Saturday October 28, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Set up the Integrity Commission An appropriate sentence for a that I do recall. now if you want to fight corruption bestial crime Such sentences as given DEAR EDITOR, The Attorney General, Basil Williams, and his surrogates seem to be staring at the sky, while the pretense that ‘all is well’ continues. Truly, “anti-corruption is everybody’s business”, as stated by Williams, at an AntiCorruption Sensitisation Seminar at the Anna Regina Multilateral School Auditorium, Cotton Field Village, Essequibo Coast, as reported by Government’s Department of Information. If the government is serious about fighting corruption, why not set up the Integrity Commission, in keeping with the Integrity Commission Act, as promised? This call is being made because Ministers of the APNU+AFC government who have not made declarations since assuming office, and some not doing so even while they sat in the Opposition benches during the 8th, 9th and 10th Parliament – are facilitating corruption currently, by disallowing declarations of other public officers. Case in point is the fact that the Procurement Act 2003, mandates that the members of Tender Boards – national, regional and district – as well as evaluators on panels who recommend and award contracts
need to be making annual declarations to the Integrity Commission. Since there is no Integrity Commission, no declarations are made, leaving the country in the dark as it relates to who if any, of these persons are benefitting financially or are benefitting in other material forms from the award of contracts. There can be no tracing of the accumulation of illicit wealth, if and where such cases exist in the public service. How then can the Attorney General substantiate his comments about building an ‘un-bribable’ public service? Between 2015 and 2017, more than $300B was spent on goods and services, as well as capital projects, without this critical ‘anti-corruption’ framework being in place. The rhetoric of APNU+AFC about fighting corruption will ring hollow until concrete actions are taken to follow the laws and regulations, set out to minimise the risk of corrupt actions going undetected. Secondly, the role of the heavily politicised State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU), which now falls under the supervision of the Ministry of Legal Affairs, continues to be used as a tool to target politi-
cal opponents of the current APNU+AFC government. The Guyanese people cannot take the SARU CEO, Aubrey Heath-Retemyer, seriously, when he states that “procurement fraud – fraud relating to purchase of goods, services, or commissioning of construction projects” – is a major form of corruption, given the Unit’s inaction on the matter. Why is SARU not pursuing questionable undertakings, including but not limited to: D’urban Park; the $14M being spent on the Sussex Street drug bond; the $605M purchase of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies; the procurement of goods and services at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM); and the countless other projects that fall under the purview of Public Infrastructure Minister, David Patterson, as well as the other capital projects in various sectors, where tampering with and influencing of the tender process, to ensure a desired outcome, have been exposed. With no such action, and in light of documented evidence, one can only conclude that the APNU+AFC government is guilty of procurement fraud. The procurement of Continued on page 6
Nonsense passes for analysis DEAR EDITOR, As leader of the Organisation for the Victory of the People (OVP), I have unapologetically voiced my criticism of APNU+AFC policies and performance in government. I have voiced my disagreement with their adherence to the neo-liberal capitalist project and have lamented their lack of vision at many forums and in numerous articles and letters. However, I cannot allow nonsense to pass for analysis. I am hearing people opine that there is no difference between the past PPP government and the present government. This is the kind of historical amnesia that is so often prevalent in Guyana. The youths coming up may start to believe this absolutely fallacious claim if it is not corrected. I am in a position to correct this erroneous notion because I was at the forefront of the struggle against the PPP and their associates. In fact, I had to leave my country and go into voluntary exile for a period or I would not been alive today. Let’s get this right and
make no mistake – the PPP was a death squad regime who collaborated with drug lords and criminals to wreak havoc in Guyana during their 23 year reign of terror. This is not opinion; it is substantiated fact, substantiated by evidence produced at the New York trial of Roger Khan himself. Truth is, many who are speaking out loudly now, kept their mouths for fear of losing their lives. And this was a very real fear. I myself had death notices pinned to the door of my home and on numerous occasions, had to evacuate my wife and children from our home on the basis of rumours reported to me that the Phantom was coming to our home that night. Those who did speak up paid a heavy price. My friend and colleague, Ronald Waddell paid the ultimate price. There is an absurd notion in Guyana that if one is critical of the current government, one is either equating them with the past PPP government or paving the way for the PPP to come back to power. The very fact that Jagdeo
and his cohorts dare to even speak about justice and democracy is a travesty, not to mention the fact that they stole billions of dollars in state assets while in power. The PPPC must never be allowed to return to political office, and any attempt by them to do so, must be opposed by any means necessary. Those who have ears to hear, let them hear. Gerald A. Perreira Leader Organisation for the Victory of the People (OVP)
DEAR EDITOR, Whatever brand of description, sex offenders are outside the pale of humanity. Take the offence of rape, the unlawful sexual intercourse or any other sexual penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth of another person, with or without force, by a sex organ, other body part, or foreign object, without the consent of the victim. It is bestial in every way, for the animalistic manner in which such an offence is committed. In many cases, the victim is scarred for life or is killed, with strangulation being the common act that is committed by these animals. In fact, there is this view, that I have long ago posited – that the offence is the most despicable that can ever be committed by any man or woman. It is the same as holding / imprisoning a woman/man or child against their will, and sexually abuse them. Because of its nature, sexual offences invite the most condemnation from the public. In the United States, released sex offenders are placed on registers, and their release dates are given to the authorities of the locale where they will return. That I write this piece is to express satisfaction at a recent life sentence, given by a High Court Judge to a predator - abusing a threeyear-old child. Even the babes and sucklings are not spared by these sub-humans. What manner of man would want to inflict such depravity on a child? This category of sexual violence has become cultural in this country. The Police files are filled with reports of very young children being sexually violated and abused. Young children are now at the mercies of these twisted minds, as evidenced by the
annual reports from the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA). The horrible fact: these innocents are mainly ravished by family members or very close friends of the household. These are persons who are trusted by these innocents. Just imagine the psychological trauma that these young children experience after such an ordeal. It begs the question: That if our children cannot be safe, and feel protected in their homes, and with relatives and persons placed in positions of trust, then with whom, and where else can they be? Our young have become an endangered category! There is a need for the public to make it their sacred duty and responsibility to ensure children are protected against all forms of abuse. The police and the courts are empowered under the Domestic Violence Act, as well as the Sexual Offences Act 2010 and the Children Act to arrest, prosecute and convict violators of women and children. Child sexual abuse is a topic that persons do not wish to discuss. However, it needs to be addressed so that necessary action is taken to prevent both the mental and psychological damage caused to victims. This is the second time that a life sentence has been given for such an offence,
in this instance are indeed condign in every respect, for it befits the gravity of an act, that is cruelly brutal, heartless, and without mercy. But it should create a consistency that begins with the prompt report on the part of the parents/guardians or anyone who witnesses this most grievous sexual assault being perpetrated on victims. And believe me, editor; this nation is filled with countless sexual predators and perpetrators as evidenced by the daily media reports, and those from the CPA, which disclosed that 424 child sexual abuse cases were reported for the first half of this year, notwithstanding that there may be many unreported child sexual abuse cases. This penalty, signals that our system of justice is prepared to act, once thorough investigation with all the facts and appropriate charges are made correctly. Also, the judicial process has to be timely, for a sentence of this nature to have a prohibitive effect on those who are especially pre-disposed to commit this particular felony. These deviants are simply beasts, and must be locked away in cages! Cindy Evans
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Burnham hurt Guyana socially twisted as a cork-crew‘’. and economically To intimidate the popuDEAR EDITOR, Laudable exhortations portraying the late Forbes Burnham as a prophet of socalled social cohesion in Guyana are risible, to say the least. Burnham was a megalomaniac whose policy plunged the country into economic abyss. During Burnham’s dictatorship, the economic, social and moral conditions of the Guyanese people can rationally be encapsulated as the darkest period of post-independence Guyana. This argument is supported by the following incontrovertible facts. The blatant rigging of elections for two decades was well documented by the British Granada Television. In this expose Guyanese nonexistent voters were deemed to be domiciled in cemeteries in Britain. There were other
non-verifiable addresses. During Burnham’s time, systemic kicking-down of doors of was the norms and this scourge led to mass migration of these hapless people. Far from being a person of social cohesion, Burnham and his ilk nurtured the concept of racial primacy based on the authoritarian idea of party paramountcy. This vile doctrine was so entrenched that it accelerated racial fear rather than racial harmony. Assault on the Rule of Law and coercion of judges made the independence of the judiciary a mockery to the point that one of the pre-eminent jurist, Akbar Khan, found it necessary to migrate. Dishonesty, manipulation, intimidation, and bold in his opportunistic utterances prompted Sir Nigel Fisher (Duncan Sandy’s Deputy) to characterise Burnham ‘’as
lace, Burnham harboured the crime fugitive Rabbi Washington whose reign of terror was all-pervasive. The sycophants and apologists of Burnham cannot honestly palliate the wrongs of the Burnham’s regime. With cunning, they devise dubious claims of Burnham’s place in Guyana’s history. It is worthy to note that the present state of lawlessness, corruption, bribery, suicide, domestic violence, day-time robbery and violation of the constitution is a continuum of an inherited past; and such moral squalor is only fascinating for its repugnance. To write of Burnham’s legacy would occupy volumes and no effort to glorify the period of Burnham’s rule, would find sanction in an informed and elevated mind. Albert Khan
Unless Jagdeo mends his ways... From page 4 had a directive from some PPP officials that the NDC should not fix the pothole since that was the work of the Public Infrastructure Ministry. A businessman then offered to fix the pothole but was stopped by the NDC from doing the work which will not even cost $10,000. The police came to supervise the work and had to leave. Then the Overseer insisted that the NDC must do the work and it was eventually done for about $7,000. Can you imagine the low
level to which these PPP officials can stoop just to make this Government look bad? I do hope that the NDC Chairman will not refuse to sign the voucher for payment. It is a disgrace how these PPP officials are willing to allow more fatalities in deterring the NDC from spending a measly $7,000. It is a cruel lesson for all to see how much the PPP ‘cares’ for the lives of the people of this country. Another issue which is killing development is the directive from the PPP that the NDCs should not raise the rates and taxes even though many huge property owners are paying between $200 and $2,500 per year. This is compounded by the fact that many new housing schemes are still not paying rates and taxes for a number of years now since they have not been officially handed over to the NDCs. This is why these NDCs cannot do any kind of capital works and have to depend
solely on the RDC or the Central Government. These NDCs have become like Guysuco, depending on Government for subventions and other inputs. How can we speak about empowerment when the NDCs are so dependent on handouts from the Government? The people of Region 6 are getting smart and they know the strategy employed by the PPP. In closing, while Bharrat Jagdeo is walking the length and breadth of the country trying to woo supporters and members from APNU and AFC, while his ‘loyal lieutenants’ are busy chasing away its current crop of members and supporters because of their need to exercise ‘absolute power’ and to share the ‘spoils of war’, not unlike their General. If Jagdeo does not change the methodology of these ‘loyal lieutenants’ then there is no hope for the PPP in 2020 or even beyond. Raj Lakram
Saturday October 28, 2017
In defence of Anil Nandlall DEAR EDITOR, I am often amused of the rambling of some of our writers to the press. In the news of October 26, I read of Lincoln Lewis lambasting Anil Nandlall for reporting on the sole selection and speedy swearing in of Justice Patterson as Chairman of the Elections Commission. I am in no position to defend Mr. Nandlall; he is capable of doing that himself. What I am intrigued about is that Mr. Lewis is attacking the former Attorney General because he stated the facts. Mr. Lewis quoted from Mr. Nandlall as follows, “he (Patterson) was a pallbearer at Desmond Hoyte’s funeral, is a member of a PNC Facebook group.” He then went on to educate us on Article 147 of our constitution. Well, Mr. Lewis, it appears that you may have a very short memory. It was not Nandlall reporting the facts; it was the President himself who clearly stated what should be the qualification of the person to be “not unacceptable.”
The President stated that the person he is looking for should “not” be a member of a political party. Maybe I misunderstood the President, but why was Justice Patterson a pallbearer at President Hoyte’s funeral? Who were the other pallbearers? Were they members of the PNC? We all go to funerals, and I am sure you know that persons who are closely aligned to the deceased are generally the pallbearers. What relationship Justice Patterson had with President Hoyte? Was he a member of the PNC? The other question Mr. Lewis and President Granger should answer is “why is Justice Patterson a member of the PNC facebook page?” I would be intrigued to know what his comments on the page were over the years he has been a member. The fact is President Granger is very devious and deceptive in the execution of his duties as President. His Government stated in very clear terms that there is an age
limit for anyone to serve in constitutional bodies. He went against his own policy and appointed an 84year-old great grand-father to not only serve in, but to head a very demanding Commission. The President also stated that the person should not be a member of any political party. What I have observed so far is not good. All of Guyana remembers that the President demoted Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine on the death anniversary of Dr. Walter Rodney. Was that a co-incidence? All Guyanese need to wake up. We have slumbered for too long to the excessiveness of the PNC government, the PPP government, and now we see the same pattern of the APNU/AFC government. Are we going to allow this government to take us along the same path of the previous governments? It’s our choice to make. As God told Job, “stand up like a man and answer me.” Charles Sugrim
Set up the Integrity Commission... From page 5 services, which includes the hiring of public servants in key and critical positions to enhance the governance framework, ought not to be undermined. Yet the undermining of the process to procure services has been tainted by several allegations involving the Attorney General, including at the Deeds Registry and at his own Chambers. In the words of the CEO of SARU – a unit Williams continues to champion – such actions “undermine democracy and the rule of law and leads to violations of human rights.” What about the unconstitutional and illegal interference and instructions to constitutional bodies, such as the Police and Public Service Commissions.
Williams is also being called on to attempt to persuade his government to pursue the engagement of an international firm to trace the assets, if any, of former and current government officials being held abroad, particularly to once and for all put to rest the allegations about corruption under the former PPP/C government, which Williams and his journeymen are wont to repeat. Maybe the Attorney General, as the principal legal advisor to the President, the government and the cabinet, in the interest of transparency,
should also advise the President to host a press conference, where the questions of the people could be addressed and clarity on a number of issues can be provided. The APNU+AFC must stop hiding behind choreographed media encounters, stage-managed public appearances and replace the rhetoric with substantial deliverables, following their promise of transparency and accountability. Juan Edghill, PPP/C Member of Parliament
Saturday October 28, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Following fallout from meeting with Education Ministry...
GTU invited to meet with President Granger on Monday The fallout from the meeting between the Guyana Teachers Union [GTU] and the Ministry of Education has been gaining attention at the highest level. In fact, the union’s executive members will on Monday [October 30, 2017] be meeting with President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency to ventilate their concerns. This development came out of a meeting between executives of the union and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, yesterday. The meeting followed on the heels of a meeting on Thursday at the Ministry of Education, between union and ministry officials, which came to an abrupt end. GTU officials staged a walk out since they were convinced that the Ministry was not prepared to address their concerns. In her Ministry’s defence, Education Minister, Ms. Nicolette Henry, in an invited comment to this publication, said that although she was prepared to discuss all of the matters of concern to the union, she opted to start the proceedings by discussing the non-financial issues. But according to her, “they were not interested in discussing that...” Henry said that during the meeting, she was however able to impress upon the union members that while government is prepared to
President David Granger offer all public servants, including teachers, a recently announced salary increase, it is recognised that there are also other categories of workers who will require specific modalities. Teachers, according to her, fall into that very specific faction. She moreover emphasised that “until such time that those [modalities] are sorted out, this is how it will be dealt with.” After walking out of Thursday’s meeting, GTU President Mark Lyte said that the union was prepared to call out its 6,000-odd teachers for an initial bout of strike action slated for next week Thursday and Friday. The union had earlier threatened to commence strike action on Monday. In response to the union’s decision to uphold its plan to engage strike action, Minister Henry said, “I happen to represent the Government,
Education Minister Nicolette Henry and not the union, and I couldn’t prescribe for the union a preferred way that they should go about their business, but I can certainly appeal to my teachers to ensure that we always put the interest of our children first.” She added, “This is a government for all people, and we have to make decisions in keeping with the best interest of all of our people, and therefore all of our public servants in Guyana will benefit from increases.” Even as she highlighted that there is a reason that Guyana is deemed a developing country, Minister Henry asserted that “there is only so much resources available. These are not decorative things, these are real bread and butter issues, and we have to be serious about what we do.” However, in a statement issued by the Ministry of the Presidency yesterday titled
“Joint Statement from the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Teachers’ Union”, it was revealed that the Union’s concerns about the lack of progress with regard to negotiations of salary increases and other nonsalary benefits for its members were discussed. It was further revealed that, “The Union alluded to a meeting held with the Minister of Education [Nicolette Henry] in which its concern regarding the status of salary increases for teachers
GTU President Mark Lyte which was proposed since December 2015 was not being seriously addressed; and that the pronouncements by the Minister of Education at the meeting were at variance with the Union’s understanding of the Government’s approach to the matter.” At the meeting, according to the statement, Minister Harmon brought clarity to his most recent pronouncement on the matter at a Post Cabinet media conference held on October 19, 2017. During that forum he indicated that the
issues regarding increased salaries for teachers were being considered by the Government in the form of a multiyear proposal submitted by the GTU. In addition, Harmon told the union executives that the meeting with Minister Henry on Thursday was never intended to be the final position of the Administration, but rather, an interim arrangement. It was at this juncture he revealed that “the President was very concerned about the reports regarding the outcome of the meeting between the Union and the Ministry of Education, and had signalled his willingness to meet with the Union on Monday Continued on page 11
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Kaieteur News
‘Search warrant was uncalled for’ - GEA
GEA’s CEO, Dr. Mahender Sharma The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), under investigation for billions of dollars worth in fuel purchases, as well as some questionable issuance of licences, is upset, saying that Thursday’s raid on its head office was uncalled for. “The Board of Directors of the GEA, while respecting the mandate and functions of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), wishes to record its concern over the execution of the highly publicized search warrant at the office of the Guyana Energy Agency, and reiterate the continued cooperation of the GEA in the SOCU investigations currently in process,” the agency said in a statement. According to GEA, its board notes “for the record, and in the interest of transparency, that at no time was the agency reluctant, unavailable, or uncooperative in the submission and handover of the requested documents”. On Thursday, SOCU, the police’s arm that specializes in investigations of financial crimes, including money laundering, successfully applied for a search warrant before a city magistrate. This was after the police unit experienced “challenges” with getting information. In-
vestigators were seen with cardboard boxes going into the Quamina Street, city headquarters. The energy agency said that it received a letter dated October 4, 2017 from SOCU, which requested a list of information - it was provided within a two-week period, “save and except for documents and vouchers in excess of two thousand files for which the GEA, in its response, noted the potential impracticality due to its sheer volume…” GEA said it invited investigators to visit its office at its convenience to review the files in totality. “Again, while we respect SOCU’s mandate, we respectfully submit therefore that the search warrant was not necessary in this instance. Accordingly, recognizing the voluminous nature of the files, the following was communicated to SOCU by letter dated October 19, 2017,” the agency said. GEA said it is in contact with the unit’s head, Sydney James, asking him to explain about the reported ‘challenges’ faced in obtaining information required. GEA also wants to know whether the information Continued on page 23
SOCU officials with police ranks entering GEA compound on Thursday.
GECOM Chairman legal challenge…
U.S. envoy calls for quick resolution United States (U.S.) Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway, has called for a quick resolution to the court challenge mounted by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) against the unilateral appointment of retired Justice James Patterson as the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). In a statement issued yesterday, Ambassador Holloway, who has been silent on this issue, noted that many sectors in Guyana have asked for his comment, using the freedom of expression offered by the Constitution of Guyana. “I think all involved agree that this matter is too important for all, for it to languish in the legal system, so a quick resolution to any court challenge is necessary,” the Ambassador stated. PPP/C’s Executive Member and Member of Parliament, Zulfikar Mustapha through the law firm, Mohabir
A. Nandlall and Associates, moved to the High Court on Monday last, seeking a declaration that Justice Patterson’s appointment is in violation of and contrary to Article 161(2) of the Constitution and is accordingly unlawful, illegal, unconstitutional, null, void and of no effect.Further, Mustapha is seeking a declaration that Justice Patterson is not qualified to be appointed as the Chairman of GECOM in accordance with and in pursuance to Article 161(2) of the Constitution; and an order directing the President to choose a person from the eighteen names submitted to him by the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo. According to the Ambassador, the U.S. Embassy has been following closely recent developments surrounding the appointment, and while everyone has the right to engage in democratic dialogue to discuss differences of opinion, the Courts is the ultimate
-Urges all to act with dignity and respect
U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway and best option for any legal disagreement in a functioning democracy. “I recognize that as in any democracy, the Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana is the supreme law. I am confident that everyone,
in spite of personal or political differences, wants to uphold this foundational document and to act within it, and I encourage everyone to do so. That said, I encourage all to act with dignity and respect in moving forward Guyana’s democratic development,” Ambassador Holloway asserted. The envoy recognized that there has been serious disagreement over the appointment of the GECOM Chairman. The fallout from the appointment was immediate as Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo called a press conference to express his disappointment a short time before the President swore-in Justice Patterson. Jagdeo had presented 18 names in total to President Granger, but none were deemed acceptable by the President, which led to Patterson’s appointment.
Saturday October 28, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Frying small fish instead of roasting the big rats It is not surprising that agents of the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) are undertaking investigations into the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), based on the findings of an audit which were done a long time ago, but which is only now seemingly attracting the crimefighting unit’s attention. The SOCU is facing a credibility crisis. It is not doing well in the Courts. One of the persons against whom it recommended charges was freed this past week. The SOCU is also losing public confidence. It has recommended some of the most interesting charges ever made
in the criminal courts of Guyana. Select board members of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) are facing multiple charges for failing to ensure an accounting entry into a register. In another case, charges were filed against members of the Board of the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) despite the fact that the matter is engaging the High Court, which has given the bank more time to produce the documents demanded by the SOCU. The SOCU was established to fight organized crime. The public perception is that this involves going after
the underworld, not those alleged to have committed while collar crimes. There is the State Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) which has a mandate to recover assets of the state which have been unlawfully appropriated. One would have thought that this investigation of state agencies would be better suited to SARU, rather than the SOCU. The SOCU has been accused by the opposition of carrying out a political witch hunt. It was supposed to be investigating the distribution, under the PPPC, of house lots at Pradoville 2. The alleged basis for the investigation is
Dem boys seh...
Exxon getting competition in Guyana Since Guyana find oil everybody want a piece of de action. Dem don’t care wha dem do. Some of dem come from far and some come from near. One man can’t wait fuh de oil come up in three years suh he get a plan. He think he plan bigger than ExxonMobil. All two of dem plan to rob Guyana. Exxon is a known international scamp. This man from Trinidad realize that. He read a lot about dem. He apply fuh a job wid Exxon in Guyana and he lef he family in Trinidad and come here fuh de interview. He send a man to book a room fuh couple days at Princess Ramada. He was to check in Wednesday. De people prepare meals fuh him. Dem even had a bottle of wine in de room, but he didn’t show up. Dem boys hear he fly in Thursday. Instead he check in at Princess Ramada, he stop off at Soesdyke and pick up a roadside weeder man wid he cutlass. He promise de man a big raise Dem boys hear de man follow him in de hotel room. De man was worried at de start
when he tek off he shirt and de man see two bubbie flapping. He thought was a woman dress up as a man until de man seh, “I will give you dis money; just put de cutlass under me neck wid one hand and tek de photo wid de other hand.” He send that photo to he family in Trinidad claiming how he get kidnap. He tell dem to send de picture to Exxon and tell dem how he get kidnap and how he got to get money. Exxon send back to seh it don’t have money because it ain’t start drill yet and dem can do wha dem want wid him. Exxon seh he wouldn’t be de fuss man to dead waiting fuh money from dem. De police trace de call and when dem get to de hotel, dem see de man throw back drinking a juice and watching Young and de Restless. Last night dem boys hear de man complaining how Exxon come and rob everybody and why he can’t do de same. Talk half and don’t try to compete wid Exxon.
that the lands were sold below market prices. All government housing lots in Guyana were sold below market prices. What is the SOCU going to do, recommend charges for everyone who received a house lot? The SOCU was reported in the media as having recommended charges against the former General Manager of the Guyana Marketing Corporation, Mr. Nizam Hassan. Hassan is one of the most honest professionals in Guyana. Yet, this man’s reputation was hauled unceremoniously through the mud when he found himself facing a most egregious charge of having paid out monies for substandard work done on the GMC building. A decent young professional had to endure months of stress and the ignominy of being placed before the courts for something that he did not do. Look at the amount of money that he would have had to spend in legal fees. He was exonerated this week by the court. But he should never have been charged in the first place. He was the victim of what many professionals are now facing under the APNU+AFC regime.
The way Nizam Hassan was treated is a lesson for all professionals within the public service, who would have worked under the previous administration. There are forces out there who are bent on removing these professionals so they can get their jobs. A ‘talk name’ campaign is being unleashed against these professionals. Persons are being removed without reason from government jobs. Some are being sent on their leave and told that their services would not be required at the end of that period. The contracts of some professionals are not renewed upon expiration. Fortunately, there are still good, decent people around, one of whom is the Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, who treats his professionals with respect. Hassan has returned to his job at the GRDB, but for how long, no one can predict. The SOCU is under pressure to show returns. It is therefore on another mission, this time at the GEA. It needs to win a case in order to restore its credibility. It is only now looking at an audit of the GEA which was done a long time ago. When the government re-
moved the Head of NICIL, Winston Brassington, the SOCU took away piles of files. Apparently, its officers are still studying these files, because nothing has been heard as yet of that investigation. They were apparently studying the forensic report on the GEA for months. They are now on site conducting investigations. Some small fish are soon going to be fried by the SOCU in order to prove that there was massive corruption under the PPPC government. The government should stop wasting time with the SOCU. The PPPC has advised the government to bring in an international team to determine what was stolen, who stole it, and trace the money. This is good advice. It is advice which will be supported by the public. The Guyanese people are not interested in who did not make an entry into some register. They want to know who thief, how much they thief, and where the money gone.
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Saturday October 28, 2017
Kaieteur News
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
October 2017 is passing, but the Russian Revolution has passed October 2017 marks one hundred years of one of the greatest events in human history. The Russian Revolution has left an inerasable stamp and indelible legacy on the world. In any discussion on the Russian Revolution, the inevitable question is asked – what would the world have been like all these years if there wasn’t the impact of the Russian Revolution? Revolution has been a recurring decimal in the history of civilization. There have been hundreds of them, some of which were so phenomenal that they have permanently changed the face of civilization. But there’s this nagging question – have the contours of each revolution justified
the right to revolt. In other words, have revolutions really carried out the principles on which they were fought? If one looks at the seminal revolutions throughout history, this question is pregnant with endless arguments. Edmund Burke, one of Britain’s foremost political thinkers and politicians hated the French Revolution. What started out as a cry for class justice, descended into a reign of terror, ending with the absolutist rule of Napoleon, the Emperor. The American Revolution was fought against the harsh impositions of colonial rule. The history of US foreign policy would reveal the cruel interventions of America to quell the very freedoms that drove it to its war of indepen-
dence against Britain. Few people who rejoiced at Castro’s defeat of Batista in Cuba would have believed at the time, that Castro would go on to rule Cuba months short fifty years and curtail many of the freedoms that the Cuban people fought for against Batista. The Iranian Revolution toppled a Western-oriented ruler and replaced him with an all-powerful theocrat. The freedoms enjoyed under the Shah of Iran have been completely removed under its current theocratic monarchs. Some of these revolts descended in utter depraved rulership, as the world saw in Libya with the removal of King Idris. In no other country in the
Frederick Kissoon 20th century, and in the 21st century, is the labour of the proletarian classes more exploited than in China. It is unthinkable when you think that in 1949, the Communist Party fought a revolution in China to free the proletarian classes from capitalist exploitation. There isn’t a capitalist country anywhere on Planet Earth that exploits, with vicious cruelty, the labour of the working masses, as in China today. What history has documented with oceanic proof is that a majority of revolutions ended up being far more sadistic, imperial, and oppressive than the old order they removed.
A theory that revolutions in themselves are inherent failures could yield efficacious results. We speak of the permanent legacies of the Russian Revolution, but some may want to question where they are today. Today’s Russia bears no resemblance to the Russia that became a communist country after the violent overthrow of Russian monarch, Tsar Nicholas. All the communist-named cities have been renamed, some even back to Tsarist days; for example St. Petersburg. The Communist Party in Russia has not ruled the country since the dissolution of the USSR. The story of the Russian Revolution is a sad one, simply because under the Russian Revolution, too many people died. The largest numbers of deaths in any country other than Nazi Germany was the USSR under Stalin. It was Stalin himself that devoured the revolution. By the time he tightened his grip on power, Stalin had executed most of the leaders of the Bolshevik Party that actually made the revolution. The Russian Revolution
was doomed from the beginning, because once a revolution turns its back on the very liberties it fought for then it cannot guarantee its citizens freedom. It will end up taking away those very liberties, as we see in Iran, China and Cuba. One of the earliest ironies of human history was the reign of terror under Stalin that had no comparison with the Tsar that Stalin helped to overthrow. It is doubtful the Tsar’s state would have executed so many high-profile Russians as Stalin did. Some scholars claim that the Russian revolution went astray when Lenin died and Stalin took over. But that is a myth. The fact that someone like Stalin could have emerged as leader so early in the revolution tells you that from the start, things were not revolutionary at all. It was under Lenin that the people who disagreed with the Bolshevik party were rounded up and executed. If you do not have time to read a book on the Russian Revolution and how it went astray, perhaps you can spend two hours watching the great classical movie, Doctor Zhivago.
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GPSU’s Yarde faces questions GTU invited to... over union’s effectiveness … as options weighed on Govt.’s payout offer The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) is weighing several options, but prefers to be guided by members on the matter of strike action in response to Government’s final offer of a $3.5 billion payout to public servants for 2017. Union President Patrick Yarde broke his silence to speak with reporters yesterday after he claimed to have deliberately avoided the media since government made the offer public on October 19, last. The union was hoping that the negotiations with Government would lead to the completion of wages and salaries negotiations for 2016, improved allowances, inscale increments for public servants and agreement on the de-bunching of salaries currently stuck at the minimum of the pay bands. Yarde accused the David Granger-led administration of adopting a similar take-it-orleave approach to salary negotiations, pointing out that the union was ready for negotiations at the start of the year. According to Yarde, the union it seems is confronted with the same attitude to public servants wages and salaries that obtained when the office of Finance Minister was held by Bharrat Jagdeo,
GPSU President Patrick Yarde at yesterday’s press briefing. at which time the current Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, held the position of budget advisor. “The APNU/AFC administration negotiating team has opted to follow the pattern of imposing a take-itor-leave-it Christmas handout…it persists. The fact is that we are faced with a conspiracy to deny the public servants the merited and overdue benefits,” Yarde stated. It is believed that the GPSU, which has been facing internal dissent, may find it difficult to organise the membership to protest Government-imposed salary increases. Yarde has a different view. He asserted that “the
Government stands guilty of taking advantage of the responsible posture towards the development of the country, which the Union and its members have historically taken loyally and very seriously, and we are feeling betrayed”. Reporters questioned whether the union can galvanize the support of the membership against the Government’s offer. “In this union we have never had to pull out all our members to be effective. I wouldn’t pretend there are some areas in this union right now that there is a difference, but those are not strategic. Check all the actions we have taken very effectively, and see if in the strategic areas we
have a problem,” Yarde stated. The hesitation to spell out the union’s next move and the possibility of strike action, Yarde noted, was due to the fact that the executive must consult with the membership first. “A union doesn’t have an army, it has members, and when you take strike action you don’t get paid….there is a sacrifice members have got to make, and we took a conscious decision that we will not go down that road to have members losing pay every time they got to get something,” Yarde said. Government announced plans to increase the new minimum wage to $60,000, which is an increase of $5,555, retroactive from January 2017. Some 14,000 public servants will benefit from the increases which will cost Government approximately $3.5 billion. THE GOVT’S OFFER *8 % increase for persons earning between $55,555 to $99,999; *6 % increase for persons earning between $100,000 to $299,999; *5 % increase for persons earning $500,000 to $699,999; *2 % increase for persons earning $700,000 to $799,000 *0.5% increase for persons earning $800,000 to $1 million.
From page 7 October 30, 2017 at 11:00 am to discuss all matters of concern to the Union.” The union at the meeting accepted the proposal and, according to the statement, iterated that it was committed to the process of Collective Bargaining, and that it would bring these developments to the attention of its members. But despite the plans to meet with the President on Monday, Lyte said that the union has not yet cancelled strike action. In fact, he intimated that based on the outcome of the meeting, the union will be informing its members about the way forward. The union in recent months has become increasingly agitated over stalled negotiations with the Ministry over its multi-year agreement remuneration package. A previous agreement had expired at the end of December 2015, at which time the union had presented a new proposal to the Ministry. In its proposal, the union asked for, among other things, a 40 percent across the board
increase for teachers for last year; 45 percent increase for this year, and 50 percent for the following three years (2018-2020) for all categories of teachers. The union in its proposal, too, took into consideration inflation, and had made it clear that “should there be inflation higher than the percentage agreed upon, then the teachers/teacher-educators must get the benefit of the difference.” But Lyte had confided that since the union was only making a proposal, the Ministry was well within its right to offer completely different percentages. Speaking of the planned meeting with the Head of State, Lyte said, “The President, as we understand it, will be meeting with us to discuss the way forward with the proposal...” But according to Lyte, the union is not prepared to merely have yet another talk shop, but rather, it has clearly stated its desire to have “concrete information as to what we will be getting.”
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Advisors call for Parliamentary body to oversee Oil and Gas sector Several local and regional advisors are urgently calling for the establishment of a parliamentary body to oversee the oil and gas sector but more importantly, the works of the Petroleum Commission when it comes into being. These views were recently expressed at consultations on oil and gas development which were organized by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). Present at this event were former Speaker of the National Assembly and Attorney-atLaw, Ralph Ramkarran and former Minister of Energy for Trinidad and Tobago and Strategic Advisor, Kevin Ramnarine. They both agreed that such a parliamentary body would be necessary when one considers the scope of work that would be
Saturday October 28, 2017
Kaieteur News
undertaken by the Petroleum Commission. Ramnarine noted that the Commission is expected to monitor and regulate the efficient, safe and environmentally responsible exploration, development and production of petroleum in Guyana. He noted, too, that the main functions of the Commission will be to approve proposed exploration activity, ensure metering, measurement and calibration of oil reserves, promote local content, oversee third party access to infrastructure and provide information to tax authorities. With this in mind, the former Minister of Trinidad and Tobago said it is important that producers at an early stage of the development of their resource base, start with at least one credible body that is responsible for all adminis-
trative and regulatory functions. Ramnarine asserted that the introduction of checks and balances is particularly important in small countries that have few qualified personnel to oversee the sector. In such cases, he said that a handful of people may dominate the governance system by accumulating multiple roles. He stated that Governments should immediately introduce key mechanisms for public accountability, including audits of agencies and state-owned companies, and regular disclosure of information to the public. Ramnarine and Ramkarran agreed that this would go a far way in promoting transparency and accountability in Guyana’s budding oil and gas sector.
Conflict arises between EITI’s need for openness and Govt.’s secretive behaviour – Ram Guyana has finally become a member of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). This is a body that calls for accountability in the natural resources sector. With that salient point in mind, Chartered Accountant and Attorney-at-Law, Chris Ram believes that a serious conflict arises when one takes into account the Government’s secretive behaviour in recent months, particularly as it relates to the oil and gas sector. The lawyer said, “It is difficult to reconcile openness with the refusal to provide the country, the National Assembly or the individual Coalition Partners, with any information on the Petroleum Agreement signed by Minister Trotman in August 2016.” Amidst calls for the release of the oil contract with ExxonMobil, the Government has been proffering the excuse that confidentiality clauses inhibit its release. Ram, like many other concerned individuals, made it clear that it is important for one to bear in mind that the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) under which oil companies are granted licences for the exploration and development of petroleum, indeed, imposes confidentiality obligations. He however noted that this is only with respect to “petroleum data, information and reports obtained or prepared by the oil companies”. Ram said that any statement to the contrary is not only misleading but false. He added that the prin-
Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram ciple of transparency and the overriding public interest in such contracts has even caused a number of such contracts to be made available, both at the national and international levels. In this regard, Ram noted that the University of Dundee, Scotland; Revenue Watch Institute, an Non-Governmental Organization; the World Bank, among others, are facilitating the process by collecting and disseminating them in searchable databases on the internet. Additionally, Ram stated, “Neither law, logic nor the public interest requires or favours the continuing withholding of the oil contracts signed by the Government of Guyana ostensibly acting on behalf of the people of the country.” Kaieteur News even carried an article which reveals that over 50 countries around the world make their contracts open for scrutiny.
This was exposed by the website, Openoil.net. These contracts are also available for download on that website. Openoil has one of the world’s first comprehensive archive lists of oil contracts. These are pulled from states such as Mexico, Angola, Chad, Guatemala, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Syria, and Ukraine. US oil giant, ExxonMobil has operations in all of the mentioned countries in which disclosure of contracts is practiced. Officials, who support the Openoil webpage, categorically believe that all contracts which govern publiclyowned natural resources and the livelihoods of people, should be placed into the open for all to access and examine. This view, however, rational or honourable, is not held by all of Guyana’s policy leaders.
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State prepares to appeal GMC...
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From page 16 reportedly proceeding full speed ahead on the fertilizer investigation. Whether this will affect Hassan is unclear at this time. Government officials confirmed that Hassan turned up for duties on Tuesday at his Cowan Street, Kingston office, taking over from Allison Peters, his deputy, who had headed the Board in his absence. Hassan would be the first officer under investigation stemming from a number of forensic audit reports, to be allowed to return to work. Several other officials who are under investigations in other state agencies were not allowed to return to work, with contracts expiring and not being renewed. Hassan's contract reportedly has quite a few months to go. He proceeded on leave last November after charges were laid. GRDB is the regulatory body for the rice industry, handling billions of dollars annually.
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Kaieteur News
‘Search warrant was... From page 8 provided was sufficient “The Board of Directors wishes to advise that files have been provided and once again reaffirms the cooperation of the GEA in any and all ongoing investigations.” GEA is being run by Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mahender Sharma. The chairman of its board is Lance Hinds. The GEA’s warrant was the second time that the unit was forced to turn to the courts. GEA is a state-controlled entity that regulates the fuel trade, with duties including the licensing of operators and retailers. The documents that SOCU wanted, relate to two investigations that SOCU is handling. One has to do with the findings of a forensic audit that the Coalition Government had ordered into the operations of GEA in the years, under the last administration, leading up to the 2015 general elections. The other has to do with
an investigation by the Ministry of the Presidency last year to alleged malpractice, mismanagement, and the purchases of hundreds of millions of dollars in fuel handled by both GEA and the Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil). The GEA challenge would follow the high-profile one with the privately-controlled Guyana Bank For Trade and Industry (GBTI). SOCU was tracking where US$500M went. That was money representing payment for farmers in the Venezuela rice-for-oil deal with Guyana. The trail suggested it had possibly gone to some foreign banks, under the direction of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB). However, SOCU was unable to proceed with the investigations, as GBTI did not hand over the documents, despite four court orders. In defence, the bank claimed it could not locate some of the documents. Some 9,000 was being asked for. Some of the documents may have also been destroyed.
On Monday, the impasse with the bank culminated in a highly embarrassing court appearance of the directors and chief, to answer contempt charges, in relation to the four court orders. The attention is on SOCU as it has been handed several highly complex investigations, from the much publicized Pradoville Two land sale to former ministers and government officials, to alleged misappropriation of billions of dollars at the GRDB. Several persons have been charged, including former General Manager, Jagnarine Singh, and his deputy, Ricky Ramraj. There are multiple other investigations being run by SOCU into transactions of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), which sold several state properties under suspicious circumstances. Government has hired a number of special prosecutors but some of the completed files have been in limbo for a number of months now.
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Fixed salaries for Ministers and MPs – Prime Minister -says govt. trying to meet concerns of teachers M i n i s t e r s o f Government and Members of Parliament were not in receipt of an increase for 2016 and 2017 and they certainly will not be eligible for an increase in 2018. This disclosure was yesterday made by Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo. According to the Prime Minister, “I believe it was the right decision to give Ministers and Members of Parliament a ‘top up’ in the beginning, but not a single cent for 2016 or 2017, and I can tell you this, Ministers and Members of Parliament will not receive a cent more for 2018.” Even before completing a year in office, the APNU+AFC Government announced a 50 percent increase for Ministers and
Members of Parliament. But according to Prime Minister Nagamootoo, based on his knowledge, moves have been made to fix and adjust a salary for these levels of officials. Nagamootoo’s utterance in this regard was forthcoming as he weighed in on the remuneration concerns of public school teachers that have been gaining immense national attention in recent days. The Prime Minister was at the time speaking at the Ministry o f E d u c a t i o n ’s 2 0 1 7 National Awards Ceremony held at the National Cultural Centre. He disclosed that “we will have to start distributing the small goodies that we have to those who deserve that, and we will give
consideration to teachers, but they must be patient and allow us to see methods by which we can raise revenues, because if you have no revenue, you can distribute nothing.” But according to the Prime Minister, he can easily relate to the concerns of the teachers since he has lived the life of a teacher. He, moreover, added, “I know teachers have huge concerns and our government has been trying to meet those concerns...I was a teacher, my wife was a lecturer at the Cyril Potter College of Education and we struggled to be where we were and where we have come.” As part of government’s efforts to improve the standard of living, he
Education Ministry recognises... From page 17 Mathematics. Although both Anthony and Woodroffe are eligible for Presidential Scholarship Aw a r d s f o r t h e i r performance at CAPE, there were students from other schools who recorded outstanding performances and were duly rewarded yesterday. Along with the QC duo, Shawn Shewram of St Rose's High and Vamanadev Hiralall of SVN were awarded as Best CAPE performers in 2017. Other outstanding performers awarded yesterday were the top National Grade Six Assessment [NGSA] performers: Saskia Twahir of School of the Nations [524 marks]; Clifton Bacchus of Mae's Under 12 [523 marks]; Gabriella Roberts of Success Elementary [523 marks]; Xiana Chabila of Graham's Hall Primary [523 marks]; Amelia Sugrim [523 marks] and Antonia Dey [523 marks] both of Academy of Excellence; Brandon Gouveia [522 marks] and Emily Lalchand [522 marks] both of Academy of Excellence; Raj Seeram of Swami Purnananda Primary [522 marks]; Tristan Persaud of Academy of Excellence [522 marks]; Jerod Roberts of Marian Academy [522 marks]; Tristan Richards of Dharmic Rama Krishna [522 marks]; Muhammed Bacchus of ISA Islamic [522 marks]; Tia Chung of Success Elementary [522 marks] and Kripa Thani of Mae's Under 12 [522 marks].
Other outstanding performers awarded were students from the Government Technical Institute [GTI] including: Dean Samaroo [Technician Certificate in Mechanical Engineering]; Hardial Sawh [Technician Diploma in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering]; Zack Effendi [Ordinary Diploma in Commerce]; Shaqueon Scott [Ordinary Diploma in Science] and Dennis Bagot [Diploma in Computer Science]. Outstanding performers of the Carnegie School of Home Economics were also duly recognised yesterday. They were: Sarah Henry [Diploma in Catering and Hospitality]; Vonette George [Certificate in Garment Construction]; Abigail Bowen [Certificate in Commercial Food Preparation]; Alexis Whoseley [Certificate in General Cosmetology]; Tiffany Lowe [Certificate in Interior Decoration], Rheya Gittens [Visual Arts] and Abigail Semple [Garment Construction]. Biron Marks [Craft Certificate in Electrical Installation] of the Guyana Sugar Corporation Training Centre was also awarded, as was the best graduating student of the Cyril Potter College of Education, Nirupa Manroop of Rose Hall Centre. Meanwhile, at yesterday's ceremony too, Aungelle Henry of Santa Rosa Secondary was awarded the Desrey Fox Scholarship. Also announced were: the Most Improved Primary School -
Annai Primary; the Most Improved Junior Secondary School – Friendship Secondary and Most Improved Senior Secondary – St. Rose's High. Special prizes were awarded to Region Eight [Potaro Siparuni] for being the Most Improved Region in Mathematics; Lord Anthony Edwards, a student with vision challenges, who performed well at CAPE and wheelchair user, Rajni Persaud, of President College, were both awarded f o r p e r f o r m i n g exceptionally despite their physical shortcomings. Yesterday's event was further enhanced by a number of entertaining performances from various schools and addresses by Minister of Education, Ms. Nicolette Henry, and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. In her remarks Minister Henry said to the awardees: “today we celebrate your accomplishments and to make it clear that you are exemplary students who have passed the test as a student…” In commending the efforts of the students and the importance of yesterday's ceremony, the Minister underscored that “in life high achievement is rewarded with accolades, rewards and respect.” And according to Prime Minister Nagamootoo, “life is about moving from a lower point to a higher point and you today students, at your various levels of achievements, have proven that you are moving.”
revealed that in the last 18 months, efforts were made to increase the minimum wage by 51 percent. Just recently, government announced an increase for public servants. This move will see the minimum wage moving to $60,000 and essentially moving the minimum wage from $55,555. Based on this announcement, public servants earning between $55,555 and $99,999 would receive an increase of eight per cent, while a six per cent increase has been approved for persons earning $100,000 to $299,999. Those who earn between $300,000 and $499,999 will receive a five per cent increase, while those earning $500,000 to $699,999 are in line to receive a four per cent increase. Those making $700,000 to $799,999 will receive a two per cent increase. For those earning $800,000 to
Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo $1M, a 0.5 per cent increase has been offered. But according to the Prime Minister, “We wish we could do more. The minimum wage of $60,000 [can’t] buy quite a lot of things, but in my time I worked for $60 a month when I was a teacher equivalent to US$30 a month...Today it’s about US$300 or there about, not enough, but we have to take things incrementally and hope for the best.” Optimistic about
Guyana’s future, the Prime Minister related, “We are looking at a Guyana that has great prospects and we can become very rich if we manage our resources in oil and gas properly, and we distribute it to all of our peoples equitably.” It is for this reason, Nagamootoo said “I can say this today - that while we are trying to give more to those who are at the bottom....to him that had not more should be given; we are starting from the bottom.”
Fraudster jailed for 48 months
P
r i n c i p a l Magistrate Judy L a t c h m a n yesterday sentenced 57year-old Clayton Alleyne to 48 months' imprisonment for fraud. Alleyne, of 179 Good Hope, East Coast Demerara, defrauded Kizzy Shepherd of $415,000 by falsely pretending that he was in the position to grant her a $3.4M loan between November 3, 2016 and February 8, 2017, know same to be false. The court heard that Alleyne was the Chairman of Micro Business Developers a n d C o n s u l t a n t Incorporated, Magistrate Latchman in coming to her ruling told the court that she was of the opinion that the evidence of the witnesses called by Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves, was solid, and that the prosecution was able to prove its case against
Jailed: Clayton Alleyne Alleyne beyond a reasonable doubt. According to the facts of the case, Shepherd was introduced to Alleyne, who was said to be the manager of a money-lending institution. According to reports, the victim was required to make down payments and after a few days, she received what
she believed was the loan via cheque. The problem, however, was that it turned out to be a bounced check. Alleyne had also previously been charged for defrauding a customer of six vehicles. That matter was dismissed It had been alleged that between December 2 and December 13, last, at Georgetown, with intent to defraud, he obtained from Jeetendra Ram, of Fantasy Auto Spares, six motor cars valued at $26.3 million, using a forged Republic Bank manager's cheque drawn for the said sum in favour of Fantasy Auto Spares. The matter was dismissed by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts after the prosecutor was unable to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Saturday October 28, 2017
Chinese firm buys out company Transport minister summons building new airport terminal JUTC chairman over OCG probe
H A M I L T O N , Bermuda - CMC — Aecon, the Canadian construction company building Bermuda's controversial new airport terminal, is to be sold to a Chinese firm, but officials said it would be “business as usual” with the redevelopment project. CCCC International Holding (CCCCI), a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Co, will buy Aecon for US$1.5 billion, or US$20.37 per share, in an all-cash deal, it was announced here on Thursday. Aecon is the prime contractor on the airport project, under a 30-year public-private partnership (PPP) involving the Bermuda government and the Canadian Commercial Corporation. Aecon said in August that it had hired advisers to help it find a buyer. The sale announcement comes in the wake of Transport Minister Walter Roban saying earlier in the week that the airport deal is under review by an international firm of consultants. The review was ordered by the new Progressive Labour Party (PLP) government and is being carried out by the Bermuda Airport Authority and USbased global consultants
LeighFisher. The PPP agreement to build the new airport terminal, signed by the former One Bermuda Alliance (OBA) administration with the Canadian Commercial Corporation and its contractor, Aecon, came under fire from the PLP while in opposition. But former premier Michael Dunkley said earlier this week that the OBA plan was “the best deal for Bermuda” and accused the PLP of resorting to “Trumplike” misinformation. Work on the US$302 million terminal began in April and is due to be completed by 2020. Roban said the assessment of the agreement started just after the PLP came to power after it thrashed the OBA in July's general election, with LeighFisher contracted four to six weeks ago. He could not provide a figure for the potential cost of scrapping the deal, saying that would be “hypothetical” until the review was finished. Steve Nackan, president of Aecon and chairman of Skyport, t h e c o m p a n y overseeing operations at L.F. Wade International Airport, said nothing would change in its Bermuda work after the Chinese takeover.
“We wish to confirm our steadfast commitment to Bermuda and the airport redevelopment project. It is business as usual at Aecon and on the Bermuda airport terminal construction project. “This agreement will create value for our shareholders and enhance Aecon's capabilities and growth potential, something that we're very excited about. By joining the third largest construction company in the world, Aecon and Skyport will ultimately benefit from enhanced capabilities and financial resources. However, Aecon will remain a Canadian company,” he said. Nackan said that the sale will have no impact on the day-to-day of the construction of the new airport terminal or Skyport. “ T h e A e c o n management team and friendly Bermudian Skyport employees will remain in place and the new airport will be completed on-time and on-budget with the guarantee of the Canadian Commercial Corporation. We l o o k f o r w a r d t o delivering a state-of-the-art terminal in 2020.” CCCCI president Lu Jianzhong said this is an excellent fit for both of companies. “Aecon has a strong management team and a very impressive track record that have made it a leading construction company in Canada and a pioneer in p u b l i c - p r i v a t e partnerships and concession operations. “It will now gain access to significant capital, c o m p l e m e n t a r y infrastructure expertise and an international network to support its growth ambitions,” he added.
Venezuela state oil company announces US$842-m bond payment CARACAS, Venezuela (AFP) — Venezuela's state oil company PDVSA said yesterday it had begun paying US$842 million in partial repayment of a debt bond maturing in 2020. "PDVSA reports that b a n k t r a n s f e r s corresponding to the principal payment of the PDVSA 2020 bond have
already been initiated for a total amount of US$841.88 million to the accounts of the JP Morgan bank," the oil company said in a statement. A default for PDVSA would have been disastrous at a time when access to credit has already been severely curtailed, according to Bloomberg, with refineries running at less
than half of their capacity and oil output at less than two million barrels a day. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, whose country is in the throes of a deep recession and hyperinflation, has insisted that his government will continue to honour its international obligations even as imports shrivel.
Jamaica Urban Transit Company Managing Director Paul Abrahams (left) and Transport Minister Mike Henry at a news conference earlier this month. (Photo: JIS) K I N G S T O N , Jamaica— Transport and Mining Minister, Lester 'Mike' Henry, has summoned the Chairman and Managing Director of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company, Paul Abrahams, to an emergency meeting over the weekend. According to a release from the ministry, Henry, who is off the Island attending an International Transport Conference in Miami, said he has called the meeting in order to be properly briefed on the
recent contractual issues engulfing the bus company. Henry, who will return to the island this evening, said he also welcomes the probe of the Contractor General at the JUTC, because he is a firm believer in transparency and fair play. He says the operations of the JUTC must be above board and be able to withstand the glare of public scrutiny. The State-run bus company on Wednesday denied claims by the Opposition People's National
Party (PNP) that it had issued a contract to a local security firm in breach of public procurement rules. Read: JUTC, PNP joust over security contract According to Abrahams, the claim by the PNP was “pure mischief”. He said a release from the Opposition spokesman on transport and works Mikael Phillips on Wednesday was misleading, and that the JUTC would clarify the matter. (Jamaica Observer)
EU wants new paradigm regarding its investments in CARIFORUM
Barbados' Minister of Industry, International Business and Commerce Donville Inniss (left) speaking with EU Ambassador to CARICOM/CARIFORUM Daniela Tramacere BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - CMC – The European Union says while it is moving to reform its relationship with the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) countries it is also necessary for there to be a new paradigm regarding its investments at the regional level. The Barbados-based EU Ambassador to CARIFORUM, Daniela Tramacere, said it was important now for the investments at the regional level resonate at the national level. “Indeed, national ownership is the single most important ingredient in regional integration. To reword an old maxim, in this new world paradigm you
need to strategize globally, think regionally, and act locally. Be assured that in this new normal the EU will always stand with you,” she told delegates attending a workshop dedicated to the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) and Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) Standby Facilities financed by the EU under the Caribbean Regional Programme. The two-day workshop ended yesterday. The EU diplomat noted that an independent appraisal of the CSME commissioned by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) governments a few years ago
confirmed that the limited administrative capacity at the national level was a hindrance to capitalising on the benefits of the CSME that allows for the free movement of goods, skills, labour and services across the 15member regional grouping. The CSME is regarded by regional governments as the Caribbean's response to a changing global environment characterised by the loss of preferential treatment for the goods and services on the international market and Tramacere said the outcome of the appraisal was the establishment of the CSME Standby Facility dedicated to interventions at the national level; with a complementary facility being established for the Economic Partnership Agreement. “This approach recognises that whereas the European Union (EU) and CARIFORUM/CARICOM are committed to the implementation of the CSME and EPA, we both acknowledge that final responsibility for implementation, ownership, and sustainability must lie with the CARIFORUM member states.
Saturday October 28, 2017
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Kaieteur News
Saturday October 28, 2017
First ever Caribbean net zero energy building opened KINGSTON, Jamaica CMC – The Caribbean's first net zero energy building was officially opened here at the Mona campus of the University of the West Indies' (UWI) with officials hoping it will
demonstrate emerging and best practices as it relates to energy efficiency, renewable energy and environmental design. The 2,300-square-foot structure is designed as a
model to encourage construction of sustainable and energy-efficient buildings throughout the region. The building will house the Centre for Advanced Research in Renewable Energy (CARRE),
the first such centre in the Caribbean, promoting research in photovoltaic (solar), wind and biomass energy. A net zero building is one where the total amount of energy used by the building on
an annual basis is roughly equal to the amount of renewable energy created on the site. The long-term benefits are lower environmental impact and operating and maintenance costs, better resiliency to power outages and natural disasters, and improved energy security. Science, Energy and Technology Minister, Dr. Andrew Wheatley, said now that the prototype building is complete and ready for use, Jamaica is looking forward to the results, in order to make the case for more energy-efficient building designs and greater use of renewable resources. “I welcome this initiative and congratulate all those who have been involved with the project. We want, now, to see more of this happening in both the public and private sectors,” he said, noting that the adaptation and implementation of net zero energy buildings will go a far way in reducing the country's carbon footprint by ensuring future utility cost savings and improved day lighting with less glare. “The net zero energy building becomes more significant to us when we take account of the fact that buildings account for over a third of the world's energy use and
associated greenhouse gas emissions,” Wheatley said. It is estimated that more than half of the electricity produced is consumed by buildings, with 10 to 20 per cent of total life-cycle use going into manufacture and assembly of building material, construction, maintenance, refurbishing and demolition. Eighty to 90 per cent of energy consumed over the life of the building is for heating, cooling, lighting and ventilation. “In tropical and subtropical regions, the main demands are generated by air conditioning, lighting, water heating and appliances. It is, therefore, important for us to focus a lot more on making our buildings more efficient, so that they are easier and cheaper to heat, cool, light and ventilate,” Wheatley said. Professor Tara Dasgupta, the principal Investigator, Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Promoting Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Building in Jamaica (LGGE) project, said that the building will save approximately 50,000 kilowatts of energy, which translates to a reduction in carbon dioxide emission of 34.5 metric tonnes per year.
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Kaieteur News
Bottas fastest in first Mexican GP practice MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Finland’s Valtteri Bottas kept team mate and title favourite Lewis Hamilton off the top of the first-practice timesheets yesterday as champions Mercedes made a quick start to the Mexican Grand Prix weekend. Bottas was 0.466 quicker than Hamilton, who is on the brink of securing his fourth title, and put in a hefty 42 laps during the opening session with a circuit record time of one minute 17.824 seconds. Hamilton’s 2016 pole time was 1:18.704. The Red Bulls of Max Verstappen and Daniel
Ricciardo were third and fourth with Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel 0.762 off the pace in fifth. Red Bull and Ferrari were using slower supersoft tires than Mercedes’ ultrasofts, however, and should close the gap significantly in the afternoon. “I expect this weekend to be more fun than it has in the past,” Hamilton had said on Thursday, with the 2017 generation cars significantly quicker on fatter tires and changed aerodynamics to last year’s on a low-downforce layout. “I think Ferrari will be quick here. Their car should bode well here. I‘m hoping we have a great battle,” added the
Briton. Hamilton is 66 points clear of Vettel and needs only to finish fifth on Sunday to become Britain’s first four times champion, even if Vettel wins at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. The Briton won at the high-altitude circuit last season and is the 1/500 odds on favorite to take the title with two races to spare. Sergio Perez was seventh fastest for Force India, with regular team mate Esteban Ocon sitting out the session to make way for Mexican Adolfo Celis Jr. to give the home crowd two drivers on
Saturday October 28, 2017 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Be sure to organize events that will keep the children busy. Help children with important projects. You have two choices; Get out on your own, or bend to your mate's whims. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Get busy putting your place in order. You will be relentless when it comes to getting yourself back into shape. Travel could turn out to be more exciting than you imagined. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Changes in your domestic situation will prove to be favorable in the long run. Your intellectual charm will entice new love interests. Difficulties with females you live with could cause emotional stress. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Do some research if you want to find information that you can apply against the opposition you face. If they don't want to get involved, work by yourself. You'd be wise to control your spending so your debts don't get out of hand. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Compromise if you have to, to avoid verbal battles. You should be able to get a lot done. Be careful not to confuse issues when discussing the matters at hand. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You need an outlet that will not only stimulate you but also challenge your intelligence as well. You must make them stand on their own two feet regardless of how much
you want to make things better for them. You will get along well in social situations. LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Heart to heart talks will clear up vague issues. If you act with anger you may blow the relationship. You can make money through real estate or by using your head when it comes to personal investments. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Direct your energy wisely. Be prepared to neutralize any threats. Don't be too shy to promote your own interests. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Control your anger. You must lay down ground rules so that you can complete a job. Make sure that new mates live up to your high standards. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Don't be angry, but be on your guard. If they don't want to get involved, work by yourself. You may need a physical outlet that will help you relieve your tension. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Sudden changes regarding friendships are likely to occur if you have tried to change others. Not the best day for business trips. A quiet restful day just staying in bed or catching up on reading will be your best bet. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Don't let the moods of those you live with get you down. Delve into worthwhile causes that will show results if you put in the effort. You may find yourself in an uncomfortable situation if you have overloaded your plate unintentionally.
track. Ocon will not have enjoyed being a spectator as Celis put the Frenchman’s car backwards into the barriers at turn 16 and halted the session. New Zealander Brendon Hartley, preparing for his second race with Toro Rosso, managed only 10 laps with mechanics working on the car after he stopped on track. There were also more problems for McLaren, with Belgian Stoffel Vandoorne sidelined completely as the team changed his car’s power unit to a spare. He already has a 35-place grid penalty.
Valtteri Bottas
Anthony Joshua v Carlos Takam: Briton... (From page 31) former methods of satisfying Joshua’s appetite and invested in an in-house chef to cook for him at the humble flat he resides in during his training camp in Sheffield. Bookmakers have no concerns for the Briton, who is quoted as short as 1/66 for the victory. The result would give many at Wales’ national stadium what they hope to see, as Joshua has been impeccably received during fight week in a city where his promoter feels more fights may lie ahead because of the ability to close the stadium roof, as will be the case on Saturday. “We have the option here of a winter stadium, which could be very important in the career of Anthony Joshua,” said Eddie Hearn, who says the bout will be televised in over 150 countries. “I am astonished at the incredible numbers. He reaches out to every kind of genre, kids, women, middleaged guys. He has time for all of them.” Calzaghe, who last fought at the stadium in 2007, said: “With the roof on, it really keeps the noise and atmosphere in. Trust me, when you’re in that ring you are not looking at the crowd but you can feel the atmosphere through your body.” ‘This will change my life’
RHTYSC/Busta... (From page 26) been sponsoring the Tournament since 2004 but the 2017 Edition is the first to be played using the Softball format. The Winning Team would take home $150,000 and the Busta Cup, the 1st Runner-up $75,000 and trophy, 2nd Runner-up $50,000 and trophy, while the Man of the Finals would also receive a prize. Lucky Patrons attending the Finals would also receive special prizes.
- who is Takam? Hearn has stated he hopes Joshua is not having his career-defining fights too early in his career. But toppling Takam would allow Hearn the chance to execute a three-fight plan he has for Joshua in 2018 which would incorporate a first bout overseas, as well as shots at WBC champion Deontay Wilder and WBO king Joseph Parker. Takam has 35 wins and a draw from 39 fights and took Parker 12 rounds before losing on points in 2016, so Saturday’s meeting may give some insight into how a
Joshua-Parker match would go down. The fighter, who went to the 2004 Olympics, was paid by Hearn to be on standby and stresses he is fit despite the short notice. And he will need to be conditioned as his style in previous fights is to demonstrate work ethic in order to wear an opponent down at close range, a stark contrast to Pulev’s patience and desire to box at distance. “I am ready and going to give it all,” said Takam. “This will change my life of course. Just in boxing, not the person I am.”
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Kaieteur News
Saturday October 28, 2017
Esau grabs six as Independence A beat MMZ B by seven wickets
Reaz Esau Reaz Esau grabbed six wickets to propel Independence A to a sevenwicket victory over MetenMeer-Zorg when the West Demerara Cricket Association T20 tournament continued on Sunday last. MMZ B batted first and were sent packing for 68 in 15 overs at Wales. Sheldon Alexander made 19 and Vinod Rajkumar 14; Esau bagged 6-9 and Jason Hector 2-10. Independence A replied with 72-3 in 15 overs. Anand Bharat made 35 and Mahendra Dhanpaul 20. Looknauth Chinkoo took 3-9. At Bell Vue, MetenMeer-Zorg (MMZ) batted first and scored 177-8 with Reynolds Adams scoring 42 and Zaheer Haniff 41; Imran
Travis Persaud
Malcolm Hubbard
Khan had 2-11 and Krishna Adhin 2-14. Sawpit CC responded with 162-9. Zaheer Khan scored 54 and Avinash Rameshwar 41. Vishaul Jaogobin claimed 411 and Arshad Ali 2-14. At Cornelia Ida, the host batted first and managed 144-7. Reaz Khan got 52 not out and Richie Looknauth 22; Premchan Singh had 315 and Dyal Rajpat 2-31. Bell Vue were bowled out for 121 in 19 overs. Dyal Rajpat made 28; Looknauth captured 3-11 and Ashraf Ali 3-14. West Demerara Police took first strike and were bowled out for 111 in 19 overs. Odonnel Hill struck 55 as Keshram Seyhodan picked up 4-33 and Sham Persaud 316. Cultural responded with
112-7 in 17 overs. Tejpaul Persaud made 40 not out and Seyhodan 29; Deron Archer had 3-10. At Joe Vieira Park, All Youths batted first and scored 135-7. Jagdesh Persaud made 38 not out and Randy Ramroop 23. Amrit Rai had 3-10 and Mark Jeffers 2-28. Zeeburg B replied with 136. Malcolm Hubbard stroked 72 and Renaldo Renee 26; Anthony Carrington had 2-28. Mc Gill took first turn at the crease and got to 171-6. Travis Persaud slammed 54, Sudesh Persaud 27 and Shafiek Deen 22; Thakur Persaud had 2-21 and Hemchand Persaud 2-26. Independence B responded with 156-7. Clevon Williamson made 55 and Roy Benjamin 42.
RHTYSC/Busta Champion of Champions Softball Semis, Finals scheduled for tomorrow The Area ‘H’ Ground in Guyana’s smallest township, Rose Hall Town would be a buzz of activities with the Finals of the 2017 Busta Champion of Champions S o f t b a l l To u r n a m e n t tomorrow. The Tournament is organised by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, Cricket Development Committee as part of its highly successful Say No/Say Yes Campaign which targets 60,000 youths in the ancient county of Berbice. Under the campaign, youths are advised to Say No to Drugs, Crime, Suicide, Alcohol and Yes to Education, Life, Religion and Sports. The day’s event would get cracking with a Female match at 09.30 hours between Rose Hall Town Metro and the Trophy Stall Female Team. The Rose Hall Te a m w o u l d i n c l u d e Shemaine Campbelle, Erva Giddings, Shanetta
Grimmond, Shabita Gajnabi, Sherica Campbelle, Uma Matadin and Plaffiana Millington among others. The game would be a ten Overs affair. The first Semi-final would feature Grill Masters of Fort Ordinance, Canje, playing Terry Grocery XI of Rose Hall Town. Grill Master, one of the tournament’s favourite would be spearheaded by skipper Roy Jaferally, Keon Sinclair, the hard hitting Vishal Phillips, all-rounder Keith Fraser and the dependence former national junior cricketer Balram Samaroo. Terry Grocery XI would be led by the experienced Michael Hicks, a former Berbice Under-15 and Under-19 player. He would be supported by Khemraj Mahadeo and Delbert Hicks (both former national junior cricketers), Jamal Jarvis, Devindra Prittipal and Neil Pike.
The second Semi-final would be played between Spartan of Cumberland, Canje, and the Hard Knock Team of Ulverston. Veteran Softball player David Lucknauth would lead Spartan and would be backed up by Krishan and Ryan S ubhai, S unil Madrmutoo, Ramnarine Jugisteer and Kishan Gangaram. Hard Knock, the best fielding team in the competition would be led by skipper Nicholas Chase and would include players like P a u l Ty n d a l l , E l d e e n Mendonza, Michael Tyndall, Sheide Cameron and Adrian Velloza. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster hailed the outstanding work of the Cricket Development Committee and expressed confidence that the Finals would be a success. The Guyana Beverage Company under the Busta Brand has (Continued on page 25)
Kaieteur News
Saturday October 28, 2017
GFF successfully concludes FIFA grassroots programme in Region two The Guyana Football Federation (GFF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Thursday concluded an annual Federation of International Football ( F I FA ) G r a s s r o o t Programme in Region 2 Essequibo that educated participants on how to introduce six to 12 - year olds to the game of football. This programme, which began from the 23rd October and was conducted by FIFA Instructor, Lenny Lake, consisted of three days of training for participants and ended Thursday morning with a festival for the children at the Cotton Field Ground. T w e n t y - f i v e participants, inclusive of teachers, coaches, parents and volunteers were trained through theoretical and practical means. Theoretical training occurred at the Oasis Hotel Conference Hall in Queenstown Essequibo, while the practical training was at the Anna Regina playfield. Participants utilized their training Thursday from 9:00hrs to 12:00hrs at the children’s festival in the form of
drilling exercises such as shooting, passing and defending. Children from the Ta y m o u t h M a n o r, Queenstown and Anna Regina Primary schools took part in the festival and received tokens from Lenny Lake upon its completion. Present throughout the programme were GFF Coaches Education and Development Officer, Lyndon France, GFF Technical Director, Ian Greenwood, GFF School’s Development Officer, Ceon Bristol, GFF Executive Member, Keith Ojeer and Lenny Lake. In an invited comment, Greenwood stated: “The technical department has a directive to upscale and develop coaches across the country to equip Guyana with licensed coaches and we have to be visible in the outlying areas. This FIFA Grassroots Coach Education Course will develop coaches to understand age specific methodology and delivery, they were also provided with material such as textbooks, DVDs, and booklets. They will have bibs, cones and
Mass gathering of students for the festival.
balls at the end of the course to ensure they can do this. The Essequibo and Pomeroon Football Association Executive will be tasked on completion of the course to ensure that the candidates remain in the game after the four days.” In brief remarks, France said: “It’s wonderful that the Federation could team up with the Ministry of Education, in that in the school system of Guyana there’s always over two hundred thousand persons to be accessed and the children spend a lot of time in schools and with their teachers. In addition, by using teachers we are tapping into a resource that has people who have already been trained to understand child and children development, the way they socialize and their psychology. So it’s great that the Federation can work with teachers on such a project.”
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2017 FIFA Grassroots coaches, teachers and volunteers take time out for a photo.
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Saturday October 28, 2017
CWI/ Digicel Regional 4-Day C/Ships
Permaul’s 6-29 takes him to 400 First Class wickets Jaguars in the ascendency as 16 wickets tumble on day two Assad Fudadin is tight in defence during his top score for Jamaica yesterday. (Sean Devers photo)
By Sean Devers On a day in which 16 wickets tumbled, 28-yearold left arm spinner Ve e r a s a m m y P e r m a u l reached 400 First-Class wickets to give the Guyana Jaguars the ascendency over the Jamaica Scorpions h e a d i n g i n t o t o d a y ’s penultimate day of their opening round CWI/ Digicel Regional 4-Day C/Ships at Providence yesterday. Jaguars resumed on their overnight score of 258-8 and were bowled out for 266 in 28 minutes as Permaul (3)
and Motie (0) were removed by Green leaving Shepherd unbeaten on 22. Green finished with 463, Dmitri Sewell 3-69 and Denis Bulli 2-31 did the damage with the ball for the Scorpions. The Scorpions were then devoured for 99 in reply with only Guyanese Assad Fudadin who made 39 from 84 and 99 minutes with three fours and two sixes and shared in a 57-run stand with Paul Palmar whose 31 included five fours and came from 74 minutes and 62 balls.
Rajendra Chandrika bats against Derval Green at Providence yesterday. (Sean Devers photo)
Permaul bagged his 22nd five-wicket haul, claiming 629 which took him to 400 First-Class wickets, while Kemo Paul supported with 2-20. The Jaguars, enjoying a lead of 167, opted not to enforce the follow-on and reached 106-4 in their second innings by the close of a day in which 16 wickets tumbled on a good track with some turn for the spinners, enjoying an overall lead of 273 with six wickets in hands and two days of play remaining. Rajendra Chandrika who
hit five fours and a six in his 41-ball 35 and Tagenarine Chanderpaul whose 33 lasted 74 balls and included three fours put together 53 for the first wicket, but both got out when well set for big scores as Bulli has so far taken 2-33.The Jaguars have not lost any of their last six games to the Jamaican Franchise, and began their second innings much more positively than they did in their first inning and Chandrika, who dumped Sewell for six, and his partner reached the boundary eight times between them. Chandrika was caught behind by Bulli who broke the half-century stand before Chanderpaul was LBW to Allen at 85-2, while Chanderpaul Hemraj, who made 60 in the first innings, was bowled by Sewell for 17, three runs later.
N i g h t Wa t c h m a n Gudakesh Motie (9) hit a couple of fours before he edged to the Keeper just before the close off Bulli, who provided several loose delivers yesterday. Bhaskar Yadram joined Skipper Leon Johnson (11) at 106-4 and together survived to the close. Earlier, the Scorpions began their reply in horrendous fashion when debutant Garth Morris was LBW to Shepherd for a first ball duck with the score on one. Trevon Griffith (5) seemed a bit unfortunate to be judged LBW to Paul before Fudadin was dropped by Bramble off Shepherd on two at 7-2. Brandon King (10) joined Fudadin and stroked Paul for a couple of boundaries before he drove Paul to cover at 19-3 before Fudadin and Skipper Palmer
consolidated the position with a valuable partnership which carried their team to 37-3 at Lunch. After Lunch Palmer stroked Sherfane Rutherford majestically down the ground for four while he back cut Permaul to the boundary before he pushed forward next, while Fudadin hooked Shepherd twice for boundaries, of which one was a six. But after Palmer was caught off Permaul at 76-4 and Fudadin missed a sweep at Permaul and was LBW, a decision which could have g o n e e i t h e r w a y, t h e Scorpions had lost their sting and were on the ropes at 855. None of their last six batsmen, including Romaine Morris, who like Garvey, got a first ball duck on debut, reached double figures as Permaul spun webs around the batsman.
Stage set for Banks DIH/ Citizens Bank Golf today The stage is set for the B a n k s D I H Limited/Citizens Bank Inc. Stableford Golf tournament billed for today at the Lusignan Golf Club, East Coast Demerara. Close to 60 golfers including overseas representatives have registered to compete in the tournament which serves as a warm up the Annual Guyana Open tour. Tee of is at 12:30 hours. United States player Mo Shafi is already in Guyana,
while a few other overseas players were expected in the country last night and will be in action. Local players registered included Banks DIH and Citizens Bank Chairman Clifford Reis, defending G u y a n a O p e n m e n ’s champion Avinash Persaud, Ladies champion Joaan Deo, Christine Sukhram, Avinda Kishore, Mark Lashley, Gavin Todd, Brian Hackett, Hilbert Shields, William Walker, Patrick Prashad, Troy Codogan, Richard
Haniff, Mike Mangal, Lloyd Fung-a-Fat, Maurice Solomon, Robert Hanoman and Munaf Arjune. Representatives from both companies will be on hand to witness the tee off and assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion. Prizes will be awarded to the top three players with the Best Gross scores as well as Nearest to the Pin. This is the third time that the two companies have jointly sponsored a golf tournament.
Kaieteur News
Saturday October 28, 2017
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Turbo Knockout football tournament
Pouderoyen and Kuru Kururu Warriors are latest winners The Petra/Turbo Knockout football tournament continued on Thursday evening at the Ministry of Education (MOE) on Carifesta Avenue with two more sizzling contests under lights. The feature match of the double header began at 21:00hrs and it was worth the wait as the battle produced seven goals in which Pouderoyen edged Riddim Squad 4-3 after extra time. Rolex Smith scored first for the losers in the 25th minute of the see-saw encounter, a lead which they maintained until the second half. The game was equalized by Pouderoyen’s Esan Nelson in the 47th minute before Teon Nelson fired the losers ahead for the last time in the match. East Bank based Pouderoyen, team’s height, coupled with the factor of
running with the breeze, added to their success in the match up, as they move one step closer to the first prize of $500,000. The East Bank club then played to their strengths and their Marvin duo fired them ahead in by the 67th minute. First, Marvin Griffith in the 62nd, then Marvin Frank in the 69th and as the Riddim Squad fans were emptying the ground, expressing their disgust in the poor performance of the team who surrendered their initial lead. Darrel Stuart fired in a later penalty for them, four minutes into injury time to take the game to extra time. Eight minutes into extra time, Riddim Squad’s keeper, Quasy Alleyne conceded an own goal, which was enough to see Pouderoyen hold on for the win. Th e f i r s t k n o ck o u t
Some of the action in the Pouderoyen vs. Riddim squad clash on Thursday evening.
contest that got underway at 18:30hrs was a straight forward 2-0 win for Kuru Kururu Warriors against Uitvlugt.
Warriors scored both their goals during the first half then shut down all attacks by a desperate looking East Bank based
Uitvlugt unit. On the score sheet for the victors was Cordel Johnson in the 7th minute along with Omarion Savoury in the 17th
minute. Matches continue on Wednesday Nov 1st at the same venue with another double header.
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Saturday October 28, 2017
2017 COURTS Pee Wee GTT Pinktober 10K Winner represents Guyana at South Quarter-final matches American 10K in Suriname on today at Thirst Park
Rickie Williams
Even more good things h a v e e m e rg e d f r o m GTT’s just concluded Pinktober 5K/10K run/walk with the selection of the 10K winner, Rickie Williams to represent Guyana at the South American 10k being held in Suriname today, October 28. In the month leading up to the GTT Pinktober run, 17-year-old Rickie, who hails from Waramuri, Moruca, Region 1, took advantage of the free training offered by GTT and local coach Leslie Black to prepare for the event.
Coach Black credits Rickie’s recent Pinktober training for the win and his ability to, for the first time, participate in a 10K race at an international level. Rickie has been actively competing in the athletics arena for the past two years, and is the current Junior 5000 and 10000 meters champion for Guyana. In August he won the 5000 meters at the InterGuiana Games held in Suriname. GTT extends best wishes to Rickie in his quest to bring home the first place medal.
The Courts Pee Wee football tournament resumes today with quarter-final action at the Banks DIH, Thirst Park ground. Before the quarter-finals, there will be four matches that will see round of 16 losers battling it out for the 9th to 16th places. The quarter-finals kick off at 12:30hrs with School of the Nations locking horns with Enterprise primary with the clash of the day being played simultaneously as Sophia primary clashes with Redeemer. Sophia look the strongest team in the competition and were tipped
Angela’s that had played two years without losing a game. Other key matches include West Ruimveldt taking on former champions Stella Maris that pulled off a fantastic come from behind victory against South Ruimveldt, led by a double from star man Fedel Norville. This game will kick off at 13:15hrs. The biggest game of the day will be contested an almost evenly matched St Agnes, 2016 finalist against the tournaments inaugural winners, Marian academy at 13:15hrs. See full fixtures below.
Fedel Norville for glory after defeating defending champions St.
Archery Guyana meets with Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton
Archery Guyana’s Chair, Mr. Nicholas Hing handing over the National Development Plan to Minister Dr. George Norton. Looking on are Directors Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, Mr. Steve Ninvalle and Mr. Ryan McKinnon. On Wednesday last, Directors of Archery Guyana paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton at the Ministry’s headquarters on Main Street.
During the visit they discussed with the Honourable Minister Norton their plans for the future and gave an update as to the progress of Archery Guyana thus far.
A proposed Junior Archery Programme, Schools Programme and Para-Archery Programme was discussed. Plans are also being made to pursue more
Outreach programmes. Early in the New Year, Archery Guyana will be hosting an International Olympic Coach in Guyana for 10 days to conduct a coaching clinic.
Persons interested in becoming involved in the sport are urged to do so before so they can learn and be able to benefit from the said Coaching. The Minister expressed
his commitment to working with Archery Guyana and that he looks forward to working with Archery Guyana in promoting and developing the novel sport in Guyana.
Kaieteur News
Saturday October 28, 2017
PAGE 35
GSCL Inc Prime Minister’s T20 Cup
SCV All stars, Regal Masters and All stars, Speedboat, NY Hustlers, Farm among victors Mangal, Esau, Budhu, Persaud, Karim, Layne, Lall, Singh, Baljit, Hardyal outstanding
Safraz Karim By Zaheer Mohamed Several local and overseas teams made their intentions known from as early as the opening round when the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc Prime Minister’s T20 Cup got off to a rousing start yesterday at several venues in the city. In the All stars category, SCV All stars beat Farm by four wickets at Everest. Farm took first turn in the middle and managed 152-9. Ovid Seymour got 32; B. Beharry, R. Prahalad, M. Azeez and N. Boodhoo took
Safraz Esau
Sewchand Budhu
two wickets each. SVC All stars responded with 154-6 in 15.5 overs. Mohamed Karim struck 47; L. Alphonso took three wickets. Regal All stars overcame Spartans by three wickets. Spartans took first strike and managed 153 all out. Delroy Hicks made 51, P. Persaud 27 and K. Gobin 21; Safraz Esau, Fazal Rafiek and Sewchand Budhu took two wickets each. Regal All stars replied with 155-7. Richard Latif made 31 and Sachin Singh 20; K. Gangaram had three wickets and Clinton Pestano two.
Ralph Layne
Regal All stars trounced Dutch 4 Warriors by 208 runs. Regal All stars rattled up 270 all out taking first strike. Safraz Esau slammed 122 and Ameer Nizamudeen 31; Stephan Monize claimed 3-50. Dutch 4 Warriors were sent packing for 62 in 11.5 overs in reply. Sewchand Budhu bagged 5-16 and Esau 3-14. Hillfoot defeated Dutch 4 Warriors by 103 runs. Hillfoot batted first and posted 211-7. Mithum Narine 49, Nairne Looknauth 30, Avinash M o h a b i r 2 9 , Vi c k y
Laurie Singh
R a g h u b e e r 2 8 a n d V. Looknauth 23 not out were the principal scorers as T. Alli claimed 3-36. Dutch 4 Warriors were sent packing for 108 in 11 overs in reply. Asif Samad made 42 as Shawn Lall grabbed 5-19. Speedboat beat Success by ten wickets. Success batted first and made 73 all out in 14.4 overs. I. Ivan snared 4-11, Wazir Hussain 3-16 and Shazim Hussain 25. Speedboat responded with 74 with out lost in eight overs. Shazim Hussain made 30 and Anand Bharat 26. Spartans XI overcame Speedboat XI by two runs.
Anthony Joshua v Carlos Takam: Briton weighs in at heaviest ever 18st 2lbs
Joshua (left) weighed in at four pounds heavier than for his previous fight against Wladimir Klitschko. BBC Sport - WBA and IBF world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua said he will fight “like a challenger” as he weighed in heavier than ever ahead of facing Carlos Takam in Cardiff today. The Principality Stadium will host the
biggest-ever crowd for an indoor boxing show, with over 70,000 fans expected at what organisers say is the fastest-selling event in the stadium’s history. Joshua tipped the scales at 18st 2lbs at the weigh-in on Friday - the heaviest he has ever been for a fight -
with Takam at 16st 11bs. The Briton says he is hungrier for this bout than when he stopped Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley in April, despite the fact that Cameroon-born 36-year-old Takam replaced the injured Kubrat Pulev just 12 days before the bout
“I know what it’s like to be a challenger,” said Joshua, 28. “Believe it or not I still have the mindset of a challenger. I don’t walk around with an ego just because I have a few belts on my shoulder. “I know he has that mindset to find a way to win. If you keep on knocking on the door you find a way through. I just have to boot him out because he isn’t coming through this door. “I’m still developing. I think that’s why people jump at the opportunity. If I trashed talked more I may be more feared. But my job is to break them down in the ring, strip them of confidence, strip them of desire and strip them of winning.” Joshua will earn a reported £10m minimum for facing Takam as he tries to improve on his 19 knockouts from 19 bouts. In the build-up to the fight his team have ditched (Continued on page 25)
Jagdesh Persaud Spartans made 221 and Speedboat replied with 219. At YMCA, SVC All stars beat Boots All stars 67 runs. SVC All stars batted first and got to 244. Safraz Karim slammed 144. Boots XI made 177 all out in reply. At DCC, De Hoop beat Queen’s All stars by five wickets. Queen’s All stars were bowled out for 119, batting first. A. Singh made 40. De Hoop responded with 120-5. R. Samouri made 41 and R. Persaud 32. A. Singh took two wickets. Farm beat De Hoop by seven wickets. De Hoop made 98 all out in 14 overs. S. Nicholas made 22; Ralph Layne grabbed 7-17 and Amir Khan 2-9. Farm replied with 99-3 in 6.2 overs. Sheldon Adams made 29. At Malteenoes SC, Boots All stars thumped Ross XI by 295 runs. Boots All stars batted first and piled up 385-3. B. Mangal slammed 201 and K. Ferrier made 93. Ross XI were limited to 90-9 in reply. Michael Sultan made 44 and J. France took four wickets. At MSC in the Masters category, Regal Masters beat HS Masters by seven wickets. Batting first, HS Masters scored 170-6 with Jagdesh Persaud scoring 51, Mohamed Rafeek 40 and M. Bobb 23; C. Motilall claimed 3-23 and S. Singh 2-49. Regal Masters responded with 175-3 in 19.5 overs. Mahendra Hardyal struck 61, Mahase Chunilall 37, Mohendra Arjune 33 and David Harper 23. Rudy Myers had two wickets. Regal Masters beat Enterprise Masters by eight wickets. Enterprise Masters were restricted for 128-9, taking
B. Mangal first strike. Latchman Yadram made 48 not out and Seemangal Yadram 46. Laurie Singh bagged 5-13. Regal Masters replied with 129-2 in eight overs. Eon Abel made 48 and Mahase Chunilall 32. At DCC, Amazon Masters beat Enterprise Masters by five wickets. Enterprise Masters took first strike and made 173-8. Latchman Yadram scored 38, V. Gobin 25 and Seemangal Yadram 21. Amazon Masters responded with 175-5 in 18 overs. F. Bacchus got 41 and S. Singh 35; N. Seebarran had two wickets. Tropical Springs defeated Narine’s Masters by 134. Tropical Springs took first knock and posted 278-4. V. Baljit struck 161, D. Sankar 54 and Hackim Majeed 41. Narine’s Masters were bowled out for 144 in reply. H. Dhanraj made 21; R. Khan took three wickets. At GNIC SC, New York Hustlers overcame Tropical Springs by one run. NY Hustlers batted first and posted 201-7 with Shameer Sadloo scoring 56 and Troy Gobin 44. Tropical Springs responded with 200-8. Hackim Majeed made 56 and D. Sankar 54; Wallack Joseph had 3-26 and Gobin 2-41. HS Masters defeated NY Hustlers by 79 runs. HS Masters scored 238-6, batting first. Jagdesh Persaud slammed 89, Rudy Myers 39 and Mohamed Rafeek 25; E. Dodson had 354. NY Hustlers replied with 159-9 with Dodson scoring 35 and C. Richmond 31; M. Ifill captured 4-17 and Persaud 3-31. The competition continues today at venues around the city from 9:30am.
t r o Sp CWI/ Digicel Regional 4-Day C/Ships
Permaul’s Permaul’s 6-29 6-29 takes takes him him to to 400 400 First Class wickets Jaguars in the ascendency as 16 wickets tumble on day two
Veerasammy Permaul leads the Jaguars off after taking 6-29 and 400 wickets in First-Class cricket. (Sean Devers photo)
GFF successfully concludes FIFA grassroots programme in Region two
Group photo of students and participants. 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