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Kaieteur News
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
New “rules of the game” Corruption, most would concede, is not a new problem in our body politic. Some would say that the very act of creating offices and bestowing power on their holders unleashes corruption. The 19th British historian Lord Acton famously observed: “All power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Generally, corruption is regarded as a consequence of political and economic, socio-ethnic, and even moral reasons: politicians need votes; businessmen need favours; officeholders favour “their own” and all these are judged to be “bad” reasons for making decisions that involve the patrimony of the state. After all, the latter is supposed to be held in trust for all the citizenry and to be distributed fairly. Now all the foregoing might very well be true as far as the genesis of the phenomenon of corruption is concerned, in our country. But as the cancer has metastasised and overtaken almost every institution in the country - in and outside the state- the quantitative has altered the qualitative nature of the disease. Corruption itself has become the overriding factor that defines both the state politics and economy, and even social relations in our society. With the departure of the British, especially after 1968, we have gradually but inexorably created a new form of the state and political system – in which their foundations are firmly based on unmitigated, absolute corruption. Corruption has expropriated the political system, altered the state apparatus to itself, and promulgated new “rules of the game.” As a consequence, political authoritarianism and social demagogy of those in power, have become unavoidable products of the pervasive corruption in the state system. It is important to note that it does not matter what the nominal form of the state might be: what we will now have is a liberal-corruption, socialistcorruption or conservative-corruption state etc. In this new world where corruption has become the norm, democracy and its undergirding principle of the “rule of law” inevitably become subversive elements which are just as inevitably countered by authoritarianism. The democratic system of checks and balances, legislative and judicial autonomy, an unfettered and free press etc. are concrete mechanisms that facilitate an effective struggle against corruption. Consequently, the only path of survival for such corrupt systems (of whatever variety) is to attack and eliminate democratic principles from state and societal processes. Take the problem of bribery and graft that is so prevalent in our country. There is a great outcry as to why the constitution, laws and regulations are not applied with the same vigour to all transgressors. The answer is simple: unless you have been defined as an enemy of those in power (or their friends) it means that anyone prosecuted energetically has simply not greased the appropriate palms. The formal rule of law is a sword to destroy the critics and a shield to protect the power elite. However, there is a more insidious aspect to the widespread acceptance of bribery and graft by those in power. When a citizen proffers the bribe and the official accepts it, they both fulfil their immediate wants. But most importantly from the standpoint of maintaining the corrupt regime in place, the transaction means that the citizen tacitly accepts the status quo. He boasts of having “lines” and the corrupt administration knows that he is less likely to storm the Presidential Compound. Corruption becomes a substitute for violence. Then there is the role of the press. The corrupt politicians become incensed when incidents of corruption are charged to the political regime by the press. They would rather that corruption goes unreported, or at worse, is blamed on the local lackeys. The true extent and nature of the corruption – which is the entire political system – must be hidden from view. It is imperative that the veil of secrecy be lifted over all transactions: from government and civil society.
Friday October 24, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
Now that a PPP leader has called them out, I hope the Guyana Times editors cool it DEAR EDITOR; A headline in the October 23 edition of Kaieteur News caught my attention (Minister Slams “dishonest” Guyana Times report on Glenn Lall). The report is about the Minister of Foreign Affairs complaining that she was misquoted in the Guyana Times newspaper. There are a few reasons why this report is significant. The Guyana Times is a pro-PPP newspaper. It is sometimes even more strident in its defence of the PPP and its government and its attacks on the PPP’s opponents than the two other pro-PPP papers-the Guyana Chronicle and the Mirror. Nothing is wrong with a nonparty paper supporting a political party. The Stabroek News does not hide its bias towards the AFC and the Kaieteur News seems to favor the APNU more than the other two. Newspapers take sides-that’s a fact of life. But what separates Guyana Times from the other two is its method. First, it
gives overwhelmingly more coverage to the PPP that the APNU and AFC. There is not even a pretense at fairness. Second, almost 100% of its coverage of the APNU and AFC is negative. I have not seen more vile attacks on public persons in all of my four decades and more of reading Guyanese newspapers. Some of these attacks are replete with curse words. Third, it constantly twists the words of mainly opposition spokespersons to suit its larger practice of smearing opposition members and supporters. There are instances where the headlines have been totally different from the content of the article. This is what the Minister is complaining about—twisting her words to satisfy the current anti-Glenn Lall crusade. Many times one cannot distinguish between reports and opinions. Fourth, while all opposition people, including this writer, are fair game for abuse in the pages of the Guyana Times,
the Indian Guyanese activists and critics of the PPP are singled out for a special kind of abuse. The mostly personal daily abuse of Ramjattan, Nagamootoo, Roopnarine, Glen Lall, Freddie Kissoon, Chris Ram, and Goolsarran is sickening. Although Glenn Lall is not a politician, he falls into that category because of the perception that his paper is anti-PPP. There is the racist “betrayal” syndrome at work here. Fifth, not far behind is the racist demonization of what the Guyana Times perceive as the Black leadership. Nothing about Granger, Greenidge, Clive Thomas, Nigel Hughes, Eusi Kwayana, Vincent Alexander, Lincoln Lewis and David Hinds is good. They are constantly portrayed as violent, unintelligent, backward and inferior. In addition, many opinion pieces constantly advise Black people to stop being dependent and emulate East Indians. Finally, the reporters whose names (Continued on page 31)
Prison may not be the best punishment for some offenders DEAR EDITOR, I wish to reference Freddie’s article in your newspaper dated 10-22-14 about the preposterous actions of some magistrates on certain rulings. I don’t often agree with his opinions, but this subject has really hit me in the gut where I felt as a Guyanese, I must speak out. I keep abreast with the news in Guyana and I am confounded when I hear my fellow Guyanese going to jail for petty crimes, where the government must provide room and board to prisoners for these simple offences. I see almost on a daily basis where a magistrate has the option to use alternative means in sentencing for petty crimes, but instead is willing to separate a family and send the offender to jail. I cannot comprehend this “jail them”
mentality by certain magistrates, and what is so very sad, many of these offenders have no prior criminal record, no prior conviction, no prior police contact. I can see why Freddie is banging his head against the wall because not only are these rulings senseless, but because intelligent Guyanese who are in a position to voice their opinion and displeasure, are taking a back seat to this disparity. When you examine the Justice system in democratic countries around the world and then look at the Guyanese Judicial System, one has to ask why is this happening. Why are people being jailed for petty crimes, is it because we want to teach them a lesson? Instead of overburdening the Camp Street Prison with low levels offenders, why not have alternative programs in
place to address this issue. Incarcerating people for these crimes is a vicious cycle that needs to be stopped. For many non-violent low level offences, prison may not be the most sensible method of punishment, especially those that pose no threat to public safety. Offenders of these violations could be addressed by supervision, restitution, and community service to co-inside with a probationary period thus giving them a chance to contribute to society. I would respectfully ask of magistrates to refrain from this kind of mentality and to be humane when dealing with offenders who commit petty crimes, especially when dealing with juveniles. Instead of incarceration let us think about rehabilitation. Jagmohan
Issues are not the overriding thing here DEAR EDITOR, I was mildly intrigued by a couple of items that appeared in the other daily. On 20/10/14 by GHK Lall, “Deal in making to stave off no confidence vote,” and Mr. S Samaroo, of 9/10/14, “We’re a global people of poor self image.” First Mr Lall, I must confess that you left me in “stitches” (a term for hilarious laughter) after reading your either “tongue in cheek” or “serious naiveté” description of your humongous discovery. All the issues that you have put forward that could shame a government into resignation, mean nothing to the Indian voter. Issues are not the overriding thing here: race is. For the Indians what ever the complaint, it only affects black people. Therefore there are no outraged Indians. There is no reason for the Indian voter to be on the picket line, for even though he suffers the same humilities he identifies with the government. It is his government.
Therefore when that columnist characterized the people collectively as sheep, he is not addressing black people with that sheep characterization. History is a good teacher. When the PNC was in control the black middle class bourgeois were incensed with Burnham and his policies. These intellectual black people decided to pick up the cudgel and run with it. Black people went after Burnham. “Rodney, Lewis, Hinds, Ogunsaye, Kawayna, Holder, Thomas. It was about issues they said, not a thing about race, they were patriots. What form of Government these bright black people were going to deliver to us after they got rid of the PNC only they know. “The greatest stumbling block in the way of progress in the race has invariably come from within the race itself.” (Marcus Garvey.) During that period Dr Jagan proved where he was really an astute politician. He laid low and allowed the Black
people to fight each other. He kept his ears to the ground, his powder dry, and awaited the conflagration, which eventually came. Leaving us with the fall out up to now. Mr Lall, I gather from your writings that you see our future in dire straits. I do not for one minute doubt your assessment. For when things happen, you wonder. APNU has a leader who has the audacity to become incensed when and if he is picketed, he pickets the President every Tuesday and does not see the irony. The people ask when the Parliament will be reconvened? The part time politicians don’t have a clue. They scream that the constitution says this, the constitution says that. The metaphor for the constitution is “our present traffic.” Mr Samaroo, you are quite the bleeding heart aren’t you? You are so sweet your sweetness could lead to diabetes. I am just wondering, however, (Continued on page 31)
Friday October 24, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
Abuse of two young dogs Diwali Motorcade lit up in the Wortmanville area Liberty Avenue in Queens DEAR EDITOR, Because of one person’s deep concern for action against the abuser to the cries of two dogs from the 20 minutes of non-stop beatings by their owner, and this person’s immediate action to contact two members of the GSPCA, and in turn the members’ immediate response to go in search of this report with the aim of bringing quick relief to the troubled animals, the intervention prevented what could have resulted in the death of the two dogs. At 8:30 pm on Tuesday, October 7, the report was made and the quick response before 9 pm brought the two GSPCA members into direct contact with several two-man groups of individuals. We stated that our intention as GSPCA members was to bring relief to the animals by consulting with the owner what might be the problem and what help could be provided. Each group gave their own version of what might have transpired and what brought about the abuse; some groups preferred not to speak; some spoke halftruths; some denied any knowledge of the incident and the last group brought us closer to the truth and encouraged us to return the next day Wednesday, October 8, to meet with the owner. This meeting did take place and interestingly the owner shared his story, but said he was unwilling to hand over the animals to the Society since the dogs belonged not to him, but to his mother. Some ready support of longer leashes, food and water bowls and pallets were made available the next day to relieve the animals of the
discomfort of being tied on short leashes, with no water, and in an environment of dried faeces. The dogs looked sad and unhealthy and in need of proper care. The owner did accept the items. He was however warned that should he not comply with a change of attitude towards the animals, he could be prosecuted. He was asked to give us the opportunity to meet with his mother and this meeting took place the next day, Thursday, October 9, when the mother conceded that she was saddened by the plight of the animals and agreed to hand them over to the Society. The next day Friday, October 10, the dogs were taken to the GSPCA for assessment and treatment. A follow-up call to the GSPCA assured us the dogs were doing well and still under observation. This letter is an appeal to members of the public with animals in their household to seek help and advice from the GSPCA and/or private Veterinary doctors, on how to better care for their animals, and especially animals in difficult circumstances, before it escalates and leads to abuse or turning a blind eye to the pleas of the animals. This concern also includes stray animals. We as human beings have always to remember that we have a voice to speak out for ourselves or other human voices to speak on our behalf, but the animals cannot speak
for themselves and those who care for animals are the voices that represent them in society. Please therefore DO NOT be afraid to report the abuse of any animal. Let us all come to their rescue in their hour of great need. Gratitude is extended to (name provided) the first person who took action by making the call, and to Ms. Syeada Manbodh, trained to rescue animals, who followed through on this assignment until the animals were removed from their distress. We wish also to thank both the owners of the dogs for cooperating with us and agreeing to the intervention process. Another incident coming to light was on Monday, October 13, a vagrant was seen in the streets of Queenstown dragging a puppy by a rice bag (for a leash) tied around its neck and again Ms. Manbodh came to the rescue of this animal. After the rescue, the puppy’s tongue was hanging out almost bloody red as if the blood gushed up from the (Continued on page 31)
DEAR EDITOR, I was very impressed with the Diwali motorcades in Guyana - quite spectacular; plaudits go out to the organizers. In New York, the Guyanese Hindu diaspora also organized a motorcade in Richmond Hill, Queens. There was a kaleidoscope of an assortment of lights of varied shapes and colors as in Guyana. And as in Guyana, there was a spectacular cultural program that featured traditional devotional music, ghazal, dancing by young girls, and much more to entertain the large crowd the lined Liberty Ave and congregated at the park. The Diwali motorcade kicked off at dusk on Saturday with a beautiful display of color on Liberty Avenue in Richmond Hill, the heart of the Indo-Guyanese community. The many vehicles with their artistry of lights assembled near Liberty Avenue and 133rd Street and were sent off with prayers and bhajans. The ceremony was preceded by prayers and a Diwali related concert featuring spiritual songs and classical
dances at the Dr. Cheddi Jagan ground. The motorcade vehicles were brightly decorated with colorful lights. The motorcade was led by Grand Marshall Pandit Chunellal Narine of Trimurthi Mandir. He was joined by other pandits and community leaders and heads of organizations as well as political officials of state and city governments. There was much revelry at the park and at the parade route. Some of the floats were gorgeously bedecked with representations of Mother Lakshmi and other depictions from the Hindu Scriptures. Young girls were dressed as Goddess Lakshmi. There singing and dancing performances on the floats as well as tassa drumming along the way. Bhojan (traditional food) and Prasad (mohanbhog and mithai and other delicacies) were also served at the ground. Diwali and Phagwah are the most celebrated festivals among Guyanese in Queens. It is the most favorite of the Guyanese holidays with its distribution of food and free
public entertainment and fun. Guyanese usually come from various parts of the US and Canada to take in the free entertainment and the decorations of the motorcade. There were hundreds on the parade route. Participants said the motorcade brought back memory of celebrations back in Guyana or Trinidad or Surinam. There were also Punjabis along the route cheering the marchers and floats. Along the route, Prasad and small packets of delicacies were handed out. It was a joyful evening of colourful display of artwork of lights. Participants were dressed in traditional Indian attire. The packed cultural program at the Arya Samaj ground entertained the large gathering on the cold evening that marks the coming of Winter. The cold weather did not keep away the crowd. The cultural performances were punctuated by presentations (messages) of political officials and greetings from leaders of organizations of the Hindu community. Vishnu Bisram
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 24, 2014
Rohee accuses GECOM chairman Days before sentencing… of throwing “political tantrums” EZjet boss makes last-ditch
effort to withdraw guilty plea
By Abena Rockcliffe The relationship between the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is becoming a little more tense as the Party is seemingly not at all pleased with the modus operandi of the entity’s Chairman, Dr. Steve Surujbally. Government officials, particularly President Donald Ramotar, have been on record several times stating that GECOM is not prepared to facilitate Local Government Elections. This was one of the reasons the President had initially given for the stall in the holding of Local Government Elections. But GECOM has categorically defended itself on almost every occasion; questions about its readiness are raised. Recently, Dr. Surujbally was quoted as saying that all President Ramotar needs to do is call elections and GECOM will respond. Asked at the most recent PPP press conference to comment on the fact that GECOM is merely awaiting word to hold Local Government Elections, yet the PPP administration is yet to give the go-ahead, General Secretary of the PPP, Clement Rohee, basically said that the Party is not assured that that is reality. Rohee regarded Surujbally’s statement as “loose” and said that it cannot be accepted at “face value.” He said that the PPP is not interested in just hearing that GECOM is ready, but wants focus to be placed on the concerns it has raised. “My statement on behalf of the PPP calls for specific steps, we want him to comment on that and we expect that he comments as a professional Chairman, and not get into the political tantrums that he seems so adept to get into…I would say let us deal with the questions posed to Surujbally and the statement rather than commenting on what is attributed to
PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee
GECOM’s Chairman, Dr. Steve Surujbally
Surujbally. The politician even went on to say that he saw a movie called “The Fixer”, “but I can’t be so sure he can fit that bill with respect to elections”. The issues Rohee addressed in the statement he referred to, include “GECOM’s readiness” and the Commission’s hiring of Richard François as the new Public Relations Officer. When asked if the PPP is not getting sufficient feedback and clarifications from its three commissioners/ representatives sitting on the elections commission, Rohee’s only response was that the issues raised at PPP’s press conference are as a result of the feedback it has been getting from the commissioners. Dr. Surujbally had noted that the Commission’s ongoing work will see it ready for either General or Local Government Elections. Sections of the media had reported that when the Chairman was asked if he has been questioned about the Commission’s readiness by the Head of State, Surujbally said “Three months after he (President Donald Ramotar) has said he would like elections, he will have elections.” The Chairman was reported as saying, “…. we have spent a lot of time, a lot of effort and a lot of money preparing for local government elections, but the Minister has to say, in collaboration with us of
course, that we would like to have elections on such and such a date. Within six months, we will give your local government elections.” The Commission’s chairman noted that the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker, was advised that GECOM would be ready to host the Local Government Elections in April 2010, but the order did not materialise. “Local Government Elections are 71 different mini-elections, as opposed to general elections, which is why we need six months, as opposed to the three months for general elections,” Surujbally said. The budgetary allocation of $3.3B for the Commission’s administration and other related costs was approved by the National Assembly earlier this year. Of the allocations, $1.7B is set aside for the Commission and $1.6B for elections administration. The money is intended to allow for GECOM to exercise general direction and supervision over the registration of electors and the administrative conduct of all elections of members of the National Assembly, the Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) and more local authorities in Guyana. PPP’s criticisms of GECOM have become very popular in the face of looming elections. In recent times, PPP has (Continued on page 16)
Days before his sentencing after pleading guilty to money laundering, embezzlement and illegal wire transfers, among other financial crimes in the United States of America (USA), EZJet boss, Sonny Ramdeo, is again challenging the court to withdraw his guilty plea and is further contending that he is being prosecuted in the wrong jurisdiction. Ramdeo this past week, filed another motion after the US Court denied his petition to withdraw his guilty plea. According to Ramdeo, the US Constitution provides a guarantee that a defendant be tried in the jurisdiction where the crime was allegedly committed, but this is not happening, since he has been moved to and is being tried in another jurisdiction. Ramdeo also maintains that he was inadequately represented from the beginning of his incarceration and indictment. He initially pleaded guilty in October last year and has since been fighting an uphill battle in an attempt to withdraw that guilty plea and have a fresh trial. Following his guilty plea on an initial three counts, Ramdeo was arraigned on six more superseding counts of fraud and money laundering among other financial crimes. Ramdeo is insisting that a defendant, prior to his guilty plea, should be made aware of all of the possible defences, and he must understand that he is giving up those defences. He has since argued that there was a breakdown in communication between himself and his attorney, and as such, his plea was not “voluntary or knowing”. Ramdeo contends that he at times literally had to “yell” at his attorney to get anything done, “Certainly in a working relationship, a client should not have to yell at their attorney and clearly there was a breakdown in
communication as the records show.” According to Ramdeo, a month before entering a guilty plea, the law firm representing him at the time, without his knowledge, scheduled a change of plea hearing. Ramdeo maintains that his attorney threatened to withdraw his services if he did not agree to plead guilty on the various counts he had been accused of. He maintains that at the time he was unfamiliar with the court system and his constitutional rights, and as a result he could not inform the court of the conflict. Ramdeo in fact claims that at the time he did not even know the district has a rule precluding a defendant from doing anything with the court once they are represented by counsel. Ramdeo said in his motion that following the change of plea hearing, he desperately tried to make contact with the law firm representing him, to no avail. He said that the attorney only came to see him when he filed a motion to appoint a new counsel. Ramdeo further claims that during the change of plea hearing, the interaction between the court and the attorney was vague, to the point when he was asked if he was receiving competent counsel, he said he believed so. “In conducting the inquiry, the court never advised that the defendant was waiving his right to challenge the venue,” according to Ramdeo in his motion. Ramdeo said the US Supreme Court has already upheld the position that “waiver of constitutional rights must be intentional relinquishment or abandonment of a known right or privilege.” He is further contending that the US government’s evidence against him has varied over time, and used as an example, an amount said to be embezzled from the hospital chain where he was employed. According to Ramdeo, the US Government claimed that the amount was US$25M, but the indictment makes reference to a US$20M figure. He said that to further compound the situation, the US prosecutors only have six months of bank statements, but claim the losses occurred over a two-year period. This figure, he said, has been revised by the US Government to as much as US$27M. Ramdeo contends that the charges against him allege that the taxes he was supposed to pay on behalf of
EZJet boss, Sonny Ramdeo the Hospital was not paid, but at the same time, the Government through its own records tendered, illustrated documentation to reveal that at least 80 per cent of the taxes were in fact paid over. This evidence, he said, was never proffered until a pre-trial detention hearing. Given his arguments as proffered in his motion, Ramdeo has since asked that the court deny the government’s motion in opposition and grant his motion, and to dismiss and vacate the guilty plea. The US Court is to make a ruling on Ramdeo’s latest request. Earlier this year, Ramdeo had failed in a previous attempt to have his guilty plea vacated and was even found guilty of obstruction of justice, a charge he will have to address at his sentencing. At the time, Justice Kenneth Marra, the Presiding Judge, had found that Ramdeo did not carry his burden to show a fair and just reason to allow him to withdraw his plea of guilty and as a result his motion was denied. Ramdeo’s troubles were escalated further as he was put on notice that at sentencing he should be prepared to address the questions of whether his advisory guideline sentencing range should be increased for obstruction of justice, based upon false testimony he presented. Ramdeo was found to have lied to the court about representation provided to him by court-appointed lawyers. According to Justice Marra, Ramdeo had the assistance of extremely competent counsel. He said in his ruling too, that Ramdeo was advised of the options available to him, and he chose the course of action to be taken, namely pleading guilty. Justice Marra ruled that Ramdeo’s decision to plead guilty was made knowingly and voluntarily, after being fully advised of his options.
Friday October 24, 2014
Kaieteur News
Griffith assures: We are ready for shooting attacks which occurred in Canada Trinidad Express National Security Minister Gary Griffith has assured that every effort would be made to ensure that the shooting attacks which occurred in Canada Wednesday do not happen in this country. In a release, Griffith stated that units and key agencies under his ministry were well prepared “for a situation of this magnitude God forbids it ever occurs here in Trinidad and Tobago”. He stated the risk and the clear and present danger were real and evident in today’s occurrence and the response of the Canadian authorities was appropriate and in accordance with their threat assessment. Griffith noted the first assets and response team on site during the incident in Canada were the Armoured Personnel Carriers and the
Gérard Latulippe Special Operations Group, both of these being current initiatives of the Ministry of National Security. “These are the same Armored Personnel Carriers that some had taken to calling expensive toys. Today these APCs have proven their worth, pressed into service in a hostile civilian environment, and the message could not be clearer for us here at home in
Trinidad and Tobago, especially as we have had experience with attacks on our very own seat of democracy,” stated Griffith. He added that two months ago a comprehensive Risk Threat and Vulnerability Assessment was conducted at the Parliament building by the National Operations Centre, the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, Parliament security and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management. The findings from which have been able to guide and inform contingencies and proactive security planning. The Express Wednesday contacted Canadian High Commissioner in Trinidad Gérard Latulippe but he said he preferred to not comment on the situation.
ALBA promises to assist the region in Ebola prevention HAVANA, Cuba - CMC – The Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America (ALBA) says it will look after, as a priority, “the special needs of our sister countries in the Caribbean that would allow them to benefit from the cooperation for preventing and confronting Ebola that are agreed to by the ALBATCP countries”. The declaration came at the ALBA summit on Ebola in Cuba this week, where Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Dr. Ralph Gonsalves told the ALBA Extraordinary Summit, called to deal with the Ebola epidemic, that St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) like the sub-regional Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the larger CARICOM bloc is unprepared for the Ebola virus, which has claimed more than 4,500 lives in West Africa,
and has now reached the United States. Among other things, the ALBA countries agreed to coordinate their efforts to prevent and deal with the Ebola epidemic, including rapidly providing and using assistance among member countries, with healthcare workers and
relevant supplies and materials. They also agreed to contribute to the training of health care workers specialized in the prevention and control of Ebola in the ALBA-TCP countries and the Caribbean, on the basis of accumulated experience. The group of nations will also create a cadre of professionals from different specialties to train healthcare workers in the areas of bio safety, including the use of personal protective equipment to be used for suspected or confirmed cases of Ebola, care of haemorrhagic diseases and critical patients that might become facilitators and advisors in their respective countries. Gonsalves told the summit that SVG, the OECS and CARICOM have been taking measure to prepare should Ebola arrive in the region.
PORT OF SPAIN - The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) will host workshops geared at strengthening the Caribbean’s ability to prepare and respond to outbreak situations such as the ongoing Ebola outbreak in West Africa. From November 17 to 21, CARPHA, in collaboration with the Communicable Diseases and Health Analysis (CHA) unit of PAHO/WHO, will provide
two training workshops on Infectious Substances Shipping Training and Biosafety Practices for the Clinical Laboratory, at its Port of Spain, Trinidad headquarters. Laboratory professionals from across the Caribbean who complete the World Health Organization Shipping Infectious Substances course will be certified to prepare shipments of laboratory samples. Successful
participants will be certified for a period of two years to handle and package Category ‘A’ Infectious Substances, such as samples from suspected cases of Ebola virus disease. CARPHA will also train personnel in bio-safety measures, practiced in the laboratory, which include infection control, proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and waste management measures.
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves
CARPHA to host infectious diseases workshop
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Kaieteur News
‘Don’t blame Trinidad’ - Jamaica’s decision on Abu Bakr should be applauded, says TT security minister Gary Griffith
Yasin Abu Bakr Jamaica Observer Trinidad and Tobago’s National security minister, Gary Griffith, says that Jamaica’s decision to deny landing rights to one of the twin-island republic’s nationals, radical Muslim leader Yasin Abu Bakr, should be applauded. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Griffith admitted that Jamaica’s labelling of Abu Bakr as a threat to national security “should be expected”, stressing that
“national security takes precedence over anything else”. Griffith, in the statement under the headline Abu Bakr needs to face reality: Don’t blame Trinidad and Tobago for your past actions, blasted the radical Muslim leader for blaming Port of Spain’s recent deportation of several Jamaicans for Jamaica’s action against him. He described the excuse as a “red herring”. “The evil that men doeth
lives after them, and at times, even while they are still alive,” Griffith said in apparent reference to Abu Bakr ’s violent past which included an attempted coup on the government in the 1990s. “It must be underscored that denial of entry into a sovereign, democratic country means that there was ample rationale for such action, as evidenced by that country’s national security apparatus.
Friday October 24, 2014
More than seven suicides per hour in the Americas, including the Caribbean – report MEXICO CITY, Mexico CMC – A new Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), report says about 65,000 people take their own lives in the Americas, including the Caribbean, each year—more than seven per hour. The report, “Suicide Mortality in the Americas,” is based on data from 48 countries and territories in the Western Hemisphere. It shows that suicide is a significant health problem and one of the region’s leading preventable causes of death. “Many things about suicide make it especially tragic,” said PAHO Dominican-born director Dr. Carissa F. Etienne. “The severe emotional suffering of the one who takes his life; the feelings of loss, abandonment or guilt of family members and friends left behind; and it is so permanent yet many times for problems which can be solved,” she added. “But, to a large extent, suicide is preventable,” Etienne continued. “Research has shown that reducing access to the most common means like fire arms pesticides, and certain medicine helps lessen suicides.” Region-wide, PAHO said the Americas has a lower average suicide rate (7.3 per 100,000 inhabitants) than the global average (11.4 per
100,000) and lower than other World Health Organization (WHO) regions. Within the Americas, however, PAHO said rates vary significantly in different countries, as well as by age and sex. Among sub-regions, it said North America and the non-Hispanic Caribbean have the highest suicide rates. PAHO said men have higher rates than women in all the region’s countries and among age groups, people over age 70 have the highest suicide rates. Other significant findings of the new report include: Suicide is the third-leading cause of death in young people ages 10 to 24; adults over age 70 are the most likely to die from suicide; men are about 4 times more likely than women to die from suicide, although women make more suicide attempts; and the most common method of suicide in the region is suffocation, including hanging, f o l l o w e d b y firearms and poisoning (including drug overdose and pesticide ingestion. The report says suicide declined slightly in North America between 2005 and 2009 but increased in Latin America and the Caribbean. It says that countries in the region with the highest suicide rates for 2005-2009 were: Guyana (26.2 per
100,000); Suriname (23.3); Uruguay (14.2); Chile (11.2); Trinidad and Tobago (10.7); the United States (10.1); Cuba (9.9) and Canada (9.7). The report notes that these and other findings should be interpreted with caution, since data quality varies significantly across countries. In addition, it says cultural, religious and even legal factors lead to underreporting of suicide in many countries, which suggests the report likely underestimates the real burden of suicide in the Americas. The report recommends that countries evaluate their mental health systems to determine if they have the programs, services, and resources to prevent and treat problems associated with suicidal behavior. “We need to detect early and treat mental disorders like depression and alcohol abuse,” Etienne said. “In our communities and in our primary care services, we must identify, monitor and provide care for those at risk. “We must be especially vigilant for those with previous attempts. But preventing suicide is not just the responsibility of health care workers; communities, families, churches, and social groups must become involved,” she added.
Economic bounce, tough campaign point to Rousseff win in Brazil MATEUS LEME Brazil (Reuters) - President Dilma Rousseff looks positioned to narrowly win a second term tomorrow thanks to a slight rebound in the economy and her success in portraying her rival as an elitist who would take Brazil back to a more heartless era. Rousseff, a leftist, has a lead of about 4 percentage points in polls against Senator Aecio Neves of the centrist Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB), who proposes more marketfriendly policies focused on trade and fiscal austerity. The president’s lead is within the margin of error in most polls, which badly understated Neves’ support in the first round of voting on Oct. 5. Both camps, therefore, have warned against reading polls too closely and some analysts say the race is still a toss up. But the overall momentum has been in Rousseff’s favor, thanks to swelling support
from Brazil’s lower-middle class - generally defined as people in households earning between about $700 and $1,800 a month. That group, which accounts for about 40 percent of the electorate, has benefited greatly under Rousseff’s Workers’ Party over the past 12 years. Many of them seem to have concluded that things in Brazil just aren’t that bad - so the risk of switching to Neves isn’t worth it. A senior adviser to Neves’ campaign acknowledged that he has had a bad week, although he noted that he staged a late comeback in the first round and could do so again. “It’s been a campaign of fear,” the adviser said. “It’s disgusting. But we believe people will see the truth tomorrow.” Brazil’s economy has slowed dramatically since Rousseff took office in 2011, and suffered a light recession
early this year, fueling opposition to her interventionist policies on Wall Street and in big manufacturing centers such as Sao Paulo. Nevertheless, the economy grew again in July and August, according to a central bank indicator, which would be the first two consecutive m o n t h s o f expansion since mid-2013. Brazilian workers received an average wage increase of 3 percentage points above inflation this y e a r, d o u b l e w h a t t h e y received in 2013. Unemployment is near alltime lows, falling to 4.9 percent last month. There has also been a recent improvement in perceptions of the economy with just 15 percent of voters telling the Datafolha polling firm that they expect the economy to worsen, down from 25 percent in late September and 36 percent in early June.
Friday October 24, 2014
Kaieteur News
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IT ALL HAPPENS HERE If you live long enough in Guyana, you are bound to see it all, hear it all and read it all. Nothing that happens in this country should surprise anyone. Not anymore Take for example that amazing story that was reported in yesterday’s edition of the Kaieteur News where it was claimed that someone who had benefitted from remigration concessions on the importation of a Mercedes Benz Sport Utility Vehicle, did not know that he had to live in Guyana. What then does it mean to be a re-migrant? Does it not mean that one is making a conscious decision to make Guyana the place where one will be ordinarily domiciled? How can one be ordinary domiciled in Guyana if one does not live here? What is even more surprising is the fact that the person claimed that he was not aware of the requirement to return to Guyana. Now this individual would have been required to be interviewed by both the Foreign Ministry as well as the Guyana Revenue Authority. I am sure that somewhere along the line, persons being interviewed for re-migrant status are going to be asked to confirm whether they intend to return to live in Guyana. But even more astonishing is how the registration of the vehicle was renewed by the ever-vigilant Guyana Revenue Authority. Did they do any checks to confirm that the person in whose name the vehicle was registered was living in Guyana? Yet they went after
two elderly American citizens who were living in Guyana. They seized the vehicles belonging to these two individuals even though they were in Guyana at the time. These two elderly Americans have been placed under considerable stress, more so, since they are now facing charges before the Courts. The stress has taken a toll on these two persons’ health. The more you think about this situation, the more upsetting it becomes. Here are two persons who came back to live and are now being put under great stress. On the other hand, here is another case of someone who admits to not knowing that he had to live in Guyana, not having any of the problems that these two elderly citizens have. Here is a case whereby there was someone who benefitted from a concession running into millions of dollars and the GRA did not see it fit to take any action. This is clearly wrong and someone must answer for it. This confirms what was mentioned last week in one of these columns, that there is a need for a management audit of the Guyana Revenue Authority to determine the level of efficiency involved in policing these concessions to ensure that those who benefit from them actually reside in Guyana. In the case publicized
in yesterday’s edition, the person admitted to not knowing that this was a requirement. The Guyana Revenue Authority is not likely to undertake any management audit of its operations. This may reveal too many skeletons. But the fact that something as blatant as this could have occurred right under their noses is really a shocking indictment against the tax agency, and one that needs to be addressed. While, however, the Guyana Revenue Authority is not likely to undertake such
an audit, it is not beyond the scope of the Auditor General to undertake such an audit. It is also not beyond the authority of the Auditor General to investigate specific instances whereby persons who have not re-migrated have enjoyed such concessions. The Auditor General should therefore broaden the scope of his investigation to include a management audit of the Guyana Revenue Authority to determine how foolproof are the systems that are employed, and whether the manner in which the Authority is managed on a
day to day basis, has in any way contributed to cases like the one mentioned in yesterday’s newspapers falling through the cracks. More interesting, of course, is what does the Guyana Revenue Authority intend to do about the man who claimed that he did not know that he had to live in Guyana? Are they going to deal with him the way they dealt with Glenn Lall? And are they going to go after his highranking relative whose address he used when applying for the concession?
It is because of the revelations like yesterday’s story that Kaieteur News has been placed in the firing line. It is for bringing out what is taking place in Guyana that the government wants to jail Glenn Lall and close down his newspaper. They must not succeed, or wrongdoing and cronyism will take over Guyana.
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 24, 2014
== THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN ==
The world’s most mysterious country Any analysis on the breakdown of public service by the PPP Government has to be done in the context of demography. The per capita methodology is a scientific guide to understanding how countries operate. If a country with 100 persons endures a murder every day and another with fifty persons sees a murder every day, you cannot judge them by the murders committed each day. The land with the less population is far more violent. Using this methodology, Guyana is the most mysterious country in the world. In France, Britain, Mexico, Indonesia, Italy, there are very small villages where the population is greater than
the total numbers living in Guyana. In the US, China, India, Pakistan, Brazil, very tiny enclaves have more people than the entire population of Guyana. When you look at the horrible public service delivery it becomes an insolvable puzzle, given our country’s demography. For simplicity sake, let’s put Guyana’s population at 800,000. Of this figure, a whopping 33 percent is fifteen years and under. They have no business at the Land Registry, the Deeds Registry, Lands and Surveys Department, NIS, GPL, GWI, Births and Deaths Registry, the GRA, UG among others. The age group 1-35, takes in a whopping 62. Using a calculator, you can then arrive at the adult population between ages 45-70. It is tiny compared to world standards. Yet since the PPP came to power, public service in this country is shockingly horrific. How many persons in a population of 800,000 and given the breakdown I just used, are NIS pensioners, that is, over sixty? The figure is too small for NIS to have such poor delivery to its pensioners.
Using my calculations of Guyana’s demography, how many people have legitimate business at the Deeds Registry, Lands and Surveys and the Land Registry, that results in daily confusion among hundreds of citizens? Pay a visit to these places since the PPP came into power, since Mr. Jagdeo became our youngest head of state/government, and you will see absolutely no changes in service delivery. The lines at public institutions are unbearably long, documents cannot be found and there is always a shortage of staff. I say without fear of contradiction, this sordid mess obtains in every realm of public service by the Government of Guyana. Go to the GRA to renew your driver’s licence and you will see for yourself that Guyana does not exist in the modern world. How many persons in our small population of 800,000 have titles to land that would cause Lands and Surveys to be the horror movie that it is? Let us say of that 800,000, it is 200,000. Can’t a government in a modern world with
fantastic technology provide service to 200,000 without the massive confusion you see each day at Lands and Surveys? Let us say that the confusion needed time to sort itself out. What happened under the twelve years of Mr. Jagdeo? What is happening since Mr. Ramotar came to power three years ago? If for the past ten years, you have been receiving 300 returned Guyanese from medical training in Cuba, then why is the Georgetown Hospital the nightmare that it is? I honestly do not believe that the Cuban-trained doctors are competent. That is my opinion. And once I have money they will not treat me, my family and my close friends. But let us leave that for another column. Why with all these returnees,
the patient numbers remain in their thousands and the average waiting time to see a doctor at A&E is seven hours? Is it a mystery? I don’t think it is. The key to understanding this madness is insensitive and incompetent governance. I agree with Lincoln Lewis that those we trust may turn out to be just as undemocratic as the PPP, but I cannot see any other political party being as incompetent as the PPP when in power. The answer is that the PPP is not interested, even at the barest of levels, in providing Guyana with satisfactory public service. The University of Guyana has about five thousand students. That makes it one of the smallest in the world, yet UG cannot get its records for both students and staff
Frederick Kissoon right. The tiny space that houses the Exams division has been like that since UG opened at Turkeyen more than forty-two years ago with its permanent quota of four staff. The explanation is simple - starve the public service of staff and technology and you kill public service delivery. I honestly believe Guyana can only survive if there is regime change. I believe this deep in my heart.
Dem boys seh...
Cee fuh Satar left alone in de air Cee fuh Satar is a very decent man, and dem boys believe he is; that’s why dem does pray fuh he, de man wha resemble de devil and de other one who he tell that we in this thing together. He suh decent that he write a letter to de Chronicle and sign he name as Staffer. When de Chronicle publish de letter he tun round and seh that he had to tek action. Well dem boys give he a whole front page news item yesterday and today. Dem boys know that yesterday was not he holiday, was holiday fuh de same man who he got to tek action ‘gainst. Suh nobody didn’t he expect he to act yesterday. Dem boys seh that he got today, Friday, fuh start de action, because this one clearer than day. He ain’t got to wait till night like wha he do when he move pun dem legitimate people who live yah. A decent man like he does escape disaster. Dem boys hear that he going after Bai Shan fuh dem fancy vehicle dem bring in without paying anything and wha dem seh gun do dem wuk in de back dam.
Donald want to know how dem vehicle can wuk in de bush, suh he ask this decent man who suddenly start fuh stammer. Dem boys hear that Donald seh don’t worry talk, just go and find dem and tell me wha part of de bush dem deh. That is how Cee fuh Satar end up in a two-seater plane wid just de pilot heading to de interior. When dem deh over de Essequibo River de pilot faint and Cee fuh Satar start fuh halla. “Help me, help me. De pilot get a heart attack and I don’t know how to fly de plane. Help me; help me please.” He hear a voice over de radio saying this is de Air Traffic Control and I have you loud and clear. I will talk you through this and get you back on de ground. “I have had a lot of experience with this type of problem. Now, just take a deep breath; everything will be fine. Just tell me your height and position.” Cee fuh Satar seh, “Me is five feet four, and me in de front.” De Air Controller pause; then he seh, “Repeat after me, Our Father, who art in heaven…”
Friday October 24, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Anti-Granger ad is product October 2014 criminal of govt.’s “dirty tricks dept. session opens in Berbice - Harmon General Secretary of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Joseph Harmon yesterday sought to discredit a paid advertisement which appeared in the Stabroek News, with the headline, “David Granger bad for PNC, Bad for Guyana.” The article featured comments from eight persons, including exmembers of the People’s National Congress, Joseph Hamilton, Henry Jeffrey, James McAllister, Dr. Faith Harding and GECOM Commissioner and Registrar of the University of Guyana Vincent Alexander. It also included remarks by former Deputy Speaker Clarissa Riehl, Vice Chairman of the Alliance For Change Moses Nagamootoo, and political activist Aubrey Norton. Several calls were made to Opposition Leader, David Granger, yesterday, for his take on the ad, but this proved to be unsuccessful. Harmon, however, told this newspaper that he is positive that the advertisement is part of a vicious smear campaign. He said that it is clear that the ad came from the “government’s dirty tricks department” and that it is clearly done in recognition of the fact that Granger will emerge as the next president. He opined that the current administration, in light of APNU’s support for the No-Confidence Motion, will do everything to assassinate Granger’s character and weaken the electorate’s faith in his leadership abilities. “But we see through the tactics. This won’t weaken us. The back of the government is against the ropes and this kind of move was certainly expected from them. I noticed too, that they used old comments from Moses Nagamootoo, and that was deliberate. They notice that A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change have a very strong relationship, and they want to put a wedge in that relationship. We will continue to expect only the worst from the People’s Progressive Party. But let it be clear that we will not allow this despicable attack on our leader to affect us. We are stronger than that,” Harmon emphasised. This publication made several attempts to contact the persons whose comments were used, to verify if their permission was sought to use the comments in such a manner, and if they still maintain their position on the
APNU’s General Secretary, Joseph Harmon
Opposition Leader, David Granger
Scenes from the opening of the criminal session in Berbice
Political activist, Aubrey Norton
Vincent Alexander, GECOM Commissioner
opinions expressed, since none were recent. While some of those attempts were unsuccessful, contact was eventually made with Mr. Alexander. The comment published in the ad by Mr. Alexander was, “It is therefore surprising that Mr. Granger on the occasion of the anniversary of the fledgling alliance, now finds favour with the position that the two offices should be held by one person, and offers himself as that person, although not much has changed to justify his change of heart and view, on the other matter…In fact, the position of leader of the opposition, which is a broad-based, fledgling alliance demands his attention on two fronts: One leading the alliance, which must be naturally challenging and demanding his attention and two, building the alliance, which undoubtedly requires deep thought, much energy and astute leadership.” Alexander, while stressing that the comment was not a recent one, expressed concern for the manner in which his comment was manipulated and stressed that
its content, though a position which he still maintains, does not fit into the intentions of the headline, which seeks to discredit Granger’s ability to lead the nation. “I was never contacted for my permission for this comment to be used in this advertisement and I am concerned by it. My view at the time was that Granger should not be holding two offices, for both positions are very demanding and for guaranteed growth, the new alliance would need a new leader. I don’t subscribe to the intentions of the ad,” Alexander asserted. Aubrey Norton also expressed concern with the manner in which his comment on the proceedings of the PNC Congress was misused. He too stated that his permission was not sought for it to be used in what appears to be a government paid advertisement. In stronger terms, he added, “I am concerned that these comments have been misused. The headline of the ad has no relationship to the comments I made and it looks like the normal People’s Progressive Party trash.”
The October 2014 Criminal session of the Berbice High Court; opened on Tuesday with the usual pomp and ceremony in front of the Berbice High Court building on Esplanade Road, New Amsterdam. The Parade, which included a march past, was commanded by Cadet Officer Jevon Hamer with Inspector Edson Davidson as the parade Inspector, while Sergeant Michael Newland led the 27-man strong contingent in an impressive display accompanied by the police drum corps. Justice James BovellDrakes, who is presiding in the October Criminal sessions of the Berbice High
Court, inspected the Guard of Honour. Justice BovellDrakes was accompanied by Justice Sandra Kurtzious who is presiding in the civil court in Berbice. They were escorted by Commander of B Division Assistant Commissioner, Brian Joseph, Cadet Officer Ronald Ally and Officer in Charge of the New Amsterdam Prison, Senior Superintendent Linden Cornette. Also accompanying the
parade were Officer in Charge of traffic, Assistant Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud and Inspector Seseupaul Jhagroop among others. There are 37 persons in jail awaiting trial, 31 of them for murder. Of the 31, four are willing to plead. There are three persons in jail awaiting trial for sexual penetration while there is one each for carnal knowledge, unlawful wounding, and possession of firearm without a licence.
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 24, 2014
Remigrant was not in Guyana when vehicle cleared, registered - In two years, spends 20 months overseas Shortly after admitting that he has been spending more time out of Guyana than in, a remigrant, who imported a high-end Mercedes Benz SUV under a special Government programme for
returning Guyanese, may have breached the conditions under which he was allowed to import the vehicle. Kamal Mangal, 67, the uncle of Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General,
Anil Nandlall, since registering the vehicle, PPP 9090, on November 2, 2012, has been more out of the country than in. When the vehicle arrived in Guyana in October 2012,
Kamal Mangal and the Mercedes Benz SUV.
A frontal view of the vehicle
Mangal was not in the country to clear it. He was also not in Guyana to register his vehicle on November 2, 2012. Between November 2012 and October 2014-a two-year span-Mangal spent about 20 months out of the country and only four in Guyana during his visits, spending on average two weeks at a time. The length of time spent in the country has direct bearings on the conditions under which duty free
concessions for vehicles are granted to a remigrant. When he applied to become a remigrant he swore to an Affidavit of Remigrants for Duty Free Concessions which stated: “…that I have now decided to remigrate to Guyana where I pledge to reside for no less than three years, failing which, I agree to pay all customs duties applicable to the articles I am bringing in from the United States of America... “I make this declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true and correct, and according to the statutory declaration Act.” The Guyana Consulate website stipulates in the REVISION OF THE POLICY GUIDELINES OF THE REMIGRANT SCHEME, that the applicants must make a Statutory Declaration that they are remigrating, and will reside in Guyana for no less than three (3) years failing which all exemptions granted become immediately payable. In his affidavit filed with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mangal agreed to these conditions. In 2012, when he applied to become a remigrant, Mangal signaled his intentions to import a Mercedes Benz AMG jeep, a high-end vehicle, in his applications to the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs. The file with the approval was then sent to the Guyana Revenue Authority which prepared a “Tax Exemption” letter. In that same letter approval was also granted by GRA for the remission of Customs duty for the vehicle and other personal effects. Mangal’s case came to the fore last week after a newspaper report said that he listed the home of Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, as his address. Nandlall told Kaieteur News that Mangal owned 15 apartment complexes overseas and has invested heavily in Guyana. The SUV was parked outside the apartment building that Mangal says he owns, on Delhi Street, Prashad Nagar. Nandlall reportedly said that he is unsure why his home address was listed on the paperwork. He admitted that Mangal stayed with him several times in 2012 when application was made for the vehicle. The spotlight has been drawn to the remigrant scheme following revelations that state auditors have been investigating a fraud scheme in which vehicles were coming in and being sold illegally, robbing the state of millions in taxes.
Friday October 24, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Wrongful detention in Guyana cut my income off - Akbar Muhammad By Zena Henry Akbar Muhammad, an Associate Professor of History and African Studies, but better known for his association with the Nation of Islam, as the international representative of Minister Louis Farrakhan, says he has lost income as a result of his wrongful detention in Guyana back in May 2011. Since Muhammad was arrested by local security agents some 28 months ago, and accused of being involved in terrorism and drug running, he claims his income has been cut significantly due to the stain the incident cast on him. During a press conference at the Pegasus Hotel on Wednesday morning, Muhammad said that the Guyana government is yet to respond to correspondence sent both by local and foreign lawyers about the matter. The Professor opined that he is due compensation from the government since he can no longer earn efficiently through his trade. “I absolutely want compensation, because you (government) cut my income off. When I go to a colleague, people Google you, and when they Google me, the first thing they see is that I was detained in Guyana and accused of being a drug runner and a terrorist. Do you think that the professors who control most of the institutions want me to go in and talk to the students?” Muhammad said that the government was sent correspondence six months after the incident occurred, and another 12 months later, but still no reply. At the time of Muhammad’s arrest, he had said that he was in the country to conduct lectures on dysfunctional families, drugs and crime, among other social issues. He had come in his capacity as Professor and as a representative of the Nation of Islam. He said on the night
- Professor says compensation and apology overdue
Akbar Muhammad (centre), along with members of the Nation of Islam and other attendees at the press conference of his arrest, around 02:30 hours, there was a knock on the door and the persons outside identified themselves as ranks of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Muhammad said he refused to open the door until the individuals called out their full names. He recounted that they vowed to break down the room door if he didn’t comply with their instruction. After opening the door, he said the CID ranks told him that (America’s) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) gave them word that he “is a terrorist and a drug runner”. He said that although he knew the allegations to be “ridiculous” he complied and went to the CID headquarters where he was questioned. Later, Guyanese citizen and a member of the Nation of Islam, Phillip Solomon Mohammed got word of Muhammad’s detention and went to explain the situation. H o w e v e r, h e t o o was arrested, as well as Tyrone Seymour who later went to CID also trying to clarify the matter. After describing the terrible condition of the cell, Muhammad said it wasn’t until another member of the local Nation of Islam body, Dennis Mohamed, made contact with Minister Farrakhan, who later
contacted then President, Bharrat Jagdeo, that he was released. However, what was most surprising, the Muslim representative said, was that even before he was placed in the prison cell, the news about his detention was in America on CNN. He said he was still sitting on the bench when his daughter called to find out if he was alright since the details of the incident had been televised. Muhammad said he is unaware of the political dynamics of his arrest, “so I demanded an apology, and with an apology comes compensation. Why should I be compensated? Because I speak and lecture to groups and on colleage campuses throughout America”. Apart from that, Muhammad said that the United States, through its Embassy here, has already stated that they gave no information about him being a terrorist to the local authorities, therefore “the onus is on Guyana to make things right”. “I am not going to go away quietly until God takes my life, because my position is correct. You’re gonna deal with it, because I have definitely been civil in this matter,” Muhammad stated. The Professor indicated that in the same way information was sent to CNN about his
detention, an apology for the whole incident should have been sent back to the same source to be aired. Muhammad said he believes the act against him was orchestrated since “one does not sit on a bench to be
questioned and shortly after it is being aired around the world that I was detained for drug running and terrorism.” Muhammad claimed to have been made aware that the Former President, Jagdeo, despite several letters from
persons around the world pertaining to the incident, has vowed never to apologise. He further pointed out that the Ramotar Administration has never made contact or sought to address the matter. Muhammad will be seeking an audience with the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) after it was suggested that he do so. When asked, Muhammad said that the only local support he has received since the incident is from the local Nation of Islam arm and other brothers of the Faith. Muhammad said that if his demands are not met he will engage in further consultation with his lawyers, “but there will be a course of action.”
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Kaieteur News
The beauty of Diwali By Rabindra Rooplall Globally, millions are participating in one of the most significant festivals (Diwali) for Hindus, with beautifully arranged lighting displays, fireworks, prayers and celebratory events. Yesterday all over the country, the customary displays of diyas were witnessed by thousands of admiring observers (See related photos on centre pages). Diwali is the five-day festival of lights, celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains across the world. The festival, which coincides with the Hindu New Year, celebrates new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. To celebrate, houses are decorated with diyas, candles and colourful lights and huge firework displays are held while families feast and share gifts. The actual day of Diwali is traditionally celebrated on the festival’s third day, which this year fell on October 23 (yesterday). The festival usually falls between the middle of October and the middle of November, although this is decided upon by the Hindu lunar calendar. While each faith has its own reason to celebrate the festival, one of the most popular stories told is the legend of Lord Rama and his wife Sita returning to their
kingdom in northern India from exile after defeating the demon king Ravanna in the 15th century BC. The festival is marked by large firework displays, to remember the celebrations which, according to the legend, took place upon Rama’s return as locals set off their own version of fireworks. Those celebrating the festival also light traditional diyas or candles and decorate their houses with colourful rangoli artworks - patterns created on the floor using coloured rice or powder. During Diwali, families and friends share sweets and gifts and there is also a strong belief in giving food and goods to those in need. It is also traditional for homes to be cleaned and new clothes to be worn at the time of the festival. It also coincides with the heart-warming practice of exchanging sweetmeats with neighbours, friends and extended family. This kind act is to strengthen bonds with neighbours, friends and relatives. It brings the community together. It also inculcates in participants the sense of joy associated with giving. And by doing it in times of joy, such as Diwali, it strengthens our inclination to give others in times of need. It brings together people of all religion to enjoy the celebration. The food most closely associated with the festival is
Indian sweets, which come in a range of colours and flavours. The celebration however, features various rich savoury and sweet dishes, and while eating out is popular, families will mostly prepare food at home for when guests arrive to exchange gifts and watch fireworks. Unlike the traditional roast turkey at Christmas, each family celebrating Diwali will more than likely have its own favourite meal for the festival, and the food will most often play a central theme to the celebrations. The Hindu philosophy places great emphasis on cultivating strong bonds with one’s community, through a host of traditions. To the businessman Diwali means brisk business just as to the clay potter, Diwali is the occasion of the year when the bulk of his sales are made. Diwali became a time for them to change their annual accounting books. Their new year starts with Diwali. This is the reason why Diwali is also the festival of Goddess Lakshmi, who personifies prosperity and wealth. Lakshmi pujas are held in most Hindu homes. Diwali is not just about illuminating houses and paths. Persons must ignite the divine light within and let its radiate outward, so that it touches all those we come across.
Friday October 24, 2014
Quality of AG’s report continues to be poor, lacks strong recommendations - PAC Chairman By Kiana Wilburg The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) which is chaired by Carl Greenidge, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s Shadow Finance Minister, is currently gearing to examine the Auditor General (AG)’s 2012 report. However, while some progress is being made, the committee’s Chairman has disclosed that a number of matters still remain hindrances to the committee, such as the poor quality of the AG’s report and its lack of strong recommendations to defaulting agencies. While House Speaker Raphael Trotman is still undecided on reconvening the sitting of the National Assembly, several committees have commenced work. One of the most diligent, according to Trotman, is the PAC. On Monday, the Committee met to reschedule dates for the examination of agencies in the report of the Auditor G e n e r a l o n t h e public accounts of Guyana for 2012, and to consider outstanding matters to be addressed by the AG, the Finance Secretary and the Accountant General. In an interview with this publication, Greenidge expressed that the committee has concluded its examination of the AG’s 2010 and 2011 reports, and its draft report, which will include a number of recommendations to be taken by various ministries and entities, is expected to be completed by next week and circulated to the various PAC members. The PAC Chairman stated that the committee at its latest meeting also looked at a report on the Auditor General’s Office which was based on its internal workings. Greenidge pointed that questions arose about the lack of clarity in some parts of that report, the problem of getting the quality improved, and the poor explanations that would be provided in some cases when the AG is addressing a
Carl Greenidge, PAC Chairman problem. He said that these deficiencies, which are clear in the internal workings of the AG’s Status Report, are often very evident in the AG’s report on the accounts of the country. Greenidge said that when the PAC is examining the reports, quite often, explanations are not clear enough, there are certain omissions on some matters, some infractions have too much detail while some are not thorough enough, and there are “certainly not enough strong recommendations”. “Quite frankly, the quality of the writing continues to be poor,” the Chairman asserted. Considering that the committee has now completed its examination of the AG’s 2010 and 2011 reports, Greenidge was asked if he found that one report represented a more effective audit than the other. To this he responded, “I believe that it would be unfair for me to comment on such, as we have not put together our report as yet, and we are in the process of doing so. I will pronounce on this after we have completed our draft report on the two AG reports.” While Greenidge holds this view, Chartered accountant, Chris Ram, believes that the two reports are almost identical and that neither represents a strong audit. On his website, www.chrisram.com, the accountant in an analysis published in October 2012 opined that in a country with weak accounting and
Auditor General, Deodat Sharma
Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram accountability, an Access to Freedom Act that has not been brought into force, an Integrity Commission without Commissioners, no Public Procurement Commission, no anticorruption or whistleblower legislation, the report by the Auditor General – if its Executive Summary is an indication of its contents – is striking for its sterility. Ram said that a comparison of the 2011 Executive Summary is an almost identical reproduction of the 2010 report. He noted that the AG’s 2011 report was a less effective audit than 2010 “which in any case was itself not a good audit.” The Chartered Accountant believes that it ignored “the armies of contract employees, the offconstitution spending by t h a t a b o m i nation called NICIL, slush funds across ministries, the dormant accounts, the loan recovery unit, and the National Frequency Management Unit.”
Friday October 24, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 15
Date for sitting of Nat’l Assembly…
Speaker will soon propose solution if no consensus While Government’s chief whip, Gail Teixeira, is yet to contact the Opposition’s whip, Amna Ally, on a date for the sitting of the National Assembly, House Speaker, Raphael Trotman has disclosed that if they cannot reach consensus as soon as possible, then he will soon propose a solution to safeguard constitutional democracy. Trotman told this newspaper that in view of the ongoing controversy surrounding the methodology to be used for the convening of the National Assembly following the annual recess that ran from August 10 to October 10, and running concurrently with efforts being undertaken by the Whips of Parliament to agree on a date, he has taken a few steps of his own. These included holding discussions and officially seeking the opinions from the Clerk of the National Assembly, former Speakers and Senior Counsel, Sase Narine, and Ralph Ramkarran, on the basis on which the sittings of the National Assembly can be reconvened. Trotman said it is worthy of mention that the former Speakers presided in different eras and had different political loyalties, and yet, at this time, were able to come together as “elders” to provide a joint opinion and give guidance at
a time of national stress. He said that this is something that is highly commendable and he believes it should be replicated at every political level. He sought to publicly thank them for their service. The House Speaker asserted that the National Assembly must soon resume sittings in the interest of the citizenry. “With that said, if the process in which the Whips are involved cannot quickly yield an agreement, then I will shortly be proposing a way forward so we can safeguard our constitutional democracy,” Trotman added. While some politicians are vigorously pursuing viable options to halt the current delay of the sitting of the National Assembly, former Speaker Ramkarran in his recent writings on his blog, (Conversation Tree) opined that every day that goes by without the sitting of the Parliament, amounts to a violation of the august body’s rules. He had argued that the present Speaker was obliged to convene the sitting of the Parliament on October 11, the day after the parliamentary recess ended. He had said that this is supported by the Standing Orders. Narain, who also served as Speaker of the House when the Peoples National Congress held the majority,
After seven days…
Still no sign of elderly Wismar woman Relatives spent another long and fruitless day searching for 68-year-old Desiree Monica Fraser, who disappeared one week ago from her Lot 66 ‘A’ Victory Valley, Wismar home. The woman’s daughters told Kaieteur News that the search party has scoured “all the mining areas” in Linden, and reached as far as Rockstone and Ituni yesterday without finding a trace of their mother. They said that some residents reported seeing Mrs. Fraser and some have apparently even fed her. Sharon Rogers, one of the daughters, said that because her mother is well-spoken, persons who encountered her were unaware that she suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. The relatives are pleading with persons who encounter Mrs. Fraser to contact them immediately. Mrs. Fraser is 68 years of age, of African descent, and is five feet four inches tall. Earlier reports had indicated
Desiree Monica Fraser that she was last seen wearing a pink top and blue skirt. However, one daughter said that had changed into a black top and black skirt. Earlier, there were reports that the elderly woman, described as a fast walker, was seen in the Coomacka and Yararibo mines area, more than ten miles away from her home. Persons with information about the whereabouts of Mrs. Fraser are asked to call Sharon Rogers on 444-3697 or 683-0109; Shonette Rogers on 645-0793 or 444-7116, or the nearest police station.
had said that he provided Trotman with some advice in this regard. While he agreed in the main with Ramkarran’s position, he had insisted that once representation is made to the Speaker by a majority of the House, “he (Trotman) has the power to exercise discretion whether to call Parliament or not. This is undoubtedly supported by the Standing Orders.” However, Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs, recently disclosed that he disagrees with the opinion of the two former
Speakers, Ramkarran and Narain, who believe that Trotman has the power to convene the sitting of the National Assembly. Isaacs premised his arguments on decisions taken by two other former speakers who believed that the Speaker has no power to convene a sitting of the National Assembly, unless the Assembly is adjourned to a specified date prior to going into recess. The Clerk of the National Assembly said in a published letter in the media, that on
October 14, he was asked by Trotman whether he has the power, in accordance with the Standing Orders, to convene the next Sitting of the National Assembly. Isaacs had said that he advised the Speaker that, in his opinion, he does not have that power and that he can only fix a date for a sitting when the Assembly is adjourned to a specified date. Trotman is yet to disclose whether he has chosen to follow the advice given to him by “his elders” or that of Isaacs.
House Speaker, Raphael Trotman
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 24, 2014
Education Minister hints at increased Cash Grant next year The possibility of an increased Cash Grant next year was hinted at by Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, who on Wednesday told a sizeable gathering of stakeholders in Rosignol, Berbice, Region Five “we would love to give more, and we will give more.” The Minister’s disclosure was certainly well embraced by a wide cross-section of parents who had earlier gathered at the Rosignol Secondary School to receive the promised $10,000 Cash Grant offered by Government through the Ministry of Education to aid their children’s schooling needs. Manickchand’s comments regarding the possible hike in the Cash Grant were forthcoming even as she responded to a number of queries from those in the gathering, ranging from “Will this continue next year?” and “will Government increase the amount next year?” The Cash Grant distribution which commenced on a national scale two weekends ago, is being afforded to each child attending a public school at the levels of nursery, primary and secondary, and not per
family. This therefore means that if a household has 10 children attending public school, the parent or guardian will be eligible to receive a total of $100,000 on behalf of their children. While the grant is presented in the form of a voucher it is designed to be encashed at money transfer services wherever they are located. Other arrangements are made for families not situated in proximity to such facilities. The Cash Grant which was announced earlier this year by Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, during his presentation of the National Budget is one that is aimed at helping to encourage more school attendance while at the same time seeking to help alleviate poverty. As explained by the Minister of Finance, this programme is meant to provide more support to parents with school-aged children and increase the disposable income of parents with school-aged children with a view to raising enrolment and attendance rates. Moreover, the Cash Grant, which is expected to see millions being distributed
Minister Priya Manickchand interacts with stakeholders at the Rosignol Secondary School countrywide, had been given the title ‘Because We Care’. Minister Manickchand, who has on occasions been accompanied by President Donald Ramotar to witness the distribution process in
Rotary Demerara encourages public to join fight to end polio In honour of World Polio Day, celebrated annually on today’s date, the Rotary Club of Demerara has launched a fundraiser as part of Rotary International’s twenty-year mission to eradicate the crippling childhood disease. The local rotary club is welcoming monetary donations to this cause. The President of Rotary Demerara, Gillian Mohabeer, is encouraging the public to ‘Fund the fight and join history.’
Since 1985, Rotary clubs worldwide have contributed nearly US$1.2B and countless volunteer hours to the protection of more than two billion children in 122 countries. Polio, however, remains endemic in three countries - Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan. Other countries remain at risk for imported cases. Polio is a highly infectious disease which causes paralysis. It is sometimes fatal. As there is no cure, the
best protection is prevention. For as little as 60 US cents worth of vaccine, a child can be protected against the disease for life. Any donation can be sent to the club’s Republic Bank Account No. 652-6214. The club’s Secretary, Renata Chuck-A-Sang or Treasurer, Lance Hinds can be contacted on 691-0442 and 684-4831/ 225-6027 respectively. All proceeds will be used to help end Polio worldwide.
some Regions that have already benefited, made it clear during the Region Five distribution that her Ministry might very well offer the grant based on children’s schools’ attendance rates. According to her, “Government can afford to give each child in the public school system $10,000 because we care about your children and because our country is doing better. We can give it because the country is being managed in a way where for the last eight years we’ve seen consecutive growth.” She pointed out that while other countries were suffering from an economic downturn, Guyana’s economy grew, and because of that growth, which was as a direct result of prudent management of the economy, Government was able to roll out the Cash Grant programme. Already some regions have reported that school attendance rates have
considerably increased, and it is expected that this trend will continue with the continuance of the Cash Grant pay-out. The Minister reflected on other levels of support that have been forthcoming from Government to encourage attendance rates, including the uniform programme which was initially offered to some children, but later was expanded to benefit all public school children. And then there was the school-feeding programme which started in the hinterland, and was later extended across the coast. “We’re starting this programme with $10,000. As the country continues to grow, this $10,000 will also grow!” intimated the Minister. Five other countries in this part of the world have similar programmes (Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, Jamaica and Brazil) but Guyana is the only country that offers cash grants to every child in the
public school system. The grants in other countries range from about US$50 to US$64 per year for some children, while Guyana has started its programme by giving each child in the public school system, the equivalent of US$50. The distribution of vouchers at the Rosignol School was conducted in a very orderly manner since a waiting area was set up to allow parents to wait their turn while other parents were being attended to. The Minister herself toured the entire school facility and made several other stops. She visited other distribution points at Cotton Tree Primary, Number 8 Secondary and Bath Primary School, to ensure the processes went smoothly and to thank teachers for their service. Cash grant distributions have also been done in Regions One, Three, Four and Six, and the process is continuing countrywide.
Rohee accuses GECOM chairman... (From page 6) voiced many criticisms of GECOM. The Party has accused the independent entity of performing inefficiently, of having a flawed Preliminary List of Electors (PLE), and of double standards. The Party also expressed “concern” over GECOM’s “seemingly flawed and secretive employment policy.” The PPP said that transparency and accountability are critical in
safeguarding the integrity of the organization and Guyana’s democracy. The Party publicly objected to the appointment of François as Public Relations Officer. It claimed that its objections were premised mainly on the fact that François has been openly supportive of the Opposition and had previously used his position and authority to display biased action against leading members of the PPP. The Party said that François’ Facebook
page would verify these claims, along with the numerous “anti-PPP letters published in the Kaieteur News in his name.” The Party recently wrote to Dr. Surujbally objecting to François’ appointment and “is awaiting firm and decisive actions towards this effect.” The Party asserted that “the track record of Mr. François speaks volume on his lack of professionalism and association with the opposition.”
Friday October 24, 2014
Kaieteur News
Media plays an important role in voter education By Latoya Giles According to Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Nicole Giles, the media plays a major role in educating voters about the fundamentals of free and fair elections, the right to cast a secret ballot and not to be subjected to undue influence or pressure in relation to casting votes. The High Commissioner was at the time speaking to local journalists at the closing ceremony for a two-day workshop on Sunday last, on how to report on Local Government Elections. The workshop attracted reporters from Kaieteur News, Stabroek News, Capitol News and Prime News. The State-owned media entities were reportedly invited, but opted not to attend. The workshop was made possible through a collaborative effort between the Government of Canada, via the Post Initiative Fund (PIF), and the Guyana Press Association. According to Dr. Giles, the objective of the workshop was to reinforce the critical role that the media plays in reinforcing democracy, particularly during electoral processes. “Democracies are built upon four pillars - legislative, executive, judiciary and media - as when building a house, each of the four pillars needs to be equally strong and operate independently. If one pillar is weaker, shorter or cannot stand alone, the entire democratic structure is compromised.” The envoy emphasised that as reporters carry out their duties, they will undoubtedly face challenges in the discharge of various functions, but by using democratic principles as a compass, those challenges can be resolved and viable solutions arrived at. She said too, that upholding democratic principles in any country is a continuous process that requires persistent investments in capacitybuilding for the four democratic institutions. “Capacity is often put to
- Canadian High Commissioner
Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Nicole Giles the test during electoral processes, which is exactly when democracies depend upon the four pillars to provide free, fair and peaceful elections,” Giles told the gathering. The High Commissioner also noted that the media has played a critical role in conveying information to voters throughout the entirely of the elections cycle. “Voter education and conflict resolution are just a few examples of the essential components of the electoral process that are reliant on the media to create awareness and provide impartial, timely information.” She went on to explain that the media is also obligated to relay to voters the importance of their participation in the electoral process, reminding them of the significant function of each vote cast. “Each ballot cast not only tells political parties about the services that voters want delivered, but more fundamentally, provides direction for the development of the country,” the High Commissioner posited. Further, she asserted that the media also plays a role in educating voters about the fundamentals of free and fair elections, such as the right to cast a secret ballot and to not be subject to undue influence or pressure in casting your vote. “The media also plays an equally significant role in
providing a platform for all candidates and their political parties to present their manifestos and positions to the citizenry, and to facilitate feedback from the public to its political representatives in an organized and constructive manner.” The High Commissioner said too that reporters and media associations, such as the Guyana Press Association, serve as crucial vehicles in delivering voter education through the provision of timely, unbiased and accurate reporting. Additionally, with the increasing expansion and integration of new forms of media into the media mainstream, Giles said that it was imperative that citizens are consistently served with reliable and balanced news. “I encourage you to always uphold the canons of responsible journalism and practice the principles of selfregulation in the performance of your duties. In order to ensure that the fourth estate, the media pillar of democracy remains strong, journalists have an obligation to ensure that they do not falter on compliance with professional ethics and standards, competency, impartiality and their integrity,” Giles noted. All of the western embassies and several other agencies here in Guyana, have been calling for Local Government Elections, but these calls have to date proven to be exercises in futility.
Page 25
Industry/ Plaisance residents resolute on unwanted NDC overseer - on third week of camp outside NDC office
Industry/Plaisance residents during their stakeout exercise outside the NDC on Wednesday By Zena Henry Industry/Plaisance residents are adamant that the government-appointed overseer for the community’s Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) will not set foot in the building since he is not the people’s choice for the job. The residents remain resolute and have for the past three weeks been camping outside of the building. When visited on Wednesday, one resident seated outside of the NDC building said that persons have been camping outside of the building to ensure that the overseer does not enter the building. “Not even a security work, he can get here,” another resident stated. The residents have set up a tarpaulin for shade, next to the NDC, and they would man the location for the day. Some persons even made themselves comfortable under an old Hymac, while
others sat on the ground or a long bench. They cook and have their meals at their station. Several persons usually occupy the area, with some working a shift system, the publication was told. Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker was accused by residents of forcing the unwanted overseer on them. They claimed that the newlyappointed overseer, Orlando Jardine, was placed in the position while overlooking the longstanding and more experienced staff who they claimed ought to have gotten the position. Minister Whittaker stated however that Jardine was selected fairly using a democratic process. He had claimed that the man was more academically qualified for the job than Ms Debra Mc Dowell, who the community is rooting for. Minister Whittaker had also defended Jardine’s
appointment when he said that eight persons applied for the position of the overseer, and the interviewing panel; comprising representatives of the Ministry, the RDC, Region 4 and the Industry/Plaisance NDC, shortlisted five of these persons to be interviewed. He said, however, that only two of the shortlisted persons turned up and of the two Jardine was deemed suitable. However, Minister Whittaker came in for much criticism since he was accused of having one position in the case of acting city Town Clerk Carol Sooba, who got the position based on experience, and another position with Mc Dowell, who is being deemed unqualified academically for the overseer post, despite her wealth of experience. Plaisance residents said Minister Whittaker’s ‘double standard’ in the matter is one of the reasons they are so upset.
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Kaieteur News
VEHICLE FOR SALE Special Sale: New Model Spacio with front & back camera, TV/DVD/CD, body kit, unregistered -$2M - Call: 617-2891 FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc call: 225-9032, 647-2943 One 14" Dredge/Draga in working condition – Contact: 694-4828, 663-0742 Just Arrived! A new shipment of combine parts, Italian made - Call: 660-0342, 222-3538, 335-3100,3353434, 335-4122 1 Model M Bush Truck with Winch & dump, 1 Honda ATV prospecting, 250 hours, excellent condition Contact:672-4536 Get copies of A+ Training videos, Rosetta Stone Language, Microsoft Office 2010 – Call: 672-2839 Generator: 65 KVA Perkins 4236 Engine – Tel: 623-9761
FOR SALE 3000 PSI Karcher pressure washer – $110,000 - Call: 6097257, 602-57943000 Massey Ferguson 390 4X4fully renovated – Call: 6886274, 691-3851, 678-8698 Premium laser toner cartridge Call: 259-0275, 259-0505, 6785113
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.
Perkins engines 1000, 1100, 4236 & 6 cylinder complete on bed, 320 BL excavator$14M- Contact: 691-2921
Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves. Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206
Lincoln generator welder$850,000, pallet jacks, fork lift, model M truck- Contact: 691-2921
Repairs, sales & spares air conditioning, microwaves, washer, fridges & stoves. Ultra Cool, call :225-9032, 647-2943
On sale at Roxie’s Fashion are: School Uniforms, Leotards, gym & swim wear Call: 227-8538 Two super scoop bass box with 2 RCF P300 18 inch speakers – Call: 623-9679 Brand new 6500 WATT power fist gasoline generator on wheels- 110220 volt- Price:$150,000Contact: 617-2205/ 681-1032 New American Made Warmer, aluminum ladders 32FT -$55,000, 24FT- $40,000 Call: 609-7257,602-5794
FOR LOW COST: REPAIRS TO FRIDGE, FREEZER,A/C UNIT, MICROWAVES, TV & WASHING MACHINE CALL: 629-4946 OR 2254822 Hibiscus Jewellery & Pawn Shop, 15-16 American Street, Best price offer, open from 9:00-4:00 – Tel: 225-7252 Services offered at Roxie’s Fashion includes: custom made clothing, flowering mosquito nets etc – Call: 2278538 Three business advice for young adults at M&R Enterprise, Church Street, more info – Call: 614-4047
Cupboard- 50,000, Bed$80,000, Couch- $25,000 Contact:666-7242
1-Dodge Ram 4x4, model 2002, 4 wheel drive $2.6M. 1F150 model 1999 $2.2M- Call: 674-4929 L-Touring wagon, excellent conditions, 15" rims, TV, CD, alarm, $1,200,000 NegotiableContact: 667-9013/ 231-3709 Venus Auto Sales, Raum Body kit- $2.2M, Noah$3.2M/$1.8M, Allion body kit$2.350M, Spacio- $2.350M (rims) Contact: 624-5617 Toyota Premio and Spacio with TV, CD, AC, (front and rear camera) $2.4M and $2.2M – Tel: 681-7117 CG 125 Honda - $260,000 – Call: 699-7870, 665-2475 One Mitsubishi canter, GSS 4470- Contact: 684-5928 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 TacomaCall:680-3154 AT192, 212, Allison, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 1999 International Hauler Truck, double axel, 10 speed, Cummings engine, air bags, immaculate condition, lately registered – Call: 609-7257, 602-5794 One Toyota Hilux HC2, Extra Cab, price $6.7M Negotiable Call: 641-2763 One Spacio, PNN Series, good condition (Lady Driven) Call: 644-7000, 666-4327
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 GT TOOL RENTALS: COMPACTOR; CHIPPING HAMMER RANSOM & FLOOR SANDER, (SALE) AND MORE, SAWS & DRILLS -$10,000 - CALL: 675-0767, 667-2535 Four bedroom luxury house, located at Bel Air ParkContact: 223-8479/ 647-3768, www.spaceseek.gy Houses and apartmentsContact: 223-8479/ 647-3768, www.spaceseek.gy 1-2 bedroom apartment in Coghlan Dam, Vreed- En- Hoop, preferably Hindu Couple$30,000 monthly – Call:6221782, 658-5803, 618-2370 Business place for rent 3000 SQ FT W.C.D – Call: 690-1740 Hair salon/barber shop also includes salon equipment & furniture, located at Mon Repos E.C.D – Call: 220-7315, 655-5858 1-3 Flat building at Broad Street, ideal for business or family, 10 minutes walk to Stabroek – Call:692-0828 Office space at 43 Croal Street Stabroek Georgetown, currently available for immediate occupants - Call: 225-3269
DRESSMAKING
Nissan Wing Road, PSS Series, price - $1.7M n e g o t i a b l e - Excellent Condition - Call: 698-5949
Roxie’s Fashion offers sewing of shirts, pillow cases, curtains, chairs & Cushion Covers etc, 301 Church Street - Call: 227-8538
1 Honda 2004- 600 RR Toyota Raum, Rav4, Fun Cargo, AT212, AT192, AT170, EP71 Starlet, Tacoma – Call: 6445096, 697-1453
SALON Make Up Courses, Artist Trained & Certified in Trinidad Call: 647-1773/6605257
WANTED Urgently Wanted! Thirty Five (35) security officers, apply @ Security Alliance, Barrack Street, Kingston (upstairs FedEx). Live in waitress 18-25 yrs, salary $50,000-$60,000 monthly, boarding and lodging free- Tel: 610-5043 One person to work on chicken farm- Contact: 6276416 Experienced dispatcher and hire car drivers at Gem’s TaxiContact: 667-9013/ 225-5075 One canter Truck Driver Call: 622-1782, 658 -5803 Waiters, cooks, bartenders, receptionist - Tel:231-1908/ 231-1912, Cotton Club Restaurant and Bar, experienced required, shift work If selling your land, email New York Real Estate, globonetinfo@yahoo.com or Call Hudson -604-2207
VACANCY One Accounts Clerk – Call: 614-4358 International Cruiseline Purser officer, waitresses, waiters, cooks, receptionist, storekeeper, cleaners, electrician, carpenter, plumber, musicians etc – Tel: 231-6296, 650-9880 Experienced salesman/ driver needed, basic salary + commissionContact Vegetarian Gardens: 227-7714 Sales boys & girls apply: Avinash Complex, Water Street – Call: 226-3361/ 2277828
PROPERTY FOR SALE 2 Storey building , 8 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, hot & cold water - $19M, Lot 11 Coghlan Dam, W.B.D, Just off main Road- Tel:264-1582, 679-7587 Two story business building at the corner of Ketley and House Street, Charlestown – Tel: 623-9679 House and land at D’Aguiar’s Park, for info Call: 686-1368
Farm workers – Call: 639-5577 1 Cleaner to work in snackette & bar , must know to cook, age 20-35yrs – Tel:647-7432, 223-5798 CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTAL CALL: 225-7126/ 2263693 DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM/ WWW.DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL.COM Aidan’s Car & Pickup rental, cheap rate, low security – Tel: 698-7807/ 690-6494 PROGRESSIVE AUTO RENTAL: CARS & SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 2193900, EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM
2007 Ford F150 4X4 Extended Cab, fully loaded Auto 22 inch Rims and tyres, excellent condition- Call: 610-5370 1 Toyota Noah Van – Price $2.1M – Call: 641-2763
Commercial buildings/ houses- Contact: 223-8479/ 647-3768, www.spaceseek.gy Complete sawmill operation with lots of equipment, customers & suppliers and large land space – Contact Swamee: 614-1466; 672-4438
Mitsubishi Hyab canter GPP series- Tel:622-3468 First Class Auto: In stock Premio, Spacio, 212, Sienta, Rush, Fielder, Bluebird- Tel: 609-8188/ 602-6307
Two female & 1 male short fluffy dogs- Contact: 6996006
On Sale at Roxie’s Fashion are: Leotards & Tights, dance attire/costume, Ballet Shoes, etc – Call: 227-8538
Toyota Premio $2.3M, Toyota Voxy - $1.8M, Vehicles fully loaded, never registered – Call: 617-2891 1 Hiace super custom bus BSS Series, with AC, TV, CD, Sunroof, mags, never worked on the road - Tel: 677-8359
Friday October 24, 2014
VEHICLE FOR SALE Premio fully loaded - $2.3M negotiable – Call: 226-5473, 226-2623 Cactus Autosales: Reduced prices Premio, AT212, New Raum, Spacio – Call: 2206262, 681-4208 One Premio. Fully loaded, 3 years old, excellent condition Call: 673-6037
One live in domestic or maid, Salary $60,000 – Call: 6645199, 688-5409 (9am-5pm) Persons to sell local products 20% commission M&R Enterprise, Church Street – Call: 614-4047 Live in waitress to work in a bar – Call: 604-6606
EDUCATIONAL 9 Courses Diploma In Computers $35,000 SPECIAL DEAL FOR 2014, CSEC students MicroGraphics @ Vreed En Hoop- 264-3057 New Courses Starting October: Computerized Accounting, 4 courses $35,000.QuickBooks, P.Tree, POS @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-En-Hoop -264-3057 Roxie’s Fashion, six weeks beginners sewing classes, starting October month end, to registered call: 622-4386
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 CATERING Roxy’s Catering: We offer a 10% discount, Holiday Special – Call: 223-0092 or 223-0095, one snackette attendant needed! TO LET One upper flat 2 bedroom @ 279 Herstelling E.B.D – Call:665-9077
MASSAGE American Style massage services- Call: 678-7499 FOR SALE/FOR RENT Located @ Lot 5 Block ‘K’ Walkers’s Delight W.C.D 4 bedrooms all self contain. Price $25M/ per month $100,000 - Tel: 6744929/ 662-0187
Friday October 24, 2014
Kaieteur News
Letters... Where your views make the news
Abuse of two young dogs... From page 5 trauma of the experience. The paws were also bloody red. The man had to be enticed for a fee before reluctantly handing over the dog. Immediately thereafter the puppy was placed in the care of the GSPCA. The man also had in his possession, a younger puppy that seemed half dead in the bag but vehemently refused to hand over the second puppy. When asked how far he dragged them from, he said “the cemetery”. A noted observation in society is that animals have
become victims of human stress and we need to come to their rescue always. A statement coming out of the Wortmanville incident is that “people are stressed with life” and in this case the outlet was to vent it on the animals. Time was taken to craft this story so that it can serve as education and a reminder to the general public on how to respond to animals in distress, by calling the Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) located on Robb Street and Orange Walk, Bourda; telephone
no. 226-4237. Also reports can be made to known members of the Society and/or any animal lover who would know how to contact the persons who would take action when one or the other is unable to respond. It must be noted that a report was made to the IMPACT Police Patrol, but we are unaware that action was taken by them. This is a timely opportunity for the GSPCA to introduce a hotline number to facilitate emergencies. Maria Rodrigues
Issues are not the overriding... From page 4 if your sweetness is not disingenuousness. I know that you have been around since KN came on board. However, I must confess that I cannot remember you writing anything during that time about what was going on. Maybe you were not around. But now you would entreat us all to hold hands and go down the street singing kumba-ya. No, it will not be that easy. The wounds are still raw. You said that; “Guyanese all over the world dream with great nostalgia about our homeland with great fondness.” I know you have not spoken to any of my family. You further said that “Guyanese everywhere express shame about the decline of our nation.” Which is it Mr Samaroo, “fondness or shame.” I was very happy to read the words that you wrote about the slaves. It was commendable. But do you know that the lands left by the build-
ers of Guyana for their inheritors is being confiscated? Do you know who is the point man in this assassination? And do you know why this
individual was made the point man? There is a solution to this problem, and we all know what it is. Milton Bruce
Now that a PPP leader has called... From page 4 these slanted stories and attacks appear under are mostly African Guyanese-another case of racialization. The use of African Guyanese to do the hatchet work of the East Indian elite in exchange for a job or other forms of material compensation is now a staple in
Guyana. This turning of especially young Black people into mercenaries is obscene and unforgivable. Now that one of the PPP leaders has called them out, I hope the editors cool it. They are killing the little that is left of public integrity in Guyana. David Hinds
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Friday October 24, 2014
Nigerians free once again to visit Trinidad & Tobago – Khan P O R T- O F - S PA I N , Trinidad - CMC Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan says Nigerians are once again free to visit Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o with immediate effect. He made the announcement on We d n e s d a y a t a p o s t Cabinet press conference held at the San Fernando
Te a c h i n g H o s p i t a l . Khan also said and the Government has agreed to contribute US$100,000 to the United Nations Ebola Response Multi-Partner Trust Fund to fight the virus in the affected West African countries. However, the October 9 ban prohibiting visitors from Guinea, Sierra
Leone, Liberia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in an effort t o p revent the virus from e n t e r i n g t h e c o u n t r y, remains intact. Cabinet’s decision to lift the ban follows the Wo r l d Health Organization (WHO) declaration on Monday that Nigeria was now free of the Eb o l a v i r u s . “The honourable P r i m e M i n i s t e r, a s w e l l as the Cabinet, have agreed that based on the information from the WHO and based on the stringent screening methods that have occurred in i n t e r n a t i o n a l countries, standard to embarkation and exit of passengers, the Cabinet has decided to lift the ban on the Federal Republic of Nigeria with immediate effect,” Khan said. WHO’s c l e a r a n c e came 42 days since N i g e r i a ’s l a s t r e p o r t s of any new cases.
Friday October 24, 2014
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Friday October 24, 2014
GRFU releases a provisional WICB facing pressure from sponsors squad for NACRA Sevens The Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has announced the names of 36 players to commence preparations for the upcoming NACRA Sevens Championship which will be played on December 3-4 in Mexico. According to a release from the GRFU the names were arrived at following a meeting with the selection panel that was held on October 20 and attended by S. Grant-Stuart, Laurie Adonis and Ret. Colonel John Lewis. There is still an
opportunity for other players to be added to the training squad depending on their performances at the Caribs’ RFC Anniversary Sevens due to be run off on Sunday, at the National Park. Training days will be Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 16:30 hours and Sundays from 09:00 hours. Overseas-based players called are: Vallon Adams, Claudius Butts, Richard Staglon, Peabo Hamilton, Ronald Mayers, Dominic Lespierre, Isijah Allen and Kevin McKenzie.
The locally-based players are: Theo Henry, Carl Lewis, Kevon David, Akeem Fraser, O’Neal Charles, Mark Sobers, Avery Corbin, Dwayne Schroeder, Jermaine Prowell, Wayne King, Wayne Hudson, Ryan Gonsalves, Leon Greaves, Jason Tyrell, Christopher Singh, Filon Thompson, Rickford Cummings, Troy Bascom, Blaise Bayley, Jason DeFrietas, Edward Roach, Rondell McArthur, Godfrey Broomes, Ryan Dey, Lance Adonis, Ossie McKenzie, Frank Joseph and Grantley Williams.
Wicricnews - The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) is facing pressure from its sponsors and commercial partners to resolve the ongoing payment dispute with the West Indies players ahead of the tour of South Africa in December. The West Indies team had withdrawn from their Test and limited-overs tour of India, leading to a fallout between the WICB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India, who reportedly suffered losses in the region of $US65 million due to the withdrawal. The BCCI reacted by announcing they would “initiate legal proceedings” against the WICB, and
West Indies... Friday October 24, 2014 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Inspiration for writing, music, drawing, painting, or other creative activities could hover just out of reach today, Aries. Great ideas could pop into your head and out just as quickly. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Today you could run into an old friend and suddenly see him or her in a different light. A romantic, sensual attraction you never believed possible could suddenly seem overwhelming. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) A current or potential love relationship could hit a snag as you have a clash of wills. If either of you is stubborn, this could turn into an unpleasant power struggle. CANCER (June 21–July 22) An opportunity to increase your income by working in an artistic or innovative manner could come your way today, Cancer. Technologies like film or computer graphics may be involved. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Circumstances beyond your control may frustrate your desire to get together with a love partner today, Leo. Work or family obligations could interfere. If your partner has to beg off, don't get upset and start doling out blame. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Visitors who mean a lot to you can make your home an even warmer and cozier place, Virgo. You'll probably spend a lot of time fixing it up and receive sincere compliments.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) A long but necessary phone call from a close friend or love partner could come at work today, Libra. Matters of immediate concern need resolution. You might be uneasy about taking company time, and could even attract some unsettling attention, but you need to have this conversation now. SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov.21) Today you might discover a previously untapped talent, Scorpio, perhaps an artistic gift. This could be thrilling, but it will probably take some getting used to. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You should be looking especially attractive, Sagittarius. You may have an ethereal, mystical look about you that attracts attention from strangers. This won't be lost on your friends, either. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Your phone may seem haunted today, Capricorn. Calls might be filled with static, you could get some phantom rings, or callers may insist they tried to call when your phone never rang. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) A reassessment of your financial goals may be needed now, Aquarius. Some of your expectations may be unrealistic, and you might need to look at them in a more practical light. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Are you romantically attracted to someone you know through work, Pisces? If so, this isn't a good time to pursue it.
From page 38 Bishop, who played 43 Tests and 84 ODIs He said the future of the West Indies team was under threat but that he was confident a solution would be found if administration at the WICB improved. After losing their fourth one-day international to India last week, West Indies ended their tour, with the WICB stating that captain Dwayne Bravo had told them the players were withdrawing their services. He is one of a number of senior players from the West Indies Players’ Association who rejected a new agreement with the WICB that outlines pay and conditions. The West Indies’ withdrawal came with five matches still scheduled on the tour and India will now play Sri Lanka, starting on 2 November. The International Cricket Council said the dispute between the two teams prompted “concern” and will discuss the issue in its board meeting on 10 November.
Peters... From page 41 snared 3-19 off four overs and Rovin Dusraj 3-21 from four. Jaguars SC took third place. The competition was organized by Coach Andy Ramnarine and was played on a round robin involving four teams. Jaguars Sport Club took third place. Both teams received trophies and a cash prizes. Speaking after the final, Ramnarine expressed gratitude to the players and supporters for making the event a success and said it will be played annually.
suspended all bilateral tours between the two sides, although they stopped short of banning the West Indies players from the Indian Premier League. Oliver McIntosh, the chief executive officer of Digicel Sportsmax, a panCaribbean sports television network, called for the WICB to make serious changes. “We are due to broadcast West Indies tour of South Africa in December and January. We have invested a lot of money in the rights and in the talent,” McIntosh was quoted as saying by Reuters on Thursday (October 23). “We have started marketing it, we have sponsors on board and if that doesn’t happen, you totally retract, you have to go back to sponsors and give back money. “We are worried. It does impact our audience. If West Indies cricket is no longer on, that is a big blow for us, a big blow.” McIntosh said it was important for the sponsors to get involved, given that they stood to lose a lot, and called for the WICB to be restructured. “What has to happen in this case is that the private interests have to get involved and say, ‘Look, if I
have a stake here, if you want me to stay involved and want me to continue to help funding the cricket, this is how it has to go’. “The board has to be restructured. You need to get some independent people on the board who are not going to run it on a country basis. Whenever there is a new president elected and he is from Jamaica, then the CEO comes from Jamaica and then if he’s from St Lucia, then it’s a St. Lucian. “It has to be what is best for cricket and developing cricket. I think that private interests are going to have to get involved in saying it is not going to work (like this).” Digicel, the telecommunications company that recently bought Sportsmax and which is one of the main sponsors of West Indies cricket, issued a statement to Reuters saying they were “disappointed” with the withdrawal and that they would “have a discussion” with the WICB. West Indies are slated to tour South Africa for three Tests, five One-Day Internationals and three Twenty20 Internationals. The first Test is to begin on December 17 at Centurion. (WICB)
Friday October 24, 2014
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Honours even after day Disrespect shown towards two of first Test in Dubai Letter to the Sports Editor
Master 55 and over athletes DEAR EDITOR, I would like to vent my feelings, also the other Master Athletes 55 and over. I have represented Guyana outstandingly over the years in other countries with the assistance of kind friends, and my family. I have been treated with respect all along, only to know disrespect from the Guyana Athletics Association and its president. I am 57 years and have been winning my age group also the younger age group and was upset to know that masters’ athletes did not receive cash incentives at the end of the Courts 10K when it was originally stated that would have been the case. Instead the Masters athletes were given hampers, while the other categories
including the Junior Athletes got cash. The IAAF rules say juniors must not received cash incentives. I want to know if the members of the AAG care about our athletes’ futures, if so why give cash incentives to juniors and not masters 55 and over. What go for one age group should go for all. I am asking the sponsor to look into this and stop treating masters my age like if cash is not good for us, stop putting junior athletes in a position to lose the opportunity for a scholarship. Below is the prize list originally sent out by the AAG. Could they say why Masters Athletes did not get the prizes stated? COURTS (Guyana) Inc 3km Fitness Walk/Jog and 10km Road Race
Prizes would be awarded to the following categories: Junior Female & Male (1619years) 1st $60,000 + trophy 2nd $40,000 + trophy 3rd $30,000 + trophy 4th $20,000 + trophy 5th $10,000 + trophy Senior Female (2034years) & Male 1st $100,000+trophy 3rd $50,000 4th $30,000 5th $20,000 Masters Female (35 & over) & Male (40-55) 1st $60,000 + trophy 2nd $40,000 + trophy 3rd $25,000 + trophy Masters Men (56 & over) 1st $40,000 + trophy 2nd $25,000 + trophy 3rd $15,000 + trophy L. Gardner
Football is a game of power, says CONCACAF boss BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb officially welcomed attendees to the Soccerex Americas Forum at the inaugural ceremony on Tuesday in the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre in Bridgetown, Barbados. The Soccerex Americas Forum has gathered more than 1,000 leading businesses, administrators, rights holders, coaches and former players from across the Americas to learn, network and do business. This is the first time Soccerex hosts a conference in the Caribbean region. In his opening remarks, Webb emphasised the importance of football to youth in the Caribbean. “This game in the 41 national associations of CONCACAF is a game of power,” he said. “A game that we understand moves our youth. A game that we understand provides aspiration, inspiration. But more importantly, a game for the youth of the Caribbean that provides hope.” Webb expressed his pride in the growth of Mexico’s Liga MX and Major League Soccer in the United States, holding them as examples of how their success can impact the entire region overall. He also emphasised the key role Central America and the Caribbean have in challenging these markets with the right investment in development. “We have to understand the markets that we have in CONCACAF, the
Jeff Webb... football in the Caribbean provides aspiration, inspiration and hope. opportunity,” signalled Webb. “Understand that through Mexico, within the USA and the MLS, we have two leagues out of the top 10 in the entire world from attendance standpoint and from a commercialisation standpoint. It is incredible, and, of course, we have what happened in the World Cup. That is only the beginning. “We said a few years ago that for the north to evolve, to grow and be challenged, the Caribbean must start it. The Caribbean must light a fire to challenge Central America, and Central America must ignite and of course challenge North America.” The two-day event features exhibitions, networking events and a conference programme that
addresses topics such as sports tourism, major events, club and league development, sports medicine, player performance and welfare. As an important component of his address, the FIFA vicepresident also stressed CONCACAF’s desire to host the 2026 World Cup. “CONCACAF must host World Cup 2026,” said Webb. “We must stand and we must unite as a region.” Later in the day, CONCACAF also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus. The agreement’s purpose is to engage in co-operative programmes and develop new educational opportunities for players and students throughout the Confederation’s region.
News Corp Australia The Advertiser – AUSTRALIA’S boom or bust reliance on spearhead Mitchell Johnson was exposed as Pakistan shattered the visitors’ aura of superiority in the first Test at Dubai. Australia were 0-113 in reply at stumps with unbeaten David Warner (75 off 77 balls) closing on a third ton in succession. Chris Rogers was not out 31 with Australia trailing Pakistan by 341 runs. A beleaguered Pakistan side had already turned the tables on Michael Clarke’s men. Karachi kid Sarfraz Ahmed (109 off 105 balls) crashed 14 boundaries to power Pakistan’s highest score in 15 years against Australia, advancing to a first innings total of 454. Sarfraz’s knock was the second-fastest Te s t century ever made by a wicketkeeper. Australia now appears overly reliant on spearhead Johnson (3-39) – as potstirrer Kevin Pietersen notes– particularly with proven wicket-takers Ryan Harris and Shane Watson injured. Warner and Rogers were chalk and cheese in ease against the Pakistan spinners and fortunate to post a fourth consecutive 50-run stand. First innings centurion Younis Khan dropped a sitter at first slip off Rogers from left-arm spinner Zulfiqar Babar (0-25) when on 13 in the 14th over. Two balls later Warner reverse swept the tweaker to the third man fence. H o w e v e r Wa r n e r ’s breathtaking, sixth-straight innings over 50 – while battling a stomach upset couldn’t mask a disappointing day in the field. A tiring Johnson, who battled ankle pain on day one, couldn’t repeat his early heroics with the ball through 11 overs. The tourists were rendered impotent as a result and behind the eight-ball on a wearing pitch. It was a tough collective 67 overs for Australian spinners Nathan Lyon (2-148) and Steve O’Keefe (2-107). The pair bowled a tad straight on day one and were attacked by Sarfraz. O’Keefe, the 13th specialist spinner blooded since Shane Warne retired, found the step up from
David Warner unleashed the reverse sweep against the spinners. (Getty Images)
Younis Khan brings up his 29th Test fifty. (AFP)
Sheffield Shield ranks exacting. The left-armer enjoyed the consolation wickets of Yasir Shah (2) and Asad Shafiq (89) who were chasing quick runs. However his tandem with fellow New South Welshman Lyon did not work in the first innings. It was the sixth occasion Lyon had conceded 100 runs in an innings. Lyon also conceded 1124 in first innings of the third Test loss to India in Mohali when teamed with left-arm tweaker Xavier Doherty. Tardy fielding from Alex Doolan at short leg gave (0-44) Shafiq a bat pad chance when on 9 off Lyon’s first ball of the day. It was a life that would cost 80 runs and ruin Lyon’s figures. Sarfraz put on a quickfire, 124-run partnership with Shafiq (89) before skirting to his second Test ton in just 80 balls with a boundary off Mitchell Marsh. The gripping milestone triggered a 50-metre run, skip and jump for joy with helmet raised. It was a sensational cricket moment cherished by the second wicketkeeper-batsman to pass 50 in five consecutive innings. A u s t r a l i a ’s only retaliation was a blood
curdling blow Johnson inflicted on left-arm spinner Zulfiqar Babar’s (7) right middle finger. He couldn’t return to bat which closed the host’s d i g a f t e r Ly o n c l a i m e d Rahat Ali (0). Sarfraz was stumped last ball before tea by birthday boy Brad Haddin, offering off-spinner Lyon belated relief. Australia’s frontline attack failed to strike a blow or the reverse swing magic they craved and expected before lunch. It was lucky charm Steve Smith (1-50) who pulled Australia out the quicksand, tempting captain Misbah-ul-Haq (69) to undo over four hours of hard graft with one rash thrash to Johnson at mid-on. Skipper Misbah and Shafiq put on an 83run, fifth wicket stand. Having declared little margin for error with Pakistan resuming at 4-219 on a pitch that would deteriorate, Australia misfired. Peter Siddle (1-50) hit Misbah on several occasions but couldn’t get the wickets Australia n e e d e d o f J o h n s o n ’s support paceman. Scores: Australia 113 for 0 ( Wa r n e r 7 5 * ) t r a i l Pakistan 454 (Sarfraz Ahmed 109, Younis Khan 106, Asad Shafiq 89, Johnson 3-39) by 341 runs.
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Friday October 24, 2014
Elizabeth Styles U-19 50-Over Veerasammy Permaul among players reprimanded by BCB Ramnarine’s 6-25 and Smith’s 50* Recently, there has been an upsurge in indiscipline behavior by cricketers in Berbice area and the Berbice Cricket Board has responded sternly to such behavior from its cricketers. The recently concluded Berbice River Bridge 50-Over Final played at the Albion Sports Complex was marred by many instances of poor sportsmanship displayed by players from both teams. This was done in the full view of the general public and members of the Board. Former West Indies spinner Veerasammy Permaul, National Wicketkeeper Anthony Bramble, Berbice Batsman Jason Sinclair and off spinner Troy Matheson along with Jonathan Foo were mainly the players involved. They were summoned by
the Discipline Committee of the Berbice Cricket Board for a hearing and the following were the penalties: Veerasammy Permaul – one year good behavior bond and $15,000 fine. Anthony Bramble – one year good behavior bond and $10,000 fine. Troy Matheson – one year good behavior bond and $5,000 fine. Jason Sinclair – one year good behavior bond. Jonathan Foo – warning letter. In a release, the executive of the board said that it has invested significantly over the 75 years of existence and that existence was built on hard work and discipline from all and sundry. The board has produced many players who represented the West Indies
and has made the difference in the lives of many others. The release further stated that at no time, the board will sit idle and allow a breakdown in discipline amongst players. Cricket is a gentleman’s game and that must be the focus. Cricket should only unite and not divide. The release also stated that the board is worried about the poor and hostile relationship that exists between The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club and Albion Community Center. The Board hopes that its action would deter any player at any level to desist from such behavior. It is hoped that these two major clubs will stretch their hands of friendship and make peace and develop love and understanding.
Nadal into quarter-finals; Federer into second round of Swiss Open
guide BLNG into quarter finals
Bush Lot New Generation defeated Achievers in their final Zone A (West Berbice) preliminary match to emerge as runner-up to Blairmont Community whilst advancing to the q u a r t e r f i n a l s of the Elizabeth Styles Under-19, 50over cricket competition in Berbice. Playing at the Bath ground, Achievers choosing to bat first was bowled out for 127 in 12.1 overs with Rennison Mitchell lading with 31. Doing the damage for Bush Lot was this year’s Guyana Under-15 off spinning all-rounder Kris Ramnarine who snared 6-25
from 6 overs, medium pacer Imran Khan took 2-8 from 2 overs. When Bush Lot responded, Achievers Berbice Under-19 pacer Grisean Grant picked up three early wickets which were largely responsible for them being 27-4 at one stage before Shawn Smith and Winston Joseph halted the slide and saw Bush Lot home. The two featured in an unbroken fifth wicket stand of 104 to see Bush Lot to 131-4 in 20 overs. Smith smashed 50* (5x4 2x6) and Joseph 30*. Bowling for Achievers, Grisean Grant took 3-34 from 7 overs.
Kris Ramnarine
IGG 2nd leg set to start today in Suriname
Guyana opens quest for on the volleyball court; opening ceremony set for 16:00hrs
The Chess Team ready to take on the opposition. Roger Federer of Switzerland returns a ball during his games against Gilles Muller of Luxemburg at the Swiss Indoors ATP 500 tennis tournament in Basel. (PHOTOS: AFP) BASEL, Switzerland (AP) — After Rafael Nadal reached the Swiss Open quarter-finals in 57 minutes with a 6-1, 6-1 win against Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert, topseeded Roger Federer crushed Gilles Muller of Luxembourg 6-2, 6-1 in just 46 minutes to reach the second round Wednesday. The second-seeded Nadal, playing just his third tournament since Wimbledon due to a wrist injury, broke the qualifier’s serve five times. The Spaniard, who struggled with appendicitis earlier this month in Shanghai, was never troubled by the 120th-ranked Herbert, who double-faulted 11 times. Nadal did save two break points, including when he was serving for the match. He next plays either Andrey
Golubev of Kazakhstan or 17year-old Croatian wild card entry Borna Coric. Both won their first-round matches. It was even easier for Federer, who broke Muller in the sixth game and wrapped up the first set in 25 minutes, winning 91 per cent of his first-serve points. The second set was even quicker as Federer totally dominated Muller, who failed to win a single point on Federer’s serve, as the 17time Grand Slam champion’s ninth ace took him to match point. Federer, who improved to 5-0 against Muller in career head-to-heads, next plays Denis Istomin of Uzbekistan and leads him 5-0 too. Belgium’s David Goffin is also through to the quarters after beating Croatia’s Ivan
Dodig 7-6 (0), 6-4. He next plays either fourth-seeded Milos Raonic of Canada or Donald Young of the United States. Coric, ranked 124th, caused a big first-round upset when he beat sixth-seeded Ernests Gulbis of Latvia 7-6 (2), 6-3. Although the 13th-ranked Gulbis, this year’s French Open semifinalist, had nine aces, he constantly felt the pressure of Coric’s excellent return. He faced 14 break points in the match, dropping his serve three times. Golubev won 6-3, 6-3 against Teymuraz Gabashvili of Russia. Meanwhile, Istomin had 14 aces in a 6-1, 6-1 rout of Poland’s Jerzy Janowicz, a renowned server who managed only two aces and lost his serve five times.
By Franklin Wilson in Suriname Compliments of Crown Mining Supply and Fazia’s Collection Following their safe arrival yesterday in Suriname for the second leg of this year’s Inter Guiana Games which will see the competing countries (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana), taking on each other in table tennis, volleyball, badminton, cycling and chess, the Guyanese athletes and coaches are confident of taking care of the opposition. Director of Sport, Neil Kumar, who was on hand to welcome the athletes and officials at the Stardust Hotel on their arrival at 16:00hrs Guyana time (17:00hrs Suriname time), said that he is confident that team Guyana will do well. A contingent of over 60 athletes and officials will represent the Golden
Arrowhead at the opening ceremony which is set for the Dr. Frank Essed Stadion at 16:00hrs. Following the opening ceremony, Guyana’s female volleyball team will open their quest for glory against their French Guiana counterparts at the Ismay van Wilgen Sporthal from 17:00hrs, while the male team will serve against the home team at 19:00hrs. Cycling (male and female) will take center stage tomorrow from 08:00hrs at Anton Dragtenweg with the Time trials, chess will be contested at the team Hotel from 10:00hrs as will table tennis from the same time at the table tennis Centre Zinniastraat. Badminton will also serve off at 10:00hrs at the Chinese Sporthal while the male and female volleyballers will again be in action at 17:00 and 19:00hrs. The final day of action on Sunday will see the cyclists competing in the Road Race from 09:00hrs
at Waterkant, from the same time chess will continue. From 10:00hrs table tennis and badminton will also continue, while volleyball is set for 16:00hrs and 18:00hrs respectively where French Guiana’s female will face Suriname while Guyana’s male team will oppose Suriname. The results meeting is set for Sunday at 20:00hrs with the closing ceremony set to take place 30 minutes later at the Ismay van Wilgen Sporthal. In the first leg of the IGG which took place in Guyana in July/August this year, Guyana won the track and field showdown against Suriname, French Guiana did not compete in this segment. The Guyanese finished second in male and female basketball while placing third in swimming. Much is expected from the young Guyanese according to Director of Sport, Neil Kumar.
Friday October 24, 2014
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Wayne Jones slams 102 in Ramchand/ Bhagwandin, Mohamad and Tiwari Rohan Auto Spares cricket top Sanjay’s Classic Golf tourney
Wayne Jones hammered 102 in latest play of the Ramchand/Rohan Auto Spares cricket competition played last weekend. In results from the matches: Wellman def. Savage Masters by 54 runs. Wellman 247 for 4 off 20 overs. Grieg De France 80, Shawn Massiah 51, Lloyd Samlall 50 not out. Wallack Joseph 2 for 43. Savage 198 all out in reply. Wallack Joseph 36, Herbie Jentle 26. Nandram Samlall 4 for 30, Motilall Chumandat 2 for 24, Mike Singh 2 for 40. Floodlight def. Savage Masters by 17 runs. Floodlight 214 for 5 off 20 overs. Wayne Jones 102 (9X6) (3X4), Lalta Gainda 51 (4X6) (2X4). Falim Mohamed 2 for 28. Herbie Gentle 2 for 26. Savage 197 for 6 off 20 overs. Nadir Baksh 51 (5X6), (3X4), F. Mohamed 34. Imtiaz Mohamed 2 for 37. W. Jones 2 for 14. Bel Air Rubis def. Regal Masters by 2 wickets. Regal 183 for 6 off 20 overs. Linden Lyght 60, W. Bryne 37. Yusuf Mohamed 3 for 31. Rubis 186 for 9 in 19.4 overs. S. Budhu 67, Faizal Ali 23.
Jaga Bhoj 2 for 40. Uprisers def. Princess Hotel by 7 wickets. Princess Hotel 99 all out. D. Budhan 20. Dharam Persaud 4 for 16. Andrew Williams 3 for 32. Uprisers 100 for 3. Harrinarine Dilchan 41, Yoodhanlall Sulthlall 27 not out. Young Guns def. Warriors X1 by 6 wickets. Warriors 155 all out in 18.5 overs. Manodev Badrie 29, Navin Heeralall 33. Kevin Trap 4 for 13, Shalim Hanif 3 for 23. Young Guns 158 for 4. K. Trap 62. Karibee Strikers def. Blue Divas by 3 wickets. Blue Divas 91 for 5 off 10 overs. Paula 26. S. Gajnabi 2 for 13. Karibee 92 for 7 in 8.2 overs. Kanata Mentore 32. Trophy Stall Angels def. Sleepin Warriors by 81 runs. Trophy Stall 145 for 3 in 10 overs. June Ogle 39, Roxanne DeMonick 39, Odesa Oniel 38. Sleepin 64 all out. Nichola Leacock 2 for 7. Janelle Nero 2 for 8. Karibee Strikers def. Wellwoman by 4 runs. Karibee 96 for 4 in 10 overs. Katana Mentore 36, Tessa Park 22. Latoya Smith 3 for 11. Wellwoman 92 for 6 in 10
overs. Haseena Mohamed 28. Deonne Frank 2 for 21. Farm def. Herstelling by 110 runs. Farm 171 all out in 18.4 overs. Kishan Kumar 33 not out, Ameer Azeez 25. Sadiq Yusuf 5 for 33, Jurmin Ramroop 3 for 27. Herstelling 61 all out. Patrick Khan 7 for 10. Avinash Sookdeo 2 for 20. Slingers def. Frontliners by 45 runs. Slingers 190 for 5 off 20 overs. Mohamed Rafeek 83, Danny Mohanram 40, Rudy Rodrigues 23. H. Narine 2 for 41. Frontliners 145 all out. H. Persaud 47, H. Narine 21. Ryan Singh 3 for 14, Rudy Rodrigues 2 for 26. Parika Defenders def. Industry Super Kings by 12 runs. Defenders 166 for 7 off 20 overs. Oswald Black 30, Sheik Mohamed 29. David Harper 2 for 19, Jagdesh Persaud 2 for 24. Industry 154 all out in 18.4 overs. David Harper 31, J. Persaud 29, Ishwar Persaud 21. M.F.K. Saffie 4 for 16. Action continues at the DCC ground tonight. Pitch 1: 6:30pm-Floodlight vs Wellman. Pitch 2: 6:30pmRegal vs Uprisers.
Punches will fly as amateur boxers bare fist tonight ‘Biggy’ Small and ‘AK’ on a collision course More than 50 boxers f r o m t h e c o u n t r y ’s t o p gyms convened at the Andrew Lewis Boxing Gym, Independence Boulevard, last evening to conform to the weigh in and medical examination before they are matched against their respective opponents in the National Open Boxing Championships scheduled to get underway at the M&CC Municipal Centre, California Square, East Ruimveldt tonight, with added action tomorrow night and with the finals scheduled for Sunday night. The card consists of the country’s top boxers and fans can gear up for the highly anticipated slugfests as the respective pugilists are all nurturing the ambition of wearing the crown in their divisions. Despite such anticipation, the fight that seems to have caught the imagination of the pundits is the super/heavyweight clash between United States based super/ heavyweight pugilist, Quincy ‘Biggy’ Small and Republican boxer, Jason ‘AK’ Barker.
These two boxers joined dozens of other pugilists and weighed in last evening at the nation’s premiere boxing gym. They exchanged acidic stares while sizing each other up as they took to the scales. Earlier, Small had elected to do some light work under the watchful eyes of Cuban coach, Francisco Hernandez Roldan and his skin glistened with perspiration as he climbed onto the scale. Up to press time, the organizers were still engaged in the process of matching the boxers for tonight’s encounter but without a doubt ‘Biggy’ and ‘AK’ will square off on one of the three nights. Participating boxers will be drawn from the nation’s top gyms including the Young Achievers, Harpy Eagles, Forgotten Youth Foundation, Essequibo, Rose Hall Town Jammers, Pocket Rocket Boxing Gym and Carryll’s Boxing Gym among others. The boxers will compete in 10 divisions in the elite category and these pugilists will now box
devoid of the protective headgear; this in keeping with the new rules of the International Amateur Boxing Association (IABA).However, the other categories would be exempted from this rule and will wear the protective gear. Additionally, IABA has agreed for elite boxers to use Cavelin Cream, a product that reduces the risks of cuts and bruises. President of the GBA, Steve Ninvalle said that the product was to have arrived in the country sometime yesterday. Several corporate entities have rendered support for the success of the tournament including the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Monty Profitt, Courts, BK International and Mike’s Pharmacy among others. Boxers residing in the rural communities will conform to the weigh in and medical examination process at 09:00hrs this morning, also at the same venue. Action time tonight is 20:00hrs sharp and admission is $400 and $200 for adults and children respectively.
Winning rookie Mahendra Bhagwandin, Club President David Mohamad and veteran Kalyan Tiwari continued their sterling play to receive the souvenir golden golf clubs for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Best Net performance at the Sanjay’s Jewelry Classic tournament held last Sunday at the Lusignan Golf Course. The clubs were presented by Mr Sanjay Persaud, owner of Sanjay’s Jewelry, who indicated that he would like to do even better next year. While Kalyan Tiwari has not placed first recently, he has placed in the first three, but President Mohamad and Mahendra Bhagwandin have certainly been carrying away the top prize in several tournaments over the last 2 months. A spell of bad play in midSeptember had discouraged Bhagwandin, who brought 2nd in his category in the COURTS tournament of Saturday 6th September. He then went on to place 1st in the following day’s N&S Mattai tournament. However, he shared that two significant things impacted his excellent performance on Sunday. “Firstly, I was coached by v e t e r a n p l a y e r Av i n a s h Persaud. He encouraged and helped me to improve my drive, as my strong point was my chip and putt, but my drive was really inadequate for great play. Secondly, I had one of the most experienced caddies for my play, Mr Harrichand ‘Baby Boy’ Dhanai, who guided me extremely well in my club selection.” President Mohamad, apart from setting a record 62 net for the 19-28 h/cap flight, on 26 July this year in the Demerara Mu t u a l L i f e tournament, has either won or been in the top three, several times since then. He placed 2nd in the Captain’s tournament of 20 S e p t e m b e r, 1 s t i n t h e Trophy Stall tourney of 27 September as well as 1st in the United Insurance tourney of 11th October. He has been doing well consistently. Mr Sanjay Persaud remarked, “I am proud to see the good turnout of golfers on Sunday to support Sanjay’s Classic tournament.” Mr Persaud pledged to sponsor the construction of an external stairway for the extension of the Golf Club building. (Panko Steel Fabrication Company has been identified to
Some of the winners that received their prizes from Mr Sanjay Persaud at the presentation. undertake the works.) This second Sanjay’s sponsored tournament for the year saw some 32 golfers, many of them hopefuls for the Guyana Open scheduled for next fortnight, competing in keen fashion, using the tournament as practice for that big weekend. Following after S a t u r d a y ’s o u t s t a n d i n g p l a y, S u n d a y ’s f l i g h t format medal play system results were as follows: 09 h/cap flight – 1st Rishi Sukhram 8/68, 2nd
Deosarran Sookram 6/69; 10-18 h/cap flight – 1st Kevin Budram 15/69, 2nd Fazil Haniff 12/71; 19-28 h/ cap flight – 1st Mahendra Bhagwandin 28/63, 2nd David Mohamad 20/65; Ladies flight – 1st Christine Sukhram 13/79. Most Honest Golfer prize went to Brian Hackett 24/81, while Nearest to The Pin was Kalyan Tiwari. Tiwari 22/66 also received one of the souvenir golden clubs, because his net was the t h ird best in the tournament.
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 24, 2014
Berbice Chambers cricket tourney fixed for tomorrow at Albion DCC to face Police in Noble GCA competitions continue this weekend
House Sea Foods semi
Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) will host Police in the first semi-final of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Noble House Sea Foods second division two-day competition, starting tomorrow. A keen contest is anticipated and the DCC pitch is likely to favour the batsmen; a high scoring encounter is expected since both teams have powerful batting line ups. Sherfene Rutherford, Ronaldo Renee, Tevin Imlach, Andrew Gibson, Kemol Savory and Raymond Perez will lead the home team in this area, while Ashmead Nedd, Dennis Squires and Lynden Lyght are likely to lead their bowling. Police will depend heavily on Troy Benn, Sheldon Agard, Rawle Enmore and Shawn McPherson to post a sizeable total. A lot will depend on off-spinner Kelvin Leitch to restrict the opposition with support from Vishal Jaigobin, Benn and the lively Darson La Rose. Action gets underway at 10:30 hrs and the umpires are Edward Bowen and Clyde Layne with Randolph Rose as stand by. In the New Building Society second division 40over tomorrow at 10:30hrs, Everest will play Third Class at Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) with Reginald Grant and Heuvel Cunha umpiring; Malteenoes SC (MSC) will host Sophia under the watchful eyes of Ernest Hinds and Linden
Vishal Jaigobin (left) and Troy Benn
Dennis Squires
Sherfene Rutherford
Matthews. On Sunday at 10:30 hrs, MYO will entertain GYO with Reginald Grant and Joseph Jeffery officiating, and the MSC at home to Diplomats, with Mario Nicholls and Nolan Hawke in charge. In the Hadi’s World City Mall Inc first division two-day
which starts tomorrow, the Guyana Defence Force will oppose Police; Matthew Kissoon and Ryan Banwarie are the umpires and Transport SC travel to Everest, with Hortence Isaacs and Cyril Garnath doing on field duties. Both matches commence at 09:30 hrs.
Teachers United and Courtland victorious in Corentyne Cup football competition Play has begun in the Corentyne Cup football competition for teams in Corentyne area. Latest results show GTU Teachers United travelling to the Scottsburg Community Centre Ground to eke out a hard fought 3-2 victory over No51 football Club in their encounter. The Teacher’s charge was lead by a Colin Bowery hat-trick in the 27th, 48th and 50th minutes. No 51 got their goals through a double off the boot of Perri Tello in the 53rd and 55th minutes. The other game showed similar result with Courtland also through a hat-trick by Joshua Grimes holding off Corriverton Links 3-2. Grimes
was on target in the 13th, 24th and 33rd minutes as his team raced to a 3-0 lead at half time. Colis Bentley responded in the 58th and 63rd minutes as they fought back in the second half. The tournament continues Sunday with Manchester/Liverpool taking on Siparuta of the Corentyne River at the same venue. Six teams are participating in the tournament. According to the organizers the objective of the tournament is to promote football at the senior level in the Corentyne area. While also assist in the development of the game in the area and to encourage clubs not affiliated with the Berbice Football
Association (BFA) to get themselves properly organized. The final is set for the 14th November. All the matches will be played at the Scottsburg 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 and Football enthusiast, coach and referee Randy ‘Blades’ Sears.
All roads lead to the Albion Sports Complex tomorrow for the annual Berbice Chambers of Commerce and Development Association CBIS tournament. The tournament, in its fifth year, will bring together players from Corporate Guyana with the intention of building bridges and friendship among workers. It has been a success over the years and for the first time the final will be played under international quality floodlights. In addition, the
feature hardball game will bring together a strong team from West Berbice a Chamber Eleven with most of the top players in Berbice to participate. That will be a 20-over affair and will follow the softball final under lights as well. The draw was done recently and the fixtures are as follows: Nand Persaud Karibee Rice vs Dharmic Sabha from 9.30 hours Hand In Hand Insurance vs The New Building Society from 9.30 hours
Oldendorff vs Metro from 10.30 hours Neal and Massey vs GBTI from 10.30 hours Berbice River Bridge vs Ansa McAl from 11.30 hours Republic Bank vs Regional Chairman Eleven from 11.30 hours J’S Supermarket vs Banks DIH from 12.30 hours All teams are reminded to be at the ground by 8.45 hours for the march past before the event kicks off. Many gate prizes will be up for grabs.
Little DIVA Flames FC preparing for Suriname’s visit Little DIVA Flames Female Football Club players have intensified their training in preparation for their intended trip to Suriname in December. Training sessions are slated for the GFC Ground Bourda on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays commencing at 16:30hrs each day and on Saturdays at 07:00 hrs. In an effort to ensure that the team are equipped with the necessary skill, fitness, technical and tactical awareness, they have received the services Colin McNichols as head coach. Colin McNichols was a former coach player of Thomas United Football Club (TUFC) and national player. He started his playing career at age 9 years when he represented Freeburg Anglican Primary School in a Demico House sponsored inter school tournament at the GFC. Present were Ken Gibbs and Earl O’ Neil two of Guyana’s greatest players, both were former Thomas United players, national
coaches and national captains. They saw him and took him to join TUFC. He was one of the most skillful youngsters in those days and was the talk of the town for many years. Due to work commitment Colin had to give up playing football from age 19 to 25 years. On his return, he was selected to represent Guyana in the Shell Cup in
BBC Sport - West Indies cricket must treat the collapse of their tour of India as a “wake-up call”, according to their former fast bowler Ian Bishop. The Windies left India after Friday’s fourth one-day match because of a pay dispute between board and players. “It must be a wake-up call because any team who was going to invite the West Indies to their shores - this will be at the back of their mind,” he said. “I don’t think the players understood the ramifications of such a move.”
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 live, Bishop also says the threat of legal action by the Board of Control for Cricket in India could be crippling. “[The BCCI] must be aware that if they bankrupt West Indies it reduces the spectacle of world cricket,” he said. In addition to threatening legal action against the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), the BCCI has suspended tours to West Indies, including scheduled fixtures in the Caribbean in February and March 2016. “The revenue that the West Indies cricket board
Colin McNichols
Jamaica in 1991 under coach, Gordon Braithwaite manager Colin Erskine and PTI ret’d Asst Com of Police Ovid Glasgow. Some of his team mates were Anthony Stanton, Lerone Bailey, Phillip Carrington, Orin Accra, Russell Persuade, Michael McKennon and Nigel Massiah. Guyana placed 3rd. Some top Caribbean players who he played against were Russel Latapy, Arnold Dwarika, Clayton Ince and Jerren Nixon of Trinidad & Tobago, Paul “Tiga” Davis, Theodore Whitmore and Warren Barrett of Jamaica. He was appointed as coach of TUFC and was a coach/player, coaching players likes of Keith London, Dion Barnwell, Orin Agard, Abdool Conteah, Ricardo Straker, Christopher Barnwell just to name a few. McNichols expressed thanks to the Management of Little DIVA Flames Football Club for choosing him as the coach and he hopes to make an impact with the team.
West Indies collapsed tour of India must spark change - Ian Bishop
Ian Bishop would have gained would have spilled into their grassroots cricket,” added (Continued on page 34)
Kaieteur News
Friday October 24, 2014
Page 39
The proof of the pudding is in the eating By Rawle Welch It is now on record that former Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Christopher Matthias has been removed from the helm of football in this country and a five-member Normalisation Committee is to be announced shortly to take his place and run the affairs of the sport here. F I FA / C O N C A C A F representatives that included Head of Associations Primo Corvaro and Legal Affairs Director Marco Leal made the disclosure on Tuesday last during a Press Briefing, at the Pegasus Hotel. In addition to the declaration of Matthias’ exit, the officials also announced that constitutional reforms and the day to day running of the GFF will be executed by the five-member Committee endorsed by FIFA/CONCACAF and who will enjoy the same powers as the previous executive. Many believe that the move by the two international governing bodies could not have come sooner since Guyana’s football after enjoying its best World Cup qualifying campaign in 2013/14 has slipped back into the abyss and heading towards certain death. The two gentlemen were, however, quick to point out that Matthias’ removal should not be interpreted as a punishment of sorts, but rather as the best possible option to move the sport forward following bitter acrimony during his tenure that created a vacuum thereby obstructing the development of the sport. T h i s v i e w b y FIFA/CONCACAF simply cannot be challenged, the two Bodies did exhibit tremendous patience and tolerance with our football administrators, wasting time and money to send down high level officials to adjudicate and advise in our ongoing mess, but to no avail so it was time to act and act definitively which they did. While some might be tempted to feel sorry for the former President since from the onset of his tenure he was forced to work with individuals who did not emanate from his slate and
therefore exhibited little or no desire to cooperate with him, he too must share some of the blame for the predicament that the sport has found itself in. Matthias failed to forge alliances with important stakeholders both home and abroad and it is the feeling by many had he done so the outcome might have been different. Why did he not seek the advice of his CFU, CONCACAF and FIFA colleagues, having attended a few Congresses and Meetings after entering office with little administrative experience at the national level? There is strong reason to believe that had he engaged those offices seriously to assist him he might have survived, but his departure seems to suggest that inexperience and his inability to forge alliances cost him the job. Trinidad and Tobago Football Association ( T T FA ) i s c u r r e n t l y undergoing a similar exercise, but it is being labeled a Constitutional Reform Process and it was its President Raymond Tim
Kee, who wrote the same two Bodies requesting help in certain areas and they agreed to assist. It must be noted that Corvaro and Leal a l o n g w i t h a n o ther CON C A C A F o f f i c i a l Reudi Broennimann are in the Twin Island Republic offering their expertise to a process that is similar to that which is being undertaken here, but the
difference is that Tim Kee will join them. There must have been a lot of rejoicing in the o p p o s i t i o n ’s c a m p s following Matthias’ exodus, but what is certain is that FIFA/CONCACAF seem determined to get it right this time or let Guyana face the full brunt of punishment for its insubordination should it
continue following the completion of work by the Normalisation Committee in September 2015. Corvaro made it clear that anyone who attempts to fight the process will be shown no mercy and while it is hoped that the work of the Committee will not be impeded, but embraced for the ‘Good of the Game’, Guyana’s recent history of
possessing administrators’ with uncaring and selfish attitudes is well documented among FIFA/CONCACAF. The proof of the pudding is in the eating; let us see if over the next 11 months our football administrators could demonstrate the level of maturity and care that would allow the sport to breathe fresh air.
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 24, 2014
Need for horseracing legislation now
Princess She Not winning the feature A and lower event in a close finish from Score Even. Says Samuel Whyte While sporting activities should be taking the limelight for outstanding achievements and performances, the situation in Guyana is totally the opposite. Sporting activities are competing and taking the limelight for all the wrong reasons. Major sports, cricket, football and horseracing are almost always under some cloud of controversy. While the former two have been ventilated a lot in the media my short comment will focus on the horseracing fiasco. Horseracing in Guyana at the moment is being administered in a truly cowboy scenario with no one seems concerned about the rules. Although there is a Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA) in place, the organizers, clubs and promoters seem bent on doing their own thing. One of the end results is the latest fiasco that occurred at the recently held People Progressive Party one day horserace meet held on Sunday 12th Oct. at the Kennard Memorial Turf Club (KMTC). A controversy arose after it was alleged that Trinidadian jockey Keran Razack abode champion horse Princess She Not of the Shariff Stable allegedly used an electrical device to shock the animal during the feature A and lower event. Owner of the Shariff Racing Stables, Mohammed ‘Nankoo’ Shariff has since denied the
allegations. Since then allegations have been flying back and forth. A number of photographs have since made the rounds on Social Media and some sections of the print media showing Razzack with the alleged device in his hands. The electrical device or buzzer, which is the size of a lighter, is battery operated. It conducts electrical current that is used to shock horses and other animals into running, galloping, jumping, bucking etc. It is also used at Rodeo’s and other events where animals are required to performed exceptional feats. In the meanwhile, following the fiasco a fiveman committee headed by a t t o r n e y a t l a w Ry a n Crawford has been set to inquire into the alleged incident. The other members of the committee are Francis Chichester, Quacy Henry, Patrick Davis and Zenzie Goring. The committee is expected to meet with the players including jockey Razzack on Monday at the KMTC pavilion. The committee is hoping to use the picture being circulated to conduct the investigation. H o w ev er, q u es tio n s being asked, include, how authentic or conclusive could those pictures be, since the photographs were allegedly taken by a private person who was not connected to the race meet or the GHRA. Is this committee legal? Under whose auspices did the event take place, what
were the rules that the meet was held under, what are the rules and the terms of reference of the committee. Who will they report to? Meanwhile, the GHRA has stated that it’s not a part of the race meet and is not consulted so they could not pronounce on the activity. A racing knowledgeable has stated, that what occurred on Oct. 12th is nothing compares to other infractions including doping. Doping in rampant and happens with impunity to animals which results in very short life span for horses. That is animal cruelty and should be part of any investigation. Handlers openly inject horses with all kinds of illegal stuff and the animals die. All this is going on and no one seems to care or to have the authority to stop it. While football and to a lesser extent cricket is being affect by sponsorship due to the many infringements and constant fighting, horseracing seems somehow capable of attracting sponsorship despite the many infractions. The situation seems to be getting from bad to worst and the relevant authorities are urged to act now before a point of no return. The Guyana Government however cannot escape their fair share of criticism since many copies of a horseracing legislation has been with the government over a decade. The call is therefore being resonate for legislation now.
Kaieteur News
Friday October 24, 2014
Mohamed Memorial 40-over cricket-EBE
Page 41
BCB/2014 NBS second division 40-over cricket competition in Berbice
Supreme, Parika Salem Iswar Singh (62), Permaul Singh (57), Romesh Boodram (5 for 25) are latest winners Azeez slams century propel Cotton Tree to playoffs
Supreme and Parika Salem emerged victorious when the Mohamed Memorial 40-over tournament continued Sunday last on the East Bank of Essequibo. At Zeelugt, Supreme defeated the hosts by 43 runs. Supreme batted first and scored 183 before they were bowled out in 31.1 overs. Basheer Azeez stroked 106 and Ricardo Adams supported with 24. A. Bissessar snared 4-45 and G. Rampersaud 3-30. Zeelugt were bowled out for 140 in 24.2 overs. O. Shakur made 47 not out, while extras contributed 39. Safraz Ally grabbed 3-24 and Rajiv Balgobin 3-37. At Vergenoegen, Parika Salem overcame Hyde Park by eight wickets. Batting first, Hyde Park managed 141 all out in 34.1 overs. Lennox Andrews scored 47 and Hashim Mohamed 20. Edwin Burnette grabbed 437 and Jimol Marks 2-15. Parika Salem responded with 142-2 in 19.1 overs. Kevon Boodie slammed 42 and Sase Narine 36. Inshan Mohamed took 1-47. Meanwhile, Hyde Park got the better of Philadelphia by 80 runs on Saturday at Vergenoegen. Hyde Park took first strike and scored 199 all out in 25.3 overs. Safraz Karim cracked 61, Travis Drakes 46 and Lennox Andrews 35. S. Rajkumar claimed 3-18 and T. R a m n a r i n e 2 - 3 2 .
Cotton Tree Die Hard defeated Monedderlust of No 5, West Berbice by 190 runs in their final Zone B preliminary match of the 2014 New Building Society Second Division 40 Over Cricket Competition in Berbice to end unbeaten and clear winner of that Zone, thus advancing to the last 16 playoffs.
Kevon Boodie
Philadelphia were skittled for 119 in 29.3 overs in reply. Ramnarine scored 35 and Gowkarran Debi 35; Imtiaz Sadiq picked up 2-12 and Ashmin Mohamed 2-30. The game was reduced to 30
overs. The competition continues on Sunday with semi-final action. Parika Salem will face Zeelugt at Vergenoegen and Hyde Park play Supreme at Parika.
Peters propels Rising Star to Cricket for Unity title in E’bo Ricardo Peters stroked a fine century as Rising Star overcame Top Shattas by 11 runs to win the Cricket for Unity title played recently at Pomona on the Essequibo Coast. Peters struck five fours and six sixes in scoring 102 off 69 balls as Rising Star amassed 190-4 off their allotted 20 overs, batting first. Jagdesh Dindyal stroked 42 including four fours and two sixes, while Rovin Dusraj chipped in with 20 not out (3x4). Osbert Thomas claimed 2-19 from four overs while Sherwin Abrams and Javed Azeez had one each. Top Shattas threatened somewhat but were restricted for 180-7 in
Coach Andy Ramnarine (left) presents the winning trophy to captain of Rising Star Otis Roberts. 20 overs in reply. Chandy Jairam led the chase with 56 (5x4,4x6), Azeez scored 39
(2x4,2x6) and Sher Khan 29 (1x4,1x6). Ravindra Narine (Continued on page 34)
Leading them to their big win were, firstly, Iswar Singh who slammed 62 (7 fours and 2 sixes), Permaul Singh with 57 (4 four and 4 sixes) and Abdul Subhan with 42 which helped them post 320 for 9 in 35 overs, their second score over 300 runs, having scored 316 for 6 in 35 overs against D ’ E d w a r d Wa r r i o r s . Chesney however holds the record for the highest score in an innings so far in this year’s competition with 321 for 6 in 35 overs against Jai Hind. When Monedderlust replied, Cotton Tree off spinner Romesh Boodram took 5 for 25 from 6.4 to bowl them out for 130. Despite pacer Jermaine Henry taking 4 for 11 and former Guyana cricketer Hubern Evans scoring 53, both for defending champions Young Warriors, Police defeated them to end their preliminary Zone E match unbeaten and on top to earn a place in the playoffs. Vishal Mohabir slammed 80 (7 fours and 5 sixes) to steer Young and Restless of Reliance Abandon to a 136 run win over Reliance Strykers. After No 43 Scorpion did well to bowl out No 55 Mayflower for 98, in their reply, they were skittled out for 77 compliments off No 55 opening pacer Mahadeo Anand who took 6 for 10 from 5 overs. Off spinner Ramnarine Jugisteer took 5 for 25 for Betsy Ground Triple Star in their victory over Canefield. Summarized scores:
- Police also through
Ishwar Singh
Vishal Mohabir At cotton Tree, Cotton Tree Die Hard beat Monedderlust by 190 runs. Cotton Tree 320 for 9 in 35 overs with Iswar Singh 62, Permaul Singh 57, Abdul Subhan 42, Tage Singh 39 and Pooran Persaud 39. Oswald Benjamin took 4 for 35. Monedderlust in reply 130 all out in 35 overs. Romesh Boodram took 5 for 25. At Vryman’s Erven, Police 146 in 30 overs with Kwesi Mickle 45, Mark Barker 31. Jermaine Henry took 4 for 11, Ishwar Singh 2 for 30 and Hubern Evans 2 for 32. Young Warriors 120 in 32.5 overs with Hubern Evans 52. Keviin Sinclair 3 for 11, Michael Campbell 3 for 29 and Wayne Richards 2 for 30. At Gangaram, Young and
Romesh Boodram Restless beat Reliance Young Strykers by 136 runs. Young and Restless 213 in 31 overs with Vishal Mohabir 80, Sasenarine Sukhdeo 26. Randy Jaggernauth 4 for 21, Mark Persaud 2 for 28 and Azaad Hamid 2 for 36. Reliance Young Strykers 77 in 16 overs with Dhanesh Gopaul 4 for 14 and Keishar Gangaram 2 for 20. At No 43, No 55 Mayflower beat No 43 Scorpions by 21 runs. No 55 Mayflower 98 in 19 overs with Changur Persaud 3 for 17, Farouk Drepaul 3 for 26. No 43 Scorpions 77 in 18 overs with Mahadeo Anand 6 for 10 and Ramnarine Appiah 2 for 17. At Cumberland, Betsy Ground Triple Star beat Canefield by 6 wickets. Canefield 118 in 31.2 overs with Devendra Sunthgolam 30. Ramnarine Jugisteer 5 for 25 and Outram Emamdin 3 for 25. Betsy Ground Triple Star 119 for 4 in 18.3 overs with Kishan Sobhai 31 and Wahmeshwar Sobhai 28. At Gangaram, Gangaram Strykers beat Rose Hall Community Center by 7 wickets. RHCC 68 in 20.3 overs with Anil Sarjudas 25. Faurdeen Kassim 4 for 12, Bharat 3 for 16 and Alex Dhanai 2 for 16. Gangaram Strykers 69 for 3 in 13.3 overs with Vinod Barran 29 no. Keon Isaacs 2 for 27.
t r o Sp IGG 2nd leg set to start today in Suriname
Guyana opens quest on the volleyball court; opening ceremony set for 16:00hrs P.36
Members of the Table Tennis team after their arrival.
Punches will fly as amateur WICB facing pressure from sponsors P.38 boxers bare fist tonight ‘Biggy’ Small and ‘AK’ on a collision course
West Indies players abandoned the tour of India due to a pay dispute. (WICB)
P.34
Jason ‘AK’ Barker (right) cocks his weapon but Quincy ‘Biggy’ Small is hardly intimidated and returns the favour. Whose weapon is the most powerful? Fans have to come to the fights to see 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