideal, no argument there...But they can’t say that those who stayed are wrong in doing so. I have come to the conclusion that Guyanese, wherever they are, still TRULY believe in their hearts that Guyana is HOME. They truly believe that Guyana can and will achieve its TRUE potential. In other words they TRULY believe

that should the “perfect circumstances” come along there will be an avalanche of returnees from everywhere. THAT is the “collective thinking” I referred to earlier. However for those “perfect circumstances” to arise we would have to cast aside race, religion, suspicion and superstition, which is what GHK Lall referred to, as to why

they SHOULD NOT return to the land of their birth. Mr. Lall’s views should be considered as worthwhile, but we can’t help thinking, collectively (diasporic and homegrown) that there is a way. We already have the collective thinking, let’s take it from there. P. Harris

DEAR EDITOR, Please permit to seek some clarification from Mr. Vishnu Bisram of a section of his letter of October 2, in KN. He wrote “As I stated four decades ago and repeated umpteenth times since then, it was wrong for Burnham and the PNC to persecute Indians, Amerindians, Portuguese (driving them out of Guyana) and others. It cannot be right now for any group to dominate another group, even if elected in free and fair elections.” Persecution connotes an active program with malice in mind. I have the following questions for Mr. Bisram. At this time when there is much discussion about what kind of constitution we should have, it is important that we have our history straight. As a social scientist who gives us the results of his polls from time to time, he would be aware of the need for someone at his level to always base his contentions upon fact and evidence. So I ask: 1. How did he come to the conclusion that the PNC persecuted the groups he listed? 2. By “and others” did he mean African Guyanese? I suspect not, as this would make somewhat a nonsense of his contention. 3. Were there not significant African Guyanese who were also “persecuted”? 4. Since emigration of an ethnic group from a country may or may not be as a result of an active program, how did he know which

emigrants left as a result of feeling victimised and which left for other reasons? 5. Did he conduct surveys? 6. Did he check the other ethnic groups to determine whether they felt similarly persecuted? The clear implication is that the PPP (the only freely elected party I know in power in Guyana) is persecuting some group - presumably Africans. My questions to him are: 1. What is the evidence of this persecution? 2. Are Mr. Glenn Lall and Mr. Anand Goolsarran African Guyanese? 3. How does Mr. Bisram distinguish between the natural result of each party providing jobs for its members first in a situation where the vast majority of its members are of one particular ethnic group and ethnic exclusion of the nonmembers? (This phenomenon was quite visible under the PNC as it is visible now under the PPP. Some would say there is no comparison. However, we are still awaiting the ruling of the court on the Freddie Kissoon vs. Jagdeo case to pronounce on this. Other than this we have only perceptions).

4. Is Mr. Bisram aware that in the rest of the Caribbean the situation is the same, except that we cannot tell who is not in power by the length of hair? One Caribbean politician (whose name I cannot recall) put it this way: “I know how it is. When your party is out of power you suck salt”. This was a politician from a small island in the Caribbean, not Guyana or Trinidad. Two African Guyanese, who I know left because they found Guyana unbearable under the PNC, come readily to mind. The first is Hubert Williams of “Rodney Man of the Future” fame, who has recently written an informative article on the diaspora. The second is the owner of Phillips Drug store in the ‘80s. I trust that Mr. Bisram understands that I am asking these questions in the interest of holding those who represent themselves to us as intellectuals, analysts, and social scientists to a higher standard than the ordinary man who simply repeats what he thinks he heard or thought he saw or learnt from his grandmother, or heard from his self-serving politician, or thinks that his particular experience is everyone else’s. Frederick W. A. Collins

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US-based Trini caught on way to Isis Trinidad Guardian Illinois-based teenager Mohammed Hamzah Khan, whom US authorities nabbed last Saturday allegedly seeking to join Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (Isis) militants, was born in T&T, Government has confirmed. National Security Minister Gary Griffith confirmed the situation after Khan, 19, was arrested by Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) counterterrorism agents at the O’Hare International Airport, Chicago. Griffith also announced moves towards formation of a local counter-terrorism unit to deal with the situation locally, as he confirmed that several T&T nationals have “been lured” away from T&T to fight with the Middle East militants over the last three years. Khan is accused of attempting to provide aid to Isis, the US Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois confirmed. Isis, also called Isil, is moving on the Syrian town of Kobane, a battle also involving a 55-nation international coalition, including US and UK forces. US authorities stated that Khan, of Bolingbrook, was attempting to join Isis. It was noted he was attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organisation and that carried a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a (US) $250,000 fine. The US Justice Department reports were that Khan had been about to board a flight to Turkey, via Vienna, with Syria as his ultimate destination. Turkey is described as a common point for foreign fighters seeking to link with Isis. Khan intended to work for Isis either in combat or aid assistance. Khan, who had attended an Islamic academy in his neighbourhood, was said to have had notebooks with drawings of the Isis logo. One had stated: “We are the Lions of War.” He also indicated he wanted to go to the Syrian border and had written a three-page letter expressing disgust with western society, paying US taxes and bringing up his children in the US. He left information for his family, inviting them to join him in the “Islamic state”. US news reports showed a picture of a couple said to be Khan’s parents. US senate candidate Mike MacFadden on Monday urged that Khan’s passport be revoked. Tuesday, Griffith credited speedy confirmation of

- teen faces 15 years in jail

The parents of Trinidadian-born Mohammed Hamzah Khan leave the Dirksen federal building, Chicago. Photo courtesy The Daily Mail. Khan’s birthplace to tighter relations with international allies, which T&T has obtained as a result of Government’s co-sponsoring of the United Nations resolution on terrorism. Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar agreed on cosponsorship last week during a UN meeting. “Contrary to what the Opposition Leader believes, not signing this resolution would not isolate T&T from terrorist activity. This is a global plague and the only way to fight it is to stand resolute with partners,” Griffith said. While Khan was born in T&T, Griffith said further information was being sought on his life here. He said Government was also liaising with US authorities on the issue. Government’s information is that Isis has a 10,000-strong force of foreign fighters globally, he said. “There are known as Foreign Terrorist

Fighters (FTS) and there are several persons of T&T affiliation,” he confirmed. While he could not confirm the status of two men pictured on yesterday’s T&T Guardian said to be T&T nationals already with Isil, he said there was information about other nationals who have gone to Syria. “As a result we have been monitoring people of interest, as well as persons who are sympathisers and who may be aiding and abetting those who are going there. “There are several different groups we are looking at and we are looking at the formation of a counterterrorism unit to deal especially with these matters,” he added. Griffith also noted the formation of the Special Operations Group recently and the acquisition of armoured vehicles which, he said, were geared to dealing with issues stemming from terrorist activities.

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DECADENCE The media are the eyes and ears of the people. The people see their world through the media. It is the media that reports on matters of public interest. It is the media to whom the people turn for information about what is taking place in Guyana. Without the media the people would be unable to know what is taking place. A free media is vitally important. The free media is not biased. It brings all sides of a story. It searches only for the truth and brings all sides of an issue to the public. Without knowing all sides of an issue, the people would be uninformed and misled. They will make the wrong choices

because they are not being given the good and the bad, the right and wrong about an issue. The media is the watchdog of society. It helps expose wrongs. If it did not do this, then society would disintegrate because those who wish to do wrong would have no fear of exposure. The media exposes wrongdoings and in so doing, acts as a watchdog against excesses such as wrongdoing and corruption. It is precisely because the media exposes wrongdoing that it is exposed to victimization. When the media exposes certain types of wrongs, there are those who wish to muzzle it because

they do not want their wrongdoing to be exposed. Muzzling the media is an attempt to deny the people the information to which they are entitled. It is thus a denial of their right to receive information. In other words, it is a denial of freedom of expression. If there can be attempts to muzzle the media by powerful persons within a country and if these persons succeed in muzzling the media, then no one is safe. If the media, the watchdog of society can be muzzled then what is going to become of the fate of other important institutions? How is it, Guyanese are going to be sure that the

same pressures that are being brought to bear on Kaieteur News are not going to be unleashed on the Judiciary? What is to prevent the authorities from loosing the pit bulls within our society on the Judiciary? How certain are we that after the authorities having finished with the Kaieteur News they are not going to go after those Judges whom they may not be comfortable with? This possibility illustrates the principle best enunciated by the maxim that a threat to the freedom of any individual is a threat to the freedom of each individual. If one of us is threatened by the abuse of power, then all of us are threatened.

Man found floating in canal The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a West Berbice farmer whose body was found floating in a canal at Abary, West Coast Berbice. Vickram Ramnarine, called 'Boy' ,29, of Lot 56 Bennett Dam, Rosginol, West Bank Berbice was found floating in a canal by his workers, who had turned up at his cattle ranch to commence renovation work to some of the structures there. The workers immediately alerted the man's relatives and the police who responded promptly. Ramnarine was

subsequently fished out of the water, where it was observed that his face was swollen. He was rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His relatives could not say what caused his death, but they are suspicious since his face was swollen. The distressed family while urging to police to conduct a thorough investigation are however prepared to await the outcome of a post mortem examination. The man's father, Sasenarine Ramnarine, took ill when he learnt of his son's

sudden death and had to be rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital. Later, he said that Vickram's sudden demise has puzzled the entire family. He stated that his son was healthy and the last time he spoke with him was around 20:30 hrs on Monday evening and he reported that all was well. The distraught man stated that his son would usually be alone at the ranch which is located about six miles from home. They cannot say exactly what happened since no one else was expected to be

Dem boys seh ...

When you dig hole, you does fall in Dem boys hear that de same people who seh that dem deh in this thing together planning a lot of things fuh people. But there is an old saying, “When you dig hole fuh you mattie, you first does fall in.” Some people got another saying. “When you dig one hole fuh you mattie you must dig two fuh youself.” When dem boys use to warn people that Jagdeo and he friends was tekking over all of Guyana, nobody didn’t pay attention. Some people think was joke. Now dem wake up and realize that de man and he friends own half of Guyana, dem decide fuh tek things serious and protect de other half before de man and he friends run wid all. Dem boys seh that Jagdeo and he friends serious. Dem would stop at nutten fuh protect wha dem tek and wha else dem plan fuh tek.

Jagdeo stand up big and bold Wednesday and talk fuh everybody to hear. De man seh that if there is a plot against de owner of de Waterfalls paper, don’t ask if he inside. He deh inside. That is no secret fuh dem boys. Dem know that h e d e h i n a l l d e d u t t y, nasty and scampish deals in de country. Dem boys seh that Guyana got a m e s s a g e fuh he and he kavakamites. De day will come when everybody gun rejoice and tun back and pray fuh dem. Luncheon, who seh that he does follow de party blind, gun can’t save dem. Up to yesterday he defending de indefensible. He talk bout government people discussing email and hacking. He seh that de government frighten. E-mail is not like a letter. When you press send, it ain’t got no end. Dem boys glad

because dem ketch a set of email and got it as undeniable proof of their nasty deeds. Is not like a letter that you write wid a pen pun a piece of paper that you can tear up; or a book wha you write down you deeds that you can set afire. Email is a thing even if you delete it, Uncle Sam can retrieve it. Even if you throw de computer in de middle of de Atlantic Ocean dem got people who gun find a solution. If you burn de computer wid de hard drive, de email is still alive. Dem boys got a message fuh all of dem, you can run and hide, even in de Santa complex, but that can’t get rid of de email and dem other nastiness. Dem things dangling in de air and dem boys got access. Talk half and watch how dem gun fall in de hole wha dem dig.

there. It is unclear whether the younger Ramnarine fell into the canal. His son who has been working on the family ranch for approximately four months is not known to be a drinker. However, he would at times bleed through his nose when the place was very hot. Investigations are continuing.

We are essentially therefore at a defining moment in our country’s history. It is whether tyranny is held back or it is allowed to gallop freely and unharnessed. The most frightening form of tyranny is when persons are framed. Many have been the innocent persons sent to jail and to gallows for crimes they did not commit. They were framed. I have seen young men sent to prison for crimes they did not commit. I have seen these same young men languish for years until they were old men, only for some new discovery to be used to overturn their false convictions. This is what happens when a society is unable to control those to whom it reposes the public trust. Without that control, powers can be abused with frightening consequences. Guyana is now at frightening stage of its development.

A society must never reach the stage in which schemes are allowed to be plotted to jail persons. To frame someone, to plant evidence, to manufacture reasons for restricting that persons freedom is one of the most deadliest wrongs that can be committed in any society. It makes a mockery of the laws of a country when those with power arbitrarily use their power to silence you or to frame you something that you did not do. To deprive persons of their liberty simply because you have the power but not the grounds to do so is one of the most frightening dimensions of tyranny. That power needs to be checked.

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=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

The peccadilloes of David Granger that he must admit to One of the lessons of practical psychology that I learned when I worked for the Maurice Bishop Government in Grenada (that government imploded in an outbreak of violent mayhem) is once a national leader declares a course of action it automatically brings expectations and reactions. Those who admire the leader wait for the action to be adopted so they can strengthen it. Those who will be adversely affected will be conspiring. If you fail to carry it through within a certain time frame, you will still be hurt by your adversaries because once the announcement is made they are planning their reaction. They may get you before you get them. On

the other hand, you lose credibility in the eyes of your supporters if you back down. This situation applies to the politics of David Granger. David Granger has praised his p a r t y ’s achievements in Parliament. This may only be partially true. The cruel reality in this country is that short of using extra-parliamentary struggle to weaken the rule of the PPP, what could the PNC have done in Parliament to make the PPP more accountable? This is not a country where university students can be easily moved to protest. This is a society where you can count on your fingers how many lawyers will do a free court case for the

oppressed. Guyana is a land where people accept willingly their mistreatment by the PPP. Guyana is a place where people are more sheep than the sheep themselves. In such an environment of a sleeping population, what does one expect of an opposition party to do? But there is a ‘but’. But even if you accept Mr. Granger’s balance sheet on his accomplishments in Parliament, there have been the miserable failures of the PNC since 2011 that are unrelated to the processes in Parliament. Take disaffected PNC stalwarts. Not all who are alienated from their party can be accepted back because there will be some that cannot be placated. But those who

are loyalists must be dialogued with to return. So far, Mr. Granger has failed to build a consensus around him in the post-Corbin era. Mr. Granger is intelligent to know that the PNC will remain weak if some of these long serving icons are kept out. Once a loyalist shows disaffection, a leader has to move quickly and seek a têteá-tête. Mr. Granger has not done so in all the cases of alienation I know of. The list includes Malcolm Harripaul, Aubrey Norton and Clarissa Rhiel. In the cases of the members of Team Alexander and Faith Harding, the dispute arose when Corbin was the leader. Granger had no beef with them and should have opened talks to reintegrate them. He never

did. During the leadership challenge, Carl Greenidge was terribly abused by a group of hostile women activists using a term that African people the world over will not forgive you for saying. Mr. Granger should have dealt condignly with them. He never did. This crassness is a cultural anachronism the PNC must immediately extirpate from its civilization. Mr. Granger is yet to explain to the nation if he agreed with the request of Commander Vyphuis to let the barricades around Parliament remain. His party tabled the motion to remove them. The motion was passed. The barricades are still there. Mr. Vyphuis in my presence told Mr. Granger that the Speaker

Frederick Kissoon agreed to retain them. The Speaker cannot arrogate that power to himself. Mr. Granger needs to make a statement on this. Mr. Granger made a terrible mistake in assenting to Rupert Roopnaraine’s request to be the Opposition’s representative on the UG Council. Mr. Granger’s inexperience in politics led to Roopnaraine manipulating him. The essential demand of the UG stakeholders is for a Council devoid of politicians. In the midst of this long battle to de-politicize UG, Mr. Granger helps the PPP’s tarnished image by putting an opposition politician on the Council. What happened to the hundreds of professionals and businessmen that the PNC could have trusted to represent it at UG? The PNC lost its moral right to condemn the PPP for political interference at UG. Dr. Roopnaraine’s voting record on the Council is indistinguishable from the PPP politicians on the Council. The PNC did not utter one word in support of the treason accused, one of whom was a serving soldier. The PPP used the treason accused to scare members of the security forces. The case ended in failure for the PPP. Finally, the PNC needs to get out of the Rodney Commission immediately. It is a deadly trap set for the WPA and the PNC.

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Kaieteur News

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GECOM official reaffirms $60M more for the Rodney professionalism Commission of Inquiry …despite concerns of biased leaning By Nicholas Peters Facing concerns over the level of his professionalism, is recently appointed Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Richard Francois. On Tuesday, the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) General Secretary, and Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee, at his weekly press conference at Freedom House, expressed his party’s concern over the appointment of Francois. He said that his Party has information which suggests that the PRO has political affiliations which would “compromise” his position as an official of GECOM. According to the ruling party, Francois is openly supportive and sympathetic towards the Opposition, which would run counter to the Commission’s claims of appointing professionals. The General Secretary also called on the Commission to explain and reexamine Francois’s appointment, since the PPP believes that there are incidents involving the GECOM official which display a lack of professionalism due to his

purported affiliations. Francois said that he does not know where the politician could have got that opinion. The GECOM official stated, “I am not politically affiliated anywhere…I have never had a political affiliation with anyone.” He added that he has been working as a professional all his life and will continue to be a professional, despite the concerns raised by the PPP member or any member of any political party. Meanwhile, as a response to the Minister’s comments, the Youths For David Granger, urged that GECOM desist from meeting the demands made by the PPP, calling it a “blatant and illspirited attack on the youths of this country”. The organization went on to label the request as “unprincipled and unconstitutional”. The right to work is a basic human right that is an imperative part of Guyana’s Constitution. Richard Francois is a University of Guyana graduate with a Degree in Communications and a Master of Arts Degree in Marketing Communications. Francois has worked for a

By Latoya Giles

GECOM’s newly-appointed PRO, Richard Francois number of years in the Public Relations Department of Guyana Power and Light Inc and a Strategic Communications Consultant for the Minister of Education. He also worked as freelance radio announcer for the stateowned, National Communication Network (NCN). In addressing the matter, Dr. Steve Surujbally, Chairman to GECOM, said, “I do not comment on anything that is purported by the media as another person’s opinion.” He said that he will respond accordingly to Minister Rohee’s documented opinion. The position of Public Relations Officer was left vacant at GECOM, after the former PRO Vishnu Persaud was appointed as the Deputy Chief Elections Officer in April.

Even though Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh is yet to actually tell the National Assembly how the $112M which was first allocated to the Walter Rodney Commission was spent, Government has announced that a further $60M is likely to be added. The government’s chief spokesperson, Dr. Roger Luncheon, said yesterday that the Rodney Commission has been extended and will now run until January 31, 2015. According to Luncheon since the commission spends about $20M a month, one could safely assume that the extension of a further three months would be in the vicinity of $60m. Luncheon explained that on September 30, the extension of the life of the commission was approved and noted by Cabinet after the decision was taken by the President. He said that cabinet, at a meeting on Tuesday last, noted the president’s intention, which had been communicated to commission members. According to Luncheon the commission has been scheduling the public

CID now getting “live feed” from CCTV cameras – Dr. Luncheon By Latoya Giles With more than 40 sites for closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV) around Georgetown, ranks at Criminal Investigation Department have been able to access the live feed from these cameras to help with investigations. This disclosure came from Cabinet Secretary Dr. Roger Luncheon yesterday at his weekly press briefing at the Office of the President. According to Dr. Luncheon with this new development it is hoped that it would give a boost to investigations and prosecutions of events uncovered during the CCTV operations. “Most recently the CID has succeeded in being linked and becoming a part of the network for receipt of CCTV footage,” he said. The Cabinet Secretary said that there are some 40 sites around the city with about three or four workable cameras at each site. Luncheon said that plans are also afoot to have another 10

sites added leading to the installation of some 40 more cameras being installed. He explained that, periodically, some cameras are out of order as a result of accidents and vandalism. He noted that there’s a technical team established to ensure all cameras are maintained and workable at all times. “There is a technical team that helps in these instances,” Luncheon told the media. Moreover, Luncheon said that the Defense Board, which he heads at a meeting in August, reviewed the state of affairs within the capital city regarding the CCTV cameras where it was

recognized that there was need for further development of the system. He said that it has been approved that the increase in the number of sites and number of cameras cover the main arteries in and out of Georgetown. All entities were previously provided with recorded footage when requested. Footage is being stored at the National

Intelligence Centre. Dr. Luncheon said that recommendations were also made for the software intensification that will allow image to be heightened and also technical applications to be brought to bear on images recovered. He later explained that such upgrades will see the installation of night vision cameras among other technology.

hearings and those hearings would continue into next January. “The commission advised that its scheduled hearing would commence on October 20 and would last three weeks. It would conclude on November 7, 2014.” It was Opposition Member for the APNU, Attorney at law, Joseph Harmon, who had made the request to the National Assembly to have the Finance Minister show how the money was spent. That request is also most three months old and the minister is yet to respond. Harmon said that Government had never given a ‘clear’ indication of how the money would have been spent. Back in February, President Ramotar had said that the Rodney Commission will not come cheap and that he knew for a fact that the money would be well spent. Ramotar had denied that there was anything sinister in the holding of the inquiry; but his government was in fact fulfilling the wishes of Rodney’s wife, Patricia. “This process has started and it was not initiated by me, but by a request by the family, particularly Rodney’s wife, Patricia Rodney,” Ramotar had said. He had said that the Terms of Reference which some parties have been

protesting against were crafted by Rodney’s family and advisors, along with some technical help from Government. The terms include “examining the facts and circumstances immediately prior at the time of and subsequent to the death of Dr. Rodney in order to determine as far as possible, who or what was responsible for the explosion resulting in the death of Rodney”. Commissioners would have to inquire into the cause of the explosion in which Dr. Walter Rodney died; whether it was an act of terrorism and if so, who were the perpetrators. Commissioners would also have to specifically examine the role, if any, which the late Gregory Smith, a Sergeant of the Guyana Defence Force, played in the death of Rodney and if so, to inquire into who may have counseled, procured, aided and or abetted him to do so, including facilitating his departure from Guyana after Rodney’s death. Since the commencement of the commission, several issues have been raised by lawyers representing interesting parties. Attorney at Law Basil Williams, Selwyn Pieters and Joseph Harmon have all been very vocal on how the commission was conducting its business.

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Kaieteur News

Govt. emasculates Permanent Secretaries - Greenidge, Ramjattan Upon careful analysis of their functions and performance, there is a growing perception in and out of the political arena, that the role of a Permanent Secretary (PS) can only be paralleled with that of a toothless poodle. Permanent Secretaries are the accounting officers of their respective Ministries. They are tasked with ensuring that money appropriated by Parliament is spent wisely, among other responsibilities. They are also answerable to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the National Assembly. However, when the many new, and in some cases, frequently recurring and unsolved financial irregularities of several Ministries, are placed under the microscope, it leaves some parliamentarians to deduce that the Permanent Secretaries have been emasculated, and are unable to function properly. If not emasculated, then it leaves some to also conclude that a number of the Permanent Secretaries are appointed to such a position without proper attention being paid to their competence for such an area. The professional Permanent Secretary is expected to ensure transparency regardless of who occupies the seat of Government. But, according to some members of the PAC, those officers who might have started out with honourable intentions have, in some cases, sacrificed their professional principles for certain benefits or simply because they have no choice but to do so. In sharing his views on the matter, Chairman of the

Carl Greenidge

Khemraj Ramjattan

PAC, Carl Greenidge, believes that while the system is faced with the problem of the emasculation of Permanent Secretaries and the other infringements that may follow as a result, “all these problems could be solved if only Parliament was serious or the police would pursue the culprits assiduously.” In the absence of such staunch action, Greenidge said that it amounts to help being given to the Government and the alleged criminals. “When has the Parliament been able to stop something that the Government wants to do? That can only happen if the Government respects the Constitution. Parliament passed a motion in 2012 prohibiting the Government from spending money on the Marriott Hotel. “The government ignored it…We all know that the Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, and the Director of Public Prosecutions are at the heart of facilitating the abuse of the Constitution and of the Law as seen in the case of spending on the basis of the so called “Statements of Excess,” the infamous case of

the handling of the Minister of Finance’s traffic accident and refusal to implement the Local Government Legislation,” Greenidge lamented. He added that if the Permanent Secretaries are too timid or are captives of the Presidency, the remedy lies first in the Courts and ultimately in extraParliamentary action. “Ultimately, when the Courts fail in face of a Government that disrespects the Constitution, it is the right of any electorate and their political representatives to take direct action. That has been the source of Guyana’s political problems,” Greenidge concluded. Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan, also commented on the emasculation of Permanent Secretaries. The Attorney-at-Law told this publication that he finds it most disheartening that the massive public sector reform exercise which was to see a non-political, professional Public Service, came to a halt several years ago under the helm of Roger Luncheon, upon instruction of then President Bharrat Jagdeo.

He noted that the abandonment also affected training of such accounting officers. Hence, “Permanent Secretaries do not know their duties, but see themselves as appendages of the politicos.” Ramjattan said that Ministers ensure that this too is the reality. He added, “Permanent Secretaries, like ýthroughout the hierarchy, are constantly instructed to do things which they should not do, and allow an abuse by Ministers to practice in a partisan manner.” The politician said that this degeneration occurred especially under the Jagdeo regime and continues in a worst form today under President Donald Ramotar. He said that theý top position of Permanent Secretary is a misnomer as there is no security of tenure, but is now subject to a new arrangement wholly set under contractual terms. The AFC Leader said that the removal of Permanent Secretary is now akin to ‘dismissibility at pleasure.’ý “So the PS will always be looking over his shoulder to vent opinions his Minister likes to hear. This is not professionalism in action.” Ramjattan reminded that Ministers have an obligation to adhere to conventions concerning the Public Service, the most important one being that they must allow the Permanent Secretaries to effectively implement and be overall accountable for all policies and management of the Ministry or its departments. The lawyer then said that he will call, by way of the National Assembly, for the drafting by Government of a Public Service Management Code similar to the ýBritish Model.

Thursday October 09, 2014

Cost overruns on major Govt. projects…

Govt. should select contractors based on an evaluation of their past performance and competency - Engineers Several engineers are opposed to recent comments made by Junior Finance Minister, Juan Edghill, who highlighted the government’s concern about contractors who make claims for contract variations. This, Edghill had said, could lead to them doubling the actual contract sum. The Junior Finance Minister at a recent symposium held at the Guyana International Conference Centre, had claimed that contractors have been deliberately submitting low bids to secure contracts and then expect to generate variations to supplement their under-priced bids. This contention, however, fuelled several critics to deduce that the Minister does not understand the bidding or the contract process and the underlying causes for which variations/change orders are issued. One such critic was letter writer and retired engineer, Charles Sohan. In a letter, he explained that a contractor usually submits a bid based on the tender documents – drawings, specifications and pricing on a bill of quantities. He said that in Guyana, the policy has been to award contracts to the lowest bidders, but in many other jurisdictions, only the lowest ‘evaluated’ bidder gets the job. Once the contract is awarded and work commences, the contractor is paid for work done based on the itemized list in the BoQ after due certification by the supervising engineer and approval by the client. In light of the fact that there can be inconsistencies in the Bill of Quantities and the work being executed based on the materials acquired, Sohan said that and in order for the contractor to proceed further with construction of the project, he requires the issuance of a change order or variation which has to be approved and paid for by the client. “Hence, the Government of Guyana is aware of all variations generated by the contracts it awards, and therefore for Minister Edghill to claim that contractors deliberately submit low bids to secure contracts and then generate variations to get the real price for the project, is somewhat disingenuous. “All major civil

engineering projects have variations because of poor design and unforeseen circumstances and site conditions. These variations could be anywhere from about five percent to over 100 percent because of the many unknown factors during construction, including the complexity of the project and competency of the contractor,” Sohan said. He said that all major government contracts seem to have a particular feature, that being large time and costs overruns because of poor design, bad construction management and ill-equipped and inexperienced contractors. Head of the Guyana Association of Professional Engineers (GAPE), Joel Trotman, also said that he agrees with Sohan. He too said that the Junior Minister was terribly ill informed. “I would hate to think that, that is the Minister’s true understanding of the bidding/contract process. If so, it does not reflect anything good for the ministry in which he operates. A contractor cannot claim for variations if certain things are not satisfied. He would have to show that there is a change in the scope of work being executed thus requiring more materials. He would have to show if there was an error in the project document and as such, this would cause certain specifications to change thus influencing the initial price at which he placed his bid. The contractor can’t just decide that he is going to make a claim for variations or cost overruns. If a contractor is making claims for variations then he would most definitely have to prove this to the contracting authority which would then examine the merit of the claim. Additionally, a lot of the contracts that are drawn up have a lot of loopholes and as such, Government needs to ensure that when it is signing a contract, it has made provision for every eventuality,” Trotman explained. Sohan has suggested that the government ensures that contractors hired for major projects be chosen based on an evaluation of their past performance, competency of their work force and financial (continued on page 13)

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Kaieteur News

Thursday October 09, 2014

Mother seeks justice Mother, wife plead for help for man with brain injury for slain son By Leon Suseran

By Rabindra Rooplall Three months after the death of 37-year-old Albert Williams at 72 Miles Potaro, Region Seven, relatives are calling on the Commissioner of Police and the Minister of Home Affairs to intervene, since the police seem to be dragging their feet on the investigation of murder. The Post Mortem examination revealed that Albert Williams suffered blunt trauma to the skull. That led to cerebral haemorrhage resulting in his death. According to the dead man’s mother, Janet Williams, her son was murdered on Sunday June 22, 2014 and police detained three persons who were each later placed on $100,000 station bail. The mother explained that on that date she received information that her son was lying in a pool of blood at “Audrey Hendricks” house. “One of his brothers was passing that afternoon and saw him lying on the platform of the house. Other persons also saw him there. About 7:30 pm when I was about to have dinner with family members, my son-in-law, Lincoln, got the message of the murder and he went to see. He came back and told me that my son is dead and is lying on the road,” Ms. Williams lamented. “When I go at the scene I saw my son lying dead on the road with blood on his face. Rodford Baptist, 19 years of

Janet Williams

age, the son of Audrey Hendricks, told me that he dragged him from the platform of the house and hoisted him on the road. One of his aunts, Joy, saw Rodford cleaning the platform the said night and the following morning. Other family members arrived at the scene and stayed up all night with the corpse.” The matter was subsequently reported to the Bartica Police Station the night of the murder. Ms Williams said the police received multiple reports about what transpired. “The officers who came inspected the body, took pictures and statements from persons around and arrested Rodford Baptist. He was taken into custody and the corpse was taken to Bartica Hospital then

transferred to Lyken Funeral parlour.” She said that the police received a confession pertaining to her son’s murder. However, Ms Williams is alleging that there appears to be some corruption involved in the case; since everything has been at a standstill. Constant checks with the Bartica police only resulted in further excuses and nothing substantial pertaining to charges for the person accused of committing the murderous act. It was further related by Ms Williams that police even retrieved from the scene of the crime, a blue three-cell Maglight (torchlight) which was labeled as the murder weapon. “The police know exactly who did the crime, but nothing is being done.”

A mother is pleading for cash donations on behalf of her semi-conscious son who urgently needs brain surgery that will cost some $5M. Lorna Hicken said that life for the wife and six children of Wayne Bovell, 32, has become a nightmare with the absence of the sole breadwinner of the family. Bovell is now a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital and slips in and out of consciousness. He was involved in an argument and physical scuffle with Lamon Leacock in June and was hit several times in the head with a piece of metal. The incident allegedly occurred at Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam. Leacock’s case was called only yesterday at the Reliance Magistrate’s Court, but he was a no-show. A warrant for his arrest was subsequently issued by the Magistrate and the case deferred to October 26, 2014. The injury has left Bovell almost a vegetable over the months. He was subsequently discharged from the New Amsterdam Hospital shortly after the incident in June, but the headaches persisted over the months. He was admitted a week ago to Georgetown Public Hospital for the headaches and a CT scan was done. The scan showed

...need $5M for surgery

subarachnoid haemorrhage and cerebral contusions. The patient was subsequently discharged with advice to seek treatment at the Neurosurgery Clinic. But his mother added that the headaches became worse and he was readmitted to the hospital. A repeat CT scan showed subarachnoid haemorrhage and intraventricular extension of bleeds which suggest evidence of ruptured aneurysms. This was

Drug trafficking in prison…

Ex-prison officer gets 56 months jail An ex-prison officer who smuggled cannabis into the Georgetown Prisons for inmates has himself been imprisoned for 56 months after he was caught ‘red-handed’ with the drug earlier this year. Akeem Vyphuis, 21, who had been a prison officer for the past three years, was found guilty after a trial before Magistrate Judy Latchman, which concluded at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday. The officer was found to be carrying a package containing 279 grammes of marijuana valued at $139,500 at the Camp Street facility. Following the bust on July 14, last, he was charged with drug trafficking. Vyphuis reported that day for work via the main entrance of the prison compound and was shortly after seen by Cadet Officer Cameron throwing a package on the ground. When it was checked, the

package had five parcels inside. The Prosecution said that the illegal substance was in those five parcels. It was later weighed and amounted to 299 grams. The matter was later reported and investigated, after which Vyphuis was arrested and charged. Three days after the bust, the ex-prison officer appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry to answer to the drug trafficking charge. The accused denied the allegation and the matter was subsequently sent to Magistrate Latchman for trial. Returning her verdict on Tuesday after engaging the evidence from several witnesses, Magistrate Latchman ruled that notwithstanding Vyphuis’ defence, she found him guilty as charged. She had recapped that the ex-prison officer claimed that the Cadet Officer was the one who planted the drug but

Guilty: Akeem Vyphuis

stated that she did not believe that was the case. The court, she said, believes that it was Vyphuis who had the illicit substance in his bag. Magistrate Latchman explained that Vyphuis knew he had the drug. Citing a past court case, she had said that

the then prison officer knew what was contained in the parcel since he threw it away when he noticed the Cadet Officer. The Prosecution had on Tuesday requested leave to provide the cost of the drug and it was submitted to the

court on yesterday’s date. During mitigation, the court heard that Vyphuis had never been charged prior to this drug trafficking case. In handing down the 56month sentence, Magistrate Latchman stated that she had considered the mitigating factors and that Vyphuis was a part of an organisation which plays an integral role in reforming offenders. She said that he, being in such a position, ought to have known better. The Magistrate emphasised that there is need for the courts to act as a deterrent for others who may contemplate trafficking drugs. She revealed that thought was also given to the quantity of the marijuana he was busted with as well as the prevalence of drug trafficking. The ex-prison officer was thereby jailed and fined GUY$418,500 - three times the street value of the drug.

according to a report from the G/T Hospital, prepared a few days ago by General Medical Officer, Dr. Anna Singh, of the Department of General Surgery. Bovell’s case, she added, was discussed further with Professor Ivan Crandon, a Neurosurgeon who recommended a CT angiography study that is not done in Guyana. He advised the mother to seek overseas treatment for further investigation and management. “They now tell me that he is bleeding in a wider margin of the brain. The doctor, Anna Singh, said that she cannot treat the patient because he has to undergo surgery either in Trinidad or Venezuela,” Hicken added. She said that the Ministry of Health would assist with $1M. “I a m a s k i n g t h e public if they can please help in whatever small way so that we can make the kind of money for the surgery to be done, and I am asking them to pray for Wayne because he has a wife and six daughters,” the woman said while breaking down in tears. She and his wife are pleading for donations and assistance. Hicken is on a race every day now to distribute flyers and donation sheets across the country. She resides in Georgetown and is finding it extremely difficult. Bovell’s wife is finding it very hard since the six children are now under her care. They are also attending various schools. Anyone wishing to assist the family can contact them on telephone numbers 681-9628, 682-9945.

Thursday October 09, 2014

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Kaieteur News

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.–CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 225-6496, 662-6045 Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves. Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 Repairs, sales & spares air conditioning, microwaves, washer, fridges & stoves. Ultra Cool, call :225-9032, 647-2943 FOR LOW COST: REPAIRS TO FRIDGE, FREEZER,A/C UNIT, MICROWAVES, TV & WASHINGMACHINE -CALL: 629-4946 OR 225-4822 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer Call Omar:2310655,683-8734 EDUCATION CXC Adults/Students Day & Evening Classes, all Business and Science Subjects, 3 Street Alberttown – Call:231-5678, 690-5008 New Courses Starting October: Computerized Accounting, 4 courses $35,000.QuickBooks, P.Tree, POS @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-En-Hoop -264-3057 D i d n ’t D o We l l i n Mathematics/English ? Join Us Now! Individual Training @ MicroGraphics -Vreed-En-Hoop Tel: 2643057 9 Courses Diploma In Computers $35,000 Special Deal For 2014, CSEC students MicroGraphics @ Vreed En Hoop- 264-3057

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Rooms to rent- Call: 2253234

One American Slate Pool table – Call:679-8534

Cashiers, salesgirl, porters and a domestic maid, Apply to 1E Dennis & Middleton Streets Campbellville Shop assistant to work in the interior, salary -$80,000, age 25-35, Call: 664-5199, between 9:00-5:00 One day time security guard between 30-50 yrs old, 6 days a week in Georgetown – Call: 623-3231 or 225-3198 Contract cars & experienced dispatcher @ West Site Taxi Service – Tel:600-0680 or 613-0419 Diesel Mechanics to work in the interior (Perkins engine) – Contact: 226-9768 Professional painters wanted – Contact: 622-4899 Experienced drivers with minibus and hire cars license, also contract vehicles – Call: 645-0025 Lorry drivers to work Labour lorry @ Enmore Estate, Handyboys to work; meals & live in accommodation. Tel:228-5655, 628-1756 Hire car drivers to work at 007 Taxi Services – Call:223-5615 Live in maid to work in town – Call: 669-6030 We buy land in Parfaite Harmonie, Schoon’Ord, Eccles, Providence, Herstelling and all low income areas – Tel: 675-7292 One cook to cook in kitchen in the interior – Call:681-6044 Cleaners and counter staff living in and around the Industry Area – Call: 2262829 Live in Domestic, must know to cook, salary $60,000 monthly – Call: 610-5043 One male Clerk, marketing for music studio, carpenter, labourer – Call: 265-3586 One Canter Truck Driver from E.C.D –Call: 622-1782 Handyman, Yardmancontact 223-5273/4 One supervisor/manger for 704, must have catering and event planning experience contact 223-5273/4 MASSAGE American Style massage services- Call:678-7499 Happy Touch Day Spa: Come & Experienced heavens touch, visit us today! – 668-4554 HEALTH Hazel’s Herbal Store, 244 D’ Andrade St Newtown, for herbal supplements, iridology Service available Monday October 13th, 2014 Call: 226-9136

Salon Stations @ 51 Robb & Albert Streets to rent, must have clients – Call:231-4010, 627-8277, 669-6110

VACANCY Secretary: 20-30 years, literate in word (internet/ spreadsheet, leadership skills, ability to complete task efficiently) Office in Sheriff Street. Tel: 219-0468 LORRY DRIVER, Clean Driving Record, Residing on East Bank Demerara. Tel 266 4427 ACCOUNTS CLERK, very familiar with DACEASY POS and Accounting, Part Time, Flexible Hours, resident of E.B.D. Tel 623 9889 One experienced Hauler driver, Apply Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling, Stabroek. Pump Attendant @ Shell Service Station Providence EBD. Must be able to work shift (5am-3pm & 3pm12pm) – Tel: 265-7305

PROPERTY FOR SALE House & land @ Supply Public Road, Riverside, East Bank Demerara, suitable for business – Call: 698-8100 Diamond – three bedrooms, flat concrete house, Price $10.5M – Call: 623-3348, 2660548 One 3 bedroom upstairs concrete house and land at Pearl E.B.D – Tel:672-2125 One two storey 3 bedrooms concrete house in Parfaite Harmony, size 25X57, Price $14.5M -Call: 622-1782, 6585803 Transported Property @ Grove/Diamond, 3 bedrooms, 1 self-contained, concrete fence, grilled store room & Shed, $28M – Call:660-1353,216-4338 House and land for sale in D’Aguiar’s Park for details – Call: 686-1368 PEN PAL Single Hindu Male is seeking female for serious relationship, age24-29 – Tel:592-666-7421

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Thursday October 09, 2014

Letters... Where your views make the news

A comprehensive sex education program is needed DEAR EDITOR, I am both saddened and disgusted at the recent disclosure of school-children being video-taped while engaging in sexual acts. And from what I have been hearing, this is not an isolated incident, which makes it even more troubling. My heart goes out to those children, especially the

girls and their parents, whose lives could be forever negatively impacted. This morning I gave some thought to what I can contribute to the discourse. For whatever it is worth, I believe what is needed at this stage is a comprehensive sex education program for the youth of Guyana - a program that speaks primarily to sexual

conduct and its responsibilities. No doubt, many will see this suggestion as an encouragement for our youth to have sex rather than an approach to protect them from exploitation, unwanted pregnancies and disease, which could lead to death. Let’s face it. Young people will have sex whether we like

it or not, and do remember they do not need the permission of parents nor anyone in authority for that matter. Young people have sex because they have sexual feelings, not because they are bad. So let’s protect them and teach them about morals and values, and of course, consequences. June Veecock

It is gutter journalism for such... From page 4 opportunity arises. The APNU Leader should have pointed out at the press conference that he had already dealt with that matter when it was first raised. If he had taken that course of action it would have made it difficult for the issue to be presented as negatively as it was. Tacuma Ogunseye EDITOR’S NOTE: In December of last year, a reporter attached to this publication conducted several interviews with analysts, on the performance of the opposition and government in the National Assembly. One analyst, Mr. Ramon Gaskin, was of the opinion that the opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in particular, had

not performed adequately, and that much more could have been achieved if the coalition’s leader been more militant. This year, in July, Leader of APNU, Mr. David Granger, held a press conference to mark the third anniversary of the coalition. At that forum, Mr. Granger had boasted that the coalition had made significant strides in holding the government accountable at the Parliamentary level. The criticisms of “unnamed critics” were then put to Mr. Granger. In light of that, he was asked if he would still hold firm to his position that his coalition had performed to the best of its ability. He had cited the lack of resources, among other factors, which contributed to APNU not being as

effective as it could be. Following that press conference, Chartered Accountant Chris Ram had posted on his website, a twopart analysis (July 19 and August 15, 2014) of Mr. Granger’s responses. He had also touched on what he described to be the “unimpressive” parliamentary contributions of the APNU Leader and his fellow parliamentarians. Mr. Granger was asked not too long after Mr. Ram posted these articles, to respond to the claims therein, but he had indicated to the reporter that he was busy at the time. In light of looming general elections, the reporter decided to ask Mr. Granger to revisit Mr. Ram’s comments and respond appropri-

ately, but Mr. Granger again said that he was busy and asked for the articles to be emailed to him. In person, Mr. Granger was also informed of the dates of the comments made by Mr. Ram. The reporter did as requested, but Mr. Granger, via email, said that he was preoccupied with other engagements and asked for it to be deferred to a more appropriate time. He had also, via email, indicated that he was apprised of Mr. Ram’s comments. At his next press conference, Mr. Granger was then asked to respond to Mr. Ram’s comments. So, contrary to Mr. Ogunseye’s belief, Mr. Granger was not by any means “tricked” into thinking that Ram’s comments were recent.

Stricter guidelines needed to improve the... From page 5 transparency in the appointment of senior officials in the Ministry of Education. This practice of senior appointments should not be left to the whims and fancies of a few who use this privilege and power to reward the party loyalists even though they are not qualified. All this does is to create strife and malice among teachers, principals and educators. There should be a zerotolerance approach to nepotism and cronyism in the administration of education. We should not allow a few PPP self-serving school administrators to mess up our

education systems and schools. Many in the government use appointments to this tier of school management to silence opposition, squash creativity, and safeguard their own positions. As an aside, the education ministry must also implement more rigid measures concerning the evaluation of administrators’ financial stewardship and how it impacts the viability of our schools. There have been too many cases of irregularities in recent times resulting from misappropriation of funds. The Ministry of

Education needs to issue stricter guidelines to monitor such affairs. In fact, more frequent and unannounced external auditing should become a part of best practices to ensure accountability. Despite pockets of excellence within the education system, more needs to be done to fix an ailing system. This will undoubtedly call for stronger and more decisive leadership. Guyana’s education system is at a critical juncture and tough and unpopular decisions must be taken by the Ministry. It must strive towards adopting and

implementing better policies with regard to the education of the future generations. All children can learn and indeed, all children must learn. However, wherever there is discontent and strife, the learning process will be negatively impacted. Our policymakers must work to ensure that each child’s learning outcome is fully maximized. We cannot continue to have more failures in the education system. “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.” - Aristotle. Asquith Rose and Harish Singh

Former GDF Sgt jailed... Damaged koker floods... From page 20 official in the Auditor General's office. Leading her defence, Easton, who was represented by Attorney-at-Law George Thomas, had explained that all she had done was to collect a cheque for her son-in-law, Nigel Adams and changed it. She said she handed over the cash to him, who then gave her $5000 to buy lunch.

The ex-sergeant had declined to call any witnesses to support her case. Returning her verdict, Magistrate Latchman sentenced the 60-year-old to 36months in prison. Similarly, Adams who was held for investigations in the Ministry of Finance discrepancies was last week jailed by Magistrate Ann McLennan on fraud charges.

From page 14 withstand the water pressure,” said one resident. Another resident said that considerable damage was done to their homes after the koker collapsed in 2008. Many of their household articles were damaged and they never received any form of compensation. Terry Ramjohn, of Lot 64 Providence, EBD said that the last flood was widespread.

He expressed hope that the koker would be fixed soon to avoid a recurrence of what the flood did a few years ago. “There are lots of young children and elderly people living in the area. Some live in flat houses and don't have the luxury of going upstairs in the event of a flood. It is only right that the problem receives attention as soon as possible,” another person said.

Thursday October 09, 2014

Kaieteur News

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Renewed assault on Kobani; Ebola patient dies in Texas; five 21 dead in Turkey as Kurds rise U.S. airports to screen for fever

Smoke rises after an U.S.-led air strike in the Syrian town of Kobani (Reuters) - Islamic State fighters launched a renewed assault on the Syrian city of Kobani last night, and at least 21 people were killed in riots in neighbouring Turkey where Kurds rose up against the government for doing nothing to protect their kin. Heavily outgunned defenders said Islamic State militants had pushed into two districts of the mainly Kurdish border city late on Wednesday, despite U.S.-led air strikes that the Pentagon acknowledged would probably not be enough to safeguard the town. In Turkey, street battles raged between Kurdish protesters and police across the mainly Kurdish southeast, in Istanbul and in Ankara, as fallout from war in Syria and Iraq threatened to unravel the NATO member’s own delicate Kurdish peace process. The street violence was the worst Turkey has seen in years. Washington said its war planes, along with those of coalition ally the United Arab Emirates, had struck nine targets in Syria, including six near Kobani that hit Islamic State artillery and armoured vehicles. It also struck Islamic State positions in Iraq five times. Nevertheless, Kobani remained under intense bombardment from Islamic State emplacements, within sight of Turkish tanks at the nearby frontier that have so far done nothing to help. “Tonight, (Islamic State) has entered two districts with heavy weapons including tanks. Civilians may have died because there are very intense clashes,” Asya Abdullah, co-chair of the Democratic Union Party (PYD), the main Kurdish

group defending the area, told Reuters from inside the town. U.S. officials were quoted voicing impatience with the Turks for refusing to join the coalition against Islamic State fighters who have seized wide areas of Syria and Iraq. Turkey says it could join only if Washington agrees to use force against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and the Sunni Muslim jihadists fighting him in a three-year-old civil war. Turkey’s own Kurds, who make up the majority in the southeast of the country, say President Tayyip Erdogan is stalling while their brethren are killed in Kobani. Police fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse demonstrators who burned cars and tyres. Authorities imposed curfews in at least five provinces, the first time such measures have been used widely since the early 1990s. Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu told reporters in Ankara that 19 people were killed and 145 wounded in riots across Turkey, vowing that Turkey’s own peace process with Kurdish separatists would not be wrecked by “vandalism”. Dogan news agency later said the death toll had climbed to 21. At least 10 people died in clashes in Diyarbakir, the largest Kurdish city in Turkey’s southeast. An allday curfew there from Tuesday night was extended for another day on Wednesday. Pockets of protesters defying the curfew clashed with security forces there on Wednesday. Others died in clashes between protesters and police in the eastern provinces of Mus, Siirt and

Batman. Thirty people were wounded in Istanbul, including eight police officers. Disturbances spread to other countries with Kurdish and Turkish populations. Police in Germany said 14 people were hurt in clashes there between Kurds and radical Islamists. The unrest in Turkey, which has NATO’s second largest armed forces, exposes the difficulty Washington has faced in building a coalition to fight Islamic State in Syria and Iraq, two countries with complex, multisided civil wars in which every country in the region has a stake. BLACK FLAG Islamic State fighters besieging Kobani hoisted their black flag on the eastern edge of the town on Monday. Since then, U.S.-led air strikes have been redoubled. The town’s defenders said earlier on Wednesday the insurgents had been pushed back, but the fighters appeared to be advancing later in the day. Intense gunfire and loud explosions could be heard on Wednesday morning from across the Turkish frontier. Huge plumes of grey smoke and dust rose above the town, where the United Nations says only a few hundred inhabitants remain. U.S. officials, acknowledging it will be hard to shield Kobani from the air, have played down its strategic importance. “Air strikes alone are not going to do this. They’re not going to fix this. They’re not going to save the town of Kobani. We know that,” Rear Admiral John Kirby, a Pentagon spokesman, told a news briefing.

DALLAS (Reuters) - The first person diagnosed with Ebola in the United States died on Wednesday, underscoring questions about the quality of care he received, and the government ordered five airports to start screening passengers from West Africa for fever. Liberian national Thomas Eric Duncan died in an isolation ward of a Dallas hospital, 11 days after being admitted on Sept. 28. The case has stirred attention and concern that someone with Ebola had been able to fly into the United States from Liberia, raising the specter more passengers could arrive and spread the disease outside of West Africa, where nearly 4,000 people have died in three impoverished countries. The White House said extra screening for fever will be carried out for arriving passengers from West Africa. The screening will start at New York’s John F. Kennedy airport from the weekend, and later be used at Newark Liberty, Washington Dulles, Chicago O’Hare and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta. Duncan’s death prompted questions about the timeliness of his care. The patient initially sought treatment two days before being admitted, but was sent home with antibiotics. “I trust a thorough examination will take place

First US Ebola casualty, Thomas Eric Duncan regarding all aspects of his care,” Duncan’s fiancée, Louise Troh, wrote in a statement. Troh, in quarantine, added, “I am now dealing with the sorrow and anger that his son was not able to see him before he died.” Dr. Craig Smith, medical director for infectious disease at University Hospital in Augusta, Georgia said Ebola, like any disease, was easier to beat the sooner it was treated. “I’m not surprised he unfortunately passed away,” Smith said. “I think two days would have made a big difference.” Duncan had been in critical condition and on a

ventilator and kidney dialysis at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital. He was given an experimental medication to try to keep him alive, starting Saturday, six days after being admitted. But Ebola experts also asked why Duncan received the experimental drug brincidofovir, made by Chimerix Inc, which has not been tested on humans or animals, rather than Tekmira Pharmaceuticals drug TKMEbola, which has been tested on humans. TKM-Ebola was given to another U.S. patient, Dr. Rick Sancra, who contracted Ebola while working in Liberia and was cured.

Spanish Ebola nurse may have touched face with contaminated gloves (Reuters) - A Spanish nurse who is the first person to contract Ebola outside of Africa may have touched her face with the gloves of her protective suit while caring for a priest who died of the disease, a doctor treating her said on Wednesday. The nurse, Teresa Romero, was being treated for the deadly infection at a Madrid hospital while Spanish officials launched an investigation into how she was able to contract Ebola despite strict protocols for handling contagious patients. The virus, which the World Health Organization said had killed 3,879 people by Oct. 5 in West Africa since March in the largest outbreak of the disease on record, causes haemorrhagic fever and is spread through direct contact with body fluids from an infected person. A Liberian man who was the first person diagnosed with Ebola in the United States

died in a hospital isolation ward on Wednesday and the U.S. government ordered extra screenings at five major airports. The WHO said it saw no evidence of the disease being brought under control in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, with neighbouring countries being told to prepare for the disease to spread across their borders. Britain said it was sending extra troops, aircraft and a naval vessel to Sierra Leone to help stem the spread. The deployment will see 750 military personnel help set up treatment centres and a training facility. Three helicopters and a 100-bed naval hospital will also be sent to the region. While Romero is the only confirmed Ebola case in Spain aside from two priests who contracted the disease in Africa and died, more than 50 other people who may have had contact with the virus in the country are being

monitored, including primary health care and hospital staff, European officials said. “She has talked to me about the gloves; she touched her face with the gloves. That’s what she remembers and what she has told me three times,” German Ramirez, one of the doctors at Carlos III hospital where the nurse is being treated, told reporters. The nurse took leave from work immediately after Spanish missionary Manuel Garcia died on Sept. 25. Wearing a full protective suit, she had entered the priest’s room once while he was alive and once after his death to clean the room. Health worker union officials said Romero alerted hospital staff three times to say she had a fever and a rash, but because her temperature had not gone above 38.6 degrees Celsius the hospital did not see her as a risk.

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Thursday October 09, 2014

Haiti’s long-delayed election likely postponed again Port-au-Prince (AFP) As Haiti prepared Tuesday to bury a former dictator who had little use for elections, it seemed all but certain that a long-delayed legislative vote due later this month will again be postponed. And, on the week that former strongman JeanClaude Duvalier ’s death revived memories of Haiti under dictatorship, observers warned this could leave the country’s current leader free to rule the impoverished Caribbean nation by decree. Four years after a sudden massive earthquake devastated the Haitian capital, the streets of Port-au-Prince are again bustling with working people struggling to get by, but there is no sign of any political campaign. President Michel Martelly decreed in June that there would be an election on October 26, but the National Assembly has yet to pass an electoral law and the provisional election commission is running out of time to organize a vote. Polls have been delayed before — these are three years late — but if there is no vote soon the mandates of the rest of the members of the already depleted assembly will expire, creating a political vacuum. Martelly has not formally called off the vote but it seems improbable that any credible

election can now be organized. Nehemie Joseph, a member of the CEP or Provisional Electoral Commission, said: “The CEP has advised the president that it is impossible to respect this date for two reasons: There’s no electoral code and there’s no preparation in place.” Joseph, appointed to the commission to represent the legislature, said the body was at work but that it would take at least 15 more days to recruit electoral workers, more to train them and that the CEP faces “persistent financial pressures.” “We don’t have any money. The CEP hasn’t got a dime,” he told AFP. Ten senatorial seats expired in January 2012, leaving the 30-strong chamber two thirds of its proper size and struggling to reach a quorum. Next year, the mandates of another third of the Senate seats will expire, along with those of all 99 members of the lower house. Thus, without elections, Haiti will no longer have an operating legislative branch of government to hold Martelly to account. Martelly had thought the matter resolved in June, when he gathered civil society and church representatives at a

Virus leads to high school absenteeism in Jamaica KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) — Jamaica’s government says suspected cases of a mosquito-borne virus have led to roughly 30 percent absenteeism in island schools. A government survey has found that schools in the capital of Kingston and surrounding areas are the most impacted. Chikungunya is a rarely fatal but typically painful viral illness that has advanced rapidly through the Caribbean and parts of Latin America after local transmission started in tiny St. Martin late last year. People develop immunity after getting infected. In recent weeks, the virus with no cure or vaccine has been increasingly sickening people and cutting productivity in Jamaica. Schools, courts and other institutions are being disrupted.

Michel Martelly hotel in Port-au-Prince to sign the so-called “El Rancho agreement” laying out a path to elections. But some lawmakers and the opposition have resisted the measure, claiming that the electoral commission is not independent and that any vote would not be fair. Some observers, like Haiti expert and University of California professor Amy Wilentz, blame Martelly, arguing that he would be only too happy to allow the legislature “to wither away” and then to rule by presidential edict. Wilentz, author of “The Rainy Season: Haiti since Duvalier,” accused Martelly of having a “Duvalierist” disrespect for democratic process and defended Haitian lawmakers from criticism that they have not moved quickly enough to pass an electoral law. “I believe that the legislature has tried to force Martelly to appoint an objective, fair electoral council, rather than one that believes in rubber stamping,” she said. Last week, US Secretary of State John Kerry called Martelly and thanked him for “his efforts to build consensus around electoral legislation that will allow elections to occur in a timely fashion.

Thursday October 09, 2014

Kaieteur News

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‘One Billion Rising’ to take domestic violence campaign to hinterland As part of its continued effort to bring about awareness and stamp out domestic violence, the One Billion Rising Movement (OBR) is taking its campaign to several interior locations. OBR is a global campaign to end violence against women, rise for justice and promote gender equality. The “billion” refers to the UN statistic that states one in three women will be raped or beaten in their lifetime. It was started in 2012 as part of the V-day movement which was initiated by celebrated playwright, Eve Ensler, who is best known for her book “the Vagina Monologues.” Ensler, who visited Guyana recently, noted that the movement has initiated one of the largest revolutions globally to end violence against women and girls. OBR was introduced to Guyana through Caribbean American Domestic Violence organization (CADVA). Last Monday, Regional Coordinator of CADVA, Diane Madray, joined a group of over 50 men and women

from across the country in a rally and “speak out,” session hosted by the organisation. Madray said that the activity creates a platform for women and men from the grassroot communities to come together in spite of ethnicity, religious belief, social standing and other differentiating factors to be sensitized and educated about the causes and effects of domestic violence. During the interactive session, several women from the interior locations, who joined the rally, shared their stories of rape, sexual abuse and other forms of violence. She said that the downpour on Monday morning did not prevent the participants from sharing their stories, dancing and singing. She added that even though language might have been a barrier for the Amerindians, some of the participants spoke through an interpreter and told stories of women being raped in the hinterland communities. As such, she expressed

Some of the women who participated in the speak out session on Monday

Thursday October 09, 2014 ARIES (MAR. 21-APRIL 20) You can develop your creative talents if you take the time to practice your art. Your changing attitudes may be causing concern for your partner.

LIBRA(SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) Limitations at work might set you back. Try not to be too harsh with loved ones; there will always be two sides to an Issue. Ask others to help, or you may feel that a burden is weighing you down.

TAURUS (APR. 21MAY 21) Secret affairs may be tempting, but keep in mind that they will damage your reputation if you decide to indulge. Catch up on correspondence.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) Try to keep an open mind. Abstain from getting involved with married individuals. Communication must be open, precise, and honest.

GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) Art investment will pay big dividends in the long term. Be honest with yourself before getting involved with someone who is likely to lead you on.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) You will reap the rewards for your kind actions. You should want to feel good about yourself and your goals. You will meet new romantic partners if you get involved in seminars or travel.

CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) Money problems will get worse if your partner hasn't been playing by the rules. Your outgoing, aggressive nature will attract someone you've been eager to meet.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22.JAN. 20) Spend time with your lover today. Your involvement in groups will be favorable for meeting new and exciting individuals. Try to get out and socialize.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Helping children may be rewarding and challenging. You need a break from your daily routine. Opportunities to make advancements through good business sense are apparent.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) Someone you work with could have a personal interest in you. You should regain some of your self esteem if you get involved in organizational functions.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) Don't upset elders in your family who don't understand your present situation. Stubborn about making changes around your home.

PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) Do not blow situations out of proportion. New relationships could evolve through group activities. Arguments may flare up in your home.

the need for indigenous people to be further educated about their constitutional rights and how they can access the laws which were established to protect them. The coordinator said that she never realized the pain and suffering, which the women in these communities endured. As part of her commitment, Madray said that she will be mobilising financial support from CADVA and OBR to extend the campaign to the interior locations. Madray said that the talks of trauma and abuse and the need for healing began with a discussion on women’s

health care issue; the need for adequate health care services in the interior locations was also highlighted. “My heart was breaking as I never realized their pain and suffering when they (the indigenous people) shared about their disconnect with the rest of Guyana…Teen pregnancies seem to be common and the need for education for these communities were lacking. For some as I looked across the room, I can see the permanent scars (physical scars) for women who were physically broken by the act of domestic violence and the need to have the proper health care put in place.”

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Thursday October 09, 2014

LETTER TO THE SPORTS EDITOR <<< Samuels’ 126* powers >>> Why Sarwan should have been Windies to huge win picked by the Guyana Franchise DEAR EDITOR, Observing Ramnaresh Sarwan statements on the popular cable TV sports show, the Sportsmax Zone that he expected to not be selected by Guyana for the now revamped, franchise cricket set-up because some Guyana cricket board (GCB) official doesn’t like him - then reading the Cricket Guyana Inc (CGI) response, has been mind blowing. It simply reiterates why Guyana’s cricket continues to be joke of the Caribbean ever since all the administrative controversies started way

Shikhar Dhawan made a scratchy half-century. (BCCI)

back in 2010. However, although it pains me to admit, some points made by the CGI makes practical sense. Picking Sarwan given his recent injury record was always going to be a risk, for reasons they asserted. Sarwan’s recent county stint with Leicestershire was cut short due to a reported back injury, so despite many holding out hope for is return - his non participation in recent inter-county competition would have indeed made it difficult for the CGI selectors to pick him. This though is as far as

Rafman Ali 15/15 softball to bowl off October 26 ESPNcricinfo - No Sunil Narine, no Chris Gayle, losses in the two practice games followed by a dispute between players and the board on the eve of the first match. When Dwayne Bravo’s letter to WICB mentioned the West Indies team morale was at “an all-time low”, no one would have doubted it. Still, the visitors somehow found a way to galvanise. Marlon Samuels, playing his first ODI in seven months, led a strong West Indies batting effort in the series opener, scoring his sixth century - his second against India - to pose a tough challenge for the hosts. With Denesh Ramdin, who scored 61, Samuels added 165 in 23.1 overs for the fourth wicket - a West Indies record against India - to convert a solid start into an imposing total. The bowlers then extracted enough help from the pitch to dismantle India’s batting line-up ruthlessly. It could have been West Indies’ biggest win against India in terms of runs, but a vexing last-wicket stand of 42 between Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami prevented that. Both Samuels and Ramdin had scored runs in the two practice games, but what they did not have in those fixtures was a strong start. Today, when the two got together, the scoreboard read 120 for 3. The Indian spinners could not get any purchase nor did they exert any control, and the batsmen built slowly, finding the odd boundary and

rotating the strike to keep the run rate above five at the 30over mark. It only got better from there. Samuels welcomed Amit Mishra, who struggled with his lines throughout the innings, with a couple of straight sixes in the 31st over, then reached his half-century in the 34th with another straight six, off Suresh Raina. Power was never an issue; Samuels found the distance when he wanted. What was noticeable was the number of singles he took to keep his strike-rate around 100 through his innings. Ramdin took over from Samuels during the batting Powerplay, smashing a Shami full-toss over the cover boundary and helping West Indies swell their score by 16 in that over. At the other end, fielders watched as Samuels’ powerful cuts pinged the boundary. That India’s bowlers were losing control became apparent in the 40th over as Jadeja gave away 10 extra runs through leg-side wides. Fifty-two runs came in the Powerplay and by the end of it, West Indies’ run rate had moved to six an over. Samuels reached his century with a calm dab down the ground and although West Indies lost a bit of momentum due to quick wickets, Samuels carried on with precision violence to finish unbeaten on 126. The target of 322 would not have affected India at the outset of the chase; they have been the most successful side chasing anything above 300. The

home side started confidently with Shikhar Dhawan and Ajinkya Rahane finding the boundary. As the team approached 50, Dhawan was guilty of not responding to Rahane’s call for a second and both batsmen ended up at the same end, resulting in Rahane’s dismissal. Virat Kohli followed in the next over, edging to first slip in a manner reminiscent of his days in England. But the slide was confirmed when Raina, who stroked an unbeaten century in the Champions League T20 final last week, played on against his Chennai Super Kings teammate Dwayne Bravo. The West Indies bowlers had been wayward to start with, but gathered themselves as the pitch quickened up. Taylor found pace, the medium pacers found movement and the spinners found the right lengths. India’s batsmen appeared all at sea, a bit like their spinners and fielders in the first innings. At the toss, Dhoni had said he was clear on the spinners for the World Cup, but wanted the seamers to settle. However, it was the spinners who failed to apply pressure today and ended up with a combined tally of 22-0144-2. With a maximum of nine games remaining before the World Cup, India, the defending champions, have a few chinks to mend. Scores: West Indies 321 for 6 (Samuels 126*, Ramdin 61, Shami 4-66) beat India 197 (Dhawan 68, Samuels 210, Dwayne Bravo 2-28) by 124 runs.

The nation’s top softball teams are expected to be on show once again when the Rafman Ali 15/15 softball tournament commences on October 26 at various venues on the East Coast of Demerara and Georgetown. Entrance fee is $10,000. The competition will be played in the open and over-35 categories with

the winner of the open division taking home a trophy and $100,000 and the runner a trophy and $50,000. The winning team in the over-35 segment will pocket a trophy and $50,000 and the second place a trophy and $25,000. Teams can contact Rafman Ali on 680-1805 or 6542233 for more information.

Joseph and Collymore dominoes set for October 10 President of the Georgetown Dominoes Association (GDA) Faye Joseph and S. Collymore will host a dominoes competition starting on October 10 at Gaulding Place South Ruimveldt. 27 teams are expected to battle for a top prize of $150,000 and a trophy, the runner up will take home a trophy and $75,000 and third place a trophy and $35,000. Entrance fee is $9,000 while there will be two giveaway prizes. Double-six time is 19:30 hrs. The finals will be played on October 11.

Faye Joseph

Jacobs defends Leewards... From page 27 players,” the selector said. Head coach of the Leeward Islands team, Ridley Jacobs, defended the selections as he sought to rationalise the recalling of the “old guards.” ‘I’ve seen potential, I’ve seen the light at the end of the tunnel and I think that these guys still have a lot to offer Leeward Islands cricket and West Indies cricket. I think that with the proper training, proper training staff, I think we will get the best out of these players and change things around,” he said. “This year we haven’t

done badly, but as I said earlier this year, we have some problems with the way the team was dealt with on the field. I think the captaincy was very poor and that led to a lot of games being lost,” Jacobs added. The draft was held over five rounds, with each of the six regional franchises selecting five players each, in addition to the 10 each pre-selected from their home territories. A WICB release stated that the draft was organised to achieve an equitable distribution of the available player talent in the regional four-day and one-day tournaments.

I’d defend the CGI because many persons involved in the Guyana cricket media in the past and present, would know that Sarwan’s explanation for why he was not picked by the local side is not far-fetched. It is not the first time Sarwan has been strangely left out of a Guyana team for strange reasons in recent years and the word that he and certain cricket board officials have issues is not new. In fact, many people who have covered Guyana cricket have a fair idea who Sarwan is talking about. Fact is nobody watches sport and cricket to see the administrators, so when fans are denied the presence of stars by officials, it is never good for the game. We witnessed a key example of this currently with the Kevin Pietersen/England Cricket Board saga. The 2013/14 season was basically Guyana’s worst ever performance in the history of regional four-day cricket, which commenced in 1965/66. Guyana lost outright to Leewards, Combined Campuses & Colleges & failing to win a game. And if it wasn’t for the foreign intervention in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the Amazon Warriors would not have reached the back to back finals with mainly local players. Noting this dynamic & clear paucity of local talent available to Guyana, cricket logic dictates that the GCB/ CGI should have included him in the list of retained player instead of putting him in the draft. A half fit Sarwan is still one of the 10 best players in this country. Special compensation toward his fitness should have been given, despite missing the inter county’s, similar to the West Indies picking Gayle and Samuels earlier this year for the home one-day international series versus England, despite their Nagicor Super50 absence. If Trinidad, the one country in the Caribbean who have the best cricket talent depth and didn’t need to look overseas for players could take a chance with Sarwan despite his recent fitness woes, why couldn’t CGI? Should Sarwan now perform for the Trinidad Red Force, fulfill his ambitions to be part of the West Indies 2015 World Cup squad and the Guyana team doesn’t not improve this regional season - the GCB/CGI will have a lot of egg of their face to wipe off. Colin Benjamin

Thursday October 09, 2014

Kaieteur News

Page 29

Nadal, Wawrinka suffer early exits in Shanghai Masters SHANGHAI (Reuters) An ailing Rafa Nadal added his name to the list of upsets at the Shanghai Masters after the Spaniard suffered a 6-3, 7-6(6) loss to Feliciano Lopez in yesterday’s second round, as fourth seed Stan Wawrinka and in-form Kei Nishikori also made early exits. Nadal’s great rival Roger Federer survived a huge scare, saving five match points before overcoming A rg e n t i n a ’s L e o n a r d o Mayer 7-5, 3-6, 7-6(7). Wo r l d n u m b e r o n e Novak Djokovic kicked off his title defense with a 6-3 64 win over Dominic Thiem, while Andy Murray did his hopes of grabbing a spot at

the season-ending ATP World Tour Finals no harm with a 7-5, 6-2 win over Jerzy Janowicz. Nadal has been diagnosed with appendicitis which will require surgery and while the world number two tried to play through the pain he was clearly not at his best. “For sure (I don’t feel) perfect,” said Nadal. “It’s the same way that I felt before. A little bit more dizzy now. But that’s it. Nothing that I have to worry about. When you lose a match, it is not the moment to talk about obvious things. I lost. Feli played better than me.” Nadal said he had plans to have the surgery to

remove his appendix at the end of the year. With five spots still up for grabs at the season-ender in London, Australian Open champion Wawrinka, who fell at the first hurdle in Tokyo last week, suffered the same fate in China with a 5-7, 7-5, 6-4 defeat to Frenchman Gilles Simon. “Two weeks I didn’t win matches,” the Swiss said on the ATP’s official website. “But you have to accept that and see what was the problem. I don’t think I lost my game. I think I’m playing okay. I just had two really bad matches.” American Jack Sock produced another upset when he defeated Japan’s

Jacobs defends Leewards draft selections

Ridley Jacobs (left) at the Draft pick this week. (WICB) Antigua Observer - ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Chairman of Selectors for the Leeward Islands Cricket Association (LICA) Lawrence Carty of Anguilla, said the sub-regional board went into the WICB’s inaugural player draft in Barbados on Monday, hoping to snatch former We s t I n d i e s b a t s m a n Ramnaresh Sarwan. Despite being second in line however, Leeward Islands opted for spinner Anthony “I-Roots” Martin and pacer Gavin Tonge as their first and second picks. Sarwan was grabbed by Trinidad & Tobago’s Red Force in the second round of the draft. Lawrence, speaking on the Good Morning JoJo Sports Show yesterday, said Sarwan would have brought

some stability to the team’s middle order, but hinted there were some concerns over his fitness. “Unfortunately, when we went down the list, actually we came up with one player that would have helped the Leeward in terms of filing the middle order and working along with the inexperienced players, because you know Leeward Islands have been going through a patch for a couple of years in terms of the batting, and that person would have also been able to help build around the nucleus of the young players and that player had some problems; it was Ramnaresh Sarwan,” he said. The other players selected to the Leeward Islands franchise are Quinton Boatswain, Jahmar

Hamilton, Montcin Hodge, Yannick Leonard, Steve Liburd, Jeremiah Louis, Kieran Powell, Devon Thomas, Hayden Walsh, Kelbert Walters, Rahkeem Cornwall, Jacques Taylor and Lyndel Richardson. Selection, according to Lawrence, does not guarantee franchise players a spot on the final team. “That is not the team, this team is a professional team, which is actually supposed to be a development team, the Stanford pro team it’s similar to that. They will go into a camp where they will play cricket and be paid for playing, and actually, you need some experience also. You can’t just put a bunch of young guys together with no leadership so that is why we have one or two experienced (Continued on page 28)

Rafael Nadal of Spain returns a shot during his men’s singles tennis match against Feliciano Lopez of Spain at the Shanghai Masters tennis tourney in Shanghai yesterday. REUTERS-Aly Song Nishikori 7-6(5), 6-4. It was the American’s first win over a top 10 opponent and brought Nishikori’s hot streak to an end. The Japanese came into the tournament after wins in Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo. Federer had to dig deep to avoid a similar fate against an inspired Mayer. The Swiss master saved two match points to make it 5-5 in the decider and rallied

from 4-1 down in the tiebreak to seal the victory. Djokovic, who is undefeated in 26 matches in China, had too much class for up-and-coming Austrian Thiem. “I had to be on alert from the start because he was serving already 215 kilometers per hour in the first service game,” said Djokovic. “He was serving big, playing big.”

Briton Murray made short work of an out-oftouch Janowicz and will next meet David Ferrer after the Spaniard survived a tense encounter against Martin Klizan. The fifth seed found the going difficult against his Slovak opponent before grinding out a 4-6, 7-6(4), 64 victory as he looks to climb up from his current 10th position in the race for the Tour Finals.

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Kaieteur News

Sohag Gazi suspended from bowling

SIR VIV - WRONG time to ban bowlers

ESPNcricinfo - Bangladesh offspinner Sohag Gazi has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect after his action was found to violate the ICC’s 15-degree limit. He was reported for a suspect action by ICC match officials in August, when on tour in West Indies, and subsequent independent testing at an accredited facility revealed all of his deliveries were over the limit. “He has been suspended by the ICC,” BCB cricket operations committee chairman Akram Khan told ESPNcricinfo. “The CEO just told me that his action is over the 15degree mark.” BCB chief executive Nizamuddin Chowdhury said the board would Sohag Gazi will be support Gazi by bringing him to work able to bowl again in on his action within the next few international cricket days. Though ICC regulations say only after his remedied Gazi can play domestic cricket with action passes another the BCB’s permission, Chowdhury test © Associated Press said the sensible thing to do would be to keep him away from domestic cricket until he has worked on his action with the bowling review tour ended. He was pulled out of the Test group. squad so that he could undergo testing on his “We will do everything that is necessary action in Cardiff. since he is an important player,” Chowdhury Gazi had been hopeful of a favourable said. “The first step would be to get him result and was looking forward to returning working with a bowling review group, which for the Zimbabwe series that begins on has to be formed as soon as possible. How October 25. Now, however, he will have to long it would take for him to be ready for the undergo remedial measures to bring his final testing would depend on him as well as action within legal limits and can contact the the coaches he will work with. ICC about re-testing at any time. “The board would have to allow him to The ICC’s officials have been strict with play domestic cricket but since he was identifying illegal actions in recent months suspected and then proved, not allowing him and bans were handed out to Pakistan’s Saeed to play would be the logical and standard Ajmal and Sri Lanka’s Sachithra Senanayake practice. He should only come back to among others, after both were found guilty of domestic cricket after the BRG is satisfied breaking the 15-degree flex rule. with his action. We will definitely give him A similar drive was undertaken in the competitive cricket before his final test.” recent Champions League T20, during which Gazi had been reported after the second West Indies spinner Sunil Narine was banned ODI at St George’s on August 22, but he did from bowling in the final and other BCCIplay the next game and that was where his organised tournaments like the IPL.

GYMNASTICS - DOMINANT U.S. retain women’s team gold

(

Reuters) - The United States retained their women’s team title at the Gymnastics World Championships yesterday with a massive victory margin over hosts China, with Russia claiming bronze. Reigning world allaround champion Simone Biles joined Kyla Ross, Alyssa Baumann, Madison Kocian, Ashton Locklear and MyKayla Skinner to score 179.280 points, 6.693 ahead of China. Biles capped the team’s strong performance with a lively floor exercise routine.

Such was the U.S. domination that when Biles and Ross landed off-kilter on the balance beam in the third rotation it still had no real impact on the final outcome. China, who claimed the men’s team title for the sixth consecutive time on Tuesday, overcame a mediocre performance on the uneven bars in the second rotation to claim silver. Russia finished third after Ekaterina Kramarenko fell on the balance beam and Alla Sosnitskaya fell to her hands on the floor exercise at the Guangxi Sports Centre Gymnasium in Nanning,

Thursday October 09, 2014

southern China. The U.S. team had started the competition strong, registering the highest total team score and the highest team scores on the vault and floor exercise in qualification. And there was no let up in the final. The Americans were at their strongest in the vault, scoring more than two points than any other team. They topped three of the four apparatus to improve on their 4.082 victory margin against Russia in the 2011 world championship in Tokyo.

Cricinfo - Colombo, Sri Lanka - Former West Indies captain Viv Richards has said the ICC’s crackdown on bowlers with suspect actions has not come at the correct time and it should have been done a while ago. “In my opinion such action should have been taken some time ago and on a wider basis because these guys have been there for quite some time,” Richards said in Colombo, where he is with the West Indies A team as technical director. “I am not sure because West Indies are touring India, there is going to be a World Cup next year, whether all this has something to do with it, I just believe the timing has to be good. With the next World Cup around the corner this is not the correct time to take such measures.” West Indies spinner Sunil Narine was reported twice for a suspect action during the recent Champions League T20 and was barred from bowling in the final and other tournaments organised by the BCCI. The West Indies Cricket Board took a precautionary measure of withdrawing him from the India tour “to have his action assessed.” “Sunil Narine is a mystery man like Murali [Muttiah Muralitharan], it’s going to hurt West Indies cricket more than any other team,” Richards said. Apart from Narine, Sri Lanka offspinner Sachithra

Sunil Narine was left out of the WI side in India due to being called for suspect action. (WICB) Senanayake, Pakistan’s Saeed Ajmal and a number of other spinners were reported for suspect actions and banned from bowling in the last year. Speaking of West Indies’ chances in the 2015 World Cup, Richards said, “West Indies have a magnificent team and I think if they can gel well they can accomplish victory. They are a multitalented team when you look at the Bravos, the Andre Russells, the Pollards. We can beat anyone on any given day and if we do that we will be pretty much in the picture.” With the West Indies team touring India, Richards said there was a possibility of

some of the players from the A team joining the seniors for the Test series. “We hope that when we [West Indies A] leave here [Sri Lanka] we have some exciting players who would do justice to West Indies cricket in the future. The challenge for the future is for the present individuals to try and emulate how well West Indies did in the past. It’s a huge task but you should never ever say ‘never’ because all things are possible.” West Indies A play three four-day matches and three one-dayers against Sri Lanka A, with the first match starting on October 11 in Hambantota.

Prosper Utseya’s action FOUND TO BE ILLEGAL ESPNcricinfo - Zimbabwe offspinner Prosper Utseya has been banned from bowling in international cricket after his action was found to exceed the ICC’s 15-degree limit. Utseya was tested at an accredited facility in Cardiff and all of his deliveries were deemed illegal. Utseya must now undergo remedial work on his action and apply for retesting. He can resume bowling in international cricket only after remedied action is cleared, but can play at domestic level at Zimbabwe Cricket’s discretion. Utseya was reported by the ICC’s match officials following the third ODI against South Africa in Bulawayo in August. The ICC umpires have been strict with identifying illegal actions in recent months and bans have been handed out to Pakistan’s Saeed Ajmal and Sri Lanka’s Sachithra Senanayake among others, after both were found guilty of breaking the 15-degree flex rule. A similar drive was undertaken in the recent Champions League T20, during which West Indies spinner Sunil Narine was banned from bowling in the final and other BCCI-organised tournaments like the IPL.

Prosper Utseya won’t be able to bowl in international cricket until he rectifies his action © AFP

Thursday October 09, 2014

Kaieteur News

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Carib Beer 1st Div. T20 - Berbice

Fifties recorded by Sookra, Hetmyer, Williams and Ramdass

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arib Beer first division T20 cricket action continued recently with D’Edward opening batsman Lakeraj Sookra blasting 85 to steer his team to an easy win over Blairmont Community Centre to seal D’Edward’s place in the last six play-offs, having won both their Zone A ( We s t B e r b i c e ) preliminary matches with one to play. Sookra’s knock, which included 10 fours and 6 sixes, is the highest individual score in the competition so far, eclipsing the 83 made by his teammate Eon Abel against Bush Lot Rising Star the previous week-end. D’Edward overcame the 142-4 set by Blairmont with 4.1 overs to spare. Following are summarized scores from the matches played: At D’Edward D’Edward beat Blairmont

Trishan Ramdass

Lakeraj Sookra

Community Centre by 5 wickets. Blairmont Community Centre, choosing to bat first, 142-4 in 20 overs; Nick Ramsaroop 46, Shabeer Baksh 32, Chris Patadin 29; Avinash Sewkarran 21. D’Edward 143-5 in 15.5 overs; Lakeraj Sookra 85, Devendra Lalsa 28; Deveshwari Prashad 2 for 13. At Cumberland - Young

Warriors hammered Police by 9 wickets. Police choosing to take first strike made 102-9 in 20 overs; Linden Austin 3-4 from 2 overs, Vishal Mohabir 2-22 f r o m 4 o v e r s . Yo u n g Warriors 105-1 in 13 overs; Shimron Hetmyer 54*, Seon Hetmyer 36*. At Edinburgh Universal Solutions Bermine took care of Edinburgh by 8 wickets.

Edinburgh, sent in to take first strike, 111-6 in 20 overs; Zaheer Hussain 32*, Nial Smith 3-15. Universal Solutions Bermine 112-2 in 13.2 overs; Leon Williams 57*, Kevon Boodie 31. At Skeldon - Skeldon Community Centre trounced Guytrac Upper Corentyne by 8 wickets. Guytrac Upper Corentyne sent in posted 117-7 in 20 overs; Latchman Roopchand 36, Clavern Beresford 2-17 from 4 overs, Parmanand Narine 2-29 from 4 overs. Skeldon Community Centre 118-2 in 13.4 overs; Trishan Ramdass 58, Parmanand Narine 27. At Bush Lot - West Berbice defeated Bush Lot Rising Star by 58 runs. West Berbice 128-5 in 20 overs; Krishnadat Ramoo 22, Dillon Joseph 2-24, Keyron Fraser 2-27. Bush Lot Rising Star 70-9 in 20 overs; Raun Johnson 2-8 from 4 overs, Krishnadat Ramoo 2-7.

Stag Beer/EBFA Div. 1 League - RD 2

Grove seal title and Agricola are runners-up

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rove Hi Tech all but sealed the Stag Beer sponsored East Bank Football Association division-one league championships when they sealed three points on Sunday last as their opponents, Mocha Champs failed to show up. The points garnered saw Grove further consolidating their position at the top of the table to an unassailable 36 well ahead of the second placed Agricola Red

Teams Grove Agricola Soesdyke Timehri KK Warriors Diamond Herstelling Mocha

P 13 12 13 13 12 13 13 13

LATEST POINTS STANDINGS W L D GF GA 12 1 0 53 12 8 2 2 31 11 8 5 0 32 21 8 5 0 24 14 6 5 1 25 28 2 9 2 7 25 2 8 3 11 50 0 12 1 11 34

Triangle in the process, sealing the top prize of $300,000. Agricola notched up another three points with their 3-0 win over Herstelling Raiders

compliments of a brace of goals from Collis Samuels in the 33rd and 39th minute. Gavin Kumar netted the other in the 35th minute. The league is winding

GD 41 20 11 10 -3 -18 -39 -23

Points 36 26 24 24 19 8 8 1

down with just two playing days remaining. Apart from the first prize, 2nd, 3rd and 4th place is guaranteed $200, 000, $100, 000 and $50, 000, respectively.

UMPIRES NAMED FOR THIS WEEKEND GCA FIXTURES

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he Georgetown Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association (GCUSA) has released the names of the umpires to officiate in this weekend Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) first and second matches. In the Hadi’s World City Mall Inc first division two-

day tournament, Georgetown Cricket Club will host Transport Sports Club with M. Yosef Yisrael and Deon Feassal in charge, Everest Cricket Club will entertain GNIC with Edward Nicholls and Javed Persaud umpiring, Gandhi Youth Organisation will travel to Demerara Cricket

Club with the umpires being Colin Alfred and Ryan Banwarie and Police will journey to Malteenoes SC under the watchful eyes of Hortence Isaacs and Cyril Garnath. In the Noble House Sea Foods second division twoday, Guyana Defence Force will battle Sophia under the

guidance of Clyde Layne and Linden Mathews and Police will host St. Stanislaus with Leyland Liverpool and Joseph Jeffery in charge. All matches start on Saturday with the first division commencing at 09:30 hrs and the second division at 10:30 hrs.

Home line Furnishing 50-mile cycle road race for Berbice Sunday

A representative of the Home Line Furnishing Store presents the sponsorship cheque to coordinator and Coach Randolph Roberts.

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yclists in Berbice will have a good opportunity to renew rivalry Sunday when the Flying Ace Cycle Club stages the inaugural ‘Home line Furnishing’ 50-mile cycle road race. The event is only for Berbicians and is open to cyclists in both regions five and six. The race, which was scheduled to be a part of the Rose Hall Town 44th anniversary celebrations, was pushed back by the sponsor. The event could not have come at a better time as it will give riders in the Ancient County a good opportunity to test their mettle just before the staging of the National Five Stage cycle road race the following week. Most of the riders are expected to come from the FACC, the Trojan Cycle Club and the Corskel cycle clubs in Berbice. The event pedals off from in front of the Home line Furnishing Store in Rose Hall Town at 10:00hrs and proceed to the Number 62 Police Out-post before returning to its point of origin. The race will be staged in different categories with prizes and other incentives being given to the outstanding performers.

The first six finishers and the first three juniors to complete the distance will be rewarded. The top three female cyclists will also be rewarded; however they will race from Adventure to the finish line. A special BMX race from Tain Berbice Campus to the finishing line is also on the cards and will see the first three to cross the finishing line getting rewards. Eight sprint point prizes are also up for grabs. The event was recently launched at a simple ceremony held at the Home line Furnishing building at Rose Hall Town. Speaking at the ceremony manager, Fareena Hamid stated that the race is being sponsored by the business entity to observe its 25th anniversary in business and also its third year of doing business in the town. She stated that the activity is one way of giving back to the community in which they operate. The company, she said, wants to show the people of Rose Hall Town that they appreciate the support they received over the years they have been in the town. The event has been organized by Coach of the Flying Ace Cycle Club Randolph. (Samuel) Whyte)

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Kaieteur News

Sponsorship a major bugbear …BUT CS&TC CONTINUES COUNTRYWIDE RACEWALKING DRIVE

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here has been heightened activity as the executives of the Cavalier’s Sports and Tour Club continue to press on with their agenda of preparing local race walkers for possible participation in the 2016 Brazil Olympics and coordinator, Jennifer Major, said that despite the many challenges faced by administrators, the recently planned events were successful. Ms Major was speaking

at a session to review the itinerary during the month of September and lamented the paucity of adequate sponsorship to address the planned programmes. She said that the CS&TC had planned outreach sessions countrywide supported by a race walk camp, held for two weeks in August. Ms Major said that participants were taught the basic aspects of the sport inclusive of the rules. They were also briefed on nutrition, environmental

issues and the tourist sector. She said that she was pleased by the high level of interest demonstrated by participants while stressing on the abundance of young talent in the regions. “These talents could be nurtured but there is a grave need for adequate sponsorship,” Ms Major stressed. Notwithstanding, the CS&TC coordinator admitted that there has been some measure of consistency from several sponsors and she feel

somewhat obligated to those corporate citizens/ organizations. These include Public Service Minister, Jennifer We s t f o r d , M a n a g i n g Director of Modern Optical Services, Dr Jose DaSilva, Minister of Local Government, Norman Whittaker, Hand in Hand I n s u r a n c e , N i g e l ’s Supermarket, Humprey’s B a k e r y, R a y m i c t o n Solutions and Antonio Szala and Brazilian Mining and Associates

Thursday October 09, 2014

Strikes Dominoes tourney...

TNT, F and H victorious in quarterfinal action, Finals on tonight

Sean Davis

PERSAUD WINS SMALLBORE Novices Shooting Competition Marvin Thom

Bryan Edward Results: 5m- 1st - Surujballi Persaud - 93points 2nd-Compton Sarabo - 92pointts 3rd - Joshua Ramlakhan - 89pointts 8m- 1st - Joshua Ramlakhan - 79points 2nd -Surujbali Persaud - 77points 3rd - Compton Sarabo, Sekani Fredericks tied with 72points Overall - 1st - Surujbali Persaud - 177points 2nd -Joshua Ramlakhan - 168points 3rd - Compton Sarabo - 164points

Top Smallbore novice shooters after the presentation.

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he Guyana National Rifle Association (GNRA) Smallbore section ran off a Novices Shooting competition last Saturday at the TSU range, Eve Leary. Surujballi Persaud with an overall total of 177 points was declared the winner in the 5 metres and 8 metres precision shoot with a .22 pistol using

both strong and weak hands at both distances. Second position went to Joshua Ramlakhan who amassed 168 points while third place was taken by Compton Sarabo with 164 points. Persaud won the first stage at five metres with 93 points beating into second position Sarabo who recorded

92 points, while Ramlakhan was third with 89 points. Ramlakhan however turned the table on Persaud to score 73 points, while Persaud secured 77 points. Sarabo and Sekani Fredericks were tied on 72 points. The competition attracted 10 shooters including one female debutant.

Football action fixed for Upper Corentyne

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he Corentyne C u p 2 0 1 4 F o o t b a l l Competition organized by the Corriverton Links Football Club in association with the Scottsburg Community Centre was launched last Friday. Five teams are slated to participate, including hosts Corriverton Links, NO 51 Football Club, Courtland Football Club, Manchester/

Liverpool Football Club and guest team Teachers United. According to the organizers the objective of the tournament is to promote football at the senior level in the Corentyne area. Assist in the development of the game in the area and to encourage clubs not affiliated with the defunct Berbice Football Association (BFA) themselves properly organized. The action is set to kick

off on Sunday, with one game. The opening encounter will pit No 51 FC verses Teachers in what is expected to be a keenly contested contest. The competition will continue on successive Sundays with Courtland taking on Corriverton Links on the 19 . Manchester/ Liverpool has drawn the bye. The final is set for the 14 November. All the matches will be played at the Scottsburg th

th

Ground, Corriverton Corentyne. Incentives will be presented to the top three teams, highest goal scorer, and best goalkeeper while medals will also be presented to the players of the top three teams. Among the sponsors are the Swiss house Corentyne, Dr Chand of Skeldon, Sookpaul Service Station, the BFA football enthusiast, coach and referee Randy ‘Blades’ Sears.

Marson Baton

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NT and F and H registered victories when the Strikers SC dominoes tournament continued recently with quarterfinal action at Dynasty on Monday night last. TNT chalked up 76 games to beat Providence on 67 and Golden Masters with 51. Ryan Boodhoo made 16 and Dane Bynoe 15 for the winners, while Paul Dos Santos scored 16, Deon Telford 15, Sean Davis 14 and Marson Baton 12 for Providence. Earl Anderson and Dellon Griffith recorded 15 each for Golden Masters.

F and H marked 74 games to overcome C7 and 4+1 in their encounter. F and H were led by Hazim Hakh and Deon Boston with 16 games apiece. Marvin Thom scored 15 games for C7 with while Bryan Edward contributed 14. Andrew Mendonca and Andrew Hope were 4+1 leading players with 14 and 13 games in that order. The semi finals and final will be contested tonight with C7, F and H and TNT battling from 19:30 hrs at S t r i k e r s S C i n Meadowbrook; Providence drew the bye to the final.

Thursday October 09, 2014

Kaieteur News

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GVF/Guyoil Tradewinds Tankers launches K&S 25th Annual Int’l Invitational Volleyball Club Festival football tourney in the pipeline By Sean Devers

The Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) has collaborated with sponsors by Guyoil Tradewinds Tankers to stage the Guyoil T r a d e w i n d s Ta n k e r s International Invitational Volleyball Club Festival scheduled for the National Gymnasium from November 9-12. Hosts Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Brazil (Roraima State) all from South America, will battle with Caribbean side Trinidad & Tobago for top honours as Guyoil Tradewinds Tankers return after a year’s absence to fund the event which will include both Male and Female teams. At the official launching of the three-day tournament at Olympic House on High Street Kingston yesterday, former GVF President Reggie Bhagwandin, wearing the cap of Guyoil Operations Manager, said Tradewinds Tankers, a shipping company which was has been transporting oil for the state owned Guyana oil Company since 1988, was pleased to be associated with Volleyball. “As a past President of the GVF we (Guyoil) readily agreed to offer sponsorship for the entire tournament this year after being on board for the inaugural tournament in 2012,” Bhagwandin, who was at the helm of the GVF from 1995-2000, informed. President of the GVF,

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he Kashif and Shanghai (K&S) organization are c u r r e n t l y planning their 25 Annual football tournament. According to Director Kashif Muhammad the tournament will be played at the senior club level and they are hoping to kick start on November 14. Speaking with Kaieteur Sport yesterday, Muhammad said that they have already notified the various subassociations, including Georgetown, Linden, East B a n k , B a r t i c a , We s t Demerara, Berbice and East Coast, as well as the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) adding that they are awaiting a response from the GFF. Muhammad informed that they are currently in talks with their major sponsors. The tournament will take a different format with 69 teams taking part in the initial stages which will be contested on a knockout basis in the various subassociations with 20 teams going through to the finals. Muhammad pointed out that they are trying to revitalize the game locally. “There is no other competition in the air so we are trying to revive football since there is a dearth on the sport,” he added. He stated that prize money will be given by the organizers to the winners of the various subassociations and the th

Guyoil’s Finance Controller Rosalyn Franklin hands over the sponsorship cheque to GVF Secretary Shantel Maloney, while Guyoil’s Operations Manger Reggie Bhagwandin (2nd left) and GVF’s Marlon Pearson, President John Flores (holding ball) and President of DVA Jadeshwar Doolchand share the moment. Captain John Flores, who is in charge of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guards, said he is satisfied with preparations for next month’s tournament and is confident that the Guyanese would be very competitive. “We have been to Brazil recently and we got a good gauge of the standard of Volleyball there since Brazil is the top South American Volleyball team,” informed Flores. Flores, who took over from Lenny Shuffler as GVF head, disclosed that each country will send a club team to compete with a Berbice united and a Demerara combination in the Male

category, while one female team will represent Guyana. The GVF top-man added that Brazil and Trinidad & Tobago usually send both Male and Female teams to the event which commences with the opening Ceremony at 17:00hrs on Friday November 7 at the National Gymnasium According to Flores, each team will be required to pay a registration fee of US$500 and should arrive in Guyana the night before the tournament starts. He further s t a t e d t h a t G u y o i l ’s sponsorship will cover Hotel accommodation for the teams in addition to the cost of meals for the players and

officials of the visiting teams. Flores told Bhagwandin that the Federation is hoping to revitalize the Castrol Strikers, adding that hopefully next year they will be back in local competitions. The GVF President also told Kaieteur Sports that the National under-16’s will be in Surname from December 18 for a tournament there, while the under-19’s will also be in the Dutch Country at the end of this month to compete in the Inter-Guiana games. He added that the Under-23 side is scheduled to travel to French Guiana next year.

Kashif Muhammad proceeds from the preliminary stages will go toward the sub-associations. After the conclusion of the preliminaries on November 30, the tournament will break for two weeks before the finals commence on December 14 and conclude on January 1, 2015. Muhammad informed that they are not finished with the junior tournament and plans several activities for the youngsters, will be announced, while they have approached the Ministry of Education for a suitable slot on their calendar to host the schools tourney during next year at a period not clashing with the extremely well established Digicel event. He noted that at present, nothing is on the cards for yearend senior football and they have decided to step in and stage the event this year for the seniors in the seeming absence. \

Guyana born Head Curator at Lords presents ‘piece of Turf’ to GCC

Y

esterday the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) at Bourda was presented with a piece of hallowed Turf from the square of the Lords Cricket ground in London by England Guyanese born Omesh Mohamed who migrated to the United Kingdom when he was three years old. According to his father Prem Raghubeer, the 31-year-old Omesh is the Head Curator at Lords and wanted to do something for a club that his grandfather, Deopaul Raghubeer is a life member of. Carl Hooper and Shiv

Chanderpaul are the only batsmen from GCC, who have scored Test centuries at Lords and yesterday the presentation was made to GCC President Lionel Jaikarran by Omesh’s grandfather in the presence of his father. GCC is the venue for the West Indies’ first ever Test match win against England in 1930 but the venue, which hosted 32 Tests between 1930 and 2005, is no longer used for Test cricket since construction of the National Stadium at Providence. Omesh is on his third trip to Guyana but was unavoidably absent yesterday. Deopaul Raghubeer presents the Turf from the ‘square’ at Lords along with a wicket, ball and bat ornament (Sean Devers) to GCC President Lionel Jaikarran on behalf of his grandson Omesh Mohamed, the Head Curator at Lords.

t r o Sp

Marlon Samuels (left) took two wickets, while Sulieman Benn bowled very well. (BCCI) Marlon Samuels drives through the off side. (BCCI)

Samuelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 126* powers West Indies to huge win

MS Dhoni played around a straight ball from Darren Sammy. (BCCI)

GVF/Guyoil Tradewinds Sohag Gazi K&S 25th Annual football Tankers launches Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l suspended tournament in Invitational Volleyball from bowling the pipeline Club Festival Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210