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September 21, 2019 - Vol. 13 No. 37

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AFC wants Opposition to support extension of election deadline in parliament; PPP says “No!” President Parties reject 'veiled threats' still to consult

by ABE countries Cabinet on - Support call for early elections

election date

Falling apart?

Abrams Zuil Secondary School on the Essequibo Coast is reportedly not in the best condition. In June, a falling board hit a female student in the head, and just last Tuesday, a shed attached to the school building collapsed. Fortunately there were no injuries in that incident. Parents, students and teachers have expressed serious concerns about safety.

Govt. operating There is no quick outside the rule fix to end blackouts of law - Bar Association - Minister Patterson

Orinduik discoveries place spotlight on attractiveness of - TT shallow water explorationGeologist

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Saturday September 21, 2019

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Orinduik discoveries place spotlight on attractiveness of shallow water exploration - TT Geologist S

By Kiana Wilburg

ince 2015, much of the attention has been on the deep water exploration and subsequent discoveries by ExxonMobil. But the spotlight certainly has to be shared with the exploration potential Guyana's shallow water now holds for prospective oil majors says Geologist, Anthony Paul.

During an interview with Kaieteur News, the Trinidadian said that his comment comes on the heels of recent oil discoveries made at the Jethro-1 and Joe1 exploration wells on the Orinduik Block by Tullow Oil. The Geologist explained that in a petroleum system, you need four things to find oil. He explained that one needs a source rock which is rich in organic matter and has been buried deep in the earth, under the right conditions for it to have been heated under pressure for a long time to convert the organic matter into oil and/or natural gas.

Paul then said that a reservoir rock would be needed. He explained that this rock has pore spaces between the mineral grains that make up the body of the rock, into which spaces the oil goes, displacing water that would have been trapped when the rock was formed.

For the oil to move from the source rock to the reservoir rock, the Geologist said that there needs to be a “migration path,” such as a fault or a permeable rock, connecting the source and reservoir.

Paul added, “Then finally, you need a seal that traps the oil within the reservoir rock, preventing it from leaking out via another migration path. These elements have to be in place with the right relative timing for all conditions to be favourable. But what Tullow is finding is that the oil has found a migration path from the deeper parts of the Guyana basin, to the shallow parts, into the much younger Tertiary age reservoirs.”

Paul explained that Tertiary aged rocks are much younger than those of Cretaceous age. He highlighted that the reservoir rocks that ExxonMobil made

Trinidadian Geologist, Anthony Paul

most of its discoveries on are Cretaceous. Paul noted however that Exxon has also found Tertiary reservoirs, but all their discoveries for those have been in deep waters.

The Orinduik discoveries Paul noted, are of younger Tertiary age rocks and in shallower waters. The Geologist said that these discoveries have proven that there are migration pathways from the older Cretaceous source rocks to the younger Tertiary rocks and from deep water to shallower waters (Jethro and Joe). He said, “It therefore raises the question of whether there are other shallow water discoveries to be made.”

Further to this, the Trinidadian explained that shallow water exploration and oil production means cheaper costs. Citing drilling as an example, Paul noted that the rigs used for deep water exploration are very expensive when compared to what is needed for shallow water. He said that deep water rigs are very expensive since they are very specialised. Similarly, production systems are much cheaper, with the use of fixed platforms, rather than Floating Production,

Storage and Offloading facilities (FPSOs) and associated, expensive subsea completion wells.

Further to this, the geologist said that a deep water rig cannot be anchored on the sea floor, as such; it requires a very specialised, computer-controlled system of multiple thrusters, pushing in different directions, with variable force, to maintain position.

He explained that this is the case with other vessels that are needed for deep water projects such as Floating Production Storage and Operating (FPSO) vessels.

Paul said, “They have motors that are dynamically positioned and the thrust changes depending on the current and it is computer driven. So you can imagine that it is very expensive to keep it stationary but if you are in shallow water you can

anchor these things to the ground with cables or by driving piles into the sea

floor. It is much cheaper to do. So the beauty about shallow water is that it is

cheaper to produce and the time for production is significantly reduced.”

In addition, since these are more common activities, Paul pointed out that more of the engineering, fabrication and operations support work can be provided from within Guyana and by Guyanese, thereby increasing the level of local content.

The Geologist added, “While shallow water exploration has the advantage of being cheaper to produce, deep water has the advantage of more (continued on page 30)

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Kaieteur News

Saturday September 21, 2019

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

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

EDITORIAL

Oil attack T

he headline was not comforting: “Saudi attack photos implicate Iran, US says; Trump hints at military action” (New York Times, September 15). There are so many fuses running out of string over there in the Middle East that the slightest misjudgment could lead to a conflagration.

The language is careful, but an impatient edge has crept into the public expressions. One can only imagine the degree of heat behind closed doors. Standing down may not be an option, even amid conflicting signals. The hawks grow ferocious.

This is pushing things too far; this is testing the resolve of the US and its Saudi partner. Both are struggling, rather unconvincingly, with restraint.

There is fear that weakness is conveyed or open invitation tendered for more such attacks. Anyway looked at, it is a big problem.

The problem is that retaliatory action, no matter how limited, is sure to unleash a chain reaction of counter contingencies that may then be unmanageable. Another promise, more of a threat, came from the supposed Yemeni rebels, of additional attacks on the sensitive vulnerable Saudi Arabian oil industry.

A new dangerous dimension introduced to previously off-limits facilities. Such would be unpardonable and cannot go unpunished long.

Intelligence and satellite evidence are being pieced together, and in American minds they point unerringly in one direction only, Iran. As of today, the die is drawing closer to being cast, with hostile voices indicating a battery of weapons employed against the Abqaiq complex — “a lot of them,” according to one senior US official. It fuels beliefs that “such would indicate a degree of scope, precision and sophistication beyond the ability of the Houthi rebels alone.”

Now the talk is blunt: “Saudi Arabia oil supply was attacked,” the US leader said in a tweet.

“There is reason to believe that we know the culprit, are locked and loaded…but are waiting to hear from the Kingdom as to who they believe was the cause of this attack, and under what terms we would proceed!”

Though brandished before, “locked and loaded” represents an increasingly tougher, more inflexible commitment; almost foregone, and dangerously so.

“Iran wants to show that instead of a win-lose contest, Iran can turn this into a lose-lose dynamic for everyone,” said Ali Vaez, head of the Iran Project at the International Crisis Group. “Plausible deniability is a trademark of Iran’s pushback strategy,” Mr. Vaez said. None of this holds out strong hopes of finding solutions this time around. Lose-lose means unpalatability and “plausible deniability” lacks believability. The stakes were raised higher Saturday.

The Wall Street Journal warned that the “Saudi attack is the big one” (September 15).

The hawkish Journal, which saw the firing of John Bolton as caving in towards softer approaches, in true business fashion turned its attention to the impact on markets.

The worry is that there will be immediate escalations in the world of energy prices. That was on the money, with oil prices taking off and pressure building for more price spikes.

That was bound to happen, when in one fell swoop, some “5.7 million barrels a day of output, or some 5% of world supply, had been taken offline as a result.”

Whoever is the intellectual sponsor and ultimately responsible, this much is incontestable: oil facilities - be they production networks or laden tankers or pumping stations - all possess the vulnerability of sitting ducks. In truth, they are near defenseless.

Mere rumours of this seizure or another strike could send the energy markets racing towards a hundred dollars a barrel. Guyana beware!

Pain easing and returning.As the Journal pointed out, “traders may now need to factor in new risks that threaten to take not hundreds of thousands but millions of barrels

IAC joins the clarion call for President Granger to announce a date for election DEAR EDITOR, In light of the decision and consequential orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) handed down in June this year, elections, as triggered by the December 21, 2018, successfully passed noconfidence motion (NCM), should have been held by September 18, 2018, unless there was a vote by twothirds majority of Parliament to extend that timeframe.

There was no such vote and the caretaker government, which was in place over the past three months, is now unconstitutional. Its breach of the constitution has been noted and pronounced upon

by Guyanese and leading members of the international community.

The Indian Action Committee (IAC) is therefore

gravely concern over President David Granger’s continual insistence that he is not in defiance of the constitution. His pronouncement, as recent as September 19 and just after members of the international community issued its statement, that he and his administration are abiding by the constitution, can only be interpreted as another attempt to grossly mislead.

Having failed to act within the confines of the CCJ’s ruling, the APNU/AFC Coalition has not only brought the country into an unnecessary constitutional crisis, but has placed it and all Guyanese at risk of the consequences of possible international sanctions as critical developmental support could be withheld.

This is not good for our nation and its people.

The IAC shares the common view that the current political impasse can only be resolved through the holding of national and regional elections.

On September 19, the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), officially informed Mr. Granger of the longawaited timeframe for when the elections can be held.

Mr. Granger, having insisted that he will announce a date only after being informed by the election body, is now deprived of excuses to not do so. The IAC joins the clarion call for him to announce the date without any further delay and urges, in the interest of democracy, that the APNU/AFC coalition immediately ceases its disregard for constitutional provisions.

The IAC also urges that all democratic and constitutional rights, including the right to protest for the restoration of the rule of law, must not be impinged upon or threatened in any form.

Mindful of how the effects of the prevailing uncertainty will impact Guyana and Guyanese, the IAC remains hopeful that our hard-won democracy will be safeguarded and the constitution adhered to.

The IAC also calls on all stakeholder bodies and Guyanese citizens to raise their voices in calling for the constitution of Guyana to be respected in the context of peace, harmony, justice, and national unity.

Yours sincerely, Saira Alli IAC Secretary

Is this yet another ploy to delay the holding of tions. tions. election? munity.

Is this yet another ploy to In fact, the American, BritIt remains to be seen how DEAR EDITOR, The Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission Ms. Claudette Singh has finally indicated to President David Granger GECOM’s readiness to conduct General and Regional Elections by the end of February 2020.

The fact that the date coincided more rather than less with that of the Governmentnominated Commissioners has not escaped the notice of the political opposition and the wider international com-

ish and European Union (ABE) countries though happy with the announcement by the GECOM Chair, have also expressed concern over the failure of the Granger administration to call elections within the constitutionally due date.

One consequence of the current conundrum with which the current administration has found itself is that it could stand in the way of critical developmental assistance to Guyana by western na-

soon a date for elections would be announced now that GECOM has indicated to the President its capability to hold elections by the end of February. It is now not possible to hold elections before the end of February, which goes way beyond an earlier commitment by President Granger to hold elections by November 2019.

President Granger has indicated that he now has to consult with his Cabinet before he names a date for elec-

delay the holding of elections? Time will tell. In the interim, the country is put in a state of abnormality and political uncertainty. Critical developmental assistance from major western nations could be curtailed and major investments in the oil and gas sector could be put at risk.

It is time to put Guyana’s national interest above partisan politics.

This will be the true test of political maturity.

Hydar Ally

Jagdeo Bonaparte - a Lesson in Overreach DEAR EDITOR, In September 1812, Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte’s triumphant but bloodied army entered Moscow having defeated the Russian forces at the battles of Smolensk and Borodino.

But the city was deserted and Napoleon waited a whole month expecting Tsar Alexander - as the defeated party - to sign a peace agreement as was the convention at the time.

The Tsar never appeared.

With winter approaching, Napoleon and his army marched home over scorched earth, which provided no food

for his troops or horses, amid bitterly cold weather, all the while being harried by Cossacks and the Russian peasantry.

When they finally reached Poland, his 600,000 strong “Grande Armee” - the largest ever assembled - had been reduced to 27,000 soldiers.

It was the beginning of the end for Napoleon who within two years was exiled to the island of Elba, his empire in tatters.

Why the history lesson?

Let’s just say Bharrat Jagdeo’s victory on December 21 was his Moscow mo-

off the market at a time.” It promises to be a rollercoaster ride.

Unfortunately, that would not be a joyride for Guyanese workers, families, producers, and consumers.

They already struggle feebly against a tide of political senility, business uncertainty, and price instability.

War may erupt over this development in Saudi Arabia; it may be the opportunity long sought by the fundamentalists on both sides. This means the struggles of living locally will intensify, if only from the sweep and reach of events. First stop: the cost-of-living environment.

ment. He mistakenly, naively thought that the government having lost the no confidence motion would play by the conventions and meekly submit to elections within 90 days. Instead, it has been Jagdeo who has been in full retreat, enduring endless skirmishes in the courts and most recently losing the key battle within GECOM over the house-to-house registration and the timing of elections.

So as of today, nine months after that triumph, no election date has been an-

nounced and Jagdeo and his clique within the PPP/C march in the rain, weak and outflanked by a President who has played a patient long game, even as he was fighting cancer.

Just like Napoleon, Jagdeo will have learnt a hard lesson in overreach.

Sadly, it is the people of Guyana who have had to endure his fateful decision to bring that motion which many view has been the most destabilising act in Guyana’s recent memory.

Yours sincerely Albert Russell

Wolves in sheep’s clothing DEAR EDITOR, The white man is at it again, “DIVIDE AND CONQUER”, they will never stop their nefarious ways until people in countries like Guyana come to their senses.

The statement they put out yesterday was a deliberate effort to cause mayhem and confusion while they quietly rob the poor souls of Guyana (GOD HELP DAT COUNTRY).

Colin Grant

Saturday September 21, 2019

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE US, UK AND EU AMBASSADORS DEAR EDITOR Who died and made you people God? What gives you the right to dictate to a constitutionally elected President of our country as to what he must and should do? If my memory serves me correctly that chain was tossed on May 26, 1966.

I was so angry, dismayed and confused by this display of your temerity and disrespect that I had to remind myself about the function(s) of an Ambassador when appointed to a foreign country.

To my great surprise, I discovered that his or her duties include Treaty Negotiations, Immigration Discussions, Foreign Aid Projects and Humanitarian Programmes.

In addition, they supervise and lead all foreign services employees in the country, which they are assigned to; they also aid citizens of their country travelling in that foreign country.

The point here is, those Ambassadors are not in those countries to demand or direct a duly elected President to follow their demands or directives. In Guyanese parlance, this level of disrespect is termed “R—s Pass” not “Eye Pass”.

Allow me Editor to address these Ambassadors individually.

While pointing out the speck in the Guyanese eye and ignoring the boulder in their own.

It’s no secret with the immediacy of the information available in the 21 century world, the goings on in all and every country in our world is at our fingertips. As a result, the social chaos that defines America is on blast. The all knowing Caucasian is witnessing their country imploding under the so-called leadership of a brainless, incompetent, loud mouth masquerading as President, Donald Trump.

One who violates the law at every opportunity, he is presently embroiled in a ‘ whistle blower scandal ‘in which the Director of National Intelligence is defying Congressional request to turn over information on Trump’s contact with a foreign leader.

Not new, as he has on numerous occasions instructed his insiders to defy legal requests from Congress for information.

Mostly young White Americans are gunning down citizens or planning to, after

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH DEAR EDITOR, The attempt of David Hinds to say that Guyana is a special place when it comes to the way that rules of the political game should be applied is indeed laudable for a man of his intellect. In any reasonable environment once the rules of the game has been agreed upon those rules must be applied to evenly to everyone. Here in Guyana, the rules have been agreed upon by all parties who participate in government so they cannot cry foul when those rules have to be applied. The inability of the parties to accept the consequence of the rules they agreed upon leaves a very unpalatable taste in the mouths of the citizens who have no recourse because no one is representing them. Both of the major political parties had an opportunity to change the rules of the game that would reflect inclusiveness and all the other things that they both so fear but they both refused to do so.

This shows a level of hypocrisy that is unmatched-in its silliness in how the political game is played. I think at this juncture the citizens should say enough is enough set up an interim government and exclude the two major parties from participating- they have caused nothing but despair for Guyana.

This would allow us some space to make a proper Constitution and choose proper leaders who will be held accountable to the rules they sign up too. If we don’t have a rule base system, we can never hope even with all the oil in the world to achieve first world status.

Rafeek Ferouz

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being arrested with more arms than the army at an alarming rate, one would think the US Ambassador would focus on advising her government on fixing these pressing issues plaguing America rather than directing Guyana’s President as to what he should do. Fix the boulder in your eye and LEAVE US ALONE with our speck!

Now for our erstwhile Masters the British. On June 26, 2016, 52% of Britons voted to withdraw from the European Union.

As of September 2019, the resigning of a Prime Minister as a result of this vote, still no resolution and from the look of things your country is no closer to one, and in fact will not be come October 31, 2019.

And it may very well costs the present PM his job. You or your allies in Brussels are no closer to a solution than your Prince is no closer to telling the truth about consorting with underage girls at his late buddy’s private Island in the Caribbean, New York and in Britain no less.

Leave us alone, please!

Clean up your own house before meddling in ours.

The US, Britain and Brussels have your own internal issues to attend to, do so.

Everyone knows why Jadgeo wants to be the power behind his hand-picked President, one word, OIL. A look at HIS party in power after 23 years and particularly during his tenure as President is enough to put the fear of God in all Guyanese.

Let me remind you Mr. Power Drunk of this eternal Guyanese proverb, “Moon a run till day ketch am”.

Claudeston G. Massiah

The Constitution is the heart of any democratic country DEAR EDITOR, One of the happiest days of my life (before the day that my daughter was born) was when Forbes Burnham died.

To me, that man was the worst and most evil person who had ever lived. He took it upon himself to take our freedom and to decide what the citizens of this beloved country should own to some extent or even worse of all what we should eat.

Nobody does that to me, nobody. I hated everything about him, except when I got the message that he had died.

I can’t (and really don’t care) to even remember the year or date that he died, I was a lad then and I was just glad that he had died.

However, every era has its share of experiences and if a person is smart and fairminded you can put things in better perspective as you get older and be able to compare and learn from events of the past. Even realise that you made some mistakes in judgment of people or places that you were affected by.

That being said, in retrospect, I probably owe Mr. Burnham an apology, he had some steadfast core values and not everything was bad about him. I’ll explain in a bit.

Fast forward to present day, in fact, let’s back up a bit to December 2018. As we all know, a no confidence motion was carried against the Government by the Opposition mainly because of severe neglect of the citizens, the ill and tyrannical use of power and unbelievable blatant corruption by them in such a short time. It became too much to bear by anyone of sound mind and integrity. Something had to be done to stop them

before it was too late for the country to recover.

Thankfully, the no confidence motion was validly passed in the National Assembly on the 21st December, 2018 and the government was toppled. Here is where an incredible chapter in history begins. President “Credible Elections” Granger boldly announced soon thereafter, that he and his government would respect the result of the no confidence motion.

As per normal in any democratic society, the cabinet has to resign, parliament dissolved and elections held within 90 days.

The government then adopts a caretaker mode until another (or incumbent) president is sworn in. Nothing difficult to understand there...well for the average person I should say. No confidence motions are nothing new, unusual or shameful, it has happened many times in the past and will happen many times more in the future in many parts of the world. So, as the law prescribed, elec-

tions were to be held in Guyana on the 31 March, 2019.

Today is the 18th September, 2019 over eight months after the motion was passed and nothing near to honouring the constitution or the simple rule of law is even attempted or in the making by this government!

Forget the corruption, forget the stealing of tax payers’ money, forget the excessive waste of government funds, blatant abuse of power and total neglect of the citizens which was the very instrument that triggered the no confidence motion in the first place! Forget all of that for a bit, let us just deal with the solid facts here.

Soon after publicly announcing that the government would respect and abide by the decision in the National Assembly they took action to appeal!

The honorable Speaker of the House upheld his decision.

They then moved to the (Continued on page 6)

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Granger Praised for Leadership DEAR EDITOR, While supporters of the opposition forces (parties) are disappointed (and even utter words of condemnation) that President Granger has not announced a date for election as mandated by the constitution, his supporters have praised his leadership for acting in their interests and of those of the APNU (PNC) party.

While supporters of the opposition parties are praiseworthy of Bharrat Jagdeo, Anil Nandlall and others for putting up a strong fight for elections, supporters of the coalition are pleased that their government has kept the opposition at bay from capturing political office irrespective of the method used to achieve that objective.

Party supporters and those running the government and benefiting from being in government want to retain power and will advise a date that achieves that goal.

Anyone who studies political science would know that a ruling party (any party for that matter) and its leadership (President or Prime Minister) act in the best interests of its supporters – attend to their needs to retain the base and pursue policies that would enhance re-election.

President Granger (and his PNC dominated government) has done exactly that for which his supporters applaud him.

Critics (political scientists, in particular) also consider him as politically astute for deliberately taking his own sweet time in calling an election and stretching the meaning of clauses in the Burnham constitution, something his predecessors failed to do when exercising power.

Political scientists (schol-

ars who study politics as a profession) feel Granger acts and behaves like he is in charge of a nation unlike his predecessor.

He acts like a man in command who knows what he wants for his people.

He pursued policies not worrying what the opposition thinks about them.

And unlike his predecessors, he embraces critics to win them over. Political scientists are critical of Granger but they applaud him for his leadership capacity and ability to act in the best interests of his people.

A political scientist would tell any ruler to act in the interests of those who voted for you. And Granger has done so.

Granger is on a mission or goal for his supporters, and he pursues it regardless of what the opposition thinks or what the international community says.

He acts decisively not fearful of consequences. Political scientists suggest that would be successors should take a lesson from the page of President Granger in exercising power.

On an election date, in the parliamentary system, an incumbent calls an election when it is advantageous for re-election.

A ruler does not call an election or makes decisions (pursue policies) to benefit the opposition.

Thus, Granger has not responded haphazardly to or allowed himself to be pressured

by GECOM’s announcement that it will be ready to hold an election end of February.

It is reported that Mr. Granger consults with top advisors (experts, specialists, strategists, tacticians, and pollsters) for recommenda-

tions when it is best for him to schedule elections to enhance re-election.

Can the same be said of his predecessors or those aspiring to unseat him? Granger does not act “willy nilly” or by “vaps” in setting a date for election.

He threads carefully, methodically, and decisively to choose a time period for election that will improve his party (supporters’) chance at reelection.

He studies the various options and gets the best advice.

No amount of goading or pressures (from the opposition or diplomats) would change his mind or expedite his decision making in setting the election date or divert attention from his acting in the best interests of his people.

Granger will announce a date soon when it suits him and not when the opposition feels it is best for it.

He will take his own sweet time and fix a date for elections to maximise his chance at an outcome favorable to APNU (PNC).

He has the armed and police forces and the bureaucracy to back him whenever he decides to hold elections.

As pointed out by political scientists, unlike his predecessors, Granger has put trusted supporters and retired army personnel (who are/were his friends) in strategic positions to help him win re-election.

His supporters are rallying with and showering praises to him. And political scientists feel Granger has earned kudos for the manner he has exercised power since being put into office in May 2015.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

The Constitution is the heart of any ...

From page 5 High Court.

That court upheld the decision.

They then moved further to the Court of Appeal (someone there probably got nicely paid off) and that ruling was in favour of the government.

Here now the Opposition was forced to counter with several lawsuits in order to protect the Constitution of Guyana and approached the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) for a final decision.

There the case was held expeditiously I should say and the CCJ upheld the rules of the Guyana Constitution and they handed down the judgment.

The clock started ticking again on 18th June, 2019. Plus, the (CCJ) ruled in favour of the Opposition that the chairman of GECOM was illegally

Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

appointed by “Credible Elections” Granger! Due to shame the illegal chairman almost immediately resigned. After immense pressure by the Opposition we finally got another chairperson of GECOM whom Mr. Granger is taking credit now for “working expeditiously” with the Opposition in appointing!

This government is shameless and low and it is always possible for them go even lower and be worse than the outer limits of worst.

Here is where I will make reference again to Mr. Burnham.

He was a tyrant and a dictator, he (along with his right hand Granger) allegedly rigged elections in the past.

However, Mr. Burnham was honourable and wise enough to always remain within the laws and the Constitution of

Guyana. Mr. Burnham was never ruling in any illegal capacity for even one minute.

He had integrity and obeyed the law.

Thanks to this retroactively illegal (now absolutely illegal) government, we definitely have our place marked by this dirty bunch.

It is really unfortunate for us that throughout history only infamous people and events are synonymous with Guyana. Nobody knew Guyana years ago unless you mentioned Jim Jones.

Now on this 18th day of September, 2019, we will be famously remembered once again as the first country to boldly disobey the rule of law and the constitution, which is the heart of any democratic country.

Sincerely Shane Lindie

The crown of dictatorship will not be allowed to rest easily on Granger’s head DEAR EDITOR, On the 19th September 2019, Guyana’s past, present, and future flowed in perfect confluence; as we protested David Granger’s breach of our Constitution and his embrace of dictatorship, I could feel the presence of the Professor with the afro and the dentist with the common touch in our midst; that powerful energy surge I experienced running behind Dr. Walter Rodney being tempered by the wise, patient pragmatism of Dr. Cheddi Jagan. I walked into the protest with two comrades, Quacy and Karen, both in their thirties and full with the strength of conviction. The struggle of our past had become our present and with me were the leaders of our future.

The rain had delayed our arrival and as we arrived on the scene, the riot police were using their shields to push a group away from the entrance of the Pegasus parking lot, an activist lay on the ground after being pushed hard and he refused to move, the police were grabbing at him as he was shielded by other, I threw myself in the mix as the police dragged the activist aside and pushed at us with shields and poked at the women with batons. We offered measured resistance, up close I could see there was no ill-will borne by the forces, the men were embarrassed by the orders to suppress the protestors; there was no zeal to inflict bodily harm as we experienced with Burnham’s goon squads in the past.

Quacy had a different experience, as I splintered to join the small vocal group; he walked on to join the main group and was waylaid by members of the special branch who detained him out of our sight. “What was a young

black man doing with ‘these people’?” he was asked, did he not have better things to do than protest a ‘black government’? The Special Branch picked on the wrong man, Quacy responded with his accustomed quiet, strong logical arguments that saw tension diffused and a new understanding reached by the inquisitors. I quoted Rodney for them Quacy said, “Because it is a system of class oppression, it only camouflages its class nature under a racial cover. And in the end, it will move against anyone irrespective of colour. In the end, they will move even against their own.

Because, don’t believe if you are a member of that party today, that you will be protected tomorrow from the injustices. Because when a monster grows, it grows out of control. It eats up even those who created the monster. And it’s time that our people understood that.”

Quacy was released and allowed to join the main protest group.

Karen is a member of the PPP and joined the protest without incident. Inside the venue, another leader, Bishop Juan Edghill led a courageous group that stood up to Granger; among them was Dave Danny, a longtime member of the People’s National Congress, who shouted across the lobby at a Granger. “You are destroying our country, you are stealing our democracy”, this at a man whom Danny worked with until earlier this year and whose (Granger’s) undemocratic actions forced him (Danny) to crossover to the People’s Progressive Party.Irfaan Ali made an impassioned speech about the barriers that used to protect the people now being

used to protect a fledgling Dictator as he pledged to fight with every bit of his strength to force a return of parliamentary democracy in our dear land of Guyana.

Late last week, I was contacted by another young man, he had gotten a job on the Liza Destiny and he wanted me to know of the conditions of his contract and work. While I was appalled to learn that he was expected to work twelve hours a day, twenty-eight days at a time, for seventy-two thousand dollars per month, I was heartened by his strong desire to represent the rights himself and his fellow workers, many of whom were scared to speak out. I secured legal representation for my young friend, whom I understand will be ‘helicoptered’ off the Liza D, after being labeled a ‘troublemaker’ for saying First lady Sandra Granger visited and did not even care to speak to any of the Guyanese working below deck, “they don’t care about us, only how they look in pictures”.The spirits of our leaders departed must be resting easier with the knowledge that the people of the present, led by PPP presidential candidate Irfaan Ali and Opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo are fighting for democracy; and the leaders of the future, Edghill, Quacy, et al. are enduring a baptism of fire that will sear their consciousness and guide their actions in pursuit and protection of democracy and our Constitution, well into the future. The crown of dictatorship will not be allowed to rest easily on Granger ’s head. A luta continua; a vitória é certa!

Respectfully Robin Singh

The foreign diplomats should offer an apology to all Guyanese DEAR EDITOR, As a Guyanese, I feel very much offend by the recent joint statement made by our foreign diplomats on our internal political affairs. This statement flies in the face of our independence, threatens our sovereignty and disrespected every Guyanese. Our mutual respect and ability to cooperate has been wounded. These diplomats have been way out of order and we must let them know in no uncertain manner. Their pronouncement on the constitutionality of our domestic affairs and election date has overstepped even what the CCJ and recently what our Chief Justice refused to do. Our constitution is not a one clause says it all. Each clause must act with other clauses to give meaning and guidance to practical outcome.

How can these learned diplomats acted so recklessly? It is being said in some corners that had it been President Forbes Burnham, these diplomats would have been on their way

to the airport.

The truth is Guyana Election Commission lacks the capacity at this moment to deliver credible snap election. How could these diplomats fail to recognise this?

The mention of possible effect of aid and other benefits from their respective countries is a slap again in the face of every Guyanese again. This must be blamed on some politicians whose behaviour is unpatriotic and will stop at nothing to personally gain power.

Their vulture’s behavior has been embarrassing this country and may be wholly responsible for the statement emanating from our foreign diplomats. But mutual respect should have guided these diplomats’ pronouncement. I believe that these diplomats should offer the Guyanese an apology so we can maintain mutual respect and cooperation in future endeavors.

Yours sincerely C. Woolford

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Kaieteur News

AFC wants Opposition to support extension of election deadline in parliament; PPP says “No!” The Alliance for Change (AFC) is calling on the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) to head to Parliament and support an extension of the Constitutional deadline stipulated by the No Confidence Motion.

Passed on December 21, 2018, the Constitution grants three months within which elections must be held, lest the country move into uncharted waters.

It has been six months since that deadline passed, and the President has finally been empowered by Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chair, Justice Claudette Singh S.C., to declare a date for General and Regional Elections.

Minister of Public Security and Leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan, during a press conference yesterday, told reporters that the party is comforted by the fact that the joint statement issued to Guyana by the US, the UK and the EU, did not call the coalition Government an illegal one.

He continued, adding that the AFC welcomes the announcement by the GECOM Chair. Ramjattan said that there are two requirements to

solve any unconstitutionality. The first, he said, would be for the President to name a date for elections.

The AFC is of the view that all Constitutional requirements have been adhered to by the Government and the President thus far.

“The next Constitutional requirement to ensure that the elections 2020 are held without being challenged is the requirement to get approval from a two-thirds majority of the National Assembly as is required by Article 106 (7).”

And for that, Ramjattan said, the AFC will urge the Opposition to ensure “full Constitutionality” of the upcoming elections, by granting its support in Parliament.

According to the AFC Leader, the Opposition “must not be seen to be frustrating this necessary Parliamentary support”.

But the PPP has no intention of granting that extension.

This was reiterated during a recent press conference of the Parliamentary Opposition yesterday, where Gail Teixeira told reporters that Parliament is “dead”.

She stated that the Parliament consists of the Presi-

[From left] AFC Treasurer, Dominic Gaskin; AFC Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan; AFC Executive Member, Cathy Hughes dent, the Cabinet, the Executive, the Speaker and the National Assembly. Since the Constitutional deadline has long passed, Teixeira is of the view that there is no National Assembly with the power to grant such an extension.

She said that, if an extension were to be granted, it should have been done within the three-month period

after the No Confidence motion was passed, adding that when the Opposition met with the President in early March, the Opposition delegation

had informed the President that they were willing to grant the two-thirds vote needed in the National Assembly if he agreed to call an election date

by April 30, 2019. But the President, according to Teixeira, ignored that.

“So theres no recourse back to Parliament. It is over.”

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Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

Govt. operating outside rule of law - Bar Association -American Chamber joins calls for immediate fixing of elections date The Bar Council of the Bar Association of Guyana yesterday said it is condemning the failure by the Government of Guyana to hold general and regional elections within the period mandated by Article 106(7) of the Constitution, which is the supreme law.

“By failing to abide by the clear and unambiguous terms of the Constitution, the Government of Guyana has abdicated its responsibility, violated the Constitution, is operating outside of the rule of law and in breach of internationally recognised standards of democracy,” the lawyers’ body said.

The statement would come as a deadline of September 18th has elapsed for the holding of early elections, brought on by the historic December 21st noconfidence vote.

On Thursday, chair of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh, disclosed that she has informed President David Granger that the earliest elections can be held is at the end of February.

President David Granger has said that he is awaiting advice from GECOM to fix a date for elections.

The Bar Council

yesterday, in its statement, noted that in its judgment in the consolidated noconfidence cases of July 12th, 2019, the Caribbean Court of Justice said that the meaning of the constitutional provisions requiring elections is clear and it placed the responsibility of honouring those provisions on the constitutional actors in Guyana.

“The Bar Council also notes that while the court did not order elections, it expressed its expectation that constitutional responsibilities would have been exercised with integrity in keeping with the unambiguous provisions of the Constitution bearing in mind that the no-confidence motion was validly passed as long ago as 21 December 2018.”The association stressed that the constitutional duty and responsibility of the President was to fix a date for elections within the three-month period set out in the Constitution in the absence of a Parliamentary extension of that period.This extension, the Bar Council notes, was not sought and/or obtained before the period expired.

“The constitutional duty and responsibility of the Guyana Elections Commission was to be ready

to administer and supervise elections within the time encompassed by the threemonth period so as to comply with the Constitution.”

Meanwhile, the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana (AMCHAM Guyana) said it supporting the joint statement from the Ambassador of the United States of America, Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch; United Kingdom High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn and the European Union Ambassador to Guyana, Fernando Ponz Canto, in calling for the President of Guyana to immediately set an elections date in full compliance with Guyana’s constitution.

“The Chamber notes that prolonged periods of uncertainty can have dire consequences on business and investor confidence in Guyana, especially foreign investment.

Guyana’s reputable standing within the International Community will be tested if democratic principles give way to partisan politics. The Chamber, therefore, calls upon the President to abide by the Constitution of Guyana and the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to set an elections date immediately.”

Head of the Bar Association, Teni Housty

President of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham), Zulfikar Ally

Cops seek enhanced CCTV footage of suspects who visited slain chef - friend further detained

Detectives seeking to identify Andre Gordon’s killer(s) were yesterday still working to enhance closed circuit television (CCTV) footage of individuals who had visited the US-based chef shortly before his body was found.

One of the visitors is a still unidentified woman who had accompanied Gordon into the Station Street, Kitty house, while the other is a 51-yearold friend, now detained, who visited Gordon last week Saturday, but said he never entered the premises.

Police yesterday received clearance from the High Court to further detain him as they check out his alibi.

“These men have been pals since school days,” an individual who is close to the friend said yesterday. “They never had any problems, such things (the friend harm-

ing Gordon), would never happen. We are trusting that he will be released.”

According to an official, investigators hope that enhanced security footage would also enable them to identify Gordon’s female visitor and ascertain if other individuals visited him.

CCTV footage in the area confirmed that the now-detained friend had visited Gordon.

Security camera footage also showed Gordon and a woman, believed to be a foreign national, entering the same residence last week Friday night.

The woman is seen leaving alone the following day.

Gordon, 51, is believed to have been murdered sometime between last week Friday

night and Sunday.

A post mortem revealed that he was manually strangled from behind. Investigators are certain that the attacker was a male.

It is believed that the killer(s) carted off money and other valuables from the premises.A friend discovered Gordon’s body on the kitchen floor at about 09:30 hrs on Sunday.

The victim was naked, and his wallet and short pants were on a nearby chair.

There was no sign of forced entry to the house, but a sliding door and grill door were unlocked.

Gordon reportedly arrived in Guyana on September 9, to train some local chefs.

He was scheduled to return home last Tuesday.

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Kaieteur News

One thing leads to another!

If the government has evidence that the protestors who picketed outside of the Pegasus Hotel, last Thursday, had engaged in acts of violence and had held persons hostage in their vehicles, this evidence should be produced.

Social media is ubiquitous, and it is most likely that if there was such evidence, it would have already been posted on Facebook. There are pro-government provocateurs who would have been most willing to spread such coverage like the spread of the wildfires in Brazil.

Nothing has been made public which established thuggish behaviour or hooliganism. The PPPC has denied the allegations that its protestors were engaged in hooliganism.And on top of that, there was this clumsy statement made by the PNCR blaming the GMSA for the disruption of the President’s speech. One remembers a few years ago, PNCR protestors descended upon a PPPC meeting in Buxton and made such a din that the speakers could hardly have been heard.

The PNCR therefore has no moral authority on this issue.

Neither does it have its facts right.

What is true is that the PPPC supporters, both inside and outside of the protests last Thursday, were boisterous. The PPPC’s actions in disrupting the President’s address were in bad taste. But neither was against the law.

If it is the case that a Minister was held hostage for half an hour, then the large numbers of police which were outside of Pegasus Hotel on that day should be sent packing.

If they could have allowed something like that to happen, then they should not be on the job, and their failure to protect the Minister would amount to a dereliction of duty.

People have a right to protest. It does not matter how high one’s office is, everyone can be subject to peaceful and law-abiding protest. The right to protest is protected under the Constitution.

The PPPC was protesting an illegal government.

Guyana now has the only unconstitutional government in the world. Three of the major diplomatic missions in Guyana have issued a statement stating that the government was unconstitutional and this would affect its support for the country’s development. The claim of illegality was therefore not contrived. We have reached this stage, because the government was not complying with the provision of the Constitution which required it to have elections within three months.

The excuse about GECOM is poppycock. Once a date was named, GECOM has to be ready and could have been ready. Administrative arrangements cannot take precedence over a constitutional mandate. GECOM’s mandate was supposed to be secondary to the naming of a date for elections.

One of the dangers of the events in Guyana over the past year is that the violation of one right under the Constitution could signal the violation of other rights. Any government which does not respect one right under the Constitution cannot be

trusted to comply with others.

Guyanese have had experience of this. There was never any ban against wheaten flour between 1980 and 1985. There was an import restriction, which meant that you needed a licence to import flour. Yet when the police held you with flour, they did not ask you for a licence. They simply seized the commodity and threw you in the lockup.

When in 2017 it was pointed out to the government that its appointment of Justice James Patterson was in violation of the Constitution, the government made all sorts of fanciful statements.

When the Court ruled that it is not mandatory for a judge to be appointed, the government made comments to the effect that the Court had its interpretation and the government had its own. The government was going down a slippery slope and it spelt danger for the Guyanese people, as later events confirmed.The government did not resign and call elections after the passage of noconfidence motion last December. Instead, it went to court to defend its failure to resign. What we have had is a clear case of contempt for the Constitutional provision which insisted on the resignation of the government and the holding of elections within three months.

And this is the danger which faces Guyanese. The violation or disregard of one Constitutional right inevitably leads to contempt for other rights. This is why the public has to take seriously any attempt to holding fast and loose with the Constitu-

Dem boys seh

More telephone cable coming and GTT vex There was a time when Guyanese use to pay through dem nose to talk to relative overseas. Sometimes dem had to wait three days before dem could get de call. That change, but Guyanese end up wid de highest telephone rates in de world.

GTT was de only telephone company, then anodda one come in. De price fuh cell phones drop immediately. That is wha competition does do. Now GTT complaining about anodda competitor coming into de market.

E-Networks laying a subsea cable from Barbados and GTT seh de E-Networks operation could jeopardise GTT operations. Dem boys seh that is alright, because

GTT gun be able to tek less money from de poor Guyanese people.

GTT try to stop people from mekking overseas calls pun Skype, WhatsApp and Messenger.

Dem try to block de system but dem fail. All dem was seeing was that people trying to save money and de telephone company didn’t like that.

It refuse to liberalise de system to allow anodda telephone company to run landlines to people homes.

That would hurt dem internet service, because a lot of de internet coming by de landline service. Cathy try. She promise that GTT would cut a deal since last year December. That ain’t happen. She hoping that she can tie up this deal by

Christmas.

Dem boys seh she don’t know GTT. That is why dem don’t care is who bringing in de subsea cable. At least it gun keep money in Guyana. GTT shipping out millions of dollars every month. It hardly spending in Guyana.

De company that bringing de cable is a Guyanese company. All de money it mek will remain in Guyana.

GTT don’t like that. In fact, once de foreign company that own GTT see it money cut, it gun start to cut some of de jobs in GTT. Dem boys welcome this cable. It can’t come fast enough.

Talk half and let more people bring in subsea cable.

tion.

Guyana’s constitution has been ‘roughed up’. It has been shoved around over the past nine months. It is bruised and battered. Unlike the government, it cannot defend itself. It requires the voices of citizens to protect it. But when half the country is prepared to ignore constitutional violations or to stay silent in the face of such violations, then the Constitution passes for a piece of tattered paper.

The failure of citizens to demand that the government comply with the Constitution will come back to haunt them, because as we are now see-

ing, persons exercising their democratic right to protest are being labelled as hooligans, thugs and hostage-takers.

There are other rights which have come under threat during this first term of the APNU+AFC coalition. There were concerns over freedom of expression. There was a case where private citizens were put under surveillance undertaken by army ranks, one of whom died during a car chase on Carifesta Avenue.

The issue of holding elections in accordance with the Constitution is therefore not an isolated issue. One viola-

tion of the Constitution can lead to others and we know what can happen in such cases. People can be subject to arbitrary arrest. Their movement can be restricted; their privacy invaded and they can be victimised for speaking out and protesting legitimately.

We must not return to those days!

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

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Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Chicken story at KFC and Royal Castle

W

ell things hap pen in Guyana; we don’t like how and why they happen but we accept them. And life goes on. On Thursday night, our microwave oven began to smoke from the cord in the point in the wall. The technician advised we buy a new one.

So I knew Friday morning (yesterday) would be a busy day for me. Unless you are rich in Guyana, you just don’t walk into an electronic store and buy an item. At least I don’t do that, never did that

and will never do that. You can save thousands, yes, thousands, if you shop around.

So Friday morning I visited several stores to price a microwave oven. It took up a lot of time, but you save a few thousands, and I did save that amount. My wife called to say she was cooking fried rice and I must buy fast-food chicken to go with it. That same morning I had to do a few errands for my wife’s relatives from Wakenaam.

I was through with the city by 2pm. If I was going to

buy chicken, then I had to buy breast for my dog, since I forgot to take out her meat from the fridge for my wife to cook. This dog is crazy about fast-food. I live across the road from the KFC in MovieTowne’s compound.

“Can I have a serving of chicken popcorn and one piece of breast, original, madam?” The young lady politely said, “Sir, the breasts are very small.” She showed me a piece and asked if I still wanted it. “Well if it is that small, should you not give me two pieces instead of one for

the same price?” She showed no facial expression and just said, “No Sir, we cannot do that.”

I told her that I live one minute drive from Giftland Mall, so I was going to buy the breast there, and she could keep the popcorn and I would return shortly for it. I took my dog for her customary morning stroll and I shopped for the microwave with her. So I parked closet to the southern entrance of the mall so I could reach Royal Castle quicker than from the western entrance.

This uniformed gentleman came up to me; “Sir, you cannot park there, if Mr. Beepat see you park there, you know what will happen to me.” Of course I know. I know my country very well. I told him it was a very hot day and my dog was in the car, so I have to leave the engine running with the AC on, therefore I don’t want to park far away.

He was an understanding fellow. He simply asked me to be quick.

“Can I have one piece of breast, original madam?” You are not going to believe what the cashier at Royal Castle told me. When you read what

she said, you will automatically accuse me of embellishing my account here. I swear on my parents’ grave what came out of her mouth is the truth.

“Sir, the breasts are small, but I can give you two pieces for the same price.” What a contrast in the way different people treat customers. So I stopped by KFC to pick up the popcorn. I told the cashier what happened at Royal Castle. I showed her my bill, asked if she would like to see the two pieces of breasts, and requested to see her supervisor to advise that KFC copy the practice of Royal Castle.

She told me the supervisor was tending to stocks.

I thought I would write about this contrast, because in Guyana there is no functioning consumer rights organization.

It cannot be fair treatment of customers if you are paying a specific price for a specific size of breast and it so happened that one day the breasts are tiny, then how can you sell that for the same price?

My daughter often bought Mario’s pizza on Middle Street. She liked the

Frederick Kissoon “veggie lovers” order that carries black olives. Many times, they told me they don’t have black olives, but they do not substitute another item and the price is the same.

New Thriving on Main Street sells an order name, “New Thriving fried rice.” It has several components including prawns. On one occasion they told my wife they didn’t have prawns. So I said, “Well should you not add a replacement?” She said they didn’t have the authority to do that. I don’t know if I am knocking Guyana wrongly because that happens in other countries. But such a policy is not fair to customers.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Sunday September 08, 2019

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News

Sunday September 08, 2019

Sunday September 08, 2019

Kaie

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Coalition unveils development plans for next decade at GMSA luncheon P

resident David Granger on T h u r s d a y afternoon, attended the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA)'s annual business luncheon held at the Pegasus Hotel.

Despite a short delay during which protesters interrupted his presentation, the President, who was the guest speaker, outlined the ten major sectors of development which will aid economic development at the launch of the Decade of Development: 2020-2029.

“My Government is looking to the future.

Guyana is entering a new phase of economic development. The advent of petroleum production, next year, will result in sustained expansion of the economy.

Petroleum revenues will be prudently managed to ensure sustained benefits to all sectors of the economy.

The 'rising tide will lift all boats'. We will launch a Decade of Development: 2020-2029. The 'Decade' will witness the emergence of a world-class education system aimed at ensuring that the best skills are available for economic development,” President Granger said.

The 'Decade' will include at least ten major sectors of development, inter alia, the President said pointing to education reform. He said education reform will ensure that the education system is more reflective of the needs of our new economy; access to information technology and of course, the promotion of social cohesion.

The Head of State said the 'Decade' will see economic expansion, diversification, restructuring, including value-added manufacturing and food security. There will also be focus on energy security and the transition to renewable and clean sources o f e n e r g y a n d environmentally sustainable management of our natural resources.

Additionally, President Granger announced that empowerment of regional and local communities, a promise made prior to the Coalition entering office and on entering office, within less than a year, Local Government Elections (LGEs) which had not been held for over two decades, was held. The LGEs were held twice in four years of the Coalition Government.

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES “We will continue to empower regional and local communities… We held Local Government Elections (LGEs) in 2016 and 2018 and we will continue to abide by the Constitution by holding LGEs when they fall due.

We will not be establishing any interim management committees.

We will not be removing any elected Neighbourhood Democratic Committees,” the President assured.

The Head of State also said efforts will be maximised to eradicate extreme poverty, destitution and homelessness.

“We will emphasise infrastructural expansion, not only in terms of

President David Granger responds to questions posed by some members of the business community. Also photographed are Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, (left of President); Mr. Clinton Williams, President of the GMSA, and Minister of Public Infrastructure, Mr. David Patterson (backing camera). highways and bridges, but in term of aviation and riverine transport, in particular to serve the hinterland communities of Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine,” said President Granger.

The President said too that emphasis will be placed on internationally competitive trade and investment; ensure and enforce national and border security, human safety and the development of our international relations to protect our sovereignty and territorial integrity; and strengthen institutions especially in light of constitutional reform to ensure good governance.

President Granger referenced the fact that after more than a decade, there has been an inability to appoint a (continued on page 25)

Kaieteur News

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Saturday September 21, 2019

GMSA apologises to Granger for - Jagdeo, Ali sought to incite disruption at luncheon violence against President T

he Guyana Manufacturing and Service Association (GMSA) yesterday apologised for Thursday's disruption by Opposition representatives during a luncheon at the Pegasus Hotel.

The apology to President David Granger would have come hours after Opposition representatives who were seated at the forum started chanting loudly and were waving placards, forcing security officials to surround them and later escort them out.

Government and other officials have opined that the GMSA may have had knowledge of the planned disruption. The Opposition say that the protests were part of the pressure to force the government to fix an

elections date early, in compliance with the law and the December 21 s t noconfidence vote.

Yesterday, the GMSA in a public statement apologising to President Granger, said its Executive Board “wishes to express its sincerest apology to you for the distressing public display of bad manners exhibited, with the obvious intention of disrupting our luncheon. Our association prides itself as a responsible member of the private sector with a mandate to interact with the Government of the day, irrespective of party allegiance, in enhancing a necessary partnership towards the process of social a n d e c o n o m i c development.”

The GMSA, however, made it clear that while it

- Ministry of the Presidency

Police outside the hotel's fence with protestors on Thursday. fully accepts the concept of public protest, it must be within a democratic context.

The body said it cannot condone protestors using the confines of private property to voice their concerns in such a boisterous and unruly manner.

“The political opposition was informed that they would be invited to air their views at our next luncheon which is due shortly, hence we view their behaviour yesterday as an outright affront to our belief in fairness, impartiality and openness to all opinions in our society.”

The GMSA told Granger that his speech was well received by those present.

Earlier, the Ministry of

the Presidency was loud in its condemnation of what it described as hooliganism, thuggery and lawlessness.

“The Ministry of the Presidency has taken note of the hooliganism and thuggery displayed by the Opposition People's Progressive Party (PPP) and its supporters and associates, on Thursday, September 19 2019, outside and inside the Pegasus Hotel, where President David Granger was the guest speaker at the a n n u a l G u y a n a Manufacturing and Services Association's business luncheon.”

The gates were lined with protesters, with police forced to cordon off the area and block several city streets

President Granger (backing camera) who was interrupted during his speech at the GMSA luncheon, is seen here waiting for order to return

in the Kingston area, leading to the Pegasus Hotel.

“The lawlessness exhibited is not akin to a democratic political protest, but rather was a display of gross disrespect for the President, his Office, the Government and the occasion that was being held at the time.”

According to the Ministry of the Presidency, peaceful and civilised protest action is common in any democracy, but it becomes a sign of worry when a Presidential Candidate and a former President, who is a constitutional office holder, seek to incite violence against the sitting Head of (continued on page 23)

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Saturday September 21, 2019

Ogle Airport commissions $70M taxiway A section of Taxiway Foxtrot

O

gle Airport Incorporated ( O A I ) o n Thursday afternoon commissioned a new $70M taxiway called “Foxtrot” at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport (EFCIA) in a simple ceremony that was held adjacent to the said taxiway.

Present were members of the media, CEO of the airport Col. (Ret'd) Anthony Mekdeci, Kit Nascimento, who performed the duties of Master of Ceremonies, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Jaipaul Sharma, and Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) Mr Egbert Field.

The CEO's address was delivered by Nascimento, as the CEO though present was unwell.

During the address, Nascimento said that “The Eugene F. Correia Airport is in rapid transition to meet the requirements of Guyana's fast moving oil and gas industry. Thanks to His Excellency President David Granger and the Commissioner of the Lands and Surveys Commission Mr Trevor Benn, the airport has

acquired a 50-year lease so that its sub-lessees will enjoy more confidence in their significant investments.”

He went on to say that the airport has engaged with the GCAA to have an area built where helicopters will be housed separately from fixed wing aircraft.

The operators Air Services Limited, Trans Guyana Airways, and Jags Aviation Incorporated have all adopted the initiative and are all currently in the process of constructing helicopter aprons in preparation for the oil and gas sector.

He further explained that construction of Taxiway Foxtrot which connects Taxiway Bravo and Charlie to the main runway, in keeping with the airport's single runway system, commenced in March this year and the works were completed in August.

The taxiway which is 200 metres long by 15 metres wide will improve efficiency of aircraft taxiing to and from the runway to reduce the occupancy time of the runway.

Its Pavement (continued on page 24)

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Differing opinions expressed on GMSA's role in PPP/C “ambush” on President

C

entral Executive Committee member of the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR), Rear Admiral (Ret'd) Gary Best, is accusing members of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) of aiding and abetting the opposition People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), in “ambushing” President David Granger at the GMSA's business luncheon hosted Thursday at the Pegasus Hotel.

During the PNCR's weekly press briefing, Best stated that “It is clear that this entire thing was orchestrated by the GMSA in an attempt to embarrass the president.”

On Thursday, some 300 protestors and supporters of the opposition, PPP/C, gathered outside of the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston.

Some PPP/C officials, among them Bishop Juan Edghill, were in the Savannah Suite, where the luncheon was being hosted.

He and other PPP/C supporters sat peacefully as onlookers. The placards they

eventually unveiled were apparently concealed in their jackets.

President Granger had described the outside protests as “hooliganism” while he made his speech.

And Edghill responded by shouting, “What is hooliganism?”,before the commotion erupted.

Best, who is a former army Chief of Staff, was keen to note that, “In our view, the protest was orchestrated to embarrass the president, and to create a platform for the PPP to further embarrass this government. The party's position is that the [PPP/C] behaved like hooligans.

They conducted themselves like hooligans outside of the event”.

When questioned about what evidence he possessed that would support his claims, Best responded, “The proof is in the negligence that occurred.

You are holding an event where the President… that His Excellency is going to be attending. One of the things that the GMSA should have done was contact the

security services. The GMSA should have ensured that there was safety and safe passageway for the people coming in”.

He went on to state that persons from the GMSA should have anticipated the protests. “The evidence is clear in what occurred. It is difficult for the party to believe that the GMSA had nothing to do with it.”

H o w e v e r, G e n e r a l Secretary of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Mr. David Patterson shared differing views on what took place during the GMSA luncheon.

He said that he does not believe that the manufacturing and services association had anything to do with the protests that were staged.

Patterson said that when he attended the event, he was the “fourth or fifth person to be welcomed into the Savannah Suite”. He related that a few minutes later, he saw the opposition members enter.

“Their presence [there] was not unexpected, they've done it already. I indicated to the GMSA early that these

GMSA apologises to Granger for disruption at luncheon From page 18 State and Ministers of the Government, during the execution of their official duties.

The ministry was referring to the presence for former President Bharrat Jagdeo and his party's presidential candidate, Irfaan Ali. “The events of Thursday, go against our country's social cohesion agenda and serve as a reminder that we have to safeguard our democracy. Holding the Minister of Foreign Affairs, D r. K a r e n C u m m i n g s hostage in her vehicle for over half an hour and blocking the smooth ingress of Minister of Public Infrastructure, Mr. David Patterson, all while hurling threatening and foul remarks, are entirely unacceptable and should also be condemned by all right-thinking Guyanese.”

The ministry said that the President assures all

Guyanese that every lawful measure will be taken to guarantee the safety of Ministers of Government and to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the country.

“The Opposition's undemocratic behaviour and its continuous threats to peace and stability, has no place in this society and will not be tolerated.

The President is committed to holding credible elections at the earliest time possible, in keeping with the provisions of the Constitution and based on the guidance given by the Guyana Elections Commission.”

Meanwhile, presidential candidate of the People's Progressive Party, Irfaan Ali, in a separate statement, had a different view of what t r a n s p i r e d .

“I wish to thank all our supporters and all Guyanese who came out yesterday in defence of our constitution

a n d d e m o c r a c y. Yo u r peaceful protest and voices were loud and clear. You made it clear that you will stand up against an illegal president and dictator occupying the seat of Government.”

He expressed gratitude to the international community and all representative organizations which issued statements pointing to the “unconstitutional rule” that exists.

“Indeed, these statements speak volumes to your principled positions in ensuring democracy and constitutional rule in Guyana. I wish to assure every Guyanese that we will continue to provide leadership as we peacefully confront hooliganism and illegitimate occupiers of office. This is our oath. We will continue to fight to honour, protect and preserve the constitution of our country.”

guys were going to do that.

So, it was not a question of if we were unaware of that.

When you see a table of some of the likely comrades—Juan Edghill, Dharamlall, sitting down at one table you know what is to come.”

AFC Executive Committee member Catherine Hughes, who was also present at Friday's press briefing, took the time to add to Patterson's statements on the issue.

“I think what is important to note is that

David Patterson might not have felt threatened, but there certainly were women, and two female ministers who felt very threatened.”

The GMSA has since apologised to President Granger for the protests staged against him.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 24

Saturday September 21, 2019

Ogle Airport commissions $70M taxiway From page 20 Classification Number is 16R/B/X/T. According to Wikipedia, the pavement classification number (PCN) is an International Civil Aviation Organization standard used in combination with the aircraft classification number (ACN) to indicate the strength of a runway, taxiway or airport apron (or ramp).

This helps to ensure that the runways etc. are not subjected to excessive wear and tear, thus prolonging their usable life and promoting safe aircraft operations.

Sincere thanks and gratitude were extended to the Director General of the GCAA and his staff, as well as the government, for making this important phase of the airport's ongoing infrastructural works a reality.

It was also pointed out that the construction works were carried out by the airport as they had done many times before.

“The airport built this taxiway as well as all the others you see around you.”

When asked about to noticeable absence of the aircraft operators who channel revenue to the airport, the CEO said that “They are not part of the airport, they are operators,

Members of the head table, from left: Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority Mr. Egbert Field, CEO of EFCIA CEO of the airport Col. (Ret'd) Anthony Mekdeci, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Jaipaul Sharma and Master of Ceremonies Kit Nascimento. they are airlines and aircraft.

We don't want to mix up airport with airlines.”

Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority Mr Egbert Field in his address said that “Many years ago the area on which we stand on was just a small airfield.

Now it has been developed and has become an international airport.”

He went on to say that the airport is serving the international community and it is the second international airport in the country, the first being Timehri.

He said the EFCIA is one of the busiest aerodromes in the Caribbean and the region, extending to South America at large. Most of the traffic seen there daily is

attributed to the Oil and Gas Sector of the country and preparation for first oil in combination with the mining industry.

He further noted that the GCAA had asked the airport to present an assessment and they complied. The documents presented are being perused and they have sought international help to have a further assessment of the organization by an individual next month.

The assessment is expected to look at aircraft movement as well as aircraft traffic and their housing among other key factors. He then congratulated the airport's CEO on the achievement and hinted that he expected to see more taxiways in the future.

Minister Sharma cuts the ribbon to officially commission Taxiway Foxtrot.

Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

Coalition unveils development plans...

From page 17 substantive Chancellor of the Judiciary and a substantive Chief Justice.

“The 'Decade' will place emphasis on education, which is of paramount importance. Investment in education represents a large share of national Budget.

This year, 2019, we spent 17.5 per cent of the Budget, 6.3 per cent of GDP, on public education.

My Government will expand expenditure on education during the Decade of Development.

We s h a l l f o c u s , increasingly, on graduating better trained teachers who could impart more critical thinking skills to children.

The public education system and curriculum will be modernised to reflect recent research and to address advancements in pedagogy and learning for children,” President Granger said.

The Head of State said too that his Government will improve access to education through the Public E d u c a t i o n a n d Transportation Service (PETS) which will be expanded to provide more boats, buses and bicycles to move children at no cost to their families, to ensure that they attend school.

The school-feeding programme will also be expanded to encourage children to go to school and to remain in school, he said.

President Granger told the business community that the public education system will be reshaped to emphasise science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) without deemphasizing the humanities.

“We're serious about s c i e n c e , t e c h n o l o g y, engineering and mathematics and this will remain the focus of our educational development in addition to paying attention to the humanities,” he said, while noting that the objectives of the 'Decade' are aligned to the Green State Development Strategy; Vision 2040 (GSDS) and to the Sustainable Development Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“The 'Decade' will yield increased business opportunities, including for the manufacturing and services sectors. The 'Decade' will ensure an enabling environment which would allow our local entrepreneurs to capitalize on these opportunities. We envisage a future of thriving businesses and globally-

competitive manufacturing and services.

The 'Decade' will accelerate the process of the renewal of regional development which commenced when we entered office with the establishment of four new capital towns,” President Granger said, adding that the capital towns are expected to become drivers of the economic and social development of these huge hinterland regions, which occupy three-quarters of our territory.

The capital towns, he explained, will allow for increased business opportunities and the improved access to public services. He noted too that it is essential for economic development that we allow these regional capital towns to provide the services which business need in every single region of this country.

“The Decade of Development will promote sound environmental management of our natural resources. It will witness greater emphasis on preserving and protecting our environment, air, water and earth, for the benefit of future generations,” the Head of State said.

UNEMPLOYMENT Moreover, he said the 'Decade' will reduce youth unemployment and expand initiatives such as the

Part of the gathering at the GMSA luncheon recently-established Guyana Youth Corps, the Hinterland Entrepreneurship Youth Service (HEYS) and the Sustainable Livelihoods and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) which are serving as incubators of youth entrepreneurship and employment.

“The Green State Development Strategy has identified a pivotal role for the manufacturing and services sector in the economic development of this country. The economy will be realigned along increased diversification and a low-carbon pathway.

Emphasis will be placed on

building a competitive manufacturing base and moving production away from primary production towards more valueadded production of goods and services,” President Granger said as he assured the business community of Guyana's bright future.

“Guyana's future is bright. We are on the right p a t h . We a r e m o v i n g forward. We will progress more rapidly during the Decade of Development 2020-2029. My friends I assure you, the private sector, the engine of growth, the agent of national development that we expect and we will help you to play

an integral role in ensuring that the next decade will be a decade of unsurpassed and irreversible progress and prosperity for our country,” the Head of State said.

Ministers of Foreign

Affairs, Public Security and Public Infrastructure, Dr. Karen Cummings, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan and Mr. David Patterson also attended the business luncheon.

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Saturday September 21, 2019

President still to consult Cabinet on election date

T

he country is wait ing on President David Granger to name an election date.

Up until the morning of Thursday last, the Presidents excuse had been that, in order to name an election date, he had to be advised of the readiness of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

He had said that, though eager to announce a date, it would not be wise to put Guyana into what he described as the Abuja scenario, faced by Nigeria.

Earlier this year, the Elections Commission of Nigeria had informed the Government, just five hours before polls were set to open, that it was not ready to hold the election. The election had to be postponed.

In Guyanas case, the President has now received information from the GECOM Chair that the Secretariat will be ready to hold elections by the end of February 2020.

Approached by members of the media outside a luncheon, where he was protested, at the Pegasus Hotel, the President acknowledged that he received a letter from the Chair, but that he had not yet made a decision.

He had said that, later that day, he would consult with

PPP supporters protesting outside the Pegasus Hotel last Thursday.

Cabinet on a date.

But during a press conference of the Alliance for

Change (AFC) yesterday, Minister of Public Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes,

said that the President hadnt met with Cabinet. He had only met a few Ministers.

However, Cabinet is expected to meet on Tuesday.

That means that the President isnt likely to announce an election date at least for the next three days.

And during that period, he will face further protest action from the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP).

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, has made good on his promise to have the President meet protests, everywhere he goes.

During a press conference

of the Parliamentary Opposition yesterday, Gail Teixeira told reporters that the President went to Mabaruma yesterday, where he was met by protestors, just as he was on Thursday.

The international community and certain aspects of civil society have called on the President to declare an election date immediately. The UK, US, and EU have even given Government a thinly veiled warning that support for Guyanas development could be affected as a result.

But the President has said that he is not in breach of the

Constitution. Ministers of Government have even attempted to shift the onus to the PPP. During the AFC press conference yesterday, Minister of Public Security and Leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan, spoke of the need for the party to support an extension of the election deadline in the National Assembly to solve this “unconstitutional” situation, implying that it may be the Oppositions fault that Guyana has moved so far past the Constitutional deadline without holding elections.

Protests must have standards AFCs Cathy Hughes Alliance for Change (AFC) member, Cathy Hughes, says that protests must have standards.

During a press conference held by the AFC yesterday at its Railway Line, Kitty Headquarters, Hughes, who is also Minister of Public Telecommunications, expressed how she felt about the protest of Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) supporters at the Pegasus Hotel last Thursday, and the partys intended persistence to protest until an election date is called by President David Granger.

Further, Hughes stated, “Its sad that we are not all attempting to set a standard, a mode of behaviour.” She elaborated, “So yes, you can protest but banging on peoples car doors, on the windshield, grabbing somebody walking by is unaccept-

able behaviour.”

She added that there may be no harm to occur from it, but questioned that it can set an example where many others would think that it is acceptable.

AFC General Secretary, David Patterson, said that he had not felt threatened by the protest, but it was to some extent, unsettling.

On the other hand, Hughes said that there were two female Ministers present at the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) luncheon, who felt very much threatened.

Patterson explained his challenge in entering the GMSA event where he had to inquire a possible route to enter from a senior rank, and managed to use another entry.

The pandemonium created by the protestors upon recognizing Patterson was ig-

nored by him as he stated he didnt make any formal complaints.

He said he knew that it would have been used as propaganda to defame his character if he had reacted to any provocation, but instead he calmly attended the luncheon.

The p r o t e s t w a s a t tended by at least 300 PPP supporters and was held to demand President David Granger to name an election date.

The PPP had declared that September 18, three months after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)s ruling on the No Confidence Motion, was the day that the Caretaker APNU/AFC Government became illegal.

And so the Opposition Leader promised that the President will face protests everywhere he goes, until he names a date for elections.

Saturday September 21, 2019

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

Parties reject veiled threats by ABE countries - Support call for early elections The Working Peoples Alliance (WPA), Alliance for Change (AFC) and Peoples National Congress Reform (PNC/R), have condemned what they have described as veiled threats that were recently made by America, Britain, and the European Union (EU) concerning the failure to hold elections by September 18.

This would have been three months after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) would have handed down its ruling that the Oppositions No-Confidence motion was validly passed and that the political actors should marry principle and practicality in finding a resolution on the way forward.

In a recent statement to the press, United States of America Ambassador, SarahAnn Lynch; United Kingdom High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn; and the European Union Ambassador to Guyana, Fernando Ponz Cantó, called for an elections date to be set immediately after learning that the Chair of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) had informed President David Granger that the earliest possible date for elections would be the end of February2020. .

Apart from this, the countries highlighted that the political waves presently going through Guyana are hindering the country from moving forward.

They were also keen to note that it hinders their ability to continue their financing of development needs.

EU Ambassador to Guyana, Fernando Ponz Cantó At a press conference held at Rodney House in Queenstown yesterday, the WPA said that while it respects the concerns of the ABE countries, it cannot agree with the treatment of Article 106 (6) of the Guyana Constitution in isolation from the political realities of the country.”

Specifically, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley said that the party is concerned that the diplomatic representatives may have overplayed their hands by pronouncing on such politically polarised issues.

Further, the WPA official said that the party is also concerned about the veiled threat by the ABE countries to impose sanctions on Guyana.

“We believe that sanctions should be a last resort in international relations and that they should be activated only when countries violate sacred international laws.”

US Ambassador, Sarah-Ann Lynch

She emphatically stated that in this instance, the Guyanese government is in the clear.

Meanwhile, AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan at a press conference which was held at his partys Kitty headquarters, said it is unfortunate that those countries made those statements.

According to Ramjattan, his party had noted that Canada did not join the said statement, and despite the move made by the ABE countries, they will all remain extremely cordial friends of the AFC. He also opined that the opposition was using the joint statement to fuel their protest.

The aforementioned parties are in agreement with the February 2020 timeframe given by GECOM for the holding of credible elections.

Furthermore, Dr. David Hinds, an Executive Member

of the WPA, said that since GECOM has indicated its readiness for elections, a date for elections should be given as soon as possible.

UK High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn He said, “If I had my way, I would name March 1. I am saying that because we are very clear in our mind that elections are long overdue. We

feel that after the June ruling by the CCJ, the two political actors needed to come together and agree on an elections date.”

Cops attended house party where teen was allegedly gang-raped -official says no ranks implicated, file with DPP A number of policemen attended the house party at which a teenage girl was allegedly gang-raped earlier this month in a Region Five community.

This was confirmed yesterday by a senior police official, who also stressed that no police ranks have been implicated in the alleged sexual assault.

Investigators reportedly have no evidence that the policemen were present at the time of the alleged gang-rape. The ranks have all said that they were unaware of the incident.

Police had detained three men, who were allegedly identified as the individuals who allegedly sexually assaulted the 17-year-old in a room, reportedly located in the same

house.Two of the suspects are said to be related to members of the Force.

They were subsequently released and ‘B’ Division Commander Paul Langevine said that a file was sent to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Kaieteur News has confirmed that the culprits recorded the entire incident. They are said to have posted the graphic images to their friends.According to reports, the teen claimed that she was drugged and taken to the room by two individuals.

Other men reportedly joined them and took turns sexually assaulting their victim.

There are reports that the alleged victim had initially denied that she was sexually assaulted, but by then the suspects had already confessed.

PAGE 28

Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

There is no quick fix to end blackouts Minister Patterson

M

inister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, has said that there is no quick fix to ending blackouts, but he insists that the Government has taken progressive measures toward that goal.

Blackouts have been a frustrating issue for the Guyanese public, for several decades.

They have plagued households under successive Governments on both sides of the political divide.

The APNU/AFC coalition campaigned strongly in 2015 with the claim that it would bring an end to blackouts.

But nearly five years later, households still experience lengthy blackouts, even in the city.

During a press conference y e s t e r d a y a t t h e C e ntre for Change, Patterson, who is the Alliance for Change (AFC)s General Secretary, was questioned about his Ministrys efforts to tackle this problem.

He insists that the APNU/AFC Government inherited an old, decrepit infrastructural power framework.

“It needs replacing.” And he maintains that the Government is doing just that.

“For example, along the embankment, there are five high tension lines running when youre only supposed to

have one. And therefore, if something happens to one pole, it takes the entire system down,” Patterson explained.

Government has, according to him, already begun to put redundancy in place to increase reliability.

He said that there are also bids for new substation lines by Sophia out at the level of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), and that Government has already installed t w o n e w s u b m arine cables.

Nevertheless, black-

outs still plague the country, and this Governments term is almost up.

Reminded that Government has yet failed to deliver on its promise to end blackouts, Minister Patterson was asked why the voter population should trust him a second time around with that responsibility.

“Because we are working on it,” he responded.

“Were addressing it progressively… I know it is a frustrating thing but, from the status in which we found it and what it is now, it has improved.”

The APNU/AFC coalitions 2015 campaign slogan on blackouts

GAPSO elects new members to Executive Board -President vows to review Private Security Act, promote elevation of female employees The Guyana Association of Private Security Organizations (GAPSO) recently elected new members to its Executive Board to manage the bodys affairs for the next two years.

Leading GAPSO will be Johnny Mortley, Chief Security Consultant for the Guyana Oil Company Limited (GuyOil).

Joining the President will be Vice President, Mr. Clay Flatts of Queensway Security Services; Treasurer, Mr. Clement Baird of John Fernandes Ltd; and Mr. Ghalee Khan of Integrated Security Services Inc. who was returned as Secretary.

Also elected to serve are immediate Past President Mr. Christopher Thompson of Sentinel Security Inc.; and Mr. Clairmont Featherstone of Intelliguard Specialist Security Services.

In his address to the annual general meeting, Mortley stated his willingness to work with industry professionals to further their diverse interests in an attempt to professionalize and strengthen the Private Security Industry. High on the agenda, he said, will be a re-

GAPSO President, Johnny Mortley view of the Private Security Act and the promotion of equality and equity in the training and elevation of females employed within the industry.

Kaieteur News understands that other urgent priorities on the agenda include supporting the implementation of CSME for the private security industry, standardizing training, increasing membership, continuing efforts towards

strengthening partnerships, engagement with key stakeholders, and seeking synergies and alliances with international security associations where complementary best practices can be appropriately benched marked and adopted.

The President noted that with over 200 registered security companies operating in Guyana, employing in excess of 18,000 security officers, it is vital that a standardized operating framework is crafted and implemented; creating a level playing field that will benefit bought the client, service provider and ultimately the employees.

He stressed that the important role of the Private Security Industry in Guyana is critical, since it is complementary to the national security network.

GAPSO was established 25 years ago with the objective of promoting the highest industry standards through advocacy, collaboration, education, and the promotion of high ethical standards in the operation; and management of security services within Guyana.

Saturday September 21, 2019

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

132 women allegedly trafficked this year …majority Venezuelans The current economic and political crisis in Venezuela has resulted in a humanitarian crisis which has resulted in thousands of its citizens fleeing here in search of a better life. However, the countrys women are at a heightened risk for sexual exploitation.

This was the assertion of Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan as he delivered opening remarks at a conference on Trafficking in Persons (TIP) held for judicial officers yesterday at the Georgetown Club.

According to Minister Ramjattan, for the period January to June this year, 132 alleged TIP victims have been recorded. All the alleged victims, the Minister disclosed, are females, and Venezuelans accounted for a majority.

Minister Ramjattan also disclosed that 115 of alleged victims were below the age of 30.

He said that investigations led to the arrest of 18 suspects.

Based on information, for the first half of 2019, two individuals have been convicted on a combined eight charges two for trafficking in persons, two for unlawfully withholding identification papers, which is another offence under the TIP Act, and the other four for related offences.

Last year saw 245 alleged victims of TIP of which 11 were under the age of 18. The Minister revealed that 55 percent of the alleged victims were below the age of 26. Investigations then, led to the arrest of 52 suspects with police filing 32 cases. Police instituted charges against 17 persons for TIP. The previous year saw 14 cases being in-

vestigated from which there were 50 alleged victims for which 21 of them were under 18 years of age.

That year also saw one conviction each for TIP, employing a child under 18 to work at a liquor store and conspiracy, Minister Ramjattan told the gathering.

As for 2016, there were 98 alleged victims of TIP of which 86 percent were females. The remainder was males. According to Minister Ramjattan, the age group 12 to 18 was heavily preyed on during this period.

The Minister went on to explain that Region Four continues to be a hub for TIP, while Regions One, Seven and Eight are not very far behind.

Minister Ramjattan stated that it is largely businessmen that are involved in the lucrative trade of human trafficking. He, however, said that it is very difficult to apprehend them because they have links.

He stated that law enforcement officials are only catching the small fish. He nevertheless said that the objective of the conference is to ensure that Judges and Magistrates are trained to deal with TIP cases.

As it relates to investigating TIP cases, Minister Ramjattan revealed, “…Only last week I signed on to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) in relation to interviewing and a whole number of things…questioning and prosecution of offenders and how also thereafter the treatment that it given to the victim.”

According to him, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has already

Judges, Magistrates and other judicial officers during yesterdays confab

perused the SOP, which he said is in accordance with international best practices. He added that the Ministry of Social Protection will continue to monitor the TIP hotline on a statistical basis to ensure that data is readily available in this regard.

In closing, the Minister urged the participants to report to the Trafficking in Persons Task Force, so that Ministers will know their thoughts on certain cases that cross their paths. Speaking specifically to the Judges and Magistrates, Ramjattan said that he and other Ministers would like to know, “how it is that the police did not present the evidence properly or the investigators were wrong, so that we can have a feedback from especially you.

We are not going to start perfect, we are going to make mistakes…”

“But we would like for the better systemic improvement that those mistakes are told to us. What went wrong and even if there is a suspicion that the policeman took bribe or whatever it is. It is impor-

tant for us to know so that we can start identifying and vetting and doing everything that would make this scourge of society; this modern day slavery, be reduced and halted.”

He also reiterated governments commitment in devoting resources to this fight. In its latest report on Trafficking in Person, the U.S Department of State ranked Guyana at Tier 1 for the third straight year, and this Minister Ramjattan stressed recognises the countrys efforts to combat the crime.

Meanwhile, Chancellor of the Judiciary Yonette Cummings-Edwards gave an overview of the Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2005. Among other things, she explained that a person convicted of trafficking in persons by a Magistrate is liable to imprisonment of three to five years and is required to pay restitution to the trafficked person(s).

Upon conviction at the High Court, the Chancellor informed that a person is liable to five years or up to life

Minister of Public Security: Khemraj Ramjattan imprisonment and is also required to pay restitution to the victim. In both instances, the property of the convicted persons is subject to forfeiture.

However, she said that according to the Act, a convicted persons sentence is increased in extreme circum-

stances, among them being if a dangerous weapon is used, or if the trafficked person suffers a life threatening injury.

Also delivering remarks was Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Shalimar AliHack, who spoke extensively on the challenges faced when prosecuting TIP cases.

China’s new mega-airport ready to open Beijing (CNN) — China is poised to open a new mega-airport to the south of Beijing, already home to the world’s second-busiest aviation hub, ahead of the 70th anniversary of the People’s Republic.

Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) will see its first commercial flight take off this month, according to Chinese state media, with main tenant China Southern planning to deploy an Airbus A380, the world’s biggest airliner, for the maiden journey.

The greatly anticipated airport ushers in a new era for air travel to and from the Chinese capital, which has been in desperate need of a second global gateway.

The existing Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is hitting full capacity, making it nearly impossible for airlines to add flights at desirable times.

In 2018, more than 100 million

travelers passed through its three terminals — making it only the second airport in the world to cross that passenger traffic milestone, after Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta. China is projected to overtake the United States as the world’s biggest air travel market by 2022.

The multibillion-dollar Daxing, designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid and her Chinese partners, is built for the future, boasting four runways and a terminal the size of 97 soccer pitches upon opening of the first phase — as well as customer-service robots that will provide travelers with flight updates and airport information.

The “modest” initial operational target is to accommodate 72 million passengers and 2 million tons of cargo annually by 2025. The ambitious master plan calls for the building of a total of seven runways, and moving at least 100 million passen-

An aeriel view of the striking new Beijing Daxing International Airport, dubbed “starfish” by Chinese media.

STR/AFP/Getty Images gers and 4 million tons of cargo a year through the airport.

Construction for the $11.5 billion project began in 2014, with more than 40,000 workers on site at its peak. The terminal bears all the hallmarks of Hadid’s signature contour

lines, with plenty of natural light shining through its more than 8,000 distinct rooftop windows.

Nicknamed “starfish” by Chinese media for its shape of five concourses connected to a main hall, Daxing aims to reduce walking for

passengers, long a complaint about many new mega-hubs. The airport authority has promised a distance of no more than 600 meters (650 yards) — about eight minutes of walking — between security checkpoints and the remotest gates

PAGE 30

Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Call: 233-2725/672-3886

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Contact#619-4490 Restaurant space (mostly equipped) & bar space at Mandela Avenue, East Riumveldt. Tel#644-6819

Experienced hire car drivers and dispatcher at Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel.Contact 265-7075/6165419.

Drivers for Water truck (Preferred from East Bank).Must have lorry L i c e n s e . S t o r e workers.Contact:682-1048/ 233-5255.

Minibus driver living in G/ town to work with company. #646-8748 Security officers to work preferably ex army or police or disciplined services experience Age 25-40.

Contact# 223-4172/639-6648 1 honest driver salesman, one lorry license and experience in sales, working flexible hours.

Ms Annie at Tel#233-3512 Your Taxi Service- Location “D” Middleton St, C/ville, needed contract cars and drivers. Call: 219-5555/6220070 Carpenter/Mason/ Painter.Tel#225-3234/6987807.

One Apartment or House for a Christian couple.If you have either, Please Call:679-3325.

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Business space for rent 660 sq, available parking, opposite license office (US $1200 negotiable) #658-2677/ 685-0448

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Business Space for rent 354 sq, Available parking, opposite license office (US $350 negotiable) #658-2677/ 685-0448

Truck Driver to work Georgetown to Essequibo route. Contact# 223-5273/74

(1) bedroom apartment for rent ,furnished & group floor to rent for business, North Rd, between Wellington & King St. Call: 619-9737 for more info WANTED Millenium Manor Hotel.

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Vacancy for: Accounts clerk, Purchase clerk, Operations clerk, Civil Engineer, Secretary, Truck drivers.

Contact info: chungsvacancy@gmail.com Sales Representative & Porter, 5 Subjects CXC, Good communication skills, Experience, Mima Decor, 8 Sheriff St #226-0176, mimadecor06@gmail.com Vacancy for female accounts clerk, must have passes in Maths & English, Apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb St Bourda Office Asst/Accounts Clerk, 5 subjects, quickbooks, NIS, PAYE. Teamplayer, Customer Service experience. #2270176/227-0186. mimadecor12@gmail.com 1 music teacher (piano & guitar) to do at home teaching for two boys. Perferably from East Bank. #698-4432 Experienced Handyman & Salesgirls with 2 yrs experience. CXC maths & english. Apply @ Christine's Variety, Lombard St. Contact: 227-8529 Vacancy exist for Experienced Pharmacy assistants to work @ reputable pharmacy in G/ town. Interested persons call #645-5008/696-5098 between 8am-4pm We’re Hiring Housekeeping Staff. Be part of our dynamic industry. For interviews, call: 225-2222 / 231-4728.

From page 3 productive reservoirs, which tend to be larger, cleaner and less broken up into small compartments, each of which holds more oil and can be produced with fewer wells. You get a higher yield per well.”

ORINDUIK JV PARTNERS In January 2016, Eco signed a Petroleum Agreement and is party to a Petroleum Licence with the Government of Guyana and Tullow Oil for the Orinduik Block offshore Guyana.

Tullow Oil as the Operator of the Block, paid past costs and carried Eco for the first 1000km2 of the 2550km2 3D Survey. Further, Tullow contributed an extensive 2D seismic data set and interpretation.

The Company's 2550 km2 3D seismic survey was completed in September 2017, well within the initial four-year work commitment the Company made for the initial 1000km2. In September 2017, Eco announced that its subsidiary, Eco Atlantic (Guyana) Inc. entered into an option agreement on its Orinduik Block with Total, a wholly owned subsidiary of Total S.A. Pursuant to the option.

Total paid an option fee of US$1 million to farm-in to the Orinduik Block. An additional payment of US$12,500,000 was made when Total exercised its option to earn 25 percent of Eco's working interest in September 2018. Following the exercise of the option by Total, the Block's working interests became: Tullow – 60% (Operator), Total – 25% and Eco – 15%. In October, last, the Government approved of the Total farm-in on the Orinduik Block, which has the potential for almost three billion barrels of oil equivalent.

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Saturday September 21, 2019

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Laying of subsea cable... E-Networks says its fully compliant - claims “very concerned” GTT being misleading and libellous The telecoms sector appears to be revving up.

There is confirmation now that another subsea fibre optic cable is coming, opening the possibilities of faster internet for the country.

The cable is being brought by E-Networks Inc., which runs the biggest cable television operation on the coastlands.US-owned Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) is the only company with a similar cable, with Government moving to break the monopoly and bring new players.Yesterday, GTT, in a strongly worded statement, said it is “very concerned” that E-Networks is laying a subsea fibre with complete disregard for necessary approvals and international protocols.

However, E-Networks made it clear that the telephone company is being misleading and libellous.

Responding to questions from Kaieteur News, ENetworks disclosed that GTT issued a statement in which its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Justin Nedd, alleged that the cable company is conducting subsea cablelaying activities “with complete disregard for necessary approvals and international protocols.”

E-Networks said it took note that GTT made specific reference to the

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which they claim has stated that ENetworks is landing the cable using an expired environmental and construction permit. ”Moreover, GTT also alleges that they have attempted but failed to contact the company to facilitate the construction of the cable in accordance with international protocols as E-Networks “disregard for established protocol threatens the security and integrity of (the GTT) SGSCS subsea cable.””

This newspaper was shown documents pertaining to the companys compliance with environmental and other approvals.”We wish to strongly refute the contents of this statement, which include false and libellous allegations against our company that we are operating with “complete disregard for necessary approvals and international protocols” in relation to our subsea cable project. Mr Nedd has been disingenuous in his claim that we are not in receipt of required approvals, particularly in his specific reference to our operation with an expired environmental and construction permit from the Environmental Protection Agency.”

According to E-Networks, as a point of fact, the company has never been without a

valid EPA permit in relation to its project from May 1, 2018 to present.

“We are also in possession of all necessary approvals in relation to this project for its intended purpose. In regard to the international protocols, Mr Nedd claims that we are breaching, he is well aware of the previous communications with GTT in relation to this project, in which we have proven that we are operating well within these recommendations. Moreover, we have had to enlighten GTT through the exchange of several pieces of correspondence of the correct and proper interpretation of the international protocols and standards.”

E-Networks said it wants to make it clear that it finds GTTs statement to be intentionally erroneous, deliberately misleading and libellous.

“We will take any and all necessary measures, including legal action against GTT and Mr Nedd, in order to protect our good name.”

This is the full statement of GTT: STATEMENT ISSUED BY JUSTIN NEDD, CEO (GTT) GTT is very concerned that E-Networks is laying subsea fibre with complete disregard for necessary approvals and international protocols. In 2018, the

Ministry of Public Telecommunications stated definitively that E-Networks did not have permission to land or lay a subsea cable .

To date, as far as it is publicly known, such a license has not been issued by the Ministry of Public Telecommunications, and by extension, the Government of Guyana. The EPA has also stated that E-Networks is conducting its activities, landing the cable, using an expired environmental and construction permit.

We have attempted to reach out to E-Networks to facilitate the construction in accordance with international protocols, as this reckless activity and disregard for established protocol threatens the security and integrity of our SGSCS subsea cable. As the only reliable method of international connectivity into Guyana, any damage to the SGSCS by threatens the internet connectivity of the entire country.

It is our hope that the

observance of sound rule of law, as well as acceptable and ethical business practices will be upheld within the country s telecommunications sector by both existing and potential players in the market.GTT remains committed to continuing to build resilient connectivity to improve life experiences in Guyana and by unlocking innovation. GT&T will not overlook any action that can disrupt service delivery to its customers.

Police warn of condign action against law-breakers during protests The Guyana Police Force has warned that it will take condign action against individuals who break the law during protests.In a statement issued last night, the Force said that it had “noted with utmost concern” the protest demonstrations on Thursday 19th September, 2019 outside and inside of the Pegasus Hotel, during the Annual Business Luncheon of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) which saw the peaceful conduct of the activity being interrupted.“While the Police Force respects the rights of all citizens to protest and has no objection to persons conducting peaceful protest, such acts will not be condoned.“When protests degenerate into a series of unlawful acts infringing

on the rights of other citizens and putting the protection of life and the safety of property at risk, the Guyana Police Force will as a consequence take the appropriate action in response.The Guyana Police Force is the Primary Law Enforcement Agency responsible for public safety, the maintenance of Law and Order, the protection of life and property and remains resolutely committed to its motto of ‘Service and Protection’.“The Force’s membership throughout the ten (10) Administrative Regions is on high alert and will endeavour to prevent and respond whenever necessary to any such reoccurrence and warns that anyone found in breach of the Law will be dealt with in a condign manner.”

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Saturday September 21, 2019

Saturday September 21, 2019

Ethiopia’s Dibaba out of world championships with foot injury NAIROBI, (Reuters) Ethiopia’s 1,500 metres world record holder and 2015 world champion Genzebe Dibaba has withdrawn from the world championships starting in Doha next week due to a foot injury, her management company said on Thursday.

The Ethiopian, who set a new 1500m world record in 2015 of 3:50.07 before clinching the world title in Beijing, was diagnosed with a partial rupture in her right foot after the Zurich Diamond League meeting in August, Pineda Sport said in a statement.

The 28-year-old, who

won silver at the 2016 Rio Games, is the younger sister of triple Olympic gold medallist Tirunesh.

Her withdrawal leaves Kenya’s defending champion and Olympic gold medallist Faith Kipyegon and Ethiopian-born Dutchwoman Sifan Hassan, who broke the world mile record (4:12.33) in July, as favourites for the title.

In another blow to the blue riband race at the global competition, Kenya’s 1,500m defending champion Elijah Manangoi announced earlier this week that he would not be defending his title due to injury.

Kaieteur News

Millions $$$ of Free...

Dr. Puran Singh donates...

From page 36 of Guyana on the world stage. “This is only the beginning of great things the extraordinary team we have put together will accomplish this in the months ahead,” said Ramalingum.

Meanwhile, the GBA has released the names of Boxers that will be participating in the September 28 pro Am boxing card.

The Amateur Card is as follows: Heavyweight: Tyron Blair PRBG vs Jamal Hazel Lightweight: Winston Pompey vs Jamal Eastman Junior welterweight: Colin Lewis vs Emanuel Sancho Featherweight: Keevin Allicock Guyana vs Anthony Joseph T&T Jeffery Joseph is also set to fight in Amateur bouts

From page 39 Communication Network has donated a One Hour Television Programme during prime time for the Quiz Competition.

Foster stated that the Berbice Cricket Board like the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS was able to easily get sponsorship due to its outstanding records of service to Berbice.

He expressed gratitude to all of the donors for the 80th Anniversary and pledged that the Berbice Cricket Board would continue to uphold the high standards it has set itself in the past two years.

Saturday September 21, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Are you working at home today? This won't make your efforts any less intense, especially if your work involves writing or speaking on the phone.

Whatever you're doing will probably seem urgent.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) A strange letter or phone call could come your way today, and the information you receive could seem rather garbled.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today is a day in which you need to use logic. You could receive an unsettling and unexpected letter or phone call, perhaps involving money.

CANCER(June21–July22) Your level of concentration generally tends to be strong, Cancer, but today you could be temporarily at a disadvantage. Your thoughts seem vague and disjointed and you're less able to express yourself clearly and precisely.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today you might intuit some strange and unsettling thoughts and feelings from a brother, sister, or neighbor, Leo. This person isn't likely to want to talk about what's bothering them, even if you express concern.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Some disconcerting information you receive today from a group you're affiliated with could have you wondering if you have a future with this group.

This might be disillusioning for you, but this isn't a good day to make any decisions.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Usually your mind is sharp and centered, Libra, but today you'll probably feel like you can't think straight.

Your thoughts might be vague and disjointed.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You generally tend to be intuitive, Scorpio, but today your sensitivity might approach the level of an oracle - or seem to!

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You may have a very strange and somewhat disturbing dream about a friend tonigh. It may wake you up in an unsettled state. Write it down if you can.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) A lack of communication between you and someone close could lead to misunderstandings. This might not seem that important, but sometimes a lack of clarity can lead to bad feelings in the future. Make your intentions clear to everyone.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Today you might be so intent on your work that you don't hear what someone says to you, Aquarius. No matter how important your task, take the time to listen and pay attention to what someone tells you, however trivial it may seem now.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) If you're presently romantically involved, you could find that one of you feels very passionate while the other doesn't. Compromise!

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Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

Hamilton edges Verstappen in Singapore practice SINGAPORE (Reuters) Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton lapped fastest on the opening day of practice for the Singapore Grand Prix yesterday with Mercedes team mate and closest rival Valtteri Bottas hitting the wall.

Hamilton edged Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who had led the opening session, in the floodlit night-time practice with a best time of one minute, 38.773 seconds. The 21-year-old Dutchman was 0.186 seconds slower.

Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel, a four-time winner in Singapore and chasing his first win for more than a year, was third on the timesheets after some difficulties with traffic.

“It’s been a good day. It’s so hot out there,” said Hamilton.

“It’s always a shock to the system when you get in the car here because it’s very bumpy, it’s a long, long lap and it’s like a sauna in the car.

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton during practice at the Singapore Grand Prix. (REUTERS/Tim Chong) “I felt much better in the car today than I have for a while so I hope that stays over the weekend.”

Hamilton, who has a 63point lead over Bottas with seven races left, has won four

times in Singapore including the last two years and is chasing an unprecedented fifth success in the city state.

Yesterday’s timesheets indicated the Briton faced a challenge from Verstappen, a

two times winner this year, but remained the man to beat.

“I think they (Mercedes) are very much going to be the favourites here,” said Red Bull boss Christian Horner. “But we’ve got a competitive car

and hopefully we can take the fight to them.”

Bottas, whose crash in opening practice prompted a brief halt to proceedings, enjoyed a trouble free run under the floodlights and ended both sessions fourth.

“I just lost the back end,” he said. “Obviously here with no run-offs you pay the price.

It can happen.”

The Finn said the car had also lacked pace in the second session, possibly as a consequence of the crash.

“We need to have a look.

It felt like I couldn’t go any quicker but I was one second off the pace,” he added.

Alexander Albon, in only his third race for Red Bull after switching from sister team Toro Rosso, stayed fifth despite running off the track into the barriers and breaking his front wing.

Sunday’s race in Singapore is the closest the British-born Thai rookie has to a home race.

Charles Leclerc, winner

for Ferrari in Belgium and Italy, was only sixth. The Monegasque had to use a new gearbox after an issue sidelined him in the opening session.

Carlos Sainz was seventh for McLaren ahead of Renault’s Nico Hulkenberg.

The Spaniard’s team mate Lando Norris was ninth while Toro Rosso’s Pierre Gasly rounded out the top 10.

There was plenty of arm waving and complaining on the radio as drivers on a quick lap got held up behind slower cars on the tight circuit where overtaking is always tricky.

There were also some close calls with Racing Point’s Sergio Perez, in particular, squeezing the Haas of Kevin Magnussen against the wall in an incident that attracted the attention of the race stewards.

Perez, who was nursing a stomach bug, was later seen discussing the matter with Magnussen.

Jofra Archer caps stellar summer Kerber secures Pan Pacific Open semi-final spot as Keys retires injured with ECB central contract (Reuters) - Fourth seed Angelique Kerber reached the Pan Pacific Open semifinals in Japan yesterday after American Madison Keys retired due to injury early in the deciding set.

With the match clock at just over two hours, Kerber grabbed an early break to lead in the final set at 6-4 4-6 2-1, before Keys pulled out of the contest.

“It was a really good match in the first two sets, and this is never the way that you want to win the match,” threetime Grand Slam winner Kerber said.

“I hope Madison will recover really soon so she is ready for the next tournaments.”

After a run to the Eastbourne final in early July, Kerber won just one m a t c h a t Wi m b l e d o n where she was the holder and arrived in Osaka on the back of a five-match losing streak.

The German expressed her delight at reaching her fifth Pan Pacific Open semi-final in six appearances since 2012.

“I think I like to play in Japan. Always when I’m coming back, I feel good here

and I’m playing good tennis,” former world number one Kerber said.

“This year, I’m here to play as good as I can and I’m looking forward to playing another semi-final here.”

Persistent rain washed out the rest of the quarterfinal matches, with home favorite Naomi Osaka’s meeting with unseeded Yulia Putintseva moved to Saturday in the revised schedule.

The semi-final matches have been scheduled for the evening session, the organizers confirmed.

Jofra Archer awarded an all-format contract by the ECB, Rory Burns and Joe Denly get Test and white-ball contracts for the first time. (ESPNcricinfo) ESPNcricinfo - Jofra Archer’s rise in England cricket continues after being awarded an ECB central contract across all formats.

Barbados-born Archer only made his international debut in May shortly after he qualified to represent England and then went on to play a crucial role in the triumphant World Cup campaign and the Ashes series. He was among six players to receive both Test and whiteball contracts for the 2019-20 season, announced yesterday. In all, selectors awarded 10 Test contracts and 12 white-ball contracts.

Opening batsman Rory Burns earned a Test contract after becoming the third-highest runscorer of the Ashes series with 390 runs from his 10 innings. Batsman Joe Denly - who missed out on World Cup selection after much discussion about his possible role as a spinbowling all-rounder - was awarded his first white-ball contract.

Moeen Ali, who was dropped for the second Test against Australia and took no further part in the Ashes, missed out on a

Test contract, as did Adil Rashid. Both had been contracted across all three formats last year but were awarded only limited-overs deals for next season. Rashid has not played since the World Cup final in July because of a right shoulder injury that required painkilling injections during the tournament.

Jason Roy, who battled to establish himself as a Test batsman through the Ashes was awarded only a white-ball contract.

James Anderson, whose Ashes campaign was ruined by a calf injury, retained his Test contract and World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan remains on a white-ball contract.

Alex Hales, Liam Plunkett and David Willey missed out on white-ball contracts for 2019-20.

Selectors can also award a limited number of increment contracts, which went to Burns, Denly and Jack Leach for 2018-19 in recognition of their performances for the team through the current season. Leach and Tom Curran received increment contract for the 2019-20 year commencing on October 1.

Angelique Kerber of Germany hits to Kristina Mladenovic of France in the first round on day one of the 2019 U.S. Open tennis tournament. (Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports)

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Hamilton Masakadza’s match-winning 71 in swansong hands Zimbabwe historic T20I win ESPNcricinfo - Hamilton Masakadza signed off an acclaimed international career in style, in Chattogram, leading Zimbabwe’s 156 chase with 71 to snap Afghanistan’s world-record winning streak in T20Is at 12.

His 42-ball knock also helped secure his country’s first-ever victory over these opponents in the shortest format.

Zimbabwe weathered a bruising opening stand between Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Hazratullah Zazai, Chris Mpofu snaffling a T20I careerbest 4 for 30 as Afghanistan were restricted to 155 for 8.

Masakadza then led Zimbabwe’s charge with the bat one last time, swatting five characteristically muscular sixes in his matchwinning innings that set up a seven-wicket win.

Afghanistan openers make merry Rahmanullah Gurbaz fiddled his way through five dot balls in the first over of the innings, from left-arm spinner Ainsley Ndlovu, but he and Hazratullah Zazai quickly made up for the sluggish start thereafter. By the time the Powerplay was up, Zazai had gone some way towards making amends for his mediocre returns in this tri-series, Gurbaz had spanked three sixes, and Afghanistan had raced to 55 at a canter.

A withering blow to the midsection via a Kyle Jarvis indipper took the wind out of Zazai but, after a few deep breaths, the batsman barely slowed the momentum as he shook the stinger off with a six off Sean Williams’ left-arm spin. Gurbaz motored into the

40s with 10 runs off two Ryan Burl long hops, and was then gifted a second life when Regis Chakabva spilled a high - but regulation - chance in the outfield.

Zazai was eventually out for 31 as the opening stand was snapped at 83, but Gurbaz and Shafiqullah continued to make merry.

Shafiqullah biffed a Tino Mutombodzi legbreak over long off to bring up the hundred, while Gurbaz notched up a maiden T20I fifty from 40 balls, in the 13th over.

Afghanistan appeared primed to launch a blistering attack in the second half of the innings.

Mpofu leads Zimbabwe’s fightback Zimbabwe, however, had other ideas and their fightback was spearheaded

Japan’s ‘Ferrari’ Matsushima goes up a gear at home World Cup

Japan’s Kotaro Matsushima runs through to score their fourth try and complete his hat-trick against Russia. (REUTERS/Matthew Childs) TOKYO (Reuters) - Kotaro Matsushima became the first Japan player to score a hattrick of tries at a World Cup yesterday, earning praise from his own coach and the opposing manager after the “Brave Blossoms” beat Russia in the tournament’s opening match.

Matsushima, born in South Africa to a Zimbabwean father and a Japanese mother, was a bright spark for the World Cup hosts who wound up comfortable 30-10 winners despite looking shaky through large spells of the game.

While he can also play as a fullback, his attacking flair has blossomed as a winger

and the team’s reliance on their fleet-footed runner was evident yesterday.

All three of Matsushima’s tries - he had a fourth ruled out after a TMO decision were scored after the pacey winger received offloads from his team mates before leaving opponents for dead out wide.

“We gave him (Matsushima) room and he can finish. It was a good game for him tonight. When you play him, you close his space down and put fast players up against him...sounds quite simple,” Russia’s coach Lyn Jones said.

Japan coach Jamie Joseph likened his two wingers, Matsushima and Lomano

Lemeki, to high-powered sports cars.

“If we can create opps (opportunities) then both of our wingers, they can finish.

They will get accolades for the tries because that is what the Ferraris get on the outside,” the former All Black said.

Japan will need the 26year-old Matsuhima at his flying best when they face Ireland in Fukuroi City on Sept 28.

“Everybody was more nervous than we expected.

But now everyone knows the World Cup atmosphere, so the nerves should be gone by next week’s match,” Matsushima said.

Hamilton Masakadza walks out to a guard of honour in his final match in Zimbabwe colours. (Raton Gomes/BCB) by veteran seamer Chris Mpofu.

He was Zimbabwe’s quickest bowler of the evening, topping out at around 136kmph, but he also varied his pace cleverly and was rewarded with a careerbest T20I haul of 4 for 30.

Mpofu’s efforts raised the energy of those around him, and from 107 for 1, Afghanistan quickly lost their way, losing 7 for 48.

Mpofu got things going by removing a slog-sweeping Shafiqullah with a slow offcutter, and then accounted for Mohammad Nabi in the next over. With Gurbaz bowled behind his legs sweeping at Williams and Najibullah Zadran slicing a Mutombodzi googly to short third man in quick succession, the stuffing was knocked out of Afghanistan’s middle order and their charge quickly lost momentum.

Gulbadin Naib and Rashid Khan both cleared the boundary in their short cameos, but Mpofu struck twice in the final over of the innings to dismiss debutant Fazal Niazai and former captain Asghar Afghan to keep Afghanistan’s total in check.

Once more unto the breach,

Mudhara Hami, once more More than eighteen years after he walked out onto the field for the first time as an international cricketer, Hamilton Masakadza strode out one last time as Zimbabwe began their chase. In a touching tribute, both teams lined up to give Masakadza a guard of honour on his final walk to the middle, and he signed off in style.

It was Brendan Taylor who was first out of the blocks, sweeping and lofting Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s first two balls to the boundary, but it was Masakadza, wearing a special edition T-shirt with his nickname ‘Mudhara’ (chiShona for ‘old man’) printed on the back, who stole the show. Playing with a freedom that had been lacking from his game amid tumultuous times in Zimbabwean cricket of late, Masakadza showed his team just what they would be missing.

His first boundary was perhaps his best, and certainly the cleanest strike on either side all evening. It was also a trademark Masakadza stroke, the burly Zimbabwean captain getting down on one knee to swat a full-pace delivery from

Dawlat Zadran up and over deep backward square.

Chakabva, shovelling virtually everything into the leg side no matter the line, proved the perfect foil, repeatedly handing the strike back over to his captain. At the other end, an unshackled Masakadza planted Nabi twice into the stands, racing past fifty from just the 27th ball he faced.

Rashid was drilled down the ground and then over deep midwicket. Masakadza entered the 70s with a farewell hundred very much a possibility, but it was not to be. Aiming once more for the stands, he was caught in the deep off Dawlat Zadran.

But the job was as good as done. Changing through the gears, Chakabva took the requirement to under a run a ball, and Williams saw Zimbabwe home. Masakadza was able to leave the international game with a smile on his face, and a historic Zimbabwe win under his belt.

Scores: Zimbabwe 156 for 3 (Masakadza 71, Chakabva 39, Mujeeb 2 -28) beat Afghanistan 155 for 8 (Gurbaz 61, Hazratullah 31, Mpofu 4-30) by seven wickets.

Hamilton’s Mercedes F1 team referred to stewards over fuel breach Autosport - Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes Formula 1 team has been fined €5000, after being referred to the stewards at the Singapore Grand Prix having broken the technical regulations.

A notification from F1 technical delegate Jo Bauer after the opening free practice session said the fuel that Hamilton planned to use was cooler than allowed under the rules.

The notification said: “The temperature of the fuel

intended for immediate use in car number 44, measured at 17:44 with FIA approved and sealed sensor, was more than eleven degrees centigrade (20.3) below the ambient temperature recorded by the FIA appointed weather service provider one hour before the first free practice session (32), this not being in compliance with Article 6.5.2 of the 2019 Formula One Technical Regulations.

“I am referring this matter

to the stewards for their consideration.”

Cooler fuel delivers a performance benefit in terms of power and density.

The FIA enforces a temperature limit to stop teams finding a performance benefit.

Alfa Romeo was also fined €5000 for a similar offence at the Austrian Grand Prix earlier this year after the fuel intended to be put in Antonio Giovinazzi’s car was found to be too cold.

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Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

First World Cup in Asia opens to ‘awesome atmosphere’ TOKYO (Reuters) - Rugby fever swept through Japan yesterday as fans flocked to Tokyo Stadium for the start of the 2019 World Cup, ushering in the tournament to Asia for the first time with a lavish opening ceremony inspired by Japanese-style festivals and Kabuki dance.

Japanese “taiko” drums set the beat as the names of the 20 participating countries were projected onto a likeness of Mt. Fuji. Huge cheers went up for defending champions New Zealand but the biggest, of course, were reserved for hosts Japan.

A choir of children sang the “World in Union” theme before former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw raised the Webb Ellis trophy to rousing cheers from the roughly 50,000 capacity crowd.

“The stage is set ... to make this the best World Cup ever,” World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said.

Japan’s Crown Prince Akishino declared the Sept.

20 - Nov. 2 tournament officially open.

The hosts kicked off the tournament with a 30-10 victory against Russia yesterday and supporters both local and from overseas turned out overwhelmingly in the red and white jerseys of Japan to root for the home side.

Fans squeezed on to trains for the journey to the stadium on the western edge of the city, then drank beer, had their faces painted and sang songs as they walked from the station to the venue. ‘ “I couldn’t sleep well and

Japan players celebrate in front of their fans after the match against Russia. woke up early in the morning.

I’m so excited,” said Hiroshi Moriyama, who painted his upper body in the colours of the Japan uniform with the message “Welcome RWC 2019 Japan” on his back.

Setefano Siu Magele and Maia Siu Magele, fans from New Zealand, showed their support for Japan by donning Japan headbands and red Tshirts.

“So excited, can’t wait. It’s going to be awesome and the atmosphere has already been awesome so yeah all dressed in the gear, ready to go. Go Japan!” said Maia, pumping her fist in the air.

After the match, Japan captain Michael Leitch said the energy from the home crowd helped give the Brave Blossoms a lift after they stuttered through a jittery error-prone first half.

“It was a packed stadium, with home fans. It really helps when the pressure is on.

When we build momentum

and fans get behind the team, it really excites us,” he told reporters.

Many fans also said they were excited to see the blockbuster clash between New Zealand and South Africa today, a sign that local fans’ interest in the World Cup will spread well beyond the home team’s matches.

Strong support for the tournament will be welcome news for World Rugby, who took a major risk in awarding the tournament to Japan 10 years ago, taking the World Cup out of the sport’s traditional heartlands for the first time.

Japan, ranked 10th in the world, are looking to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time after coming oh-so-close in 2015 in England, where they scored one of the sport’s biggest ever upsets with a victory over South Africa.

In Pool A they will also face Ireland, Samoa and Scotland.

(REUTERS/Matthew Childs)

Japan’s Lomano Lemeki in action during the match against Russia. (REUTERS/Issei Kato)

Marquez remains fastest despite Yamaha challenge Alcañiz (Spain) (AFP) Three Yamahas outpaced Marc Marquez in the second practice session for the Aragon GP yesterday but the Spaniard remained fastest because of his time in the morning session.

Maverick Vinales, Valentino Rossi and Fabio Quartararo were the quickest in the afternoon but none of these three riders was able to approach Marquez’s morning time of 1min 46.689sec.

Vinales set the best afternoon time in 1:48.014, 0.057sec ahead of factory Yamaha teammate Valentino

Rossi. With Quartararo, who rides for a Yamaha satellite team, 0.103sec slower.

If the forecast rain arrives on Saturday morning for the third practice session, it could make it more difficult for the others to stop Honda’s Marquez, the five-time world champion, taking pole position.

Apart from Marquez, who escaped a crash unscathed, all the other riders improved their times in the afternoon, with fellow Spaniard Pol Espargaro putting his KTM in fifth.

Marquez leads Andrea Dovizioso of Ducati by 93

points with six races left to run.

The Italian only had the eighth best combined time in the first two practice sessions.

The riders with the ten fastest times in the first three free practice sessions participate directly in today’s qualifying session (Q2), which determines the order of the top 12 places on the starting grid for the race tomorrow at 13:00 local time (1100 GMT).

The other drivers must participate in a preliminary qualifying session (Q1) and the best two times are drafted for Q2.

Maverick Vinales was fastest in the afternoon session at the Aragon MotoGP. (AFP Photo/JOSE JORDAN)

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Teams urged to make deposit as GSCL Inc PM T20 Cup draws near The Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc will be hosting their third edition of the Prime Minister’s T20 Cup from November 1-3 in Georgetown, with several top local teams battling for supremacy against their counterparts from New York, Canada and Florida.

The tournament which was launched recently at GNIC SC, does not require an entrance fee, but the participating teams must make a deposit of $60,000 as collateral which will be refunded after the preliminary round matches on the second day of the competition.

According to GSCL Inc President Ian John, the fee is a guarantee that the teams registered will be participating fully. John said there were issues where teams that were listed on the fixtures, pulled out at the last moment which caused some hiccups, since it is difficult to find a replacement at the last moment.

The teams listed to participate are asked to make this deposit on or before September 27 to the

Flashback! Prime Minister Hon Moses Nagamootoo (2nd from left front row), Minister Dr. George Norton (2nd from right front row) and GSCL Inc President Ian John (left front row) with representatives of the sponsors and organisers at the launching ceremony. organisers at GSCL Inc at 69 Seaforth Street, Campbellville.

The drawing of the tournament, which is being held in collaboration with the National Sports Commission and The Ministry of the Presidency Department of

Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport, will be held on October 13.

The competition will consist of three categories namely the over 45, over 50 and open, and matches will be played at venues in Georgetown. For the over-50

division, three players at the age of 49 will be accepted, while two players at the age of 43 will be accommodated in the playing XI in the over 45 category.

Matches will be played at Police SC, YMCA, ECC, GYO, GNIC SC, MSC and DCC.

The GSCL Inc indicated that both off-break and round arm bowling will be allowed, but chucking will not be accepted and the umpires will be very strict on this rule as well as reports on match fixing and teams turning up late for matches.

Following the semi finals on November 2, the finals will be held on November 3 at Everest CC, commencing with the over-50 category from 10:00hrs, this will be followed by the over-45 final from 13:30hrs, while the open final will be played under lights from 18:00hrs.

There will be lots of giveaways for the fans, while off-field entertainment which includes cheer leaders will be provided; Regal Masters and Speedboat are the defending champions in the over-45 and open categories respectively.

The winning team in the open segment will take home a trophy and $500,000 while the runner up will receive a trophy and $100,000.

The man-of-the-match in the final will receive a trophy and $10,000 and the MVP will be given one Hero Honda

Motorcycle.

The champions in the over-45 segment will pocket a trophy and $500,000 and the runner up a trophy and $100,000. The man-of-thematch in the final will take home a trophy and $10,000 and the MVP one 55"smart TV. The over-50 division dubbed the legends category; the winners will be given a trophy and $300,000 and the runner up a trophy and $50,000.

The man-of-the-match in the final will collect a trophy and $10,000 and the MVP one gold bracelet.

Among the sponsors are Banks DIH, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre and Regal Sports, Crown Mining, Rajiv Gandhi University, Green Heart University, Star Party Rentals, Supreme Venture, Elegance Jewellery, Cyber Sports Pakistan, Ink Plus the computer store, Dyna’s Embroidery, KFC, USA Cricket Zone, Krsna and Balram Printery and Hero MotorcyleRose Ramdehol.

Debutants impress with bat and ball as Tridents crush Zouks CPL - It was a tale of two Powerplays as Barbados Tridents gave their 2019 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) playoff hopes a major boost ahead of their home fixtures with a thumping 71run victory over St Lucia Zouks at Daren Sammy Stadium last night.

While Tridents openers Johnson Charles and Hero CPL debutant Justin Greaves blazed their way to 63/0 in the first six overs of the night, the Zouks lost wickets in each of the first three overs of their run-chase and another in the sixth to reach 48/4 at the same stage.

The Zouks had actually done a reasonable job in restricting the Tridents to 172/6 after the openers had taken the score to 76/0 after just seven overs, including one spell of seven boundaries in the space of 10 balls between the second and fourth overs.

Daren Sammy brought himself on and immediately slammed the brakes on the scoring, just five singles coming from his first over.

Obed McCoy backed that up with three dot balls to build the pressure on Charles, who succumbed for 28 as he skied the next ball to Kesrick Williams at long-on.

Greaves went through to an excellent debut 50 in 36 balls but was already slowing down by that point and

eventually sweeping Rahkeem Cornwall to deep square-leg where Colin de Grandhomme took a smart low catch.

Having scored 76/0 in the first seven overs of the innings, the Tridents managed just 29/2 from the next seven.

After a tough start to his innings, Jonathan Carter got the Tridents moving nicely again with a run of four Hero Maximums in the space of 10 balls but fell immediately after the last.

McCoy was the bowler once again, picking Carter up caught at deep cover from a smart short ball.

JP Duminy fell in the next over having struggled to a runa-ball 18 and it was left to Ashley Nurse, Raymon Reifer and Jason Holder to add some late runs to the total as the innings ended in a flurry of boundaries and wickets, with Williams in particular getting both reward and punishment to end with 3/44 from his four overs.

The Tridents might have been a touch disappointed with 172/6 given the platform they had, but it soon looked plenty as the Zouks lost key men early.

Cornwall hit two fours to start the innings as the Tridents entrusted the opening over to their second debutant, 19-year-old left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop. He held his nerve, though, and

got his reward as Cornwall tried and failed to clear Holder at mid-off.

Holder then struck with the ball, surprising Colin Ingram – who had been dropped first ball - with extra bounce and having him caught at point.

When Kavem Hodge was run out in the next over after Andre Fletcher called him through for a single that was never on, the Zouks were left with a mountain to climb.

De Grandhomme and Fletcher did give it a go for a brief time.

Three boundaries came from Holder’s second over, and de Grandhomme then took Bishop for a stunning six over wide long-off before drilling four along the carpet in the same direction.

Fletcher appeared to be finding his feet when he smacked Holder over the top for a one-bounce four but chopped his next ball into the leg stump.

The Zouks were already in trouble, but were finished after two moments of brilliance in the field from Carter. He’d already made an impact with the bat but surpassed that here, first with a flying onehanded catch to dismiss Sammy for just 2 and then in the next over swooping to run out a diving de Grandhomme by a clear yard with a direct hit.

It was damage limitation

for the Zouks after that. Chris Barnwell handed Bishop a second wicket when he holed out to long-on. It was a soft dismissal, but also deserved reward for the young spinner who did more than enough to suggest his 2/33 here will be no one-off.

Josh Lalor removed

Kesrick Williams with his first ball and, although Hardus Viljoen did at least lift the Zouks past 100 with a couple of big sixes off Sandeep Lamichhane, he was bowled by the Nepal leg-spinner for 31 and, with McCoy unable to bat due to injury, the Tridents ran out emphatic winners.

The Tridents now occupy the final playoff spot in the Hero CPL table, two points clear of both the Zouks and Jamaica Tallawahs, but will have ideas of climbing higher with a five-match home leg kicking off against the tabletopping Guyana Amazon Warriors tomorrow.

City’s Jesus returns for Brazil after international ban AFP - Gabriel Jesus returned yesterday to the Brazil squad for next month’s friendlies against Nigeria and Senegal after his two-month ban from international football following his controversial dismissal in July’s Copa America final.

The Manchester City striker was hit with the ban by South America’s football governing body CONMEBOL last month for the way he reacted to being sent off 20 minutes from the end of the final, won by Brazil 3-1 against Peru.

He left the field in tears, made obscene hand gestures, angrily kicked a water bottle and almost knocked over the VAR booth. Neymar was also picked yesterday for the Brazil squad days after he returned to action for Paris Saint-Germain following a summer-long transfer saga.

The world’s most

expensive player scored a spectacular winner against Strasbourg in last Sunday’s 1-0 Ligue 1 win at the Parc des Princes, but was showered with boos by fans after courting former club Barcelona throughout the close season.

Neymar, who struggled with injuries last season, had already played for his country earlier this month in friendly matches with Peru and Colombia, the latter of which saw him score and set another up in a 2-2 draw.

Atletico Madrid’s Renan Lodi, 21, earned his first international call-up after impressing in his first few games for the La Liga outfit.

Neymar’s PSG teammate Marquinhos has also been selected despite him leaving the field injured during his side’s 3-0 destruction of Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday. Brazil squad announced yesterday:

Goalkeepers: Ederson (Manchester City/ENG), Weverton (Palmeiras), Santos (Athletico-PR) Defenders: Dani Alves (Sao Paulo), Danilo (Juventus/ITA), Alex Sandro (Juventus), Renan Lodi (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Thiago Silva (Paris SG/ FRA), Marquinhos (Paris SG/FRA), Eder Militao (Real Madrid/ESP), Rodrigo Caio (Flamengo) Midfielders: Casemiro (Real Madrid/ESP), Arthur (Barcelona/ESP), Fabinho (Liverpool), Matheus Henrique (Gremio), Philippe Coutinho (Bayern Munich/GER), Lucas Paqueta (AC Milan/ITA) Attackers: Everton (Gremio), Firmino (Liverpool/ ENG), Gabriel Barbosa (Flamengo), Richarlison (Everton/ENG), Neymar (Paris SG/FRA), Gabriel Jesus (Manchester City/ENG)

PAGE 40

Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

The GIKMAA hosts successful 7th Open International Martial Arts Championship Shihan/Dr.Abdool Nazim Yassim (Soke) and the Guyana International Kyokushinkai Martial Arts Academy (GIKMAA) just concluded a successful open international martial arts tournament at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on September 15 last.

There were four schools with 50 Karatekas that competed at this tournament.

They were the The Jaguar Karate Association and the ISA Islamic School (teaming together)…. The Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate Association… The Academy of Contemporary Martial Arts and The Guyana International Kyokushinkai Martial Arts Academy.

The Guyana Int’l Kyokushinkai Martial Arts Academy with 28 Students won a total of 60 medals…38 Gold, 14 Silvers, 6 Bronze and 2, 4thPlaces.

Results as follows: Shonna Seusingh, David Mangru, (6 & Under Category) Zaheer Assan (7 - 9 Category) Ronald Ramkissoon, (10 12 Category) Rebekah Ramotar (in her first tournament) Sharda Sookwah, Maranda Bennett, Eduardo Thomas, Parashuram Persaud, Ravi Samaroo, Vikash Somwaru and Sensei Kelvin Walcott all winning 2 golds each…

Umish Parsaramand Ganesh Persaud

The successful participants of the Guyana International Kyokushinkai Martial Arts Academy pose for a photo after the event. won 3 golds each, while Christian Freeman was the star of the team with 4 golds.

One gold each went to…

Darshanie Amad, Candace Ramnauth, Kevin Moore, Nirel Ramrattan, Nkosi Jupiter and Shakeel Rahat.

Other outstanding students with silver bronze and forth place were…

Joshua Benjimen, Shafeer and shafeek Ali, Ricardo Balkaran,

Alex Alphonso, Nicholas Rampersaud, Gonvid Ramkuar and several others…

Shihan Nazim was once again very happy with his team’s performance, and with those competing for the first time.as he thank Sensei Marcell L. Yassim Sensei Kelvin Walcott, instructors Umish Parsaram, Vikash Somwarualong with Sampai Parashuram Persaud and Ravi

Samaroo, for working with and helping the students.

The GIKMAA is expressing gratitude to Mr. Christopher Jones (Director of sports) and the National Sport Commission, Superbet Guyana and Grandmaster/Soke Dr. Abdool Nazim Yassim for Sponsorship of this tournament.

Special thanks also went to the Judges and Referees along with the parents and

supporters that help make the tournament a successful one.

Shihan Nazim said that he is also thankful to Shihan Khedoe and the others that came to Guyana from Suriname to support him and the Tournament.

Shihan Nazim Yassim and his team will now turn their attention to the Black and Brown Belt exams in October.

Shihan Nazim is also planning

to have for the first time in Guyana, a Guyana K1 Knock down competition by the end of November if he obtains the sponsorship needed (starting with his own students after which he will be opening this to all that would be willing to prove themselves in that competition once a year) and then their Bragging Rights tournament in December.

NexGen Global marketing & HJ’s ‘Not in My House’ Boxing

Millions $$$ of Free Tickets to be ‘given away’ at Sept 28 Card NexGen Global Marketing/ Caribbean Knock-Outs and HJ Entertainment along with New Trend Auto, NCN and Cloud 9 amongst a host of local businesses will give all Guyanese an opportunity to celebrate the return of boxing in a manner that was never done before by giving away more than $100 Million of Free Tickets.

Durban Park, will for the first time host the largest Boxing and music festival in Guyana’s history on September 28.

The promoters and sponsors will give away 30,000 General Admission tickets and 4,000 VIP ringside tickets but only through their sponsors.

Sanctioned by the Guyana Boxing Board, the event dubbed “Not in MY House” will see fighters from Colombia, USA and Trinidad square off against the best Guyana has to offer.

“Guyana’s Amateur boxing team the won the most Gold medals at the Caribbean Championships and nothing was done to honor them, so in a way, this is their home-coming moment of glory.

We have brought in Anthony Joseph from Trinidad to face Keevin Allicock, who returns on Monday

Dexter Marques scores with a crunching right to the body of Zarraga who fought bravely all night before losing a majority verdict to the Guyanese. (file photo) from a training stint in Russia,” informed Steve Ninvalle, President of the Guyana Boxing Association.

After more than 45 rounds of top quality boxing, the main event of the night will see Dexter “The Kid” Marques square off against

Colombian Jose Antonio Jimenez.

According to the Promoters the Boxing will be followed by an epic HJ Entertainment and Guyana Carnival music festival.

Speaking for the promotion team, Aleem Hussain said, “It’s time

that the people of Guyana got a major entertainment event without a huge cost attached. Unlike other sports, this event is totally free through sponsors’ ticket distribution and we expect the thousands of persons in attendance, will purchase over $50M in food and drinks from small local vendors, who will be able to sell their items without paying to do so.

We believe that by giving back to the community, we are accomplishing several things, creating a way for everyone to earn some money, stimulating the economy and most of all, showcasing the talent that Guyanese have to the world.

We wish to thank Minister Norton who without hesitation offered the use of the facility to host this event and the exceptional professionalism of Trevor Williams, who responded immediately to our request.”

The event is scheduled to be broadcast live locally on NCN and streamed to the rest of the world to see what Guyana has to offer.

A top Guyanese born Chef, Bernard James, is returning from Los Angeles to serve up special cuisine

at the event.

HJ Entertainment’s Kerwin Bollers said he’s excited about the possibilities and hopes that this will show Guyanese that anything is possible and that the biggest dreams can be realized.

“Who would have thought that Durban Park would be home to the biggest boxing and music festival in Guyana’s history? We are seriously looking at making this a regular feature for our company and the Guyana Carnival calendar of events,” Bollers said.

President of the GBBC Peter Abdool enthused about the possibilities and stated that as long as this incredible model proves successful, “Guyana will become the Mecca of boxing in the region and we will host major championships here on a regular basis - possibly even a World Title event soon.”

Partnering with the promotions team is local entrepreneurs Aditka Persaud and Rudy Ramalingum of New Trend Auto. Both men are enthusiastic about the upcoming event and are looking forward to seeing sports lead the way for tourism, job creation and promotion (Continued on page 31)

Saturday September 21, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Trophy Stall’s Rishi Ramsaywak Birthday T20 Softball tourney

PanAmerican & FESUPO Powerlifting Championships

Natoya Robinson lands FESUPO Wellman’s X1 & HS Masters Deadlift record as Guyanese clash in tomorrow’s final at MSC athletes make their mark yet again

Natoya Terisa Robinson

Wellman Masters Skipper Jones collects the Trophy Stall Trophy from Kavita Yadram after their win at Enterprise.

A riveting battle is anticipated from 10:00hrs tomorrow at the Malteenoes ground in the Rishi Ramsaywak Birthday final of the Trophy Stall sponsored T20 Softball cricket competition between Wellman Masters and HS Maters.

On the road to the finals, fifties from Troy Lewis (96) and Skipper Wayne Jones (76) who shared in a 185-run fourth wicket partnership, spearhead Mike’s Wellman to victory over Pooran’s X1, while Richard Persaud’ 54 was good enough to do the same for HS Masters in the other Semi-final against Fisherman’s X1.

Lewis, a former WicketKeeper, batsman for Malteenoes First Division team, has resurrected his softball career which scores of 84, 96 & 32 in his last three innings, is expected to spearhead the Wellman Masters batting and should get support from experienced and prolific left-handed Jones, one of the softball players never to play competitive ‘hardball’ cricket.

Greg Defranca and Raul Reid could also contribute with the bat for Welman’s Masters tomorrow.

HS Masters will expect good contributions with bat from the unrelated Persauds; Dharam and Richard if they hope for a win today on what could be a slow outfield.

The HS Masters’ line

could include Richard Persaud, Mano j A r j u n e , Rudy Mayers, Dharam Persaud, Hannaman Singh, Jai Ram and Skipper Oslyn Batson, while the Welman’s Masters Team will come from Jones, Lakeram Singh, Lloyd Rooplall, Lewis, Nandram Samlall, Greig Defranca, Sheldon Perch, Dinesh Vivekananda, Raul Reid, Eon Lovell, Seeraj Bhinsain, Lester Thom and Surujdeo Ramdeen Welman’s Master warmed up for tomorrow’s final with a seven-wicket win over

Fisherman’s Masters at the Enterprise ground in the Trophy Stall Legends softball tournament.

Fisherman’s Masters scored 136-8 in 15 overs with Robert Mohan (24), Jagdesh Persaud (28) Sham Budram (34), Azeemul Haniff (20) as Lakeram Singh took 3-16 and Nandram Samlall supported with 2-10.

Wellman Masters replied with 137-3 in 13. 1 overs with Greg Defranca (34), Troy Lewis (32) and Raul Reid (31) leading the victory charge.

(Sean Devers)

Natoya Robinson’s FESUPO 84+kg class Classic Deadlift record of 195kg or 429.9lbs has been the highlight so far of Guyana’s outstanding performance at the PanAmerican/South American Powerlifting and Bench Press Equipped and Classic Championships taking place in Uruguay.

Sponsored by the Government of Guyana to the tune of 3.6 million dollars, the athletes have not disappointed so far with Gold, Silver and Bronze medals being hauled in at a rapid pace by the female and male athletes.

Following is the breakdown of the athletes performances so far as obtained from the federation: Natoya Robinson FESUPO 84+kg Class Classic

Noel Cummings (right) and Franklin Brisport-Luke Deadlift record 195kg or 429.9lbs 6 Gold (2 Bench Press 2 Deadlift 2 Overall), 2 Silver (Squat).

Runita White - (84+kg class) 2 Gold (Squat), 2 Silver (Bench Press), 2 Silver (Deadlift), 2 Silver (2nd place overall).

Lisa Oudit - (84kg class) 3 Silver 1 Bronze.

Nadina Taharally (Masters 1) 4 Gold – 1 Squat, 1 Benchpress 1 Deadlift 1 Overall. Open Class Raw – 5 Silver – 1 Squat 1 Benchpress 1 Deadlift 1 Second Place 1 Overall.

Nadina Taharally

Richard Persaud will hope to follow-up his 54 in the semis with more runs tomorrow.

Noel Cummings (Masters 4) 8 Gold, 1 Silver, 4 Bronze - 4 PanAm, 4 South American records in the Master’s 4 category.

Franklyn Brisport-Luke - (66kg class –Raw Masters 2) 11 Silver - 8 in Masters Class (2 Squat 2 Benchpress 2 Deadlift 2 Overall. Three (3) Silver Open Class – 1 Squat, 1 Deadlift 1 Overall. Three (3) Bronze (Open Class) – 2 Benchpress 1 Deadlift; a total of 14 medals.

The other athletes competing are Bjorn Williams, Frank Tucker and Nairanjan Singh.

Lisa Sabrina Oudit

PAGE 42

Saturday September 21, 2019

Kaieteur News

BCB/New York Business Group Under-19 Tournament

Rose Hall Town Pepsi ‘A’, Albion CC ‘A’, Rose Hall Canje, Tucber Park advance The 2019 Berbice Cricket Board/New York Business Group Under-19 Cricket Tournament recently restarted after the long rainy season. Four teams have advanced to the Semifinals after defeating their rivals in the quarterfinals played last week. The Tournament which has been sponsored by several New York Based Businessmen via the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club has been scheduled to be completed on Saturday 19th October, 2019, with the finals being played at the No. 69 Ground in the Upper Corentyne area.

National Player Jason Sinclair stroked his third century of the Tournament during the quarterfinals, while other outstanding performers have included Kevlon Anderson, Gevon Schultz, Garfield Benjamin, Chanderpaul Govindan,

Gouraz Ramesh, Kevin Umroa, Satnarine Singh and Andy Tejraj.

At the Cumberland Ground in Canje: Rose Hall Town Pepsi ‘A’ won the toss and elected to bat. They scored 303 for 4 from 45 Overs against Young Warriors.

Jason Sinclair carried his bat to score 170 not out with eight boundaries and two sixes. He received support from Chanderpaul Govindan 45, Kevlon Anderson 35 and Vikash Subramanie 18. Alex Algoo claimed 2 wickets for 34 runs and Ricardo Ramdehol 1 for 37 for a tired looking Young Warriors Cricket Club.

Young Warriors Cricket Club in response were bowled out for 109 in 26.4 Overs to lose by 194 runs. Carl Gilegous 37 and Alex Algoo top scored with 32 respectively. RHT Pepsi ‘A’ bowling attack was spearheaded by Jonathan

Rampersaud with 3 for 12, Dorasammy Mahadeo 2 for 33 and Jeremy Sandia 2 for 2.

At the Canje Ground: Tucber Park ‘A’ crushed RHT Pepsi ‘B’ by 202 runs. Batting first, Tucber Park Cricket Club recovered from 14 for 3 to reach 228 for 9 in 46 Overs.

National Players Garfield Benjamin 81, Gevn Schultz 34, Leon Swammy 54 and Abdul Ramsammy 22 were the principal scorers as Nicholas Lawson 3 for 37 from 9 Overs.

Rayad Rahaman 2 for 19 bowled well. Christopher Deroop and Matthew Pottaya took a wicket each.

Rose Hall Town Pepsi ‘B’ comprising of mainly Under15 and Under-13 Players were dismissed for 26 from 20 Overs as National Junior Players Gevon Schultz 4 for 5 and Leon Swammy 3 for 6 were in destructive mood.

At the historic Albion Community Centre Ground: Albion Community Centre eased past Blairmont Community Centre by 93

Fund Raising for Hurricane Dorian relief passes US$60,000 CPL - The Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has been working with their very supportive sponsors and commercial partners to raise funds to support the relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian.

At the end of the match between Jamaica Tallawahs and Guyana Amazon Warriors on Wednesday 18thSeptember the total raised has passed US$40,000. The sponsors who have supported this effort so far are Angostura Lemon & Lime Bitters, Sunshine Snacks, El Dorado and the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots franchise.

As the tournament progresses, more of Hero CPL’s sponsors will be getting involved in this programme. In addition, the Republic

Bank “6 for 6” initiative has now raised more than US$22,000 for the relief efforts thus far, with US$60 to be given by Republic Bank for each six hit during this year’s Hero CPL. Damien O’Donohoe, CEO of the Hero CPL, said: “We were devastated to see the destruction caused by Dorian in the Bahamas and we want to do all we can to raise funds to generate much needed support for those who have been affected by these terrible events.

We would like to extend our thanks to Republic Bank, Angostura Lemon & Lime Bitters, Sunshine Snacks and El Dorado for their support of this cause and we look forward to more of our sponsors working with us to raise funds.”

runs. Albion Community Centre amassed 178 all out in 43.4 Overs with Inzam Shazam 36, Antonio February 34, Sarwan Chaitnarine 33 and Reyad Karim 29 being the top scorers, while Andy Tejraj 5 for 31 was Blairmont best bowler.

Blairmont Community Centre in response were disappointing with the bat as they were bowled out for 85 in 30 Overs. Marvin Prashad 47, Nigel Deodat 19 and Seon Glasgow 14 were the best batsmen as left arm spinners Gourav Ramesh 6 for 9 (8.5 Overs) and Kevin Umroa 3 for 12 spun webs around the batsmen.

At the Cotton Tree Ground: Rose Hall Canje upset Zone ‘A’ Paradise by 95 runs. Rose Hall Canje made 160 all out with Aviskhar Persaud 30 and Demitri Griffith 24 being the top scorers.

Travis Charles 3 for 30 was the leading bowler for Paradise.

Paradise were bowled out for 65. Only Travis Charles reached double figures with

15. Satnarine Singh 4 for 24, Isaiah Thorne 2 for 15 and Travis Sinclair 2 for 1 bowled well for Canje.

Scores in matches leading up to the Quarterfinals: 1) At the Area ‘H’ Ground: RHT Pepsi ‘A’ defeated No. 73 Cricket Club by seven wickets. No. 72 Cricket Club 123 all out in 32.1 Overs.

Karran Persaud 36, Rudy Jamaladin 35. Tyrese Sealey 3 for 15, Lucas Arthur 3 for 21, Kevlon Anderson 2 for 12.

RHT Pepsi ‘A’ scored 133 for 3 in 14.1 Overs. Kevlon Anderson 64, Jonathan Rampersaud 33 not out.

2) At Port Mourant Ground: RHT Pepsi ‘A’ defeated Port Mourant Cricket Club by 247 runs.

RHT Pepsi ‘A’ scored 307 for 7 from 45 Overs. Junior Sinclair 114, Vikash Subramanie 37, Kevlon Anderson 81. Rampertab Ramnauth 5 for 33, Mark Ramalho 2 for 36.

Port Mourant Cricket Club scored 60 all out in 19.5 Overs.

T. Sukhraj 18, Doorsammy Mahadeo 4 for 28 (8 Overs).

Tyrese Sealey 2 for 12.

3) At the Area ‘H’ Ground: Albion Community Centre ’A’ defeated RHT Pepsi ‘A’ by 7 wickets.

RHT Pepsi ‘A’ scored 60 all out in 21.2 Overs. Jason Sinclair 16, Kevlon Anderson 28. Surendra Ramcharitar 6 for 19, Beesham Surujnarine 2 for 9.

Albion Com Centre ‘A’ scored 61 for 3 in 15 Overs.

Jeetendra Outar 17, Kevlon Anderson 2 for 20.

4) At Rose Hall Canje Ground: Tucber Park ‘A’ defeated Rose Hall Canje by 7 wickets.

Rose Hall Canje Cricket Club scored 80 all out in 29 Overs. Avishkar Persaud 12, Isaiah Thorne 20. Abdul Ramsammy 5 for 12 (* Overs), Melvin Singh 3 for 24 (& Overs).

Tucber Park Cricket Club scored 87 for 3 off 10 Overs.

Anthony Williams 14, Leon Swammy 25, Zeynul Ramsammy 15 not out. Isaiah Thorne 1 for 39 (4 Overs), Sanjay Algoo 2 for 18 (3 Overs).

Stage of Champion IV – Fight to the Finish

Camille’s Academy is main sponsor

Teacher and Representative of Camille’s Academy, Raynauth Gorakh hands over sponsorship to Videsh Sookram.

Some of the funds for the Bahamas relief effort being presented during a recent game. (CPL)

Organiser of Stage of Champions in its fifth year, Videsh Sookram, has informed that the main sponsor on board is Camille’s Institute. The sponsorship amount was not disclosed for what is anticipated to be a mega event, come Saturday October 19 next at the Theatre Guild Playhouse, Kingston.

Sookram expressed thanks to Camille’s Academy’s Raynauth Gorakh

for their support, noting that he is expecting a very competitive show. Both male and female athletes are expected to grace the stage with their presence but in a combative mode as they battle for the attractive cash prizes on offer.

Headlining the local contingent would be reigning Mr. Guyana and veteran athlete, Marlon ‘Bolo’ Bennett along with the multi talented

Carlos Petterson, Rosanna Fung (female), Anthony Harris, Sylvan Gardner, Lyndon Burnett, Andre Wagner and Tagepaul Gwendasammy.

The locals will be seeking to smother the threats of the athletes from overseas that would be here to compete.

They’ll be coming from Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Saint Lucia and Antigua & Barbuda.

Kaieteur News

Saturday September 07, 2019

PAGE 43

BCB 80th Anniversary Celebration

Dr. Puran Singh donates Computer and Printer as Office upgrading continues - Sponsorship continues to pour in The Berbice Cricket Board continues to celebrate its 80th Anniversary with the upgrading of its Cheddi Jagan Street, New Amsterdam Office.

President Hilbert Foster, who is spearheading the Anniversary programme, stated that the upgrading of the outdated office is one of main priorities with the others being Educational Competitions, Honouring of Heroes and assisting youths to make positive differences in their lives.

Barbados based

Berbician Medical Doctor, Dr. Puran Singh, an official sponsor of the Berbice Cricket Board, last week donated a Desktop Computer and Printer as part of the upgrading effort.

Attorney at Law Arun Gossai handed over the donation on behalf of Dr. Puran Singh. Foster stated that having its own Computer and Printer would enable the Berbice Cricket Board to conduct all of its businesses internally and at the same time reduce its operating cost.

Attorney-at-Law Arun Gossai hands over Computer and Printer to Dr. Cecil Beharry on behalf of Dr. Puran Singh.

‘Beat Dem Bad’ futsal tourney launched

Y

e s t e r d a y, o n America and Longden streets, the first ‘Beat Dem Bad’ futsal tournament was officially launched in the presence of members of the organising committee. The event is being promoted by the Georgetown District in collaboration with the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) with the intension of fostering social cohesion among the communities.

Sixteen of the best futsal teams in Guyana will go head to head for over $500,000 in cash and prizes from next Friday the 27th to Sunday 29th.

During the launch, executive member of the PNC/R, James Bond, posited during the launch that the o rg a n i s e r s k n o w h o w popular the sport is and he believes that it can lead to the empowerment of youths.

Meanwhile, deputy Mayor of the Georgetown, Alfred Mentore posited that his office has a role to play in

the bonding of communities and social cohesion can be easily achieved through sport and especially football which is one of the more popular sports. “We are happy to reach out to the youths and gave greater cooperation between the city dwellers and the Mayor and City Council,” Mentore added.

The teams that are confirmed to contest the event are Melanie and Beterverwagting from the East Coast of Demerara, Silver Bullets and Swag Entertainment from Linden, Showstoppers from West Demerara, Empire Ballers and Agricola from the East Bank, while the Georgetown teams are Tiger Bay, Sparta Boss, Gold is Money, Back Circle, Broad Street, Albouystown, Leopold Street, Sophia All-stars and Alexander Village.

The winners of this competition will pocket $200,000, second place $100,000, third $50,000 and fourth $25,000.

Metro Supervisor Shalini Hitnarine hands over donation to BCB President Hilbert Foster and PRO Simon Naidu.

Suresh Dhanai of Republic Bank hands over sponsorship Cheque to BCB Treasurer Dr. Cecil Beharry.

As part of its upgrading, the Berbice Cricket Board Office now has its own Television set, DVD Player, fax machine, telephone set, electric fans, kitchen utensils, water dispenser, w a t e r p i t c h e r, o f f i c e equipments among other items. The Berbice Cricket Board would shortly receive a three piece chair suite from A.H. & L Kissoon, while sponsorships have been obtained to purchase folding chairs, plastic chairs for the hosting of meetings, while the roof would be covered with PVC Ceiling and the floor would be tiled.

Foster stated that his administration over the last nineteen months has concentrated on restoring Berbice Cricket on the cricket field, assisting Clubs and Players, Hosting of Developmental Programmes and the uniting of all factions of Berbice Cricket. With Berbice Cricket now on strong footing once again, the Berbice Cricket Board is now seeking to upgrade its services to the general public. Since inheriting a meager $43,000, the Foster led Berbice Cricket Board has raised over $18M in cash and kind and launched over

50 Cricket Tournaments at several levels including Under-13, Under-15, Under17, Under-19, Under-21, Female, Second Division, Internal Zone, Double Wickets, Intermediate, Primary Schools, Secondary Schools and First Division.

Republic Bank (Guy) Ltd, New Amsterdam Branch also donated $75,000 towards the purchasing of trophies and medals, while other donations have been received from Spready’s Snackette, Sentinel Security, J ’s P r i n t e r y, G u y a n a National Newspapers Limited, University of

Guyana, Poonai’s Pharmacy, Balram Shane General Store, Canadian Surplus, Devendra Bishoo, Anthony Bramble, Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh, Gudakesh Motie, Massy Berbice, Attorney-at-Law Rodwell Jugmohan, Sukhpaul Gas Station, RHTYSC,MS, Delmur Shipping, Caribbean Nation Group among others.

Bakewell has also donated 100 souvenirs 80th Anniversary Cups, Metro Office Supplies donated all of the Certificates and foam boards for the Honouring of Heroes, while the National (Continued on page 31)

PanAmerican & FESUPO Powerlifting Championships rt o p S

Natoya Robinson lands FESUPO Deadlift record as Guyanese athletes make their mark yet again

Team Guyana take time out for a group photo at the PanAmerican/South American Powerlifting and Bench Press Equipped and Classic Championships in Uruguay.

Debutants impress with bat and ball as Tridents crush Zouks

‘Beat Dem Bad’ futsal tourney launched

From left, Hazel Pinder, Alfred Mentore, James Bond, Hermon Liverpool, Wayne Griffith and Jahall Greaves, members of the event’s organising committee at the launch.

Jason Holder (left) and the Barbados Tridents celebrate during their victory over the St Lucia Zouks last night. (CPL)

NexGen Global marketing & HJ’s ‘Not in My House’ Boxing

Millions $$$ of Free Tickets to be ‘given away’ at Sept 28 Card

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