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Kaieteur News

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

EDITORIAL

The police are developing skills There is a lot wrong in Guyana but there is also a lot going right. In recent weeks the society cried out that there was a spike in criminal activity. And indeed there was a rise in some areas of crime. For example, most of the murders were of the disorderly type with people killing because of some dispute. There were also some executions and these caused some worry, and still do. In the not too distant past, the expectation was that once there was a significant drug bust people would be killed. The killing would occur because someone took money and could not deliver, or because someone was accused of squealing to the authorities. But more recently, we have come to realize that the killers are very young men, barely out of school. They have established gangs and while the killings may not be gang related they certainly reflect that young men are prepared to take on anyone who is not among their associates. At present, there are some killings; families are pitted against each other. There are threats of one family exterminating the other to the extent that some people have moved out of their homes to take up lodging elsewhere. Given that the gun is the weapon of choice, and given that there is a large number of guns in the hands of people who are not licensed to carry them, the Minister with responsibility for Public Security has started a gun amnesty. To date this amnesty has barely got off the ground. The illegal guns are not being turned in. There are penalties for possession of illegal guns and ammunition but it would seem as if these mean nothing. Just about every young criminal has a gun and he is not scared to use it. But as is noted, there is a lot going right. The police are solving crimes, some of which were all but cold cases. This augurs well. Almost two decades ago, when he was asked about the crime situation, former President Desmond Hoyte said that criminals are bold because they are not being caught. And he is right. The deterrent to crime is catching the criminals. It has not escaped notice that more recently people who thought that they would have successfully escaped justice, suddenly found themselves in police custody. There was the man who killed a woman five years ago and fled across the borders. He came back home under forced circumstances and was immediately arrested. An alert policeman helped make this happen. Similarly, a man who robbed a court official and eluded the police for weeks suddenly came face to face with a policeman who happened to know him. He died while trying to deny justice. The Guyana Police Force during the past year unveiled a plan that would see the police being actively involved in improved community relations. Agricola was one of the first villages identified for this programme. There are still gunmen in Agricola but they are not raising their heads in that village. The police have seen to that. The police still need the help of the ordinary law abiding citizen. For sure, the law abiding people in Albouystown led to the arrest of some men who ruthlessly killed a man who was said to be equally ruthless when he brandished a gun. This might have been vigilante justice and could have been ignored except for the fact that the suspected killers are teenagers. To let them get away with this is to encourage other young men of similar age and background to kill. With the election of the new government there have been increased training opportunities for the police. It was as if the British were just waiting to become involved in training the police. A mere three months later and the police seem to have developed greater capacity to solve crimes. There is good and bad in equal measures. We expect to see more good in the not too distant future.

Tuesday September 08, 2015

Letters... Where your views make the news

When is a police car chase in Guyana reasonable? DEAR EDITOR, The reported car chase last Friday evening in South Georgetown by the Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG) of three fleeing armed suspects deserves some comments. First, the eventual capture of the suspects, who were reportedly on their way to commit a murder, should be praised as good protective police work. Secondly, if the car chase resembled those popularized in Hollywood movies, then the fact that the police did not shoot any of the suspects at the moment of capture is a demonstration of commendable police restraint. Police, it is well documented, are sometimes prone to use unwarranted or deadly force after hot pursuits, as they fall prey to high adrenaline flows and wild retributive impulses. The restraint therefore is even more remarkable as the police and the suspects exchanged gunfire during the chase, resulting in the injury of one policeman. All well and good. My third comment, however, touches on a significant concern. What are the rules

of engagement in our police force for pursuing escaping suspects, whether by vehicle or by foot, and for using firearms during such pursuits? When is a police vehicle chase in Guyana a reasonable course of action? And when is the discharge of a firearm by police accepted as a necessary and proportionate response in such a chase? The foremost concern here is that police chases could seriously injure or end the lives of bystanders. As regards the rules for police pursuits, I would hope those of the Guyana Police Force mirror the position of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police in its 2007 submission to the US Supreme Court, that “when the immediate danger to the public created by the pursuit is greater than the immediate or potential danger to the public should the suspect remain at large, then the pursuit should be discontinued or terminated”. Furthermore, the submission advised that pursuits “should usually be discontinued when the violator’s identity has been

established to the point that later apprehension can be accomplished without danger to the public”. The policy on pursuits across several other states in the US, as far as I can determine, embraces this overarching position, emphasizing that the police must exercise due care for public safety and must consider in their decision to engage in or terminate a vehicular pursuit such factors as the volume of traffic, location of pursuit (urban or rural), weather conditions, road conditions, and alternate methods of apprehension. The nature of the underlying crime is also considered, with a list of “no c h a s e ” c r i m e s predetermined. In all this, the understanding exists that the hands of the police must not be unnecessarily tied. The sketchy details of the South Georgetown incident notwithstanding, were these standards to be applied in Guyana, the chase was likely unwarranted. The suspects were known to the police, as they were under surveillance weeks prior to the encounter.

Later apprehension could have possibly been accomplished without danger to the public. The generality of this last assumption, I concede, should be tested against local police records and statistics. With regards the discharge of firearms by police in a car chase, the public is put at risk in two ways: through death or injury by wayward gunshots, or through death or injury should the escaping vehicle turn into an out-of-control missile should its driver be shot and killed by the police. The NYPD’s patrol guide seems a good standard for us to follow. It states that “police officers shall not discharge their firearms at or from a moving vehicle unless deadly physical force is being used against the police officer or another person present...” By this standard, our police in the South Georgetown incident can claim to be in their rights to return fire at the fleeing vehicle, as the suspects did open fire on them, injuring one of their members. But do we need to get to (Continued on page 23)

A mystery Roy Beepat should explain DEAR EDITOR, I am responding to the letter of Mr. Roy Beepat, owner of Giftland Mall (“A simple call to me would have given these truths, Mr. Kissoon.” KN Monday, Sep 7, 2015). Mr. Beepat wrote in connection with an earlier column in which I stated that the access road from the Railway Embankment to his mall (a very long road) was built in June of this year by the Government. Mr. Beepat explained that I was incorrect. The Government merely asphalted what his company has built, the road itself. If I concede that point to Mr. Beepat then it gives birth to a mystery that makes it obligatory on Mr. Beepat to unravel. To fully understand how this mystery came about, readers should digest the following words of Mr. Beepat; “When we moved to Turkeyen, this was not even a tract, it was a dam which we had to excavate, discharge the sludge, build shoulders, build drainage, provide concrete walkways, provide street lighting, which is powered not by Government but by the Mall itself. Our Engineer, Mr Marcel Gaskins provided the engineering design for the

sub surface, which comprised international standards of road building specifications using materials and processes which were verified by the Public Works Division and we undertook the works of laying sand, loam, crusher run stones. We had to grade and roll these, add quarry shifting and roll this again after which the Government provided a top coating of asphalt.” (end of quote) Even a primary school kid reading these words of Mr. Beepat would know that it means; that the owner’s company virtually built the road. Here is the mystery. Why would Mr. Beepat spend 26 million US dollars on a mall that includes building an access road and

then ask the Government to cover the road with asphalt. I quote his words again, “…government provided a top coating of asphalt…” Here is where the mystery comes in. The top coat of asphalt was requested by Giftland because Minister David Patterson told me so and I quoted the Minister in my column. after spending 26 million American dollars, how much more did that top coat cost that the company could not have done it themselves? Could not Mr. Beepat afford to cover the cost of the top coat? Wouldn’t that have been the logical thing to do and thus there never would have been a Freddie Kissoon column of “misinformation” on the subject?

Here is a simple hypothetical example that to my mind raises the issue of the mystery. A son spends millions to resuscitate an old car. New engine, new body, new electrical fittings, the works. When the refurnishing job is finished he went to his father to ask for money for a mere windscreen. If the father insulted him he looked for it. One would have thought that pride and dignity would have been involved here, meaning he would have taken his task to its logical climax and claim the glory for himself. But he went and solicited money for a mere windscreen. How do you explain that? Frederick Kissoon

Freddie should withdraw

his baseless assertions

DEAR EDITOR, In his relentless ramblings against pubic figures in his daily columns in the Kaieteur News, Mr Freddie Kissoon sought to impugn the character of the Chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission in your edition dated 24th August 2015. The public can rest assured that this constitutional Commission, in pursuance of

its functions, arrives at its decisions by consensus, unaided by political, ethnic and/or other unlawful considerations. The Commission proposes to do no less in its future endeavours. Your columnist, pathetically in need of human attention ought to be man enough to withdraw and apologise for his baseless assertions to the contrary. P. Kandhi


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

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

Ramjattan exhibits the same HIGH CRIMES AND symptoms as ex-Minister Rohee MISDEMEANORS! The

DEAR EDITOR, It is perhaps harsh to diagnose Minister Ramjattan, after only four months in his position with the same affliction of his predecessorDENIAL. However, Mr. Ramjattan exhibits the same symptoms as ex-Minister Rohee regarding the crime situation. Minister Ramjattan, like Rohee saw, “a dramatic decline in the crime situation” and that the crimes are being solved (Sunday Chronicle, September 7, 2015). In another newspaper, Ramjattan, Roheeesque, blamed the media for exaggerating the crime situation. The police statistics are by no means a reliable way to judge criminal activities. Readers may recall the

numerous kudos to the police force, citing a drop in sexual assaults, drunk driving, speeding and the list goes on and on. Yet, those of us living in the real world know that they are all delusional. The majority of crimes are not reported because citizens have no confidence that justice will prevail. Earlier this year, after an armed robbery at my business place, my staff and I were invited to the police station for an identification parade. Each of us indicated to the police immediately after and in written statements subsequently that none of the suspects committed the crime. Imagine our surprise that we were summoned to give evidence against one of

those persons. With that kind of police work wouldn’t each of the victims of that robbery be justified not to report any other incident to the police? An innocent man held for more than six months is on trial and the police wasted numerous man hours of theirs and my team with the parade and statements and visits to the police station. So, when Minister Ramjattan concludes that there is a “dramatic decline in crime” his head is in the clouds at a dizzying height which will require medical help. He should look and reach below him before he suffers the same fate of Mr. Rohee five years from now. Name withheld

An abuse of power at the GNBS DEAR EDITOR, I wish to point out and unconstitutional and disrespectful act perpetuated by the former Minister of Water and Housing , Mr. Irfaan Ali , to the staff of the GNBS and more over the Nation as a whole. The former Minister of Housing did a lot of injustice before leaving Office and what I’m about tell you might be shocking to some but true. A few days before the PPP/C administration was officially relieved of their duties as the government of Guyana; former Minister Ali’s Personal Assistant Mr. Rajesh Ramgolam was appointed Deputy Director of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards. This move was seen by many as an act of total disrespect and abuse of power since the manner in

which this was done was not only wrong but unconstitutional. The National Standard Act stipulates clearly the manner and protocol to be followed when appointing anyone for such position, in fact, such appointment falls under the sole custody of the National Standard Council and not the Minister. The National standard Council is the legal body for such appointment. While a lot of irregularities loom around the appointment of the former minister’s Personal Assistant to the position as deputy Director of an Organization he knows absolutely nothing about , what is more disturbing is that there were a number of persons within the Bureau who are qualified for the said position and also possesses the level of experience that

the job entails. If we were to examine the requirements based on legality, you would clearly see that it is stated that the vacancy should be published internally before externally, and while none of this was done, it is only fair for the Honorable Minister of State Mr. Joseph Harmon to look into this unconstitutional act and abuse of power. Mr. Ramgolam lacks the knowledge of the job, and appointing him in front of Ms. Bostwick and many others, who would have given the Guyana National Bureau of Standards over a decade of hard work and dedication and is also qualified for the job, is not only a breach of the National Standard Act, but a slap in the faces of the staff of the GNBS. N. Gomes

Parents forced to pay for cleaners at Port Kaituma school DEAR EDITOR, Port Kaituma Teachers Association held its 1st meeting of its school year on September 5th, 2015. Among the topics that were discussed was the absence of a Charwoman at the Port Kaituma Primary School forcing the association and administration to make a number of decisions. Among these are that funds will be donated to pay

a charwoman to clean the sanitary block which consists of 15 toilets, of which one is being used by staff members. It was also decided that families will pay $500 per month for three charwomen to be retained and paid monthly. Out of that money, detergents and cleaning materials will be purchased. It is our hope that this situation does not remain the responsibility of parents for

any unreasonable time as it was decided that failure will see the school being closed in protests. We look forward to hearing from the relevant authorities. Concerned Port Kaituma parents

‘Red House’ Affair.

DEAR EDITOR, Sunday’s newspapers carried reports of comments made by former President Donald Ramotar, in regards to statements made by the present government, accusing his previous government of paying employees government salaries while in the employ of Dr. Cheddi Jagan Research Centre, and only collecting $1000.00 as payment for a lease of that facility, among other things. President Ramotar, in his comments, trivialized the whole affair and mentioned that his government did give a five-acre lot to the late former Vice-President, Viola Burnham, which she in turn, sold. President Ramotar failed to see what the big fuss was about, since his actions were ‘normal’ practice. Before I continue, let me preface this article with a personal incident, which occurred some ten years ago. As a re-migrant, a decade ago, wanting to create a business venture, which I feel would play a vital role in improving tourism to Guyana, (I had written ‘Letters’ in the past, on the need for a vibrant tourist trade as a better solution to improving manufacturing and creating jobs, as opposed to cutting down the Rain Forest, or digging up its soil) I started a non-profit company and sought out those government and private agencies which I felt could financially assist the company. I contacted a prominent director of a very important agency of whom I felt our work would favorably contribute. Having given him

a Grant Proposal, I was told he would get in contact with me in two weeks. Four months later, after much trying and failing, I finally met him at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, where I was one of the Guest Lecturers, at a Symposium. “Hey, budday, we ain’t in the United States here, man. Don’t give me no Grant Proposal. Who gat time fodat? Write me a note about what you want and hand it to dem girl in the office and I’ll get back to you,” he said. So I wrote a half-page request and gave it to his assistant. After six months of not hearing from the good Director, (and not for the want of trying), I gave up. What I am trying to show here is the modus operandi, the manner in which business was done. The important underlying thread here, which can be easily overlooked, is the manner in which things are done. Monies are given out to groups, agencies and individuals, who, to all intents and purposes, may have a very legitimate and honest plan, which on execution had borne positive results. I saw President Jagdeo, practically played the role of Foreman in supervising the constructing a medical clinic on Cemetery Road, in La Penitence Housing Scheme. He refused to go through the channels of Red Tape, so to

speak, after residents complained of the desperate need for a clinic. Was politics involved? Maybe. But there are many instances, too much for me to mention, that governments past and present can be accused of doling out the taxpayers money without having/showing proper accounting. What is there to be done? Are all of these actions ‘High Crimes’, or can some of them be considered ‘Misdemeanors’? I do not like to criticize without offering some objective and constructive solution(s) to problems: 1. President Grainger and former President Jagdeo deciding which actions of governments in the past, and maybe even present, can be considered more unethical, due to the lack of knowledge of better business practices, just to be kind, and creating a comprehensive list of them. 2. In the Forms section of (Continued on page 23)


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Kaieteur News

Tuesday September 08, 2015

Police hands over $500M-plus Teen shot in chest while going to assist PSM fraud files to DPP for advice robbed passengers Armed bandits yesterday shot a 17-year-old University of Guyana (UG) student in the chest after robbing two female passengers in a minibus on the Agricola, East Bank Demerara (EBD) Public Road. The incident happened around 08:20 hrs in the vicinity of Flour Mill Road. The shot teen has been identified as Abdul Kareem Shivrattan of Lot 14 Agricola Public Road, (EBD). Up to press time, Shivrattan was a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)’s Accident and Emergency Unit. Doctors were at the time draining blood from his chest to prepare him for surgery. Police in a release said that Shivrattan was shot as he went to the assistance of two passengers, Natasha Rampersaud, 33, and Lalita Narine, 53, who were robbed of their jewelry by two men, one of whom was armed. According to the release the bandits joined the bus at Diamond, EBD, and requested to get off at Flour Mill Road, Agricola. It was when the bus stopped at the requested location, that the gunmen held the two women at gunpoint and later shot at the teenager. Kaieteur News was told that the UG student

Shot: Abdul Kareem Shivrattan witnessed the ordeal while he was opening the gate so that his father, Avarara Shivrattan, could come out of their yard with his vehicle. He (Abdul) allegedly rushed to assist the two traumatized passengers just after the bandits ran off, but they turned back and fired a shot, hitting him in the chest. A police detective, who is a part of the investigation, said that the minibus that transported the two men was heading to the city. “Just as they were coming out of the bus, they grabbed two gold chains belonging to two female passengers,” the police source said. He explained that just as they were about to escape, they turned back and fired a shot at the 17-year-old who was heading to assist the two women. The minibus was in front of his yard. While no one has been arrested as yet, the source said that statements were taken from persons in the area and detailed descriptions of the two men were provided.

At the hospital yesterday, the teenager’s parents were devastated. His mother, Karen Baksh, said that she was at work when she received the terrifying news. The mother of three said that she immediately rushed to the hospital only to find her son in blood, surrounded by medical personnel. Avarara Shivrattan explained that his son, who only started the University of Guyana two Mondays ago, was about to leave for school. “He does normally take the bus but this morning, (yesterday) I was going to Georgetown so I was giving them (shot teen and his sister) a drop,” the older Shivrattan stated. “He (Abdul) was opening the gate for me when they shoot him,” the father recounted. The UG student was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre by his father, but was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he remains a patient.

The police have wrapped up their investigations into a $500M-plus fraud at the Public Service Ministry. The files were yesterday handed over to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice, according to Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum. The Ministry of the Presidency had filed an official complaint to the police in late July after finding more than $120M missing from the bank accounts of the Ministry. However, investigators stumbled on more than $400M missing from the bank’s accounts. The police, whom the matter had been handed over to, had dispatched a special team to the Ministry of the Presidency to examine records of the payments. Several staffers as well as former Minister of Public Service, Dr. Jennifer Westford and her ex-assistant, Margaret Cummings, were questioned during the probe. Investigators had initially looked at 2014 transactions at the Ministry but went back to 2012. The monies were transferred from the Office of the President and were to be used for training workers in

Former Minister, Former Special Assistant, Dr. Jennifer Westford Margaret Cummings the various regions. However, there was no evidence that the regions were in receipt of any money. Former Minister, Dr. Jennifer Westford and her exassistant, Margaret Cummings, were questioned by police and released on bail. Police sleuths would have wanted to know what role, if any, the two played in the withdrawals. Both of the women, a few weeks ago, appeared in court charged with the illegal transfer of eight vehicles belonging to the state. They were placed on a total of $2M

in bail. Several persons from the Public Service Ministry who are involved in preparing documents for payments have been questioned. Westford is also reportedly being investigated for a recreational vehicle (RV) that was brought into the country but the correct tax was not paid. The new administration has said that it is investigating a number of irregularities at state agencies, including the Guyana Oil Company and the Guyana Power and Light Inc.

More in vitro babies born at Balwant Singh hospital In vitro fertilization (IVF) births are becoming a regular feature at the Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital. For this year alone three sets of twin babies were born through this means. In a Facebook post the hospital boasted of its latest achievement. According to the post, one set of the twin babies (two girls) was born in March 2015, a second set (two boys)

The newborn twins in the arms of Dr. Madhu Singh was born in August 2015 and a third set (a boy and a girl) was born this very month. The post concludes with a promise of “more to come soon.” It was just about a year ago that the privately operated hospital introduced

its first successful IVF operation. On that occasion the newborn was a boy born to a couple who had been trying to conceive over an eightyear period to no avail. The IVF procedure is (continued on page 19)


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

Kamla dethroned as TT PM

Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Dr. Keith Rowley After a fiercely contested election, the main opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) won the 2015 Trinidad and Tobago elections, ousting the coalition People’s Partnership (PP) out of power. Dr. Keith Rowley is now the new Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. Results coming out of the twin island showed that the PNM, led by Rowley, won 22 of the 41 seats – 39 in Trinidad and 2 in Tobago – available for grabs. The remaining 19 seats went to the PP, led by Kamla Persad-Bissessar, which had come into power in 2010. Then, the PP had earned itself 29 seats. The PNM is the country’s oldest political

organization and has had several terms in government. The Independent Liberal Party, a fringe party, also contested the elections. The party was led by disgraced ex-FIFA VicePresident Jack Warner and earned no seats. Warner was also a candidate in the Chaguanas East seat in the Central region. Just over one million people were eligible to cast their votes in this year’s elections. The results were in less than six hours after the polling stations closed; polls opened at 6am on Monday while results were in before midnight. The closing of polls was extended by an hour in

Trinidad due to heavy rains. Even before the voting kicked off opinion polls had predicted that the elections would have been a close one. Polls had showed about 10 or 11 constituencies had no clear majority support for either of the two dominant political parties. Polls had also suggested that the outcome would rest on at least three constituencies along the east west corridor. Both Persad-Bissessar and Rowley were leading comfortably in their respective constituencies. The country’s campaign had centered on a range of issues including social policies and accusations of government corruption.

THE man who performed the campaign song in support of the UNC’s candidate for Tableland/Moruga Clifton De Coteau, was found shot to death in Moruga late on Sunday. Peter Miguel, who was in his 60s, was found roadside at La Lune Village, with bullet wounds to the head and upper body. The discovery was made by police officers who were patrolling the area at around 10p.m. De Coteau confirmed on Monday that Miguel sang the campaign theme song that he (De Coteau) wrote. Police said that Miguel had a criminal record and was charged with drug offences and murder, a case in which he was freed. Miguel’s killing following the murder in La Lune the night before, of 29-year-old Kyle Charles Gonzales who was shot and killed by

someone hiding near his home. Police are investigating

whether the killings are linked. (EXPRESS)

DE COTEAU’S CAMPAIGN SINGER MURDERED

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Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

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THE PPP HAS LEARNT NOTHING The PPP has learnt nothing from its electoral setbacks of the past four years. Those setbacks should have led to a radical reassessment of the party’s strategies and postures. It is behaving in the same way that allowed it to first lose its electoral majority and then eventually to lose power in the elections of this year. Since the formation of the AFC, the PPP’s tactics have been to alienate this party which it sees as encroaching on its support base. In 2006 it was joined by the PNCR in a deal which saw collaboration to exclude the AFC in the appointment of Regional Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons. The tactics of both parties then were obvious. The AFC

represented a threat to their support bases and therefore needed to be targeted. The PPP has continued with this tactic even after the 2011 election. The PPP went into the 2011 elections arguing that a vote for the AFC was a vote for the PNCR. The populace did not buy that argument and the AFC did remarkably well enough to hand the combined opposition enough seats to deny the PPP a majority in the National Assembly. Instead of recognizing the rejection of its arguments, the PPP continued its attacks on the AFC. Instead of trying to mend fences with the AFC, the PPP instead opted to have negotiations only with the PNCR on budget and other

Dem boys seh...

Raj raise salary de same way he raise skirts Dem boys hear a man ask another one wha he don’t like about Obama. De other one seh that Obama is half black and half white. De man then ask him, why you don’t like Donald Trump? De man seh he is half Jack and half Ass. Guyana got a Donald who fit that mold. He bring a man name Raj and everybody know Raj is he buddy, buddy friend from lang. De name Maharaj mean great king or high king in Hindustani. If you name Raj alone, dem boys seh you is a half king. Raj live up to he name and nature. He refuse to tek advice from nobody. In de end he bruck up GuySuCo and eff up de workers. He run de place like a real king. According to a report he mek de company lose US$75M. That money coulda mek three more GuySuCo plant in Guyana. But instead dem boys seh he spend de money on two, three li’l gyal in de place. He was having a ball. Dem boys hear he use to carry Donald up there too. Dem boys ain’t saying no more. Wha dem boys know fuh sure is that Raj use to promote dem gyal and give dem raise of pay too. But wasn’t he money he was doing that wid. He is to meet wid Professah Clive de Thom and de board members today but nobody can find de man. People don’t know if he deh at Skeldon, Uitvlugt or Wales. Donald try calling de man fuh ask wha he do wid dem gyal but Donald tell dem boys he hear Soulja Bai lock he down somewhere in Canje. Dem boys believe that Soulja Bai squeezing he nuts fuh find out who and who he give and wha else he do wid de US$75M. Dem boys did hear Raj promote people, raise dem skirt, then dem salary. But Jagdeo drop dem salary and dem pants. Donald had pants and skirt up and down. Raj give way plenty GuySuCo land fuh next to nutten. All dem cane land on de East Bank that BaiShanLin, La Bamba, Lubamba, Lumama, and Bee Kay, See Kay and Decay get is Raj give dem. And that same Raj is Donald de Dumb best friend. And dem boys even hear further, that Raj give land to a Ramotar in somebody else name. And this happen just before de 2015 election.Talk half and pray fuh Raj, de half king.

issues. It was attempting to play the PNCR off against the AFC. Attempts by the AFC to try to negotiate with the PPP government were rebuffed at every stage and therefore the AFC had no choice but to adopt a confrontation stance against the PPP and to join up with the PNCR in the National Assembly to cripple the rule of the PPP. This was successfully done to the point whereby the PPP was forced to prorogue parliament to avoid the humiliation of a noconfidence vote. The PPP still did nothing to try to negotiate with the AFC. Instead it pushed the AFC into a coalition with the PNCR. When this happened the PPP took to the same nonconciliatory line. It attacked the AFC. The PPP was hoping that when the AFC

joined with the PNCR their supporters would have returned to the PPP and PNCR. But this did not happen. The AFC held its support and the coalition by the skin of its teeth won the 2015 elections. It was the closet election ever in the history of Guyana and probably the closet one ever. The PPP has still not learnt from its electoral demise. It continues to target the AFC. Just this past weekend, it mobilized its supporters in Whim against the Prime Minister of Guyana, Moses Nagamootoo accusing the AFC of betraying the people of Berbice. That is a failed strategy. It has not worked in nine years and it will not work. The PPP should try something new. It should work at the grassroots to woo back the supporters it

lost to the AFC. But it cannot do this by attacking the AFC. When you attack the leaders of a party that people support, the supporters of that party go to the defense of their party. A smarter strategy should be used, one that attempts to reach out to the AFC leadership rather than undermining it. The AFC support is not about its leadership. The AFC does not represent a constituency that no longer wishes to be seen as being either PPP or PNCR but this does not mean that this constituency does not realize the importance of the AFC aligning with either grouping to achieve political objectives. The PPP however is in a self-destructive mode. It does not understand such tactics and therefore it will robotically continue in the

same vein. By the way, the government has appointed the AFC’s Moses Nagmootoo as its point person to negotiate with the PPP; the PPP has been given another opportunity to repair its breach with the AFC. The PPP will not make use of that opportunity. It has no interest in building better relations with the AFC. It has no interest in building better relations with civil society. It has no interest in reaching out to the supporters of the PNC. It only knows one type of politics and this is why it will remain in the opposition for a long, long time.

Govt. will not enrich Berbice Bridge associates, says Patterson …as option of nationalizing bridge ruled out As the stalemate between the government and the Berbice Bridge Company continues over the reduction of tolls, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, yesterday dismissed the notion of nationalising the entity. The government is unprepared to enrich persons associated with the company, he said. The price tag that will be attached to taking over controlling interest of the bridge would be far above that which Government can currently afford, explained Patterson as he addressed media operatives during a conference at his Wight’s Lane, Kingston office yesterday. Patterson said that the government will be honouring the contract entered in with the company but the reduction in the toll, however, remains high priority for the government.

The relatively new Government, while it was in Opposition, tabled a motion seeking to have the tolls reduced but it had not materialized despite their majority in the tenth Parliament. Later, on the campaign trail, in the lead-up to the May 11 General and Regional Elections, which it won, it had vowed to reduce the tolls. On August 10, Jordan announced in the National Budget that tolls for cars will be reduced from $2,200 to $1,900. For other categories of vehicles, the decrease will be 10 percent, by way of government subsidy. But the company did not budge. As the September 1 (the date for implementation) approached, Directors of the US$40M bridge said that the government had not consulted with them and it wanted its shareholders to have the final say.

It then insisted on a toll increase or an extension from the 21 years it had to manage the facility, to 40 years. The company was insisting that it racked up accumulated losses of $1.5B up to the end of last year and could face insolvency unless it can restructure its financing. The government was arguing, however, that with the subsidy the bridge would still receive its money,nand the people who traverse the bridge will be relieved. As the row continued, the Public Infrastructure Minister submitted a proposal for the passengers speedboats to the Cabinet and it was approved. The water taxis will be used to transport mainly students

and senior citizens. Yesterday, posed with the question of nationalizing the bridge Patterson said “We are not into enriching any of the existing persons there with the limited resources we have.” He dispelled arguments that the sums that would be invested in subsidy over the years could be more beneficial than a one-time investment in paying off investors. The Minister said there is a guarantee of 23 per cent rate of return annually in the bridge contract. “Anybody you go to buy from will invoke that saying they have 21 years…that’s how they entered into the deal so that (continued on page 11)


Page 10

Kaieteur News

Tuesday September 08, 2015

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

The government must stop corruption in the City Council When the PPP was in government, its balancesheet of corruption and human rights violations were so bad that the nation hardly had time to examine the performance record of the City Council. But we tended to sympathize with the City Council because the PPP administration acted like a bully towards it. Most Guyanese knew that the PPP had taken over the Georgetown City Council of which the most egregious manifestation was the imposition of Carol Sooba. Guyana has entered new territory with the election of the APNU-AFC Government and with it has come the end of centralized stranglehold of the City Council. But society and the new government must take a more than passing look at the

Georgetown City Council. To say from 1995 to the present time the City Council has not been involved in corruption would be a nasty joke. If you look around Greater Georgetown you will see graphic evidence of a legacy of venality in the City Council. Money was taken from privileged people and wealthy business places for concessions which we can see by just taking a five minute walk around Georgetown. This columnist knows of dozens of cases in which City Council officials accepted bribes from untouchables. These untouchables must now be confronted by both civil society and the Granger/ Nagamootoo administration. The City Council itself has provided us with an

opportunity to ask questions. It has embarked on a campaign to stop encumbrances on the parapets and pavements and to deny permits that violate the residential status of Georgetown. But the legacy of corruption is going to embarrass City Hall. Can the City Council move against business places that its officials took money from? How are they going to do it? They can’t. It is for the media, civil society and the central government to act. We can start with the latest example of a school that has to cease operations on Issano Street in Bel Air Park. City Council stated that the school was in violation of section 34 of the Municipal and District Act. But one of the richest men in Guyana just completed the construction

of a business place in the heart of Lamaha Gardens. This is right in the middle of a residential area. The people of Lamaha Gardens did not object because the violator was one of their fellow untouchables. It simply means that if you do not have money to bribe the City Council you will face the hammer. If you have wealth then you can put the City Council in your pocket. Do you know that Mae’s School in Subryanville is in identical violation of what the City Council has accused that school of doing in Bel Air Park? Go to Mae’s School any day and you will see the traffic mess it creates in Subryanville and on Sheriff Street. Mae’s has a branch on Middleton Street and it took over the pavement and erected a permanent steel canopy. Now we are reaching an interesting stage in the new life of the City Council. It has placed an advertisement in the newspapers warning

citizens to remove obstacles whether large or small from the public parapets and pavements. The City Council has gone about in recent days removing these structures and in some situations used their sledge hammer to demolish structures that were illegal. Here is where the media come in. I anticipate the birth of a barefaced immorality. Ordinary citizens will face the wrath of the City Council while those with money will remain untouched. And given the culture in City Hall they are going to adopt a barefaced attitude. The Guyanese people will see photographs of demolition exercises on a selected basis. The unnerving thing about the City Council’s onesided campaign is that the wealthy people of this country are going to protect their own. If that school in Bel Air Park was owned by one of the untouchables, there would have been silence from

Frederick Kissoon its neighbours. I am not saying that the school was right to do what it did. I am contending that there must not be a class of untouchables in Guyana who can do whatever they want because of their wealth. The residents of Lamaha Garden knew that the business place was going up and so did the City Council. It takes just one look to see how privatized some of the pavements and parapets have become not just of Georgetown but throughout Guyana. Does this new Government want to emulate the former PPP Minister this newspaper referred to as Bruk-Up Benn? Bruk-Up Benn never touched the rich violators. I am watching the City Council and so should you.


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 11

PPP regards govt.’s efforts to achieve social cohesion useless - Rohee The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) thinks that the coalition government is trying to fool Guyana into believing that it is making a genuine effort to promote countrywide social cohesion. This contention was made known yesterday by PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee, as he hosted the Party’s weekly press conference held at Freedom House. At this forum, Rohee told the media that the recently held Social Cohesion workshop was “clearly another talk shop.” The former Minister said that the event was “a race to the bottom to fulfill another of the Coalition Manifesto promises and to hoodwink the donor Community into believing that the (David) Granger regime is committed to and is in need of international financial support in this area.” He said that the reality in Guyana shows a completely different picture. When Rohee views the “completely different picture,” he sees “consistent and persistent witch-hunting and purging of public

PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee servants known to be supportive of the PPP and of a particular ethnic group.” The General Secretary said that days after Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, met with President David Granger and raised concerns about the “public environment” and “claims and allegations”, President Granger came out with a statement justifying the dismissals of public servants on the ground of malpractice and disappearances of tax

dollars. Granger’s utterances in this regard, when summed up in Rohee’s mind, “reinforces the popular conviction that there has been unilateral, malicious and discriminatory dismissals on political ground using as an excuse the argument that his government wants efficient, unbribable, trained and educated public services. “In other words, all those whose service was terminated were uneducated, untrained, bribable and non-efficient while these who remain in the public service are educated, trained, unbribable and efficient.” Addressing Social Cohesion, Rohee said, “Social Cohesion in the Granger administration context will prove to be like slippery ochro for the Granger administration unless certain steps are taken to address the PPP/C’s concerns at this critical political, social and economic juncture of our country’s history.” He added that Social Cohesion under Granger is bound to fail “if it continues to undermine and jettison the role and functions of the

Govt. will not enrich Berbice ... From page 9 would be tagged on as well,” said Patterson. “The end figure will be much greater than what was invested.” Patterson said that the proposal laid in Parliament during the Budget Debates was made for 2015. The Minister of Finance has made clear that it will be a progressive reduction, with users seeing a greater reduction in the years to come. The government’s intent, according to Patterson, is to have the toll at an amount “fair and accommodating to the general public.” He said it is the first phase that has run into a speed bump. Patterson emphasised the government’s commitment to alleviating the burden from the Berbice people, but “(the bridge company) would like all its issues to be discussed and dissolved in its favour, prior to accepting the $300.” T h e g o v e r n m e nt has said that it does not see any reason to delay the implementation. “They are speaking about extending the concessionary period and these are all things which can be discussed, but in the interim we have a commitment we made to the people. We appropriated

sums for it and we are saying simply while this is going on, let us see. Unfortunately, the bridge company does not see it that way,” Patterson noted. At present, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) as well as the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) are currently spearheading the operation. Patterson revealed “They are examining both the crossings at Rosignol as well as Blairmont.”According to the Public Infrastructure Minister MARAD will be looking at the safety of the vessels as well as the standard for the boats that they are hoping to reintroduce. On the other hand, T&HD will be looking at the safety and conditions of the stelling and the crossings. “They would have done the examination of the boat as well at the New Amsterdam Stelling and whatever emergency works, if needed, will be executed,” Patterson added. Additionally, a proposal has been made for heavily subsidizing the crossing for school children and the elderly on the river taxi service. The extent of the subsidy will be finalized after discussions with the

Ministries of Education and Social Protection, said Patterson. Patterson explained that the wharf taxis could have been implemented since Cabinet approved the motion. He said that although he was met with proposals to use the MARAD fleet of river vessels, the government is seeking to solicit vessels owned by the residents of Region Five and Six to provide the service. “It is not only looked at as transportation, it is looked at as the revitalization of a community,” he said. The Minister mulled over starting off with the MARAD fleet, and letting the residents groove into offering the service. Th e M i n i s t e r, a l o n g with Minister within the M i n i s t r y, Annette Ferguson, was scheduled to meet the Berbice Chamber of Commerce, of both Regions Five and Six to explain the way they intend to introduce the river taxi service. The Junior Minister revealed that they will also be meeting with the minibus and taxi associations and other stakeholders to ensure that the taxis are reintroduced and “savings being passed on to the vulnerable groups.”

Ethnic Relations Commission by supplanting it with a creature from the belly of the Coalition called the Ministry of Social Cohesion.” “The steps that are afoot to promote internationally the Granger administration as a believer in Social Cohesion

will not succeed especially when account is taken of the divisive, manipulative and deceptive efforts and bleatings of Granger, (Joseph) Harmon, (Raphael) Trotman and (Amna) Ally. “The huge sums of money allocated by the Granger

administration to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will take us back to the pre-1992 period when the Burham/Hoyte administration in an effort to boost its image abroad spent billions of dollars through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to accomplish this objective.”


Page 12

Kaieteur News

Suspect held for ‘vendetta killing’ after appearing in court for other offence Police have detained an East Ruimveldt resident in connection with the murder of 23-year-old Kellon Hinds, called ‘Baige,’ who was gunned down two Mondays ago. The suspect, Shawn Barrow, was arrested yesterday while appearing in court for another offence. Kaieteur News understands that the offence related to the alleged discharging of a firearm. He is a relative of 24year-old Sherwyn Barrow, who was gunned down last May in ‘Warlock’ East Ruimveldt. Police believe that the killings of Hinds and Sherwyn Barrow resulted from a vendetta between two East Ruimveldt families. Some of Kellon Hinds’ close relatives said that a feud started between Hinds and relatives of Barrow after the men robbed Hinds of a chain valued at $1.2M. That incident happened in June 2014. “When he get robbed he identified one of the robbers as Sherwyn Barrow and then they started having major issues and they went to court,” a cousin recalled. That matter went all the

Kellon Hinds way to court but because threats were made on Hinds’ life and that of his family he opted not to attend court. Barrow was subsequently released. But the feud escalated on May 6, when Sherwyn Barrow, the man accused of robbing Hinds, was killed in a drive-by shooting in ‘Warlock.’ “Is when this happen then this thing get more serious, because they start say how Kellon kill Sherwyn Barrow and dem will kill he and he whole family.” Hinds went to Suriname, but his relatives claimed that individuals linked to the slain Barrow often threatened and even fired shots at their home

on several occasions. Barrow was charged for shooting at the home and was in court yesterday because of this charge. Hinds, who returned to Guyana one week ago, was arrested the following day for the elder Barrow’s murder. He was released last week Monday on $40,000 station bail. Hours later, he was dead. “When he get knock he run in the yard and fall down by the pipe then he run to the back and them had two who ambush he there, stand up over he and fire some more shots.” “Them brothers came and shoot up here a few times before and say that they will kill he and finally they did,” the slain man’s aunt said. However, family members of the Barrows are refuting claims that their relative had anything to do with the incident. They said that there is evidence that Shawn Barrow was nowhere around when Hinds was shot and killed. And they say that there can be no vendetta because they do not know the Hinds family. What they do know was that the boys were friends and that something went wrong between them.

Tuesday September 08, 2015

Another illegal gun, ammunition turned in …as amnesty continues to bear fruit

Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan in discussion with residents prior to the commencement of the community meeting at Whim, Corentyne, Berbice The recently launched firearm amnesty continues to bear fruit as the police continue to receive weapons. Yesterday was just another collection day. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum told Kaieteur News that the force received another illegal .32 pistol and 194 matching rounds of ammunition yesterday. They also received three 16-gauge and three 20-gauge shotgun cartridges on West Coast Demerara. This is in addition to the two pistols and one shotgun along with a large quantity of ammunition that were turned in last week. The rate of surrender of illegal arms and ammunition is viewed as an insult to detractors of the amnesty programme. Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, has expressed his satisfaction so far with the gun amnesty initiative. He is urging persons to “bring in those illegal guns.” In an invited comment, following his address to the

gathering at the community meeting at Whim, Corentyne, Berbice, on Saturday, the Minister told the Government Information Agency (GINA), “I am pleased that the first day was wonderful; to get a 1000 rounds of ammunition is worth the whole month, quite frankly, and we must be proud of the fact that it is working.” The Minister further stated that during his visits countrywide to address Guyanese, he is also using that opportunity to promote the initiative. “As I come to these meetings, I am telling people, get those friends and family who you know got guns that are illegally possessed and persuade them to bring them in,” he said. Minister Ramjattan explained that the initiative is one of many which the Administration will implement in its crime fighting efforts. “It is only one of the tools in the tool box, there are lots of things we have got to do, gun amnesty is one,” Ramjattan explained.

The Minister has again issued a strong call to persons who possess firearms illegally to turn them in during this one-month amnesty period. “I am promising that if you don’t bring them in this month, and we catch you, we are going to ensure that you don’t get bail,” Ramjattan asserted. He advised that the law enforcement agencies are getting ‘tip-off’ as to who possesses illegal firearms. He pleaded with those persons to take those guns in to the nearest police station. The Minister assured that if caught with any illegal firearm after the one-month amnesty period is over, ‘persons will be jailed with no bail.’ The Gun Amnesty initiative was introduced on September 1, last, and provides for persons to hand over unlicensed firearms and ammunition to the law enforcement agencies without facing prosecutions. The amnesty ends September 30.


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 21

Rose Hall Town gears for ‘Steel Donkey’ gets 18 45th anniversary celebrations months on wounding charge …organizers plan week of activities As the people of Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, prepare to celebrate their 45th anniversary as a town, a number of organizations in the Municipality have come together and organized one week of activities in observance of the town’s birthday. The organizations so far pooling their expertise and resources are the Rose Hall Town Interim Management Committee (RHTIMC), Rose Hall Town Anniversary and Development Organization (RHTADO) in collaboration with other stake holders. A mixture of activities that will cater for everyone has been planned so far for the town’s Anniversary which is being held under the theme “One Goal, One Dream, One Team in 2015” The activity is expected to kick off on Friday September 18 with an official opening ceremony and cake sticking activity in the Town Council Compound from 10:00 hrs. The following day will begin with a gym feast and dip and win competition at the Lucky Dollar Store in Rose Hall Town from 08:00 hrs. The evening is set aside for the popular comedy show “Nothing to laugh about 8” which will be staged at the Area H ground from 20:00 hrs. The activity continues on September 22, with the annual Inter Primary School Spelling B competition for schools in the Rose Hall Town catchment area. The schools expected to participate are Tain, Rose Hall, Cropper and Port Mourant Primaries. September 23 is Senior Citizens’ Day. Activities begin from 10:00 hrs and will see the senior citizens in the town being pampered, treated and feted at the Lucky Dollar Store.

The oldest business and former Mayor, Oliver Fraser will be recognized. Donations will also be made to the children housed at the Community Based Rehabilitation Centre. Two activities are scheduled for Thursday 24th. The painting of all pedestrian crossings in the town is set to commence at 07:00 hrs. A Day of Sports is scheduled for the Area H Ground. A school feeding programme will be held on September 25th, for 100 grade one students from the Rose Hall Town Primary School. They will be fed a nutritional meal. The week’s activities are expected to hype on September 26th, with a grand street fair and exhibition at the Independence Avenue, Rose Hall Town from 13:00 hrs. A number of exhibitors have already given their commitment to be a part of the day’s event. The night will culminate with an after party at the Area H Ground, featuring Slingers

Teenage pregnancy rampant in Wakapau Three cases of teenage pregnancies have emerged from the Wakapau Community since April. Today, residents are ashamed to talk about the issue. Recently elected Toshao, Errol Williams, said that he did not have any explanation of the recent report of the 15year-old, who is said to be five months pregnant. After community health workers learnt of the pregnant teen’s condition, arrangements were immediately made for her to be transported to the Suddie

Brazilian found dead with bullet to forehead Mahdia police have detained two men as they continue their probe into the murder of Brazilian national, Josi Mar Perrieria Silva, 51, of Boa Vista, Brazil, whose body was found in a camp at Mowasi Backdam on Sunday morning. The two men arrested are said to be former employees of Silva’s mining operation. According to reports reaching this newspaper, Silva left his camp to check on the gold mat on his dredge which is located some distance away. It is believed that his attackers ambushed and

Sound System and Juggling among others. A number of organizations have so far indicated their willingness to be a part of the activities. The Town Week celebrations is expected to end with a grand beach jam and fun day at the Rose Hall Town beach, beginning at 10:00 hrs to be followed by a basketball competition at the Area H basketball court from 17:00 hrs. Many businesses in the town have so far indicated their willingness to be a part of the activities including Digicel, Republic Bank, Lucky Dollar, Home Line Furnishing, Ansa McAl, D Balram Shane General Store, Micheal Sinclair Tec Computer school and r e p a i r a n d Wy n e t t e s Beauty Salon among others. Interesting persons can make contact with Coordinator/ PRO Andrew Griffith on telephone number 692-8044 or the Town Clerk’s office on telephone number 337-4882.

killed him before disappearing with the mat. Investigators said that the Brazilian’s body had a single wound in the forehead. It appears to be a gunshot wound. Kaieteur News understands that police, acting on information that three men from Silva’s camp had broken crew, launched a search for them and subsequently arrested the two. They are being questioned while the police await the results of a Post Mortem Examination.

Public Hospital to have a procedural examination conducted by doctors working at a senior Hospital. In July, a 15-year-old Wakapau teenager was similarly hospitalized after it was found out that she was pregnant. Matters got worse after reports revealed that the teenager ’s father had impregnated her. The man was subsequently arrested and charged with the offence of having sexual relations with a child under 16 years. He was remanded to prison. Earlier this year, another 15- year- old from the same Community made the news after she gave birth to twin boys. The teenager was allegedly raped by a family member. A report was lodged with the police but to date, no arrest of the alleged accused has been made. One of the twin babies has since died. The mother is planning on returning to School in the New Year. And three teenagers at Onderneeming Sand pit were all pregnant at the said time. One has since given birth. The three friends had all dropped out from the Pomona Secondary School. Members of the Welfare Department visited the Community after learning about the issue. (Yannason Duncan)

Most people at her age would enjoy spending the later part of their lives among their loved ones. But for 63year-old Yvonne Collins, called ‘Steel Donkey’, 18 months of her freedom have been snatched away, since she will be spending them behind bars. The West Ruimveldt vendor was sent to prison yesterday by City Magistrate Judy Latchman after she was found guilty of unlawfully and maliciously wounding Crystal Fletchman with intent to maim, disable, disfigure or to cause her actual bodily harm, on July 18, last, at West Ruimveldt. Collins inflicted a gaping hole in the woman’s face with a broken bottle. When her trial concluded in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, the Magistrate found

that there was sufficient evidence to tie Collins to the crime. Police Prosecutor, Corporal Kerry Bostwick, called a number of witnesses

to testify during the trial. This included the victim, Crystal Fletchman. According to court facts, on the day in question, Fletchman was standing in Collins’ yard awaiting a taxi. Collins approached Fletchman and inquired from her about the use of a toilet on the premises. Fletchman refused to answer and Collins became annoyed. Collins then broke a bottle and stabbed Fletchman in her face, resulting in a gaping wound. The incident was reported to the police. Investigations were carried out and Collins was arrested and charged for the offence. At the convict’s first court appearance on July 21, she denied the charge and was remanded to prison. She remained on remand throughout her trial.

committed the crime on September 5, at Georgetown, while they were armed with an ice pick. Police Corporal, Deniro Jones, who presented the prosecution’s case, did not reveal any facts about what transpired on the day in question. Jones opposed to bail for the duo citing the gravity of the charge and the penalty attached to the offence. He informed the court that Wright has given the police conflicting addresses as compared to the one he gave the court. In court he said that

he lived at Lot 26 Festival City, Ruimveldt, Georgetown. Further, Jones pointed out that Park was stabbed during the ordeal with the offensive weapon. The Prosecutor noted that the victim positively identified the duo to police on patrol duty after the robbery occurred. Magistrate Mc Lennan after listening to the prosecutor ’s submission refused to grant the men bail and order them to return to court on September 11, before Magistrate Alex Moore for continuation.

Jailed: Yvonne ‘Steel Donkey’ Collins

GDF rank, accomplice jointly charged with armed robbery Two men were yesterday remanded to prison after they pleaded not guilty to an armed robbery charge, when they appeared before Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Private, 26 year-old Anthony Ralph and Corwin Wright, of Lot 83 Duke Street Kingston, Georgetown, denied robbing Andel Park, of a Samsung Galaxy S 5 cellular phone, a wallet, one haversack and other items to the value of $111,000. The duo allegedly

Shunning responsibility for cohesive ... From page 14 caused. It is said that the Good Friday Agreement, signed in 1998, was a major step in the peace process for that region. As Quinn reflected on the issues that pressed his country, he remarked “These are not easy issues to solve and it is only when people from all sides come together to work with government and to work with each other that such problems can be worked out.” Q u i n n s a i d t h a t the Northern Ireland where he grew up is completely different from the one there today. “Yes, we still have extremists from both sides but they are very much on the margins and in the minorities. Most people simply want to get on and live their lives, free from threats and free from recriminations,” he said. In the case of Northern Ireland, he said, the silent majority needed to see leader-

ship from all sides of the political spectrum for progress to be made, and it was only when such leadership was demonstrated, that progress did occur. According to Quinn if one had approached the Northern Ireland people 30 years ago asking if the Ulster Unionists would have been in government, the immediate reaction of the people would have been to laugh at the inquirer. But the Ulster Unionist Party, one of the two main unionist political parties in Northern Ireland, now sits in the government. This is after it entered into an electoral alliance with the Conservative Party. “I strongly believe from my end, and indeed our own

experiences that social cohesion needs to be addressed through long-term integrated programmes with strong leadership at the national and local level. “Neither Minister Ally nor the government can do this by themselves. They need the constructive support of everyone. For Guyana to prosper and for Guyana to thrive social cohesion is necessary. It is incumbent on everyone to do what they can to ensure this.” Quinn said that the roundtable is the first step in that direction. He said, without doubt, it will be a long and occasionally difficult process. “Nothing is impossible,” said the British High Commissioner.


Page 22

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EDUCATION I.A.E currently registering students for full time secondary school, lessons & evening CXC classes for adults- Call: 683-5742 Princeton College Forms 1-5 (5000) CXC adult classes $1,500 a subject, Phonics/ Grade 2,4,6,9 lessons Call: 231-1209, 690-5008,657-7398 CXC Lessons: Mathematics & English- Small Class Size, Teacher: Student Ratio 1:15, day and night classes, adults and youths –Call: 690-9378 Need help with your child’s education: English, other subjects? Call private teacher: 696-7467 Affordable Reading, Spelling, Phonics Classes etc for children of all agesCall: 675-4379 Advanced Diploma in Computers: Office 2016, Windows 8/10, 9 Courses @ MicroGraphics, Tel: 2643057, Vreed-En-Hoop Computerized Accounting: Quick-Books, Peachtree, POS, Excel 2016 @ MicroGraphics, Vreed-En-Hoop. 264-3057

Contract Cars with driversContact Triple ‘S’ Taxi – Tel: 220-0060; 622-7772

Parfaite Harmonie 80X45 $1,250,000. Call: 683-0009

Register now! 6 weeks course, pedicure & manicureCall: 618-8536; 696-2295

Live in waitress to work in a bar –Call: 604-6606

10 Acres of land at Kuru Kururu suitable for chicken farm of live stock- Call: 6895322

Alliance Francaise of Guyana; French classes: (1) Beginners, (2) Conversation. Call:226-0854; 682-7943; 6147165; 226-1897

INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar

SALON

WANTED For interior location:1 logging truck driver, 1 mechanic/ serviceman,1 block inspector/ scaler, 1 tree feller. Call: 683-2575 2yrs Experienced seamstress – knowledge: flat/ over lockers/ Serger machines, meeting of deadlines/target a must- Contact: 270-4852 6am6pm & 645-5533 6pm-?

Tuesday September 08, 2015

PEN PAL Decent young man is seeking a good female age 18-26. Phone: 639-8474 or 604-4945 FOR SALE/RENT American pool tables –Call: 277-0578

Concrete fenced land in residential high income area at Republic Park, Water, light, etc-Call: 233-0570 TOUR Trip to Suriname 20th -24th November 2015 -$38,000; Brazil 25th -30th, 2015- $46,000Call: 660-0312, 695-4506 Santa Mission Heritage Day 12th September. Call Joy: 2181285, 649-9059; Sean 657-0825

Year 2003, Toyota Spacio, HC5070, first registration 29-012015. Price $1.6M negotiableContact:226-2558 or 29 Sandy Bobb Street Kitty . In Stock @ First Class Auto: 08 Premio, Allion, Runx, Axio, Bluebird, Sienta, Fielder, Rush –Tel: 609-8188, 638-3045 AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 SALE! SALE! SALE! 2008 TOYOTA PREMIO-$3.3M, 2006 TOYOTA ALLION$2.3M, ALL VEHICLES FULLY LOADED & UNREGISTERED- CALL: 642-7295 2000 Freightliner hauler, C12 Engine –Tel: 609-7257; 689-9041 EP 82 Starlet, AC 4 Doors, working standard rims, lady driven – good condition $550,000 – serious inquiries only - Call: 662-5052 1 Model M Truck with winch, big tire- Call: 692-9577; 619-2406 Unregistered Toyota IST – Fully Loaded -$1.9M –Call: 657-1796 Kaw a s a k i N i n ja 650R, excellent condition, lime green $650,000 asking price Tel: 655-2561 1-192 Carina, Alarm, A/C, Music Deck, working condition, PLL/HC series now $700,000 cash & go! Owner migrating. Call: 687-3241

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. One 318 BMW never registered for $ 3M down payment $500,000 contact # 650-0402 or 616-0429 Land at Schoonord (Next To Demerara Harbour Bridge), 45' X 100' $ 6 M, 60' X 100' $ 7.5M- Contact 650-0402 / 260-4988 Reusable ¼ & 3/8 inches marine steel plate – Contact: 688-7256 1 Complete six inch dredge inclusive of pick up and ATV- price 6,000,000Contact: 660-0422 52ft complete cabin cruiser. In excellent condition- Tel: 592-654-2817, 592-622-2958. Automatic Gate opener, garage door opener, chainsaw 51 HP, Dell Projector, Toyota Fielder, year 2003 –Call: 644-4582, 662-8665 50LBS BAGS DOG FOOD, W/SALE & RETAILCALL: 222-7891; 6099202 One 928F Caterpillar Wheel Loader $8M contact # 6500402/ 260-4988. Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, phone games & applications. Delivery also. Call: 672-2566; 265-3232 One Massey Ferguson Tractor 175 - Call: 255-0343; 694-7154 Duck -$500 (lb) - Call: 6842877

One Leyland Daf LF with 6 ton Hiab 2002 GTT series (New) price $5 million Call: 622-6746 One Fuso canter truck with 3 ton crane GTT series, price $4 Million Call: 622-6746 Star Cars Auto Sale: Just Arrived: Rush, Allion, Pitbul, Bluebird, Alteeza, Benz, 06 Premio. Tel: 679-3140, 2683509 Star Cars Auto Sale: 04 Premio, Allion,06 Runx, 03 Runx, Axela, New Raum, IST, Vitz. Tel: 679-3140, 268-3509 Venus Auto Sale: September Specials: 2004 Premio $2.350M, Pre-Order specials on IST -$1.9M –Call: 624-5617

TO LET

We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 TacomaCall:680-3154

Four storey business place located on Robb Street, next to Bourda Market-Call: 6237731; 629-0636

1 Ford 2005 F350 Pickup, extended cab, 4X4 Diesel, 35 inch tyre auto, 1 Chevy Van 2007 –Call: 610-5370

VACANCY Work from home; earn $5,000-$20,000 daily Call Monday-Friday 9am-5pm #233-6517, 6 3 8 - 0 5 9 5 www.jobfairworldwide.com Office clerk, porters, apply at Survival Wholesale Depot, Lot 10 Vlissengen Road Vacancies exist for cashiers/ supermarket, helper. Apply in person with written application at Nirva Supermarket –Call: 227-5771 Babysitter/housekeeper live in Trinidad with family, hiring on excellent recommendations onlyCall:868-688-5908 Sales clerk/cashier with experienced. Call: 227-1846 or apply to Kards Plus, City Mall, Camp Street. Continued on page 23


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

Man, 46, gets 18 years for sexual activity with minor

Letters... Where your views make the news

Ray Thomas, a 46-yearold man, was found guilty of engaging in sexual activity with a child. Yesterday he was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the offence. The sentence was handed down by Justice Dawn Gregory at the Georgetown High Court. Thomas was accused of using his finger to penetrate his victim, who was eight years old at the time. The incident is said to have occurred on February 2, 2012. Thomas' trial was held in camera.

However, Kaieteur News understands that the victim was a regular visitor of Thomas' home. The convict, who was unrepresented throughout his trial, remained silent, as the jury returned the verdict yesterday. When he was given the option to speak, Thomas chose to remain silent. The Judge handed down the sentence after careful consideration of the facts presented by State Prosecutors Orinthia Schmidt and Stacey Goodings.

Hit by new wave of refugees, Germany warns EU partners Struggling to cope with record numbers of asylum seekers, Germany told its European partners yesterday that they too must take in more refugees, as police in Hungary used pepper spray on desperate migrants who broke out of a reception center at the border. Chancellor Angela Merkel, speaking after a weekend in which 20,000 migrants entered Germany from Hungary by train, bus and on foot, described the influx as “breathtaking” and tried to reassure German citizens that the crisis was manageable. “I am happy that Germany has become a country that many people outside of Germany now associate with hope,” she said at a news conference in Berlin. But she and her vice chancellor, Sigmar Gabriel, coupled their message of optimism with a warning to European Union partners who have resisted a push from Berlin, Paris and Brussels to agree quotas for refugees flowing in mainly from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. “What isn’t acceptable in my view is that some people are saying this has nothing to do with them,” Merkel said. “This won’t work in the long run. There will be consequences although we don’t want that.” Gabriel said that if countries in eastern Europe and elsewhere continued to resist accepting their fair share of refugees, the bloc’s open border regime, known as Schengen, would be at risk. “This would be a dramatic political blow for Europe, but also a heavy economic blow, also for those countries that are saying they don’t want to help now,” he said. At Roszke, on Hungary’s border with Serbia, around 300 migrants broke through a cordon around a reception camp and set off down the

wrong side of the motorway towards the capital Budapest, Reuters witnesses said. Police were unable to prevent their escape despite using pepper spray as migrants scuffled with officers. Only months after Europe narrowly averted a Greek exit from the euro zone, the refugee crisis has emerged as the bloc’s biggest challenge. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker is due to unveil new proposals on Wednesday on how to distribute refugees among member states. An EU source told Reuters that under his plan, Germany would take on more than 40,000 and France 30,000 of the 160,000 asylum seekers the Commission says need to be relocated from Italy, Greece and Hungary, the main entry points to the EU for refugees arriving by sea and land. The 160,000 that Juncker wants to redistribute within the EU are just a fraction of the hundreds of thousands of refugees and economic migrants from Asia, Africa and the Middle East who have reached Europe this year on leaky boats across the Mediterranean or over land through the Balkan peninsula. (REUTERS)

Page 23

Where is the power of the Church? DEAR EDITOR, Pray tell me why is Kim Davis the Kentucky Court Clerk being seen as the solitary symbol of religious opposition against same sex marriage or would that be mirage as compared to what the Good Lord has deemed a marital union. Now is the time for the church to be heard loud and clear, and other countries should take note. There have been repeated warnings of the fate that would befall committed Christians if they held firm to their convictions. Permit me to set the records straight that while Davis is standing her religious grounds, she is not the one who fired the first salvo or set the wheels in motion. Yes, her behaviour is revolutionary, depending on the viewer and his religious stance. What about the Supreme Court that concocted out of whole cloth a constitutional

right to same-sex marriage, using legal ‘reasoning’ that reads more like a religious tract than a court opinion. Keeping it real, Davis is standing for marriage as God intended it, and more fundamentally, is refusing to violate her conscience as a Christian, and that is the issue at hand, not breaking the law as they would have us all believe. Make no mistake about it. Churches, you cannot afford to be merely peeping, or partly sleeping; your time is soon nigh and you must make a stand now. Following Jesus may soon be extremely costly. It is time for the church to make a hit and give us more from the pulpit. God has said that the gates of Hell would not prevail against is church, so the question that must be asked, if the churches today are really based on the church Christ created, if so, pray tell me where is the power? When Daniel became

discouraged, as is recorded in the book of Daniel, the angel told him, not to be discouraged, “these things must come to pass”. As Guyanese do we think that it will come to pass only in certain countries even though we read, and study from the same Bible, regardless of version? If so, we must free ourselves from such a myopic and delusional view. Incidentally, in all the grand scheme of laws and non-compliance there is still one unanswered question: under exactly what law Davis is being commanded to issue marriage licenses to gay couples? Nevertheless, the law regarding the church and its duty/ obligations is crystal clear. The church cannot afford to be peeping or sleeping. In Galatians 3:1 John asks “who has bewitched you”? You have been warned and forewarned. Yvonne Sam

HIGH CRIMES AND... From page 5 the Government’s web site, add a two-part Grant Proposal Form – The Grant Proposal is page one, and an Evaluation after the money is spent, on page two. 3. All agencies or individuals who have received monies from the government in some mutually agreed period of time, between Government and Opposition, will be required to fill out a Grant Proposal,

which states: How much money is need. Why is it needed. How is it going to be spent. What materials/labor involved. PreEvaluate if it will be money well spent. The Evaluation Page, page two, would describe the success or failure of whatever the money was spent on- this will be completed later, and can be referenced for future projects. 4. Some section of an appropriate agency can be

When is a police car... From page 4 that point? And are our police trained to know when they could use firepower and when and how they could avoid it? Can we in Guyana assume that any extended high-speed vehicular pursuit by the police through our streets, with

their guns blazing, must mean that the police were convinced that should the targeted suspects escape, they would have posed immediate or potential dangers to the public far greater than the chase itself and the gunfire? Sherwood Lowe

responsible for examining, collating and e-filing same, for future references. 5. All future request for government funding would have to go through this process. These forms can be filled out online at some legal services store, for a fee of course, or from the government providing assistance, or by some astute UG freshman. I believe that this action would go a long way towards social cohesion. Also certainly remove a lot of time-wasting and money being spent not too constructively. It must be noted that those activities, which can be construed as High Crimes, can now gain the full attention of the appropriate agencies and Court of Law. Albert R. Cumberbatch, Ph. D.

From page 22

PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale, Grove $20M / Rent: $50,000 per month. Tel: 625-5461. Republic Park Phase 1- $48M, Prashad Nagar -$49M, 4 bedrooms -Call:609-2302, 645-2580, 609-6516, Property for sale, business place at Kuru kururu, New Town on High Way- Call: 261-6282 or 676-4787 Pearl: Well built 1,995 SF concrete building on 58X165 lot, formerly used at meeting halls-$13.5M-Tel: 649-1670 Property for sale: House, Campbellville, Georgetown. Call: 223-0733 or 617-0465 Property for sale: House, Craig, East Bank Demerara. Call: 223-0733 or 617-0465 Are you interested in selling your home? Call T &T Realty: 660-9478; 672-0865 North Ruimveldt- 2 Storey Wo o d e n a n d C o n c r e t e house –price $9M-Call: 653-8082 Property for sale: Land, North Klien, Pouderoyen West Bank Demerara. Call: 223-0733 or 617-04 Grove/Diamond E.B.D, next to brand new, 5 minutes from P/Road, fully air condition/ well security. Call: 216-1285; 617-9982 House & Land located @ Lot 17 Pike Street Kitty, location perfect for business & residence for more info call Anwar Rahaman on Tel: 6388513 or 600-8513 House for sale Versailles W.B.D five minutes from Harbour Bridge, price neg. Call:616-0111

TO LET Business apartment for rent at 7 Durban Street Lodge $20,000 per month –Call: 6905796 Kitty 2 Self Contained Bedrooms apartment, cable TV, Internet, parking security cameras-$100,000 monthly –Call: 645-0247 Apartment in Eccles, rooms in Albertown –Call: 225-3234 VACANCY Experienced bartender & Cleaners- Call: 225-8572


Page 24

Kaieteur News

Tuesday September 08, 2015

Two years after fatal accident at Crane Public Road ...

More shocking revelations on the Berbice Bridge…

Relatives call on police to reopen investigation

Private investors get tax-free ride on profits

Two years after a tragic accident claimed the life of 29year–old Asif Iqbal Hussain, his aggrieved relatives are seeking the assistance of the police to have a fresh investigation launched into the incident. The budding aeronautical engineer was the victim of a car accident, which occurred at Crane Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD), on September 6, 2013. The vehicle slammed into a utility pole. Hussain was one of three passengers when it crashed. He was reportedly found in the passenger side of the vehicle. Two others were also found in the damaged vehicle. Hussain was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH). The other passengers were treated at the Woodlands Hospital. No one was charged. However, relatives of the deceased have expressed their dissatisfaction with the initial police investigation. On the second death anniversary, Hussain's relatives are still on a quest to have an adequate police investigation launched into the accident. They are claiming that they were treated badly by the police, during the initial investigation. As such, the family wants the case reopened. One member of the family, who spoke with Kaieteur News over the weekend, recalled that Hussain had purchased the car, seven days before the accident. The relative is holding to the belief that someone should be held accountable for Hussain's death. “He went out with his friends but we are convinced that he was not driving. The car had the most damage on the passenger's side and that was the side he was on. That's the reason he had the most

Asif Iqbal Hussain injuries and died.” She recounted that the family was not even notified of the death until 48 hours had expired. “That alone shows that the police were not doing their job,” she added. The woman noted that some time after the accident she went to check on the status of the investigation

but police claimed that they had not gathered sufficient evidence to charge anyone. “I will always remember the officer, (name given) who told me 'a dead man tells no tale,'” the distraught woman lamented. She believes that with the right attitude the investigation would have turned out better. “My family is still distressed over the incident. We want our wounds to heal and we want closure but the police have offered us nothing.” The family is hopeful that under the new administration something can be done to the case. “And so we are calling on the relevant law enforcement bodies for assistance.” Kaieteur News understands that the Hussain clan has been in constant contact with some of the persons who witnessed the accident. Some of these persons had given statements to the police. “All we want is justice; it's been two years and we just feel more can be done to solve this case,” the woman stressed.

GRA demands millions ... From page 13 any threats.” The new coalition Government said it has been unearthing a number of irregularities involving former senior officials of the previous Government. Currently, the former Minister of Public Service, Dr. Jennifer Westford, is before the courts, facing charges for the illegal transfers of eight vehicles to family members and friends. Her former Assistant, Margaret Cummings was also charged. The transactions reportedly occurred a few days before the May 11 General and Regional Elections which re-

sulted in the PPP/C losing power for the first time in 23 years. Both Westford and Cummings have been questioned too, in a $500M plus fraud at the Ministry of Public Service. The file on the investigations is expected to be sent this week to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for advice. Westford is also being investigated for possible tax evasion for a recreational vehicle (RV) that was imported but wrongly classified, resulting in just $2M being paid instead of the estimated $13M that would have been due to GRA.

As more details emerge over the questionable financial structure of the Berbice River Bridge, there are disclosures that as part of the sweetheart deal, the Bharrat Jagdeo administration granted New GPC and other private investors sweeping tax exemptions on their returns. The bridge is now claiming imminent insolvency unless its tolls are increased or it is allowed to run the structure for 50 years, instead of the 21 years. Investors were guaranteed lucrative rates of returns on their investments between 15 per cent and 23 percent. Those rates would stand out starkly against average rates of about 11 per cent 12 percent that normal investors earn from projects. The Berbice River Bridge Act, assented to by Jagdeo in January 2006, was tailored specifically to ensure that profits were realized. Section 20 of the act states: “All income earned by the concessionaire shall be exempt from Corporation Tax, Income Tax and Withholding Tax for the duration of the Concession Agreement or for the extended periods that the Minister responsible for finance may deem necessary, on being satisfied that the terms and conditions of the Concession Agreement may be amended or varied.” The Act also allowed for all dividends payable to shareholders be exempted from Corporation Taxes, Income Taxes and Withholding Tax. While tax holidays have become a norm for investors, the guaranteed rate of return of 15 -23 percent would shed light on why a number of companies including New

New GPC’s rep on board, Ravie Ramcharitar

New GPC boss, Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop

GPC and Queens Atlantic Investments Inc. (QAII) and Hand-in-Hand Insurance were so eager to jump on board. New GPC and QAII are owned by Dr. Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop, a close friend of Jagdeo. The high returns are now being blamed on the current financial problems that the Berbice Bridge Company Inc. (BBCI). According to the BBCI annual report of 2014, the en t i t y s a w r e v e n u e s increasing by $78M to $1.34B. The losses were $239M, compared to 2013 when it was $289M. Accumulated losses at December 31, 2014, was $1.5B with $571M paid to investors as interest on their returns. The bridge company has been warned time and again that its high repayments to shareholders and debtors were highly unsustainable and could lead to problems. The auditors, TSD Lal and Co., in 2014 annual report, noting that the shareholders’ deficit was $1.1B, warned that company continued to make losses. “Continuation of the company as a going concern is dependent of the ability of the company to make substantial profits in the future and to generate a steady cash flow to meet liabilities as they fall due.” The auditors went further. “We have considered management’s representation and have concluded that there is a material uncertainty that cast significant doubt on the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and, therefore, that it may be unable to realize its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business.” BBCI has written to the state-owned National Insurance Scheme, asking for the 2014 dividends to be waived. The Government of Guyana has been waiving its returns too after BBCI claimed it cannot pay. BBCI is under the microscope now in a stalemate row with Government over reduction in

tolls. The David Granger administration had promised on the campaign trail to introduce measures to reduce costs for the travelling public of Berbice. In his August 10 speech to the National Assembly on 2015 national budget, Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, announced a reduction of $300 from $2,200 for cars. All other categories were reduced by 10 percent. However, BBCI is insisting that it wants to take the matter of the tolls reduction to its shareholders. The new administration has been complaining that the financial structure of BBCI was deliberately done to place control and profits in the hands of a few companies that are predominantly owned by friends of the previous administration. The US$40M bridge was commissioned in December 2008, built largely under a private/public partnership from an overseas loan. The financial structure of the company was deliberately done in a manner to allow the equity shareholders whose investment is less than five percent ($400 million) of the total funds of the company to exercise controlling interest over the company. Of the $400 million, New GPC and Ramroop Group own 40 percent and the Hand-inHand Group 10 percent. NIS has invested $950M in shares but had little say in the affairs despite the 76 percent interest. The other equity shareholders are Secure International Finance Company ($80 million); Demerara Contractors Limited ($40M); Hand in Hand Motor & Life Insurance Company ($40M), and NIS ($80 M). The bridge has been providing a critical link between the city and East Berbice, where thousands and rice farmers and sugar workers live. Government, in face of the stalemate, has announced that it will be introducing river taxis to reduce costs for students and senior citizens.


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 25


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Kaieteur News

Tuesday September 08, 2015

BRAZIL BUS CRASH KILLS 15 At least 15 people were killed when a bus crash on a steep winding road near the Brazilian colonial era town of Paraty. Another 30 people were injured. Some of the survivors were airlifted to local hospitals. The bus was travelling to a nearby beach popular with tourists when it overturned. The stretch of road where the accident happened is notoriously dangerous. It is known locally as “God Help Me Hill”.

Police are still investigating the cause of the accident. Roads in the area would have been particularly busy this weekend as Monday is a national holiday - Brazil Independence Day. Paraty lies between Brazil’s biggest cities, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, and is a major tourist destination. It is a well-preserved coastal town built in the 17th century, surrounded by steep mountains and lush tropical vegetation. (BBC)

New York governor’s aide shot in the head

Mr Cuomo joined the festivities hours after the shootings Violence before the West Indian Day Parade in New York has left one man dead and a top aide to the state governor fighting for his life. Carey Gabay, a lawyer working for Governor Andrew Cuomo, was caught in crossfire at a pre-parade event early on Monday. A 24-year-old man was also shot and killed in a different Brooklyn neighbourhood in a

separate incident. Last year, a man was killed and several wounded near the parade. This time the violence erupted at the J’Ouvert march, a preparade celebration which starts before dawn. At 03:40 local time (08:40 GMT), the 43-year-old Mr Gabay, first deputy counsel to the governor, was struck in the head by a bullet as he walked down the street with his brother. He was in a critical condition. Mr Cuomo described him as a beautiful man who was giving back to his community. Mr Gabay’s wife is expecting

their first child. “I’m the governor of the state of New York, and there’s not a thing I can do,” Mr Cuomo told reporters after visiting his employee at Kings County Hospital. “There’s not a thing I can say, and there’s nothing I can do. And sometimes it just hurts.” No arrests have made been, police said. The main parade itself went ahead on Monday, attended by thousands including Mayor Bill de Blasio, whose wife Chirlane McCray is of Caribbean descent. (BBC)


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 27

MIGRANT CRISIS: Hundreds force way past Hungarian police

The migrants were moving along the motorway which was later closed by police.

scuffled with thousands of migrants trying to cross into the country from Greece. - UN chief Ban Ki-moon, in an interview with the Guardian, said the UN Security Council was failing Syria because it was divided on the issue. Hungary had previously blocked those heading north, insisting they be registered

Hundreds of migrants have broken through police lines on Hungary’s border with Serbia and are walking towards the capital, Budapest. The migrants had earlier broken out of a registration camp at Roszke. About 300 are reported to be walking along a motorway, escorted by police officers. Earlier, German Chancellor Angela Merkel warned that the “breathtaking” flow of migrants into Germany would change the country in the coming years. Hungary has become a flashpoint as thousands of migrants and refugees from the Middle East and Africa move north to claim asylum

in Germany and other countries. The country’s defence minister, Csaba Hende, resigned on Monday, reportedly over problems with the construction of a border fence meant to keep migrants out. IN OTHER DEVELOPMENTS: - The UK will accept up to 20,000 refugees from Syria

over the next five years, David Cameron has told MPs. - Greece has requested emergency EU assistance to deal with migrants arriving from Turkey. - Spanish media say police fired rubber bullets at migrants in a detention centre in Valencia after about 50 tried to escape. - Police in Macedonia

there first as required under EU rules. But it dropped restrictions on Friday after struggling to cope with thousands camping in Budapest. About 20,000 migrants made their way from Hungary into Austria and Germany over the weekend. At Roszke, scuffles erupted as some migrants who

had broken out of a holding centre tried to force their way past police. Stones were thrown at officers, who responded with pepper spray. About 300 managed to run to a nearby motorway, chanting “Germany, Germany”. As darkness fell, they were walking, escorted by police, towards Budapest, 170km (105 miles) away. (BBC)


Page 28

Kaieteur News

Tuesday September 08, 2015

UNC claims voter abuse ISLAMIC STATE conflict: Two The United National Congress (UNC) has filed a complaint with the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC), claiming that voters at a polling station in Tabaquite are being turned unlawfully turned away despite having drivers permit identification. In a letter sent to the Returning Officer for the Electoral District of Tabaquite Carol Deyal at 11.44a.m., the UNC’s representative Ramdeo Ramtahal said the

voters were being denied the right to vote. Ramtahal wrote: “Am the Election Agent for the Electoral District of Tabaquite in the 2015 Parliamentary Elections. I have reliably been informed that the Polling Agents situated at the Happy Hill Hindu School, Reform Village, Gasparillo, located at Polling Station 3355 are denying persons using a Driver’s Permit the right to vote.

Also, when the Polling Agents were informed by the elector of her right to vote the Polling Agents became angry and abusive and the told the elector, “that she would be allowed this time to vote but not in the future”. Further, I was informed that there were other electors in the line to vote who also had drivers permit and the Polling Agents directed her words to them also. I am kindly requesting that you inform the Presiding Officer at that Polling Station of the procedures involved for persons who do not or is unable to produce an Identification Card, that they use a Driver’s Permit but with swearing to the necessary Oath. The EBCs communications manager Dominic Hinds said the national identification card was supposed to be produced. “We don’t recognise a D P. I f y o u g o t t o t h e (polling station) and you don’t have an ID card, they will have a photo ID of you in the binder, providing your name is on the list. (EXPRESS)

Britons killed in RAF Syria strike

Reyaad Khan, from Cardiff (L) and Ruhul Amin, from Aberdeen, travelled to Syria to fight with the Islamic State group. Two British Islamic State jihadists who died in Syria were killed by an RAF drone strike, David Cameron has said. Cardiff-born Reyaad Khan, 21, and Ruhul Amin, from Aberdeen, died last month in Raqqa, alongside another fighter, in the first targeted UK drone attack on a British citizen, Mr Cameron told MPs. Khan - the target - had been plotting “barbaric” attacks on UK soil, he said. The “act of self defence” was lawful, despite MPs previously ruling out UK military action in Syria, the

PM said. Khan was killed in a precision strike on 21 August by a remotely piloted aircraft, “after meticulous planning”, while he was travelling in a vehicle. Another British national, Junaid Hussain, 21 and from Birmingham, was killed in a separate air strike by US forces in Raqqa on 24 August. Both Khan and Hussain had been involved in actively recruiting IS “sympathisers” and plotting to attack “high-profile public commemorations” taking place in the UK this summer, the prime minister said.

The attorney general had been consulted and agreed there was a “clear legal basis” for the strike on Khan, Mr Cameron added. Acting Labour leader Harriet Harman urged the government to publish the legal advice. Downing Street said it was a “long-standing convention that we do not publish advice of the law officers”. ‘Directing murder’ Two years ago MPs rejected possible UK military action in Syria, but last September approved British participation in air strikes against IS targets in Iraq only. However, officials said the UK would “act immediately [in Syria] and explain to Parliament afterwards” if there was “a critical British national interest at stake”. The strike on Khan was “the first time in modern times that a British asset has been used to conduct a strike in a country where we’re not involved in a war”, the PM confirmed. “Of course Britain has used remotely piloted aircraft in Iraq and Afghanistan but this is a new departure and that’s why I thought it important to come to the House and explain why I think it is necessary and justified.” Mr Cameron told MPs: “My first duty as prime minister is to keep the British people safe.” In reference to Khan, he added: “There was a terrorist directing murder on our streets and no other means to stop him. “This government does not for one moment take these decisions lightly. “But I am not prepared to stand here in the aftermath of a terrorist attack on our streets and have to explain to the House why I did not take the chance to prevent it when I could have done.” (BBC)


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

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Sparta Boss and West Front Road... Lewis leads RHT Bakewell ‘A’ to... From page 35 squeezed past the goalkeeper on the near post following a corner three minutes into extra time to separate the teams after regulation time failed to break a 5-5 deadlock. Sparta Boss seemed to be coasting to a win, before Sherwin Vincent’s four-goal spree sent the packed arena into joyful celebrations if you were a Weavers supporter and anxious mode as a Sparta Boss fan. In the end, the experienced Grant settled the nerves of their supporters when he netted the important goal to put them in contention for a prize. Earlier, a brace from the consistent Denis Edwards had appeared as though Sparta Boss was well on their way to securing a comfortable win until Vincent’s heroics. Eon Alleyne and Solomon Austin continued their rampage with a pair of goals each as Festival City made light work of Albouystown. Devon Dooker ’s brace was the only highlight of Albouystown effort.

In the night’s full results: GAME 1: Sophia-5 vs Bent Street-12. Bent Street Scorers; O’Kenie Fraser-5th, 9th, 20th and 30th, Colin Nelson-12th, 24th and 28th, Amos Ramsay23rd, 25th and 29th, Stellon David-2nd and 17th. Sophia Scorers; Dwayne Lowe-4th 6th, 14th and 27th, Omallo Williams-26th. GAME 2: West Front Road-Gold is Money-5 vs West Back Road-3. West Front Road Scorers; Randolph Wagner-6th and 18th, Hubert Pedro-14th and 27th, Michael Oie-23rd. West Back Road Scorers; Teon Caesar-20th and 21st, Josiah

Charles-22nd. GAME 3: Sparta Boss-6 vs Kitty Weavers-5. Sparta Boss Scorers; Cleon Forrester-9th and 22nd, Dennis Edwards15th and 15th (seconds later), Eusi Phillips-13th, Travis Grant-33rd. Kitty Weavers Scorers; Sherwin Vincent14th, 20th 21st and 28th, Travis Martin-24th. GAME 4: Festival City-6 vs Albouystown-3. Festival City Scorers; Eon Alleyne-2nd and 30th, Solomon Austin6th and 19th, Alex Murray7th, Dwayne Lawrence-20th. Albouystown Scorers; Devon Dooker-8th and 14th, Eucie Cummings-24th.

Show Stoppers are Stag... From page 33 boys, the East combination rallied to equalise with a second Jamaul Butts goal in the 83rd minute which effectively meant that the game would end 2-2. West Berbice player Mark Wronge was named as the

Player of the Match. Before the match, the teams were met by BFA officials including Vice President Sherwin Forde who indicated that they plan to hold a tri-series of Under-19 matches, the next encounter will be decided on, shortly.

Tuesday September 08, 2015 ARIES (MAR. 21APRIL 20) Find out all you can; secret enemies may lead you astray. Don't be too quick to voice your opinion. Listen to others carefully.

LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) Make sure that all your legal papers are in proper order. Your lover will be annoyed with your participation. Invite friends in for a visit.

TAURUS (APR. 21MAY 21) You are best to stick to yourself today. You have more than enough on your plate already.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) Don't play on your partner's emotions. Things at work have been moving quickly and you may be feeling a little uncertain about the changes taking place.

GEMINI (MAY22-JUNE 21) Don't be too hard on yourself. Channel your energy into decorating or household chores. CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) You may find your self a bit frazzled if you allow someone to goad you into an unsavory debate. Take time to do some writing, whether it's correspondence, poetry, or keeping a journal.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Someone may try to damage your reputation. Colleagues may try to undermine you. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) You are best to concentrate on work. Don't allow colleagues to stand in your way. Problems with financial investments could make you nervous.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Attempt to face key issues with lovers or problems could escalate. You can ferret out secret information if you just listen to what others have to say.

AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) Your talent will be recognized. You may have the day off but your thoughts will be on your work and your cash situation.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) You could be attracting individuals who are anything but good for you. You mustn't give too much to your children. You haven't been totally honest with yourself and it's time to review your motives.

PISCES (FEB. 20MAR. 20) Residential moves look hectic and sudden changes in your life are likely. You can become obsessed with detail and must be sure to divide your time appropriately. Someone may try to damage your reputation.

From page 33 tournaments.” While Wawrinka escaped the heat unscathed, it was a battle of wills between Halep and Lisicki to see who would be last woman standing.

After dropping the opening set Halep called out the trainer to have treatment on her left thigh and at the end of the second the players left the court when the heat rule came into effect, but through it all

Williams sisters... From page 31 meeting in July at Wimbledon while Venus came out on top when they last met on a hardcourt last August in Montreal. In grand slams Serena also holds the advantage 8-5 and 6-2 when they have met in the final. Serena maintains Venus has always been her toughest opponent and with 11 losses to older sister, nobody has beaten the 21times grand slam winner more. Retired Jennifer Captriati comes the next closet with a 10-7 record while Justine Henin (8-6) and Martina Hingis (7-6) each had six wins.

PRINCE ALI almost... From page 30 took place, but again implied he was considering another bid for the presidency when Davies asked him if he could win the election without the formal, central backing of his own Asian confederation, who’s leadership is backing Platini. However, it is hard to see him collecting so many votes again, especially if UEFA members back their president Platini and the Asian confederation also throws its weight behind the Frenchman. “It is a while till we get to the vote in February, but we will see. If the elections are done correctly, cleanly and properly, without interference, then I believe I can win, for sure.” Candidates with nominations from five national associations must officially register their declarations with FIFA by Oct. 26. (Reuters)

Lumumba cries foul... From page 31 owes for the services he receives he is willing and able to meet his obligations. “If Alpha is culpable and provided we get a fair deal in line with what other entities are being asked to pay we will conform to the demands but it must be fair and in range as what other disciplines are asked to pay,” Lumumba proclaimed. He said he is prepared to meet with officials to settle the matter.

Only a handful of players can claim more than one career win over the muscular American and only two, Belinda Bencic and Petra Kvitova, have beaten her this season. Venus and Serena remain best of friends off the court, sharing a love for fashion and other interests while building separate lives. (Reuters)

the exhausted Romanian was able to gut out a victory. Her left leg heavily strapped, a wounded Halep sensed her opportunity when Lisicki began to cramp in the third set and stretch between every point. Halep, who converted 10 of 11 break chances, claimed the most crucial one to go ahead 4-2 and then held serve to break her 24th seeded opponent again and clinch a spot in the last eight at Flushing Meadows. Italy’s Flavia Pennetta returned to the quarter-finals for the fourth consecutive year easing past 2011 U.S. Open winner Samantha Stosur of Australia 6-4 6-4. (Reuters)


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Kaieteur News

Tuesday September 08, 2015

FIFA 16 release list of top 50 stars including LIONEL MESSI AND CRISTIANO RONALDO EA Sports have released a list of their top 50 players as excitement builds ahead of the launch of FIFA 16 this month, but just two English players and 17 Premier League stars have made the cut. There are a number of new features on this year’s edition, including no-touch dribbling and an improved way to slide tackle, but for now the focus is on player ratings and who ranks where in the top 50. Unsurprisingly, it is Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo who lead the way, with Luis Suarez breaking into the top three, up four from his FIFA 15 ranking. Only two Premier League players make the top 10 in Eden Hazard (6th) and David Silva (10th), with just 17 English-based players in the whole of the top 50. John Terry - at 44 - and Wayne Rooney - in at 36 - are England’s only representatives, but that is still one better than last season when Rooney was the only one present. In last year’s version, the Premier League had 16 players in the top 50, marking 2016’s number a slender improvement on last time out. There are some big movers, and not all positive. Gareth Bale, despite his impressive performances for Wales this week, has struggled at times for Real

Lionel Messi (right) and Cristiano Ronaldo (left) are first and second respectively in the FIFA 16 rankings Madrid, seeing his FIFA ranking slip from 14th to 23rd this year. Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao were in the upper echelons of the ranking system last year in 11th and 12th respectively, but after a season of struggle both have completely dropped out of the top 50. Manchester United fans may think they have a bargain buy in Bastian Schweinsteiger for £14million, but his age has counted against him in this year’s FIFA, seeing the 30-year-old

drop 30 places from eight to 38. There are three changes to the world’s top 10, as David Silva, Thiago Silva and Neymar all move up from their 2015 positions. Andres Iniesta, Schweinsteiger and Franck Ribery are the three men to make way, as they enter the twilight zones of their playing career. Most entrants in the FIFA 16 top 50 play for a top European club - Barcelona and Bayern Munich players, for example, make up five of the top 10. But one nonEuropean entry is that of

Carlos Tevez, currently plying his trade in Argentina for Boca Juniors. The performances earning him the ranking of 27 did come at Juventus though,

with the Argentina striker only moving to his boyhood club in June of this year. Manchester City new-boy Kevin De Bruyne is one of the biggest risers in this year’s edition, making his debut in the top 50. He comes straight in at 28 following his big-money move to the blue half of Manchester, and at the age of 24 is only expected to rise as the years go by. (MailOnline) TOP FIFA 16 PLAYERS 25-1 25: Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal) - 86 24: Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich) - 87 23: Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) - 87 22: Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich) – 87 21: Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus) - 87 20: Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich) - 87 19: Luka Modric (Real Madrid) - 87 18: Mesut Ozil (Arsenal) - 87

17: Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid) – 87 16: Cesc Fabregas (Chelsea) – 87 15: Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich) – 87 14: Toni Kroos (Real Madrid) – 87 13: James Rodriguez (Real Madrid) – 87 12: Sergio Aguero (Man City)- 87 11: Andres Iniesta (Barcelona) – 88 10: David Silva (Man City) - 88 9: Thiago Silva (PSG) – 88 8: Neymar (Barcelona) – 88 7: Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG) – 89 6: Eden Hazard (Chelsea) - 89 5: Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich) – 90 4: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich) – 90 3: Luis Suarez (Barcelona) - 90 2: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) – 93 1: Lionel Messi (Barcelona) – 94

Wawrinka through to quarters at U.S. Open

Ceasar finishes seventh in 100m finals at Commonwealth Youth Games

Stan Wawrinka. Reuters/Adrees Latif

Wiltshire loses in quarterfinals in Squash competition Linden’s sprint ace, Compton Ceasar finished seventh on Sunday in the finals of the 100m in Samoa, at the Commonwealth Youth Games with a time of 10.70 seconds. Ceasar had entered the finals with a personal best time of 10.60 seconds in the first round. According to reports, Ceasar entered the Boys 100m Preliminary Heat after he survived a hamstring injury as a result of someone walking into his path during training. He entered with his time of 11.75 seconds and ran in the first of four Heats, placing third. His third place was done in the personal best 10.60 seconds. He then placed fourth in the semi-finals in 10.72 seconds less than two hours later, before returning for the finals where he was seventh. The Guyanese up-andcoming sprint ace continued in the 200m yesterday and placed second in his heat. Meanwhile, Guyana’s other representative athlete, Natricia Hooper ran in the first of three

Heats of the Girls 400m also on Sunday. She entered with a time of 55.04 seconds and placed fourth with the time of 57.04 seconds, missing qualification for the finals. In Squash where Guyana is also participating, Larissa Wiltshire played her first match in the Round- of-16 against Ellie McVeigh of Northern Ireland. According to reports, she was a bit nervous at the beginning, but made some adjustments to go on to win the game. Wiltshire exploited her opponent’s weaknesses and did a great job of seizing the opportunities which were presented to her. She beat McVeigh 9-11, 11-9, 3-11, 11-6 and 11-2). However, Wiltshire lost 3-0 in the quarterfinals later in the day to the number one seed from Malaysia, Siva Subramaniam. Wiltshire finished ranked fifth to eight and played in the Girls’ Doubles competition yesterday with team-mate, Taylor Fernandes against Malaysia. Meanwhile, Benjamin Mekdeci played Israr Ahmad of Pakistan, who is ranked third to fourth in the tournament and one of the top ten juniors in the world. Mekdeci reportedly started his match well, but eventually lost 11-6, 11-2 and 11-0. Mekdeci played for ninth place yesterday.

French Open champion Stan Wawrinka kept the pressure on to end the threat posed by Donald Young and register a 6-4 1-6 6-3 6-4 victory over the American to reach the quarter-finals at the U.S. Open yesterday. Fifth seed Wawrinka stayed on track for a possible last eight clash against third seed Andy Murray, who was meeting big-serving South African Kevin Anderson in the fourth round. The Swiss shut the door on the 68thranked Young by not allowing the American to reach a single break point in the fourth set. The 26-year-old Young, regarded during his teenage years as the next great American men’s player, had advanced to the fourth round with two epic wins from two sets down. “Some good

moments on the court,” said Wawrinka, who struck a massive 52 winners, including 11 aces, in the match. “Mentally I was there. It was a good win for me.” Four years ago, Young beat Wawrinka in a fifth-set tiebreaker in the second round at the U.S. Open. “It’s a long time ago,” said Wawrinka, who since then has broken through on the grand slam stage, winning the 2014 Australian Open with victory over Rafa Nadal and beating world number one Novak Djokovic in the Roland Garros final this year. The 30-year-old Wawrinka said his victory over Young was his best match of the tournament so far and that he was pleased with how he bounced back after dropping the second set.

“I think I start the third set really right again. I was physically there trying to play again more aggressive, the way I start the match also,” he said. Young, who reached the final at Delray Beach and the semi-finals at Memphis earlier this year, said he was encouraged by his play at Flushing Meadows where he equalled his best grand slam result. “This was a good step in the right direction for me,” Young said. “I think I’m a little more ready to be a little more consistent. “I feel like things are coming around. I really feel like I’m ready to do it on a consistent level and not just do it for a while or work hard for a little bit and then relax. I’m looking forward to keeping it going.” (Reuters)


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

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Newly crowned UBF champion, Gwendolyn PRINCE ALI almost certain to stand for ‘Stealth Bomber’ O’Neil arrives today FIFA presidency again Ranked #1

She rose to prominence in May 2004 after defeating American fighter, Kathy Rivers, for the Women’s World International Boxing Association (WIBA) light heavyweight title at the National Park, Thomas Lands. Since then Gwendolyn ‘Stealth Bomber’ O’Neil has added four other world championship belts to her collection including her most recent achievement, the Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) World female heavyweight title after she pounded out unanimous verdict over Greek fighter, Sonya ‘The Scholar’ Lamonakis on July 4. Now a resident of the United States of America, Gwendolyn is scheduled to return to Guyana this morning to celebrate her latest accomplishment with her country folks. Of more importance though, O’Neil, of Amerindian heritage, will be joining her indigenous colleagues in celebration of Amerindian Heritage Month, currently being celebrated locally. This is a major achievement when one notes that O’Neil is forty-five years old but most importantly the victory propelled her to a number one ranking in the world. While her victory over Rivers had earned her the prestigious world accolade, O’Neil ranks her most recent achievement as one of her most gratifying wins. “So many people have counted me out but through the will of God I have proven

in the world

Gwendolyn O’Neil displays her five belts

them wrong,” she proclaimed moments after the final bell. The victory becomes even more momentous when it is noted that O’Neil has battled ring rust after being absent from the square jungle for nearly four years. During that time her weight had ballooned and she was required to shed more than thirty pounds during training sessions to shed the excess. “I’m a champion and you can never count out a

true champion because I have the spirit of a warrior” she proclaimed. During her prolific career O’Neil has had the opportunity of rubbing shoulders with many great human beings but none can compare to her meeting with the great freedom fighter, Nelson Mandela, whom she met while in South Africa for a fight with Muhammad Ali’s daughter, Laila Ali in 2007 which was aborted.

She enjoys her tenure in the fistic sport but amidst it all Gwendolyn is disgruntled over the lack of respect for females who have taken up the fight game. She lamented the substandard purses allotted to women as against those of their male counterparts but even amidst her dissatisfaction O’Neil has soldiered on for more than 16 years battling the vicissitudes. She compared the purses earned by undisputed World Champion, Floyd Mayweather, over three hundred million dollars in 2015, to those given to top female boxers, struggling to earn even a million dollars for their entire career, and extended the hope that those fortunes will soon change. The bright spot is that O’Neil’s recent victory guarantees her a spot in the Hall of Fame for female boxers and though she has attained a matured age, she continues to perform way above par even as she hopes for a change of fortunes for the women in the fistic sport. Gwendolyn encourages the younger generation to get involved in what they love in the pursuance of their dreams. “Address your tasks with passion and never let anyone discourage your efforts,” she advised. Indeed, coming from someone who has defied conventional wisdom before clinching not one, but five world championship belts, such advice is sacrosanct.

Williams sisters to put family ties to ultimate test Family ties will be stretched to the limit when Serena and Venus Williams clash in a compelling U.S. Open quarter-final today where much more than sibling bragging rights will be on the line. A win by Venus would keep the 35-year-old on track for a first grand slam title since 2008 Wimbledon and a possible return to the U.S. Open final where she first made the final in her debut in 1997. But a victory would end little sister Serena’s quest for the rarest of tennis feats - a calendar-year grand slam. After wins at the Australian, French and Wimbledon, Serena will enter the Arthur Ashe Stadium court just three victories from joining the

exclusive club whose short membership list includes Maureen Connolly, Margaret Court and Steffi Graf. “Pretty clear what’s up for grabs here,” said Venus following her fourth-round win over Estonian Anett Kontaveit on Sunday. “I think people love to see history being made. “No one is out to be a spoiler, but at the same time, you’re focused on winning your match.” Certainly there are no secrets between the sisters who will know exactly what to expect having played each other since they were first handed rackets growing up in the hard-scrabble Los Angeles Compton neighborhood and began an unlikely and inspiring journey

Serena Williams embraces Venus Williams after winning their match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, July 6, 2015. Reuters/Toby Melville to the top of their sport. As professionals they have clashed 26 times with

Serena holding the advantage 15-11. Serena won their last (Continued on page 25)

Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein. Reuters/Phil Noble

The Jordanian prince beaten in May’s FIFA presidential election by Sepp Blatter will almost certainly announce later this week he will stand for the position again at FIFA’s extra-ordinary elective congress next February. Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein on Monday strongly hinted he would stand while speaking to delegates at the Soccerex business convention in Manchester. Although Ali would not confirm his intentions publicly, sources familiar with the developing FIFA presidential campaign later said the prince would definitely stand and would make his announcement later this week. He is returning to the Jordanian capital Amman today before flying to London on Thursday where he is to address delegates at another public meeting. Ali, 39, lost by 133-73 votes to incumbent Blatter who then announced he was standing down from the position four days later after FIFA was plunged into its worst crisis following arrests of its officials and others two days before the election. A fresh election to find a successor to Blatter will be held in Zurich on Feb. 26 and Ali now looks certain to become the third major candidate after declarations from UEFA President Michel Platini of France and former FIFA executive committee member and Asian vicepresident Chung Mong-joon of South Korea. Asked by moderator David Davies if he was a candidate for the presidency of FIFA again, Ali replied: “I am talking to national associations, listening to their opinions and what they see for the future and giving my own ideas. “Right now we need a candidate who is forward thinking and will bring new ideas who is not tainted by the past as well. So what I will

say right now is ‘stay tuned’” Davies asked: “Do I need to stay tuned this week, or for a month?” Ali replied with a broad smile: “Not for very long.” He then expanded on his theme throughout a relaxed 30 minute interview when he stressed time and again the need for a new, transparent FIFA, open to change and widespread reform. And he said that neither Platini, who supported him in May’s election, or Chung, who lost his executive committee seat as Asian vicepresident when Ali beat him in an election in 2011, were ideal future candidates for the FIFA presidency. “I have tremendous respect for Mr Platini both as the UEFA president and a former footballer but at the same time there is a difference between UEFA and FIFA,” he continued. “FIFA is in a crisis and we need a new beginning, and whether anyone likes it or not, Michel Platini’s introduction into football governance was as a protege of Sepp Blatter. That’s the reality. “I have sat down and talked with him, I have listened to his ideas and I think it’s my responsibility to at least guarantee the future is different from the past and therefore I was not very encouraged by Michel Platini.” He was equally dismissive of Chung, who spent 17 years on the FIFA executive committee before losing his seat to Ali four years ago. “The important thing is to have a new beginning,” said Ali, “and to have new ideas and therefore any candidate who has been in the organization for a long time is not what is needed at this time.” Ali confounded many observers by forcing a second round of voting in May’s election after denying Blatter an outright two-thirds winning margin in the first round. He then conceded defeat before a second ballot (Continued on page 29)


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Bolt decides not to race again this year Six-times Olympic champion Usain Bolt has decided not to race again this year after his triple gold medal haul at last month’s world championships in China. “After the excitement of the past few weeks at the World T&F (Track & Field) Championships in Beijing I have decided not to race again in 2015,” Bolt wrote on his Facebook page. The 29-year-old swept all three sprint titles for the fifth time at a major global championships going back to the 2008 Beijing Olympics after an injury-disrupted season. However, he has opted to concentrate on the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games by bringing the curtain down on his season early. “I am already thinking about next year and the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio where I will attempt to defend my titles in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m,” Bolt added. “I will enjoy a short break from training now to recharge before resuming background training next month.” Bolt’s decision means he will miss Friday’s Diamond League finale in Brussels where he was due to race in the 200 meters. “I have competed in Brussels many times over the years and it is always one of the best meets on the circuit. The track is fast and they always

Usain Bolt, pictured after winning the 100m final at the World C/ships, will not race again this year. have a full house,” Bolt added. “I was looking forward to running there this year but I’m happy to end the season without any injuries and ready to go for 2016.” (Reuters)

HAMILTON ON THE FAST TRACK TO TRIPLE GLORY Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone, a man with a strong interest in the title race staying open as long as possible, had feared Lewis Hamilton would have his third world title wrapped up by Monza. If the sport’s 84-year-old commercial supremo had only added the words ‘all but’ when he made the prediction before the season started, he would not have been far wrong on Sunday’s evidence. Hamilton departed the Italian Grand Prix circuit, performing a tyre burnout for the fans on his motorcycle as he left, with a 53 point lead over Mercedes team mate Nico Rosberg in the championship and seven races remaining. In simple maths, that means the Briton does not have to win again this season to join Jackie Stewart as Britain’s only triple champions. With 25 points for a win and 18 for a second place, Rosberg has to hope that Hamilton suffers some of the bad luck the German endured at Monza when his engine blew while in third place with two laps to go. Even that might not be enough. Looking at past performances, it appears to be all over bar the shouting - of which there is sure to be plenty sooner rather than later. The big question now is where will Hamilton clinch the championship, with the United States (round 16 of 19) or Mexico looking possible on current form as the chances of Abu Dhabi hosting another decider recede into the distance as fast as Rosberg’s hopes. Hamilton won five of the six races after Monza last year - Mexico not being on the calendar then - while Rosberg beat him only in Brazil, and even there the Briton finished second. Rosberg has never yet won three races in a row, and only once in his career has he won a race in the second half of the season, and this season he has been battered like never before by his team mate. Hamilton, by contrast, has finished first or second in all but two races this season and it has now been more than a year since he last

Tuesday September 08, 2015

Lumumba cries foul over price disparity at National Stadium The National Stadium, Providence, was constructed in 2007 to facilitate World Cup Cricket matches but over the years has been the venue of choice for football tournaments as well as musical shows. The cost to use the stadium has not been a public disclosure but Head of the McNeal Promotions and President of the Alpha Football Club, Odinga Lumumba, well known for promoting such events, is adamant that he was charged indiscriminately for the use of the venue. As such, he is challenging those administrators to provide documentary evidence to verify equitability among all users of the venue. Lumumba was responding to an earlier article in this newspaper where officials of the Ministry of EducationDepartment of Culture, Youth and Sport singled him out as for non-payment after using the facility. Subsequently, Government officials had published a notice in the newspaper requesting him to settle outstanding debts as soon as possible. “I saw the report in the newspaper and I want to emphatically state that I do not owe any money for the use of the Stadium,” Lumumba pronounced. He labeled the article wicked and erroneous and even

Odinga Lumumba threatened to seek redress at the Court of Law. The head of McNeal Enterprises and President of Alpha United Football Club said that he has doled out millions of dollars in rental fees but felt some measure of discrimination when he booked the venue for two matches under the auspices of CONCACAF and discovered that officials charged other entities far less than what he was required to pay. “That’s discrimination and officials must produce the price structure so that we could determine the equitability of charges,” said Mr. Lumumba. He said none of the officials found it prudent to write him on the

matter even after he had registered those complaints or even after he officially requested that the officials document their concerns. The promoter/manager said that he even suggested a meeting to ventilate recommendations to appease the matter, all to no avail. Mr. Lumumba admitted that he had agreed to pay a certain price but reneged on the commitment after he discovered that there was a disparity of charges. “This is an issue of favoritism; Alpha is asked to pay in excess of one million dollars and my contention is that we need to examine the price structures and how it is arrived at,” ranted Lumumba. He also said that he attempted to have an audience with the two subject Ministers to have the issue resolved but his attempts were futile. “Government should decide on an across the board fee that represents some measure of fairness,” he contends. But wasn’t Lumumba informed of the applicable fees before he actually agreed to it? “What I agreed to is irrelevant; it was afterwards that I discovered that the price was way above what was asked of other organizations and promoters,” he contends. He said that provided officials could verify that he (Continued on page 29)

North Rupununi FA Div. 1 Championships...

Basin F.C and Annai United retain male and female titles Lewis Hamilton. Reuters/Giampiero Sposito suffered a retirement. From Monza last year to this, he has won 13 times in 19 starts and his career success ratio currently works out at one win in every four races. All the signs point to him only growing in confidence, and even more determined to win. The sole wrong move he made all weekend was to fail to remove his headwear, covering his newly dyed blond locks, during a minute’s silence to the late British IndyCar driver Justin Wilson. As he explained later, he had intended no disrespect, he simply had not realized it was happening. Hamilton was dominant at Monza - fastest in every practice session, on pole position for the 11th time in 12 races and setting the fastest lap on a ‘perfect weekend’. The next race is Singapore, where last year Hamilton started on pole, set the fastest lap and won. The Briton has every incentive to do that again - another win would take his career tally to 41 from 161 races, exactly the same number as his boyhood hero and late triple champion Ayrton Senna. (Reuters)

Basin Football Club (BFC) successfully defended their male title on Saturday August 29 in a nail biting final of the North Rupununi Football Association division-one championships witnessed by a capacity crowd at the Annai Sports ground. In a fast paced physical encounter against a determined Kwatamang outfit, BFC left it late, before sealing the game in extra time, hitting the network in a tough clash in the 90+27 minute. A long range free kick from the centre of the field was not taken cleanly by the Kwatamang goalkeeper and the rebound was pounced upon by BFC midfielder Royston Hamilton who calmly slotted home to seal the game just when the match seemed to be headed to the dreaded penalty kicks. Kwatamang up to that point had defended resolutely and attacked with purpose but poor work in the attacking third cost them dearly with a number of chances missed. In the female championship match, Annai United were not in no mood to give up their title as a Jillian Hawker strike from just within the 18 yard box sealed the deal in a high quality match played in blazing sunshine. The tournament dark horse Surama F.C who came into the match trying to derail Annai

United’s quest for a third championship in four years responded to the early goal with a number of quick counterattacks and some blistering shots which saw the Annai custodian being called into action on a number of occasions, effecting a number of brilliant saves. But it was all in vain as the home team managed to hold on until the final whistle to cement its legacy as arguably the best female team in the 15 year history of the championship. The tournament which culminated an exciting two months of football saw the participation of eight male clubs and five female clubs from the North Rupununi. Sponsors for the tournament included the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs, Woodpecker Sports Store, the Regional Democratic Council Region 9, D&D Supermarket and football enthusiast Mike Williams. In addition the Officer in Charge of the Annai Police Station contributed monetary incentives and a quantity of sports gear. The official presentation of trophies, cash prizes and individual incentives will be done on Friday during the annual North Rupununi Amerindian District Heritage celebrations to be held at Rupertee Village.


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 33

Lewis leads RHT Bakewell ‘A’ to Assuria Insurance 5-over title A fine spell of bowling from veteran left arm spinner Rondhall Lewis spearheaded Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘A’ to a nine-wicket victory over West Berbice in the final of the inaugural Assuria Insurance / Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club 5over knockout tournament which was contested on Sunday at the Area ‘H’ ground. Lewis captured three wickets for three runs as West Berbice who drew the bye to the final, were restricted to 49-3 from the allotted overs after they were inserted in front of a large crowd. Openers Keith Fraser (18) and Andrew Dutchin (21) added 44 in four overs before Lewis who delivered the final over put the brakes on the scoring. In reply, Vidal Crandon and Khemraj Mahadeo featured in a first wicket stand of 32 to put their team on course before Mahadeo was run out for 16. However, Crandon who remained unbeaten on 26 and Delbert Kicks (06*) saw their team home with five balls to spare, ending on 50-1. R o s e H a l l To w n Bakewell ‘A’ defeated No. 48 by eleven runs in the lone semifinal. Rose Hall Town scored 52-2 off their allotted overs, batting first. Mahadeo struck 33 not out (4x4, 2x6). No. 48 responded with 41-3. B. Persaud scored 15; Erva Giddings claimed 2-10.

The winning RHT Bakewell team with Assuria Manager Julieann Fraser and Captain, Major James Fraser holding the winning trophy.

Earlier, Rose Hall Town Bakewell A overcame Kennard Memorial by 11 runs, Police Cricket Club beat Rose Hall Town Bakewell ‘B’ by 24 runs, No. 48 got the better of Belvedere by 16 runs, West

Berbice trounced All Youths Cricket Club by 18 runs, Tamarind Roots upset Courtland Cricket Club by eight runs, West Berbice thumped Tamarind Root Cricket Club by 10 runs and No. 48 defeated Police by

nine wickets. Lewis (5) collected the accolades for being adjudged the man of the match in the final, the tournament’s leading wicket taker and the best individual bowling performance. Keith Fraser (65) was the best

batsman while Police opener Philbert Wilburg notched up the highest individual score (36 not out). No. 48 Cricket Club received $20,000.00 and a trophy for the finishing third, West Berbice took home

$30,000.00 and a trophy while Rose Hall Town Bakewell A pocketed $70,000.00 and a trophy. At the presentation ceremony, Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster expressed gratitude to the Management of Assuria Insurance for their sponsorship. He singled out General Manager Yogindra Arjune and Branch Manager Julieann Fraser for special mention and stated that the tournament was organised under the club’s ‘Say No to Crime and Say Yes to Sports’ Programme. Foster disclosed that the club will continue to organise such tournaments. In an invited comment, Berbice Branch Manager Fraser said she was satisfied with the standard of the competition and the coverage provided. The tournament was organised as part of the 45th Anniversary Celebrations of Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club.

Halep beats heat and Lisicki as Young U.S. Open run ends

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imona Halep overcame a thigh injury, baking heat and finally big-hitting German Sabine Lisicki, while Donald Young’s U.S. Open fairytale ended with a fourth-round loss to Stan Wawrinka yesterday. It was Labor Day in the United States but it was certainly no holiday for Halep who had to work for her

spot in the last eight, needing two hours and 38 minutes under a broiling sun to dispatch Lisicki 67(6) 7-5 6-2 and reach the U.S. Open quarter-finals for the first time. Waiting for the second seeded Romanian in the last eight is twotime U.S. Open finalist Victoria Azarenka, who advanced with a comfortable 6-3 6-4 win over

American Varvara Lepchenko. The 26-year-old Young, regarded during his teenage years as the next great American men’s player, had advanced to the fourth round with two epic wins from two sets down but ran out of comeback magic against the fifth seed Swiss, surrendering 6-4 1-6 6-3 6-4. “I think now he (Young) is more the player that he is. He’s

playing his game,” said Wawrinka. “He’s trying to play the way he wants. He’s trying to do things. He’s coming on the court knowing what he’s going to try to do. “Now we have to see how he’s going to go from here also because we all know that in general when he’s playing at home he’s playing better than the rest of the (Continued on page 29)


Page 34

Kaieteur News

Tuesday September 08, 2015

Show Stoppers are Stag Beer/Slingerz FC 5-a-side football champs By Zaheer Mohamed Show Stoppers were crowned champions of the Stag Beer / Slingerz FC 2nd Annual West Side InterVillage 5-a-side football tournament after thumping Admiral 5-1 in the final on Sunday night at Vergenoegen Rice Mill Tarmac, East Bank Essequibo. Though Show Stoppers won handsomely, the game was keenly contested with both teams demonstrating decent skills much to the delight of the large crowd. Marvan Josiah put Show Stoppers ahead in the fourth minute before Dexroy Adams doubled the advantage three minutes later. Josiah who was named MVP of the tournament stretched the lead with his second in the 9th minute after collecting a neat pass from Adams from the right side of the box. Admiral did produced some brilliant moments but Show Stoppers did well to deny them. However Deon Kennedy

slotted home in the 18th minute to give Show Stoppers a 4-0 lead at half time. Admiral improved tremendously after the interval and Devon Johnson gave them some hope with a 25th minute strike, before Simon Emmanuel netted in the 29th to restore the four goal cushion. Admiral increased their pace somewhat in the closing stages, but Show Stoppers managed to keep them at bay; the final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the players and fans. Meanwhile, Show Stoppers beat Samaroo Dam 3-1 in their semi final encounter. Anthony Sancho netted in the 15th and 37th minute while Marlon Josiah scored in the 25th minute for the winners. Kevin Edghill slotted home for Samaroo Dam in the 33rd. The second semi final saw Admiral thumping Vega Champs 4-0, with goals from Lexroy Mainfigo (9th), Rolex Smith (13), Quasi Weeks (19) and Devon Johnson (32nd). Vega

Members of the victorious Show Stoppers team display their prizes with supporters. Champs took third place with a 2-1 victory over Samaroo Dam. Among the other sponsors apart from Stag Beer/Ansa McAl were Golf Motor Oil, First Choice Water, Archie Sand and Store Depot and Double Day

Hotel. In an invited comment, promoter Colin Aaron said he was pleased with the level of discipline and skills exhibited by the players. He added the organising committee is keen in promoting the sport in the area.

According to Assistant Coach of the National Men’s Volleyball team Ian Wills, the 12-man team which will represent this country at the Senior South American Indoor Championship in Maceo, Brazil from September 27 to October 5, participated in a rigorous training camp before the final team was named on Sunday last. The players were selected by Head Coach Levi Nedd along with the s electors to repres ent Guyana which is at the level one (lowest) in Brazil. The Brazilian national team which is ranked level three (highest) will return for a three-day camp from September 18-20. According to Wills the Camp was geared to fine tune all the systems learnt over the past weekend in game simulation exercises before the team leaves for Brazil adding that the Guyanese will put their best foot forward as they

represent the Golden Arrowhead. “The training camp which commenced last Friday evening at the national Gymnasium saw the entire 21-man squad comprising players from Demerara and Berbice go through what we (coaches) considered a very rigorous physical and mental weekend culminating with the final selection on Sunday a f t e r n o o n , ” Wi l l s , a n Administrator and Coach of Castrol Strikers Volleyball Club, explained. He informed that during the period between the next encampment of the team, training sessions will continue to be conducted separately in Berbice and Demerara. The Captain will be named when the players return to Camp. “The Berbicians will be under the guidance of Coach Nedd, who is from that County while I will look after those from Demerara” Wills disclosed. “While the general idea is to win the tournament in

Brazil it like Guyana playing Brazil in Football or Guyana playing Australia in Cricket so we will try to get a many positives out of the trip as possible and gain experience and exposure at that level, the former National Volleyball player added. “On the developmental level, the one week training course being conducted by International coach, Julio Morales of the USA which is specifically aimed at the development of young players is ongoing and is expected to conclude on tomorrow,” Wills told Kaieteur Sports yesterday. Meanwhile, as the Guyana Volleyball Federation continues its drive to make the game respected on the world stage, its president, John Flores is scheduled to depart for the South American Congress in Brazil this Thursday. Among the issues Flores intends to raise at the congress are, promises made by the world governing body FIVB to establish a

Berbice ends 2-2

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Wills says Volleyball camp was rigorous By Sean Devers

East and West U-19 match in

John Flores development center in the Guiana’s which Flores believes Guyana is in the best position to house. Other matters to be addressed will be the promise made by the regional body CSV to provide coaching assistance through an international coach who will reside in Guyana between six months to one year. The Guyana team: Quacey Matheson, Jason Seelochand, Ian Baggot, Trevlon Mc Rae, Shemroy R o s s , S a m u e l F r a s e r, Khemraj Singh, Creston Rodney, Vance Harding, Cleveland Peters and Wendell Austin.

he Berbice Football Association (BFA) series tournaments and matches continued before a small but vocal crowd on Sunday at the Burnham Park ground in New Amsterdam. The combined East Berbice team had to pull out all the stops to eke out a 2-2 draw against their more aggressive counterparts from West Berbice. The West side had their Eastern neighbours under pressure from the start and was rewarded with an Akimo Watts goal to go one up in the 20th minute when East blundered in their defense. However, the boys from the East realized that they had a match on their hands and fought back strongly with Jamaul Butts scoring the first of a brace of goals in the 41st minute to level the score a 1-1 at half time. The second half continued in similar fashion with the West side boys attacking relentlessly as they heaped pressure on the East side. This resulted in their second goal which came off the boot of Matthew Doris who was alert enough to pounce on a dropped ball from goalkeeper Hosannah in his attempt to save from a cross. Again under severe pressure from West side (Continued on page 29)

ROAD WARRIORS AND FELLOWSHIP secure final berths

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oad Warriors and Fellowship will clash in the final of the Den Amstel Cultural Big Player Organisation annual inter-block football tournament on Sunday. Road Warriors defeated Back Street 2-0 in their semi final matchup played on Sunday last with goals from Andre Hector and Gavin Grayham. Previously Fellowship overcame West Coast Masters on penalties after they were held 2-2 at the end of regulation time. The tournament is being sponsored by Len’s Craft Optical, A. Forrester Lumber Yard, Naylon Newland, James Bond and S and S Stationery. Admission to the venue on Sunday is $500.


Tuesday September 08, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 35

GT Beer / Petra Organisation Futsal

Sparta Boss and West Front Road survives; Bent Street, Festival City exhibit ominous form

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ne thing is certain, one of t h e p r e tournament favourites will definitely make it to the final of the inaugural GT Beer / Petra Organisation Futsal Competition by virtue of their semi-final meeting which will occur tomorrow e v e n i n g , a t t h e C l i ff Anderson Sports Hall. Sparta Boss and West Front Road are set to engage each other in one semi-final, while Bent Street and Festival City square off in the other and both encounters are anticipated to be intensely fought as they battle to reach the championship round. In quarter-finals action

Sophia’s Joshua Kamal attempts to dribble the ball out of his goal area in their encounter against Bent Street on Sunday. on Sunday evening, before a large crowd, Sparta Boss and West Front Road ‘Gold is Money’ survived two bruising affairs against Kitty Weavers and West Back

Road respectively to set up the dream match with the winner guaranteed a final spot. The most impressive performances of the night came from the other two

GFF takes case against FIFA to Court of Arbitration for Sport The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has taken its case against world governing body FIFA and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) on the eligibility of Garvin James who played for the St. Vincent and the Grenadines National Team in the World Cup Qualification match against Guyana which was played at the Providence Stadium June 14. Through Attorney-atLaw Sanjeev J. Datadin, the GFF filed an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, Switzerland on Thursday September 3. According to a release from the GFF, the Federation contends that James was not the holder of a St. Vincent and the Grenadines Passport at the time the game was played as was required by Article 19(3) of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Regulations. At the time of the game James was the holder of a United Kingdom Passport. He had a stamp inserted in the passport indicating he was a citizen of St. Vincent and the Grenadines by descent. This, according to the GFF, is a violation of the said Article 19(3), which recognises a passport as the

only form of valid proof acceptable. FIFA’s Disciplinary Code Article 55 (1) states that “if a player takes part in an official match despite being ineligible, his team will be sanctioned by forfeiting the match and paying a minimum fine of CHF 6,000.” If the GFF’s challenge is successful it would mean the Guyana Team – Golden Jaguars - would advance in place of St. Vincent and the

Grenadines. The match played between Guyana and St. Vincent and the Grenadines ended in a 4-4 draw with the latter team advancing on the away goals rule. The playing of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines versus Aruba on September 4-8 is no bar to the imposition of a penalty by CAS on the St. Vincent & Grenadines team and for Guyana’s team to rejoin the competition. On June 16, the GFF had filed a complaint to FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee and was informed on July 29 by the Disciplinary Committee that, “after careful examination of all the requested information and documentation, it was considered that no further intervention was necessary in such context.” The GFF then followed up with an appeal to FIFA’s Appeals Committee but was once again notified that it was not a party to the relevant proceedings and would therefore not be eligible to appeal. FIFA further added that an appeal was lodged against a letter issued on July 29 by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and not against a decision of the Committee. The CAS appeal is expected to heard and determined shortly. (GFF)

semi-finalists Bent Street that subjected the previously efficient Sophia unit to a comprehensive shallacking, while Festival City looked equally devastating in their demolition of Albouystown. Before what was undoubtedly the largest turnout of the tournament, Bent Street led by the sharp shooting O’Kenie Fraser,

who lashed in four goals to go with a hat-trick each from Colin Nelson and Amos Ramsay, proved too strong for a game, but evidently outgunned Sophia side that was missing the experienced Sheik Kamal. Also displaying ripping form was Stelloin David, whose mesmerising skill was too much for the

opposition to handle and he booted a brace in the win. Sophia’s leading marksman Dwayne Lowe tried desperately to keep them in the game, but his four-goal effort and a solitary strike from Omallo Williams was insufficient to stop the rampaging Bent Street juggernauts from progressing. In the second game, it took some brave counterattacking by Randolph Wagner and company to hand West Back Road victory over a resolute West Back Road side. Apart from Wagner’s brace, Hubert Pedro supported with a double as well, while Michael Oie added the other goal. Tean Caesar with a pair and Josiah Charles a single strike completed West Back Road’s tally. The most exciting game of the night involved Sparta Boss and Kitty Weavers and it took a Travis Grant shot that (Continued on page 29)


t r o Sp

Ceasar finishes seventh in 100m finals at Commonwealth Youth Games Wiltshire loses in quarterfinals in Squash competition

Guyana’s Commonwealth Youth Games contingent in Somoa.

Gwendolyn O’Neil during the Guyana Folk Festival celebrations in NY City.

UBF World champion, Gwendolyn ‘Stealth Bomber’ O’Neil Ranked #1 in the arrives world today

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