Kaieteur News
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Tuesday September 27, 2016
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
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
GPL foot dragging and the SHATTERED IMAGE Coalition’s track record EDITORIAL
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is a permanent organization that morphed into its present state in May 2000 by virtue of the Constitution Act No2 of 2000. It replaced the Elections Commission which had a limited life that would normally expire three months after the date of General Elections. GECOM is an independent body that is headed by a Chairman and Commissioners from the main political parties represented in the National Assembly. The Chairman is appointed by the President. Its primary responsibility is to conduct and supervise elections in Guyana. There is no time limit or a period that commissioners are to serve. In other words, its Chairman and six Commissioners have life time appointments. All the powers which were previously exercised by the Minister responsible for the preparation for and administration of elections are now vested in GECOM. Except for the 2015 general elections which the PPP claimed was rigged and has challenged the validity of results in court, the elections of 2001, 2006 and 2011 apparently were conducted fairly by GECOM, which had an unblemished record. It has often been praised by many for its proper handling of elections. However, recently, GECOM has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. It has been accused of spending hundreds of millions of dollars on some questionable items. Not only is GECOM’s image being shattered, it seems to have lost credibility from the public. GECOM is an independent body that has been granted some degree of autonomy on budgeting, and spending but only from this year. It is responsible for making decisions including identifying and purchasing equipment it deemed necessary for its operations. It is now a Constitutional body empowered to take care of its own budget and approve its expenditure. Neither the Minister of Finance nor the cabinet has authority over GECOM’s spending or its procurement of items. But the sins that GECOM allegedly committed occurred before it had its own budget, when Cabinet approved all requisitions; when the Tender Board regulated the tenders and when Ministry of Finance made the expenditures. However, the fact that GECOM spent $14.8 million for the purchase of pliers, $99.5 million on high frequency radio sets, and tens of millions for the purchase of batteries, copiers, printers, toners, batteries and office equipment should have raised a red flag, but it did not. It turned out that the cost of one plier was $6000 which was 10 times higher than a similar pair of pliers that cost about $600. The claim by GECOM that the radio sets were urgently needed for the May 11, 2015 elections, were false, because they were never used for the elections. Had it not been for this publication which exposed the reckless spending of public funds by GECOM, it would not have caught the attention of the Auditor General’s office. Awarding the contract of the pliers to Standard Distributors which is owned by Mr. Mahendra Brasse was not only suspicious but was also problematic. The reason is that Mahendra Brasse is the brother of Michael Brasse whose company Mobile Authority was awarded a huge contract to supply GECOM with requisitioned articles. Considered a favored contractor for GECOM, or who requisitioned for GECOM, the contract seems suspicious. It is being audited by the Auditor General’s office. GECOM, had it been a self-financing agency, would have been accused of intentionally keeping many of its payments below a certain amount to avoid attracting attention from oversight bodies like the Procurement and Administration Tender Board. Even though the Chairman of GECOM and its senior staff have not responded to the allegations of corruption, the revelations continue to unravel the foundation of GECOM which until now has been seen by many as one of the most respectable organizations in the country.
Dear Editor; I have been keenly following in the press the award of contract for goods and services for the Government of Guyana since its assumption into office in May 15th, 2015. Like many other Guyanese we believe the coalition when they said that the PPP were manipulating contracts to give to their friends, hence many have voted for them to rectify this situation as they have pointed out. In all fairness to the APNU/AFC they had a plan and that was clean and transparent procurement, stop sole sourcing, and most importantly the setting up of the Public Procurement Commission within 100 days. So let’s look at their report card, with regards to stopping sole sourcing. They have an F grade; as a matter of fact, sole sourcing has become so prevalent now for the government and their friends to make money off of the taxpayers of this country. If you check all the ministries, the APNU/AFC controlled City Hall, the APNU/AFC
imposed regional officers, you will find the vilest and sickening levels of financial irresponsibility through sole sourcing. I hope that these officials, including ministers will be brought to justice for the financial conspiracies they are committing on the Treasury and the Guyanese people’s monies. The biggest entity for this scheme and practice are the Guyana Power and Light and the Mayor and City Council. With regards to Public Procurement Commission, even though the names have been identified and agreed upon, the President of Guyana is still to ratify the names to have these people commence their work. One wonders if the President is waiting for more opaqueness to pass before he sets up the commission such as the IDB/EU/GOG funded GPL upgrade. It is now moving on to eight months since the bids were opened for this project and to date no award. I have read the many articles and comments from other writers looking
on to see how the government and their friends would try to pass the wool over the international donors eyes to award this contract to their friends. It is no secret that the reason this project has not been awarded as yet is because the donors are pushing back and refusing to grant the no objections imprint to the government’s choice contractor, who happened to be their friend who has received numerous sole sourced award from GPL and the Ministry of Public Works since May 11th, 2015. If the government does succeed in giving their friends an international contract, I hope all the other bidders protest this award and take it to court. Let the public see the nonsense that they engaged in at a high level. Mr. Editor, I hope that this government and their minister’s understand that the future may not turn out to be bright for all those who engage in unaccountable practices especially with citizens’ money. Harrynarine Budram
Lamentations on things that are wrong in Guyana Dear Editor; Since the change of Government, Guyana did experience a change, some of them were for the better and some for the not so good (modest opinion). I must admit that Guyana has never been so clean at least for the past 30 years or more. I’ve also observed that Guyanese are not so cooperative in keeping the country clean like in overseas countries and maintenance of the city’s cleanliness and appearance is also an uphill battle for the M&CC. I’ve also noticed smoother roads and street lights in many communities that weren’t previously there. However, contrary to the growth in the economy reports, I can see many of the economic struggles experienced by the average Joe and the business community in Guyana. I didn’t expect any less since the result of a change of Government will net these results. The closing down of the Chinese logging Company was not a good decision in such an economic crisis and will result in too many people on the bread line. This Government is moving a little too rash as it relates to closing down or stopping industries in Guyana. We must understand that even if the companies are operating outside the legal perimeter we should give them time to regularize, because that is the life they got accustom to, and immediate closure will mostly affect the workers and lead to even more crime and poverty Too many people are punishing as a result of many different tightness in the system. Used tires ban will result in thousands of people being affected. How can you ban used tires and
on average a taxi ride is about $500. Picture this; on average one pays about $80,000 - $100,000 car payment a mouth, after paying $800,000- $1,000,000 down payment on a Japanese used car which most of the money is duty anyway. Why are we forced to buy a new tire when we are already forced to pay Guyana Revenue authority $ 1,000,000 on a car that only cost $200,000 and $340,000 freight? I don’t understand how a driver’s licence is not accepted as Identification in Guyana as previously mentioned in the remigrant’s letter (Sunday edition) but it is true. It is very sad as a Guyanese to say that Guyana is very backward in many policies that we have. We live in a country where smuggling chicken is a million dollar business; motorcycles pay 100% duty; 2500 cc and above vehicles pay 200-300 % duty. A self-confessed drug lord said that the CANU is corrupted and an audit concluded that his allegations were without merit. I think that the audit is without merit. Lands and Survey and GRA staff still got a bad attitude and they pushing people around daily. EPA taking more than a year to issue permits and the staff attitude is the worst on the planet. GPHC emergency room is still in a mess and dying patients being told to sit down wait their turn; GOINVEST hardly investing; Housing Ministry never got a house lot for poor people and the waiting list is 5 to 10 years long; fire engines coming to the fire with little or no water; banks are asking for too many documents making borrowing almost impossibleopening a bank account in Guyana is a long
process; marine police and the coast guard still working with pirates in the Demerara River; parking meter still coming knowing that people can’t afford it. Last but not least, the US embassy waiting list is now 3 months for holiday visa, the longest I’ve ever heard, that can only mean that hundreds of people waiting to leave Guyana and many of them not to return, it is a sad reality. I urge people not to overstay in America as it will result in your family not being eligible to visit the Unites States. I heard Minister Gaskin said that policies are not in place for foreign investor, well the policies needed must be put in place immediately or allow them to come. The fact is EXXON MOBILE was negotiating since in the 90s and the exploration started about 2 years ago. Big investment takes a long time to negotiate and even longer to set up, so if they don’t hurry no big investor will start up any business in Guyana in this 50th year Independence. Please be advised that all of these representations made above are personal experiences and not hearsay and I will not be surprised when someone replies to this letter saying that some of these representations are inaccurate. But that’s Guyana for you; nobody accepts liability. What I can say is that, if one does not admit that there is a problem then they can never fix it or receive help to fix it. This is the first step of recovery, accepting that there is a problem. Those are some of the issues we face presently. Until next time love one another, stop racism and segregation, unite and life will be easier and better for all! Local Observer
Tuesday September 27, 2016
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Kaieteur News
The School-Based Wasteful expenditure of the City Assessments are valuable tools Council DEAR EDITOR, I refer to two previous published letters titled, ‘A three months attachment to a workplace should replace SBAs for CXC students’ (SN, September 24) and ‘SBAs should be abolished’ (SN, September 25). I humbly disagree with the implications of the title of these two very thought provoking articles. According to CXC, School-Based Assessment (SBA) is intended to evaluate the knowledge, skills and attitudes of students which are not easily evaluated by external examinations. For the SBA, teachers select activities which would provide students with the framework and content needed to demonstrate their achievement of the objectives as is outlined in the course syllabus. Teachers are then required to mark the submitted work and award points in an objective manner that fairly reflects the students’ performance. Compromised SBAs where the submissions had no relationship with their supposed authors seem to be the common reason put forth by the previous writers in their call for the scrapping of SBAs. This is a serious indictment and failure of the system that has led many employers to consider SBAs as a farce and may even venture in the realm of not accepting the grades as what is stated on the CSEC certificates. Before expressing such strong feelings on SBAs, we need to know how widespread forgery is. Does it happen across the board in all subject areas? In some or all territories? Who are implicit in such a travesty of honesty and integrity? Is it the students, the parents, teachers, principals, officials from the Ministry of Education, CXC markers, and/
or the CXC examining body as a whole? Working on the authors’ premise of widespread forgery, then without a doubt, teachers (and by extension principals) along with CSEC evaluators are complicit in accepting forgeries. According to CXC, principals are tasked with responsibility of ensuring that teachers verify that the work submitted is that of the candidate and not that of someone else. Are there guidelines for dealing with errant teachers who accepted forged works and then submitted marks on the candidates’ behalf? You and I know that there is none (or perhaps there is and it is at the bottom of a pile of circulars in someone’s office) and had there been and if it was taken seriously, then this problem would have been nipped in the bud since no one knows the students better than the subject teacher. Principals can have a meeting with parents of children in level 10 and 11 and outline the importance of academic integrity and thereafter, the student, parent and teacher need to sign a declaration that indicate the consequences of submitting forged SBAs (viz. automatic failure in the subject area). Likewise, these teachers who are known to have submitted forged works must be referred to the TSC and a comment indicating such be affixed on any application for promotion within a certain number of years. The consequence of CXC knowingly accepting forged works and sweeping the issue under the rug will certainly affect its international standing as an examining body in the region. This brings me to another question: How exactly are SBAs executed in schools? One shot and the SBA is submitted to the teacher on
its due date? Or was there, as stipulated by CXC, formative evaluation and feedback throughout the assessment terms? If it’s the latter, then forgery will be spotted easily since the teacher will be given the draft statement of the problem and introduction and would provide the next steps to the students. For some subjects, for example in the Business and Social Studies department, students works should not be exhaustive, rather, CXC stipulates that word count should not exceed 1000. Furthermore, HODs need to check that the subject teachers are indeed reviewing and providing students with ample feedback on their SBA progress. Furthermore, teachers need to be innovative with respect to the research that will be conducted as the SBA. You are greatly increasing the chances of forgery if you give the same topic which was given within the past five years. And teachers, don’t wait for the ministry to hold SBA workshops for you – my honest advice is to form groups amongst subject specialists and invite a CSEC marker, share ideas, share research topics, know who’s doing what, share resources, accept suggestions, critique topics, learn from each other. I do not believe all subject areas are equally prone to deliberate acts of copying from a previous marked SBA or paying for it to be written up by someone else. As a previous CSEC science teacher, I can say that it is not possible that any honest and skilled science teacher to not know a forged discussion or conclusion. My students had no need to ever forge the write-up for their science experiments - their textbooks and the background information that were provided were enough (Continued on page 6)
Bank of Guyana favours a certain stationery supplier DEAR EDITOR; The Election Commission unveiling by the Auditor General is nothing new , a certain person at Gecom has been at the center of these irregularities for a while which has seen traditional stationery and office businesses specialists such as Metro, Kojac etc, with these quotes being used as a basic for award to preferential suppliers such as the Brass Brothers. When the Auditor General
has finished he may want to investigate the big wig of the Central B a n k ’s preference to Regal Stationery regardless of any other considerations, and further afield other G o v e r n m e n t Departments and their preferred suppliers. Only a
new clearly defined Tendering and Quotation procedure, that is available by electronic means to all suppliers and with transparency in the selection of bidders will see the abuse of State funds coming to an end. Stationery store owner
DEAR EDITOR; I was surprised to open some of the popular dailies recently only to be confronted with a large full colour paid advertisement taken out by the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown and signed by the Town Clerk Royston King giving all property owners in Georgetown’s central business district 14 days to connect all pipes to the sewerage system as opposed to the city’s alleyways and street drains. I have not seen such profligate, reckless and decadent behavior by a municipality in a long time by
a municipality. Why for such a short and routine message was a large advertisement needed. Why was there need for such pointless and colourful graphics in the ad taking up most of it? Why was there need for it in colour. Indeed why was there need at all for this advertisement at all? If the Building Inspectors and the Sanitary Inspectors were doing their jobs properly, or at all, then they would have ensured that every new building would have had all such number of water closets, urinals, sinks, bath wastes or other sanitary conveniences in accordance with the regulations. This excessive advertising could only be
seen as the Town Clerk trying to appear to be working diligently or to divert the citizen’s attention from all of the recent indiscretions of the Council including harassing the vendors, making a complete mess of the Kitty Market rehabilitation, refusal to have a thorough forensic audit done of its finances, the notorious parking meter fiasco and so much more. How could a cash strapped City Council, allow the Town Clerk and PRO to so glibly waste the property owners money like that? This lavish and improvident behavior by irresponsible officers at the Council must be stopped now. James Mc Onnell
Mr. Cush, his contract, parking meters, companies DEAR EDITOR, The plot of the infamous parking meter deal between the Georgetown City Council and three unknown and obscure companies is thickening, with the latest development being an apparent power struggle and contest for recognition. One should not be surprised at this if one is familiar with the history of the deceptive deal. The tortuous journey begins with the setting up of an opaque company going by the name National Parking Systems (NPS) sometime around 1995 with Mr. Ifa Kamau Cush as its Chief Executive Officer and the only other Director being listed as Patrick Triumph with the title of Managing Director, who lives in the United States as well and who strangely resigned in April 2016 leaving Cush as the only person in NPS. This Guyanese registered company listed its address as 387 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016, a very upscale part of Manhattan where the rent is extremely high. However security and other officials in the building that NPS claims as the address from which it rents office space, emphatically denied that National Parking Systems had an office there, leading to the first set of concerns by citizens. There is a claim being made by Mr. Cush; that a contract was signed between
NPS and the Georgetown Municipality in 1996, however to date this contract was never produced for public scrutiny, a second concern for citizens. Thankfully the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, at that time smelt the stench of this so called parking initiative and stopped them from implementing this illusory proposal. The third unease for the public was a claim by Cush and the Council that NPS had partnered with a company called Smart City Solutions to install the parking system, with the very Cush who is the owner/ president of National Parking Systems being also a director of Smart City Solutions, the company he brought to the table to assist him in installing parking meters But there seems to be two Smart City Solutions, one that is owned and controlled by Cush for which he presents himself as its Managing Director along with a Panama City-based Businessman going by the name of Simon Moshevilli which was registered on May 6, 2016 with just these two Directors. Cush announced to the public at large that Smart City Solutions was specifically established for the purpose of
installing parking meters in Guyana, and that it was a locally formed company, a locally registered c o m p a n y, e s t a b l i s h e d specifically for the Georgetown Municipality Parking Meter project, that is a special purpose vehicle. How then could the Council have signed the contract with the first Smart City back in October of 2015 when this company was only set up in May 2016? Then Cush talks of another Smart City Solutions, one which is owned by a Mexican Company – Operadora de Estacionamientos Bicentenario, S A de C V for which he Cush is a mere shareholder without an operational position. One that he claims is headquartered in Mexico City and which has been operating in most of Latin America, and South America, including Argentina, Lima, Peru, Panama and Mexico City, boasting that the company has, for the past five years, operating and (Continued on page 6)
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Outrageous behavior on the Historical explanation why sugar Demerara Harbour Bridge failed DEAR EDITOR; On Saturday, September 24, I witnessed/felt the brunt of unbridled arrogance and naked abuse of power. I pray that this is not a microcosm of what is regularly meted out to the poor and powerless in this dear land of Guyana. I got to the western end of the Demerara Harbor Bridge (DHB) at 11:59 hr. and was denied access though the closing was advertised for noon. I pleaded with the two ladies on duty (one in security uniform) to let me through since the last vehicle was in sight about 60 meters away heading east. My request was denied. They claimed to have already radioed the registration number of the last vehicle. Traffic continued heading in a westerly direction for a further 3 to 4 minutes before the final vehicle exited the bridge. I remained parked first in line on the northern carriageway behind the closed gate. At no time did the bridge authorities indicate anything untoward about how I was parked. In fact, a white Nissan minibus with uniform policemen inside drove past me through the gate for westbound traffic, veered left and parked some distance in front of me inside the gated area at the beginning of the bridge itself. After about 45 minutes, I alighted from the vehicle to chat with Nazim Hussain who had pulled up on a scooter in the left hand corner. About 2 minutes into our conversation, to my consternation, I heard a bellowing voice from behind me shouting; “driver move your vehicle, you’re blocking the traffic”. I saw a green Toyota Tundra GMM 8914 about 3 vehicles behind the
parked white double cab pickup truck I was driving. I didn’t at first notice the person who was ordering me to move, and then this man regaled in gold looking jewelry, sporting a blue jersey leaned out the window of his vehicle and continued his tirade about me blocking an entranceway. I couldn’t fathom what he was referring to. I continued to discourse with an equally confused Nazim. The man exited the (unmarked) Tundra (in addition to the jersey, he had on blue denim jeans and sandals), came to about 5 meters of me, shouting in a threatening manner I was obstructing access while pointing in the direction of the old road north of the DHB. I was shocked and taken back by his aggressive manner. Feeling surreal, I asked why he was barking at me. I stated, between his tirades, that I was totally unaware of creating any obstruction or infraction, as well as being in a position to cause inconvenience to anyone. I was barely able to explain further that I am parked in that position because I happened to be the first person behind the barricade. He loudly indicated a desire to proceed in the direction of the old access road north of my vehicle. Thinking I’m finally getting some sense of what he was trying to convey by his boisterous rant, I took leave of Nazim with a view to exploring the possibility of shifting for “Mr. Powerhouse” to proceed unhindered in the direction he appeared to be indicating. This was almost an hour into the bridge closure and there was a buildup of vehicular traffic spanning several lanes.
To my surprise, the uniform guard opened the very barricade she retracted for the minibus with policemen and the man in his green Tundra drove and parked behind the said bus lined up to drive over the DHB. It dawned on a perplexed Nazim and I that the threatening, boisterous behavior was never about me blocking the man’s access to the old road. A lady Ms Tiffany Jackson, who I was giving a lift over the bridge, was traumatized by the incident. I concluded that through a hand of fate, I unconsciously messed with the ego of a bigoted man who was unable to roll up unhindered in highchested pomp, past the barricade to demonstrate to those in view, a veneer of raw, unbridled power. He had profiled me as a simpleton driving a pickup to be picked on and be bullied. I overheard him instructing the security guard to take down the registration number of the pick-up and send same to him along with photographs for him to transmit to the traffic department for me to be prosecuted. (Oh how I shuddered in my boots, bam ba lady, bam bam!). I approached the said security officer and asked her if she, as the uniformed officer had any problem with where I was parked from the time I arrived. Her answer was no. I further enquired the identity of the man who was flaunting his authority and power. After some hesitation and my unrelenting insistence she muttered “a policeman, a senior policeman.” Heaven help us! Derrick Cummings
The School-Based Assessments... From page 5 resource materials. And there was no need for me to ever repeat assessment activities with the next batch of students since I had an experiment bank with multiple activities for the same topic. I was totally against CXC for scrapping the practical exam in the Sciences (used to be called paper V). I still think this need to be reintroduced.
Removal of SBAs, especially in the sciences, will be detrimental to experiencing science – science is the world around us. It cannot be contained in a textbook, only a curious mind can begin to unravel and experience its true nature. Science teachers provide such opportunities in lab settings. Without SBAs in the sciences, there will be no actual need for teachers to perform rigorous experiments with their students. S B A s a r e a valuable research tool. Fundamentally, its rationale and learning outcomes are sound. Far too
often, there is a collective failure of the education system and all stakeholders share some amount of culpability. No one blame employers for wanting to hire the most qualified employee. The system has to collectively improve its integrity and trustworthiness and until such time, sadly, the numerous grade ones on the CSEC certificate may appear suspect – it should not ever be this way – and abolishing SBAs is surely not the way forward to re-establish the integrity and trustworthiness of the CSEC certificates. Aslam Hanief.
Dear Editor; This is the continuation of Mr. Suhkdeo’s letter carried in our Monday edition It is imperative that the government and Guysuco undertake some immediate structural changes or the industry will die a natural death which would definitely result in serious racial, political, economic and social insecurities. Foreign exchange would be heavily reduced, national income would shrink considerably in response to an inverse multiplier effect, and the economy would experience negative growth rates. Unemployment would soar, and the unemployed would definitely resort to survival by any means necessary such as crime, marijuana cultivation and cocaine peddling. One should note that these three activities are already prevalent in Wales, and perhaps other estates as well. I know about Wales because I am from that area. I personally know that three of the biggest drug dealers in the country arefromthatarea.Theyare(allthree), presently on charges. As stated before, past efforts to improve the performance of Guysuco have been ineffective because they failed to address the issues of alienation of labor and alienation from the pricing mechanism. But they also failed because there were short-term planning, and piece-meal improvements; they addressed the symptoms of the problem, not the problem itself, and involved little or no structural change of the industry ortheeconomy. Forindustrialization and development to take off, holistic long term planning and structural changes are required. Development Economics theorists agree that a country must start on an industrialization path; with that economic activity in which it enjoys a comparative advantage. For Guyana, it’s undoubtedly agriculture. Development economics is about restructuring and transformation of the means, forces and relations of production as well as markets and supportive educational and vocational institutions; hence it
incorporates social and political factors to devise particular plans that not only promote economic development, economic growth and structural change but also improve the potential for the mass of the population, through health and education, work ethics, family and community values, racial harmony and social cohesion. In essence, we are talking transformation of the economy. As an aside, it should be noted that Sir Arthur Lewis spent practically his whole life articulating models for transformation of the economies of developing countries, in particular those that are predominantly agrarian, and enjoyingacomparative advantage in agriculture production. For him, agriculture, along with agrobased industries, was seen as the engine of growth that would transform over time the economic, industrial and institutional structure of an underdeveloped economy. For this he was awarded the Nobel Prize in economics. Unfortunately, his expertise was not adequately utilized in the Caribbean. Today, Caricom countries which possess such great soil, and a population of only sixteen million people, has an exorbitant food import bill of $5 billion. Every year, a matter that has been of serious concern over the past decades by several Regional and International organizations who have all noted that these countries experience very low or no economic growth, extremely high ratios of debt-to-Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and declining foreign exchange earnings in many of the 14 independent nations that comprise the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).Themajorityofthem continue to spend huge sums on buying food outside the Caribbean. They have further stated that Guyana, of all 15 Caricom states, has the largest land mass, the most arable agricultural lands, and the greatest potential for food production. It is shameful that golden opportunities to produce more food in the Caribbean and significantly reduce the astronomically high annual food
import bill of US$5 billion are being woefully neglected. If this misguided trend continues, the economies of many of the countries of the region will be increasingly imperiled. Diversificationisthemeansbywhich this transformation can be effected Should Guyana accept this challenge and adopt this proposed path and model to development, then the Diversification of Guysuco should be the main instrument through which this can be accomplished. Guysuco must play the most significant role in the transformation of Guyana. One should note that in the colonial 60’s when sugar was king, and contributed directly and indirectly as much as 60% to the GDP, British Guiana was sometimes called Bookers Guiana. Currently Guysuco is just a small entity owned by the government, and its contribution to GDP is less than 10 percent. But for Guysuco to be the engine of growth, and play a prominent role in Guyana’s development, it must move away from sugar. Moving away from sugar towards diversification is the only way Guyana can break out from this dependency syndrome. It must produce goods for which there are ready and growing markets, goods that are in demand, and for which the pricing mechanism is not totally out of Guyana’s control. It must produce raw as well as canned fruits and vegetables, grains and legumes, meats and fresh water fish, dairy, dairy products and confectionary which are in heavy demand by Caricom countries and the diaspora in North America. It must take advantage of Caricom’s $5B food imports from extra-regional sources to satisfy its population of sixteen million, as well as the six million visitors to the region every year. And vacationers who come to the Caribbean and are given pineapples from Hawaii, guavas from Mexico, oranges from California, and sapodillas from India. The North American markets might be even more attractive, while neighboring Venezuela might also be a potential market. Gokarran DavidSukhdeo
Mr. Cush, his contract, parking... From page 5 managing about 20,000 spaces in Mexico City alone. He also claimed that this other Smart City has been involved in parking meters consultancy in Chicago, USA. This new Smart City Solutions (SCS) however, has anAmirOren, listed as its International Director of Business Development, who it is claimed would be spearheading the project and not Cush, a fourth confusion and concern
for citizens. However Cush is claiming to be totally unaware of the change. All this while Councilors are told that they cannot get a copy of the contract but can make an appointment with the Town Clerk to see it, a fifth concern for all. It should be noted that this 49 year contract will tie the hands of not only the current residents of Georgetown, but also their children, grandchildren and perhaps great-
great-grandchildren and shows a disdain for citizens and Councillors who are excluded and alienated from the decisionmaking process. I don’t understand why the Attorney General’s Office did not recommend that the persons involved in this deal be turned over to the police and Director of Public Prosecutions in order for justice to be served. Amber Valentine
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Schooling is compulsory
Parents could face criminal charges for children’s absences The Ministry of Education has issued a notice to parents and guardians on the importance of ensuring that children attend school regularly. It is their duty to ensure their children receive the best possible opportunity for an education, the Ministry said. Numerous studies show the link between academic performance and consistent attendance, which is so critical for the quality of a child’s education. Research suggests that children who are frequently absent from school are more likely to become involved in, or be a victim of crime and anti-social behaviour, the Ministry’s statement noted Through the Ministry of Education, the Schools Welfare Officer ’s main responsibility is to look into absenteeism. In an effort to reduce absenteeism, the welfare department will continue to
conduct Truancy campaigns and school and home visits to ensure that children attend school regularly. Children between the ages of 5 years 9 months and 15 years are required by law to receive an education. It is the duty of parents, guardians and caregivers to ensure that they are supported to do so. “The Ministry is aware that children are sometimes absent from school because of medical reasons which sometimes extends for a long period. In such cases, parents and guardians are encouraged to make every effort to inform the school of the reason (s) for the child’s absence. “In the event that parents fail to notify the school of the child’s absence, the school is required to notify the Schools Welfare Department at the Ministry of Education or any Regional Department of Education who would then issue an ‘attendance
notification’ to parents. Schools are required to take such action when a child is absent for five or more days.” This attendance notification informs the parent that the student has accumulated too many unexcused absences and gives the parent an opportunity to visit the Schools Welfare Department to make the necessary steps to ensure that the child’s attendance record improves. If this step does not reap the desired results, a court warning would be issued notifying the parent of the potential summons to be filed in the magistrate court. Parents are likely to be criminally charged or fined if their child has unexcused absences. The Ministry of Education’s School Welfare Service will be taking this matter of absenteeism seriously and will enforce the law as inscribed in the Education Act.
People should hold contractors responsible- Minister Patterson Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson is advocating for all citizens to hold contractors responsible for all state contracts. The Minister contended that each citizen has a right to demand value for money. Patterson’s invited comments came yesterday as he spoke about an ongoing issue at Baracara. Residents of the community of Baracara, some 65 miles up the Canje River, have accused the Regional Administration and specifically the Regional Engineer of Region Six, of disrespecting them and trying to foist shoddy and substandard work on the community. The work in contention is the construction of a
revetment costing about $7.1M. But the residents are refusing to sign the documents that signals their approval of the work done, thus the contractor has been unable to receive his $7.1M payment According to contractual arrangements, residents in the area have to sign the relevant documents to indicate that they are satisfied with the work before the contractor could be paid. Following the uproar, the Regional Administration assembled a team which included Senior Superintendent of Works, Ruhullah Ali; Works Committee member Mr. Erwin Abdullah; and contractor (Continued on page 9)
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Kaieteur News
Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson
Three agencies to be involved in witness protection programme The Draft Bill for Guyana’s witness protection programme is currently being fine-tuned at the Attorney General’s Chambers. The Draft Bill which was first brought to the National Assembly by the new governme n t i n 2 0 1 5 , provides for the e s t a blishment of three agencies to deal with the administrative, investigative and protective aspects. Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, recently told media operatives, “That Bill is currently at the Attorney General’s Chambers to be fine-tuned after which Cabinet will look at it…Then the recommendations that we will make in relation to that Bill will go back to the draftsperson, Cecil Durjohn (Chief Parliamentary Counsel). “It will then be brought to the National Assembly,” Minister Ramjattan said. Further, the Bill which will be the subject of public consultation from 9:00hours on October 10, 2016 at the Pegasus Hotel, provides for the establishment of three agencies through which witnesses will be processed and protected. According to Part II of the Draft Bill, the Administrative Centre will be responsible for the d e v e l o p m e nt and management of the Witness Protection Programme. It also bears responsibility for deciding the people to get protection or assistance under the programme and signing a memorandum of understanding between the “client” for protection and the agency, among other things. Additionally, the administrative arm of the agency is tasked with the provision of documents for
the client to establish a new identity whenever necessary, providing financial assistance to the client for meeting costs associated with relocation and ensuring the client gets assistance to ensure self-sustenance among others. Meanwhile the agency’s investigative arm will be tasked with, among other things, investigating prospective clients of the programme and submitting their findings to the administrative agency. The i n v e s t i g a t i v e a g e n c y ’s assessment must include a valuation of the threat and risk to which the client may be exposed. The protective arm of the agency of the Witness Protection Programme will be responsible for submitting reports on the suitability of clients, interviewing the client to determine suitability for the programme, conducting a threat and risk assessment, relocating the client for protection and carrying out periodic reviews of the threats and risks among other things. When passed, the Draft Bill will aid in the prosecution of high profile criminal cases for which witnesses are usually too scared to come forward. “The need for witness protection came long before forensic audits. not because
of the white collar crime that the forensic audits might have revealed, but long before that people (giving evidence) in narcotic offences were saying they wanted some protection because they feel narcotics persons (persons connected to the drugs trade) can kill them,” Minister Ramjattan explained. Witness protection protects witnesses involved in high profile criminal matters before the courts, from harm. While a witness may only require protection until the conclusion of a trial, some witnesses are provided with a new identity and may live the rest of their lives under protection. “What the witness plan might do, will need a lot of finances because some of the witnesses might have to be put up in Trinidad and far off places because they might not be safe in Guyana. That will be very expensive an exercise,” the Public Security Minister pointed out. When fully implemente d , G u y a n a would join several other Caribbean nations in enacting such programmes. Jamaica, Trinidad and Barbados have active witness protection programmes in which witnesses are moved out of the country before and after trial to protect them.
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Tuesday September 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
RHOs meeting prioritises human resources development
The second Regional Health Officers’ (RHO) meeting for this year opened yesterday, at the Regency Hotel, Georgetown, where a number of areas were singled out for immediate attention. The RHOs meeting usually convenes at quarterly intervals; giving regional health officials the opportunity to highlight areas in their respective regions that have performed well. The Director of Regional Health Services (RHS), Dr. Kay Shako, during the opening, said that the purpose of the RHOs meeting is generally aimed at updating the status of health care services in every region in Guyana. The Director continued that the deployment of doctors in hinterland regions remains a concern, because oftentimes they are reluctant to work in the hinterland. The meeting also intends to bridge the gap in health service delivery between hinterland and coastland communities. Dr. Shako added, “At this point in time, at the Ministry of Public Health, we are thinking about, I would not say introduce, but to some extent re-introducing regional health authorities because it was first established in Region Five and Region Six. “So we think that if the Ministry of Health can have more control over its financial resources, we can make a greater input in our health care, in fact we can actually
realise to a greater extent our Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as the RHS’ mandate and health vision 2020.” The mandate of the RHS is to ensure adequate and appropriate health care across the 10 regions. However, a number of challenges have been identified and are expected to be addressed at the end of this meeting. Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, told the gathering of RHO, “We do recognise that the RHS is the nerve centre of the Ministry of Public Health. It is true this department ensures that public health care is delivered in every region, therefore it is imperative that each officer in the department, in the respective regions recognise that he or she has a major responsibility to provide optimum service to each person in the region who requires health care.” Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Trevor Thomas, pointed out some of challenges faced by RHOs, namely the officers being unfamiliar with the region, utilising limited human and material resources, acquiring required resources, data collection and managing pharmaceuticals’ distribution. Thomas explained, “It’s clear that delivery of health care has many challenges, but at the end of the day, the people out there are not interested in the challenges
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Health, Trevor Thomas addressing the gathering at the opening of the Regional Health Officers Meeting that we face, they are not interested in the issues we deal with, and not interested in the quarrels and the disagreements that we might have, and the storming and brainstorming and how we characterise our discussion and debates. They are more interested in whether or not when they turn up at our facilities they get the services that they expect.” Dr. William Adu-Krow, PAHO/WHO country representative, who also addressed the opening of the meeting, stressed the need for an accountability and performance framework which will serve as a method of ensuring that health policies are adhered to and that effective and efficient
services are delivered. The four-day meeting will see various presentations from RHOs on their respective region’s health status, as well as other updates on Vector Control Services, Maternal and Child Health, and Mental Health Unit among others. At the end of the meeting, Public Health officials expect that there would be a better year for human resource development in the health sector in 2017. Job positions will be created to fill the number of areas with limited resources in regional facilities, while providing specialised staff at various regional hospitals. Those already on the job will benefit from capacity building. (GINA)
Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, addressing the opening of the Regional Health Officers meeting
PAHO/WHO resident representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow gives brief remarks at the opening of the Regional Health Officers meeting for 2016
Govt targets apartment buildings, mini-malls in major housing drive - 250 acres at Diamond, Cummings Lodge, La Penitence earmarked for projects Government is moving to introduce what it says is a more modern way of building housing communities. Already, the Ministry of Communities, which is charged with overseeing the housing sector, has moved to invite offers for the construction of apartment buildings, infrastructural works and recreational facilities. The housing projects, expected to be in the billions of dollars, will be completed in three phases, according to a Ministry of Communities “Invitation For Expressions of Interest” advertisement that appeared in Sunday’s Kaieteur News. Since taking office last year, the Coalition Government had signaled sweeping reforms to the housing sectors to ensure that homeowners don’t wait a long time to access their new
homes or to have infrastructure in place until years later. As a matter of fact, the administration said that it wanted to move beyond mere housing scheme-- the intent is to build complete communities. In the past, because of a shortage of resources and the huge demand for homes and house lots, the previous administration under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), had distributed house lots without the necessary infrastructures likes roads, drainage, bridges and utilities in place. It had left both the administration and homeowners with headaches. According to the advertisement, Government is planning to embark on several projects emanating from its strategic objective as it relates to housing for low
income and state employees along the East Bank Demerara, East Coast Demerara and Georgetown, Region Four. According to the advertisement, the developmental approach involves and encompasses Public/Private Partnerships with developers and the Government of Guyana for the implementation of the projects. It will involve financing from Government and the developers, as well as mixture of both. Interested bidders have until November 22 to submit proposals to the Chairman of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board. The projects will include three phases. The first one will see the execution of infrastructural development works- land (Continued on page 23)
Tuesday September 27, 2016
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Kaieteur News
GNNL Board Chairperson resigns - says needs more time for indigenous development activities Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Guyana National Newspaper Limited (GNNL), Jean La Rose, has resigned with effect from October 1, 2016. This is according to information disseminated yesterday by the Government Information Agency (GINA). According to GINA, “In a letter to subject Minister,
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, dated September 23, 2016, La Rose said, ‘At this, point I feel I am not contributing to the further development of the board or the GNNL as I may have done if I had more time to dedicate towards fully understanding my role as Chair or as Director’.” La Rose further stated that
“‘since taking up office the new government has provided more opportunities and space to work with and on behalf of indigenous communities in Guyana and, “this has grown resulting in the expansion of my work commitments and less time to dedicate to issues of the GNNL’.” In his letter of acceptance,
People should hold contractors... From page 7 Mark Gupta for discussions. During discussions with residents, it was decided that a lot more needs to be done. The contractor is to return to the area with his machinery, including a dredge, to complete the job, which will now cost approximately $1M, but that will be at his expense. Yesterday, Minister Patterson was asked about the possibility of more contracts like this being signed, where contractors can be held accountable by the people. He said that the actual clauses to be included in contracts vary from region to region and from ministry to ministry; so, each
ministry may set up contracts differently. Patterson said that while he likes the kind of accountability that the contract for the revetment promotes, it is not feasible for his ministry to draft contracts of this sort. The Minister said, “It would be a statistical nightmare for us.” Nevertheless, Patterson said, “I encourage citizens to be on the lookout. We all should keep an eye out to see that we are getting value for money.” Patterson continued, “All citizens have a responsibility to report to the ministry if works are not done up to standard.” He said that the ministry would surely look into complaints. (Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell)
Dem boys seh
Rohee playing wid heself Rohee can’t be de PPP General Secretary fuh long because he always walking round wid he foot in he mouth. Yesterday he claim how Barry Dataram slap de government in de face because he gone and hide somewhere. Dem boys hear when he seh suh and dem ask he bout Roger Khan. De man seh right away that he only talking bout Dataram and whatever Roger Khan do he ain’t talking bout that. When dem boys press de man he mek a statement that li’l pickney does mek. I gun seh wha I want when I want and if I don’t want talk bout something then I ain’t gun talk about it. When de press conference done Rohee seh that as de opposition nobody
gun ever he a r a n y b o d y from, he party talk about any good thing de government do. This is de same man who jump and seh how de PPP Parliamentarians gun reffuse de back pay that Soulja Bai give dem. Since then people know that he confusing. He seh that he got two bank accounts that he contributing to and dem MPs from he side gun put de extra money in one of dem. De last time dem boys check, not one of dem giving away de money. And that is because some of dem bruck. Rohee ain’t bruck and he does kiss de dirt Jagdeo walk pun because he got three house, including one in Pradoville. Jagdeo got more than
three. He tek one and start up a foundation but this foundation never get off de ground. Dem boys believe people give Jagdeo money and he shut down de foundation. Now he playing landlord. He rent out de place to some security guard service. But is Rohee who got dem boys thinking really serious how he was de Home Affairs Minister. This man only listening to himself. He refuse to listen to any excuse out of GECOM. He seh people must wait fuh de audit. Dem boys seh that dem wouldn’t be surprised if de auditor find that Ashni is de real culprit. Talk half and watch Rohee play wid himself.
Prime Minister Nagamootoo said, “I accept your resignation with a heavy heart, but understand your reasons for doing so. I thank you for having accepted the challenge to serve as chairperson and express my appreciation of your efforts to resuscitate the GNNL as a national newspaper and to improve professionalism among its many staffers.” The Prime Minister told La Rose, too, that it was “with a sense of pride he recommended her appointment as Chairperson of the Board, both as an outstanding woman and as a champion of a cause of promoting human rights in general and the interest of our indigenous peoples.” La Rose was appointed chairperson of the GNNL Board on September 15, 2015.
Jean La Rose
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday September 27, 2016
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
65-year-old granny jailed for 3 years for 2 grams of ganja A little packet of sugar or Splenda that you pick up at the airport café is a gram. A 65-year-old woman was jailed for two such packets of ganja,—two grams. Monica Drogen was searched at the New Amsterdam prison on a visit to her son when the drug was found. She was jailed by Magistrate Alex Moore. Moore in the opinion of this columnist should not be on
the bench. Mr. Moore assigned a suspended sentence to a drug trafficker who pleaded guilty to possession of 67 kilos of cocaine and arms and ammunitions. In any country other than this miserable failure of a wasteland called Guyana that would have caused a national uproar. The man pleaded guilty. The law on drugs is clear –automatic
jail sentence for trafficking in cocaine. Drogen pleaded not guilty but was still jailed. What is absolutely sickening about this failed State named Guyana is that this horrible decision happened on Friday, and it has just passed into obscurity. We just endured a deadly prison riot in which 17 prisoners lost their lives with the reverberating consensus that the prisons in Guyana are too overcrowded. Yet from President Granger through to the Prime Minister down to the Minister for Public Security ending up with the Bar Association, not one of these people will even diplomatically hint that the magistrate could have been more lenient. And why not? The President, the Prime Minister, and Ministers do not comment on judicial decisions. They cannot comment on the crazy things that occurred and are
occurring in the magistracy but this very President, Prime Minister and their Ministers have the temerity to tell media operatives how to do their job. They see absolutely nothing wrong in commenting on the work of the media. The old granny is from the “lower” classes so she will not get the support of our Georgetown-based middle class women’s organizations. On September 18, last, I was a guest on Channel 9’s African Drums programme of the organization, Cuffy 250. The panel discussed the issue of NCN’s suspension of its pregnant anchor. A female panelist took a strong position about women’s rights. I cannot recall her name but if she is reading this, then I now ask her for her voice in support of this granny. What is absolutely disgusting about this 10th rate banana republic we live in is that if Nigel Hughes does not apply for bail for this granny none among our 300 lawyers will do it. The granny was not the only woman imprisoned last week. Magistrate Ann McLennan jailed a mother of
five for 18 months after she stole money from a man who solicited sex from her. He paid her $6000 to sodomize her to which she consented, then, stole his money. Why was he not charged for sex solicitation? Isn’t that offence in the laws of Guyana? But let’s examine Ms. McLennan more closely. She fined a woman who was charged with trafficking in people. Trafficking in people is a form of slavery. It is a nasty display of semi-civilized conduct for which its perpetrators should be jailed. The Government’s Task Force on human trafficking issued a statement about the Magistrate’s decision. Not only did the Task Force reject the fine but asserted that under the law a custodial sentence is mandatory. See The Chronicle’s s reporting on the issue of September 8, 2016. Here is what I am contending; if the Task Force is correct that a guilty verdict has to carry a mandatory prison sentence then why was the Magistrate not suspended, pending an investigation? I am writing
Frederick Kissoon here without consulting the law relating to trafficking in people, but if the Task Force is correct, then how can the Judicial Service Commission ignore what the magistrate did? Let’s run this again? A woman is found guilty of human trafficking. The law stipulates a mandatory prison sentence. A magistrate did not adhere to the law. Does that not warrant judicial investigation? Can a judge free a person of murder if the jury brings in a guilty verdict? Can a magistrate impose a $100,000 fine for running a red light if the law says the maximum fine is $8000? Aren’t judicial officials bound to assign sentences based on the law? I guess that is how it is in civilized territories. In the permanent circus in which we live here, civilization died a long time ago.
Tuesday September 27, 2016
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Kaieteur News
GTU irked by Ministry’s arbitrary salary increase After abruptly halting negotiations with the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) in July, the Ministry of Education this month issued a directive for public school teachers to be granted 10 per cent and six percentage salary increases. The decision for the increase was arbitrarily made since according to GTU President, Mr. Mark Lyte, the Union was not consulted. He made it clear that the Union does not endorse the decision and is certainly not taking this state of affairs lightly. According to Lyte, the Education Ministry disseminated a correspondence to public schools instructing that teachers be paid specified increases. The correspondence dated September 13, 2016, Lyte said, was signed by Permanent Secretary, Delma Nedd. “This
“We have a lot of issues with what they have done. The Union has not agreed to receive the percentage they are offering, so we cannot agree with this kind of practice...this is an imposition without an explanation.” directive was just sent out to the regions as it relates to payment for teachers for this year... a salary increase for 2016 without us concluding our negotiations,” Lyte disclosed. Based on the directive, Lyte said that while junior level teachers are eligible for 10 per cent, six per cent has been awarded to senior teachers. The salary increase is expected to be implemented next month. But the Union in its proposal to the Ministry, which was highlighted during sessions of the negotiation, had asked for a 40 per cent
increase for teachers across the board for 2016. The Union had proposed too that a 45 per cent increase for next year (2017) and 50 per cent for the following three years (2018-2020) for all categories of teachers. In its proposal too, the Union had taken into consideration inflation and made it clear that “should there be inflation higher than the percentage agreed upon, then the teachers/teachereducators must get the benefit of the difference.” However, when asked whether the GTU-proposed 40 per cent across the board
Juvenile driver involved in Mc Doom smash up … abandoned at scene by adult guardians
Occupants of damaged car transporting juvenile to police station. Police are currently investigating a collision at Mc Doom, East Bank Demerara last evening. Three friends, who had borrowed a car to run some errands, were allegedly hit by an underage driver. One of the occupants of the car said that she and the other persons in the car turned off the public road intending to enter the gas station at Mc Doom, when the pick truck GMM 8037 heading out of the gas station, collided with the car. “He drive his vehicle and it start to graze our car. We had to shout and tell him stop he damaging the car,” the occupant said. Another occupant of the damaged car said that if it were not for the accident, the pickup truck would have “blazed” onto the East Bank Highway. It was when the young man exited the pickup that they realized he was under age, they said. According to reports two women were seen exiting the pickup while it was in the gas station. It was also noted that the women were
involved in a scuffle a short distance away from the vehicle. Witnesses alleged that the two women from all indications were under the influence of alcohol. The occupant of the car further explained that after the collision, the two women got back into the pickup and sped away, leaving the juvenile at the scene. “I asked her how she going to leave before the police come, she said she don’t business it wasn’t she driving when the car get hit.” The adolescent was enraged as the occupants of the car refused to allow him to leave the scene. He threw punches, made threats and used abusive language towards them in a bid to escape. However they managed to transport him to the Ruimveldt Police Station. Kaieteur News was informed by sources close to the investigation that the young man, was picked up by his parents from the police station last evening.
increase for public school teachers this year would be feasible, Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, in April said, “Frankly I would like to give the teachers even more but you know we have teachers to deal with, we have nurses to deal with…If you begin to raise the salaries of teachers in the classroom, the nurses are going to ask ‘what about us?’” The GTU President yesterday lamented “The Education Ministry arrived at this (increase) without us being invited or told before. We just received a document that this is it...” “The Union is not happy about the manner in which this matter is being treated because at public forums they talk about how teachers will be paid and how they are important...Is this how you treat a p r o f e s sional body that started to sit with you at the negotiation table since December?” the GTU President questioned. He disclosed that while the Union had sought an audience with the Permanent Secretary these efforts were futile. A meeting with Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, tomorrow has however since been scheduled, Lyte informed. It is expected, Lyte said, that the Minister will be able to bring clarity to the
GTU President, Mr. Mark Lyte
Minister of Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine
development and a number of other concerns that have surfaced in recent months. Some of the Union’s concerns include a failure on the part of Government to honour the payment of debunching monies that was promised to teachers under the previous administration. Minister Roopnaraine when asked in July if the current regime would honour the payment, he said “We are looking at the debunching right now… “We have to honour whatever commitments the Government entered into with the teachers’ union and right now I know they are looking at the whole debunching issue.” Stressing his disappointment with the more recent concern (the arbitrary salary increase) Lyte added, “They have not negotiated with us in good fate and that is in breach of the regulations
as it relates to collective bargaining.” Collective bargaining underscores the need for an agreement in writing between an employer and a trade union setting forth the terms and conditions of employment or containing provision in regard to rates of pay, hours of work or other working conditions of employees. “We have a lot of issues with what they have done. The Union has not agreed to receive the percentage they are offering, so we cannot agree with this kind of practice...this is an imposition without an explanation,” stressed Lyte. He continued, “They feel that they will work with us when it is convenient to them...but when they want to meet stakeholders they want us to join them...but the way they treat us is not something we are happy about.”
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday September 27, 2016
High Court hearing stalls commencement of ex-Minister’s trial The trial of Dr. Jennifer Westford and Ms. Margaret Cummings in relation to the eight state vehicles, for which they forged documents and attempted to transfer to persons, has once again been stalled. Magistrate Fabayo Azore adjourned the matter until March 31, 2017, yesterday, after attorney for the defendants, Dexter Todd, indicated that he is still awaiting a date for hearing on a Constitutional Motion filed before Chief Justice (ag) Yonette Cummings-Edwards in the High Court. The Former Minister and Cummings were placed on a total of $2M bail after they
pleaded not guilty to several charges, last year. It is alleged that between July 17, 2014 and June 23, 2015, Westford attempted to transfer eight state vehicles to four persons. Cummings was also slapped with four counts of forgery. She also pleaded not guilty to four charges which alleged that she forged documents for the purchase of the eight motor vehicles. Westford was granted bail in the sum of $800,000, while Cummings was admitted to $1.2M bail. Initially, this trial was scheduled to commence on April 18. However, it was forced into several
adjournments on request by the defendant’s attorney as a result of a ruling yet to be made by the Chief Justice on the Constitutional Motion. At that hearing, Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru was ready to proceed with the trial and had three witnesses present. These were former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service Hydar Ally, Police Sergeant Frank and Assistant Superintendent of Police Simeon Reid. The prosecutor has since indicated that he intends to call a total of 17 witnesses. In June 2015, Minister of State Joseph Harmon, had told the media that it was
brought to his attention that some documents were sent to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), purportedly signed by Permanent Secretary of the Public Service Ministry, Hydar Ally. This was done under Ally’s letterhead, but signed by someone else. “He had no knowledge of this transaction,” Minister Harmon had stressed. It was Ally who directed Harmon to the discrepancy in the paperwork forwarded to GRA for the transfer of eight vehicles. In light of the overwhelming evidence, the vehicles were returned to the
government. Earlier this year, Magistrate Azore had overruled a submission citing “executive abuse” made by Senior Counsel Neil Boston and signaled her readiness to proceed with trial. This was after Boston had contended that the institution of criminal charges against the Former Minister and Cummings breaches an amnesty promise made by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon. Boston had stated that Harmon had promised that once the vehicles were
returned no prosecution will take place. Boston had said that all the vehicles were returned to the Office of the President (OP) and in spite of the amnesty, his clients were still charged. However, Magistrate Azore ruled that the statement made by Harmon was ambiguous. She stated that the court is not sure if what the minister said amounts to an amnesty or pardon. Magistrate Azore had told the court that she is not sure why counsel was contending that an amnesty was granted.
Dr. Jennifer Westford
Margaret Cummings
Man, 25, drowns during Heritage celebration A 25-year-old man lost his life Monday night during the Heritage Celebration at St. Cuthbert’s Mission, Mahaica River. The dead man has been identified as Orvin Tiwari of Good Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD). According to information received, Tiwari was swept away by the strong current when he plunged into the water. His body was later recovered.
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Albouystown teen remanded over liming (GPHC) where he was spot murder pronounced dead on arrival. A Calendar Street, Albouystown resident was yesterday remanded to prison for the murder of Orrett West, 28, who was killed while hanging out at a popular Plaisance, East Coast Demerara liming spot on June 3. Kevin Garraway, 19, was arraigned before Magistrate Zamilla Ally-Seepaul in the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court, where he was not required to plead to the capital offence. Police Prosecutor David Goodridge stated that on the day in question, the accused and the girlfriend of the deceased had a misunderstanding. The woman walked up to Garraway and inquired from him if he wanted a problem. A confrontation ensued and West of Tucville, Terrace,
MURDERED: Orrett West Georgetown walked up to Garraway and pushed him away. A scuffle later ensued and Garraway, who was armed with a knife stabbed West about the body, causing him to fall to the ground. West was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation
Acting on information, detectives in Police ‘A’ Division arrested Garraway last Thursday at a house in Albouystown. He later gave detectives a caution statement confessing to the murder. A post mortem examination performed on West revealed that he died of shock and haemorrhage due to stab wounds to his neck Police in a statement said that West, a father of one, was in the company of his girlfriend, when an argument ensued between him and a man, who he had an ongoing dispute with. During the argument, the assailant pulled out a knife and fatally stabbed West in his left side chest and escaped. This matter was adjourned until October 27, for reports.
Cops hunt suspect in murder of Cummings Lodge vendor
MURDERED: Anita Mohan
WANTED: Damion Hopkinson
MURDER ACCUSED: Kevin Mohan
Police are looking for Damion Hopkinson for questioning into the murder of Anita Mohan, who was found lying in a pool of blood on the lower flat of her home located at Lot 315 Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara on September 4.
Hopkinson, 27, of mixed race, was last known to live at Lot 55 Industry, East Coast Demerara. On September 8, the nephew of the deceased, Kevin Mohan, also known as ‘Chucky’, was charged with her murder, committed
during the course of a robbery. The accused had appeared before Magistrate Zamilla Ally-Seepaul in the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, where he was not required to plead to the capital offence. According to reports, the (Continued on page 24)
Burglars cart off cash, appliances from East Canje home A Fort Ordinance, East Canje home was on Sunday broken into. Now two sisters fear that the burglars will strike again. Tenant Temekia Edwards, who was not at home at the time of the incident, told Kaieteur News that she, her sister and her niece were away at a birthday function when she received the news. “I was out with my sister celebrating my mother ’s birthday and my boyfriend called me to say that somebody break into the house.” According to the traumatized woman, when she arrived to the home, she noticed her 55" flat screen TV missing and the entire house ransacked.
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The home that was broken into. The men escaped with a total of $120,000 in cash and a pair of gold earrings. According to the woman, the bandits gained entry into the home by prising open the grill on the window located in
her bedroom. This is not the first time the home was robbed. According to a police source, no one has since been arrested as investigations continue.
Families of Missing 43 Students Lead March in Mexico
Parents of the 43 missing students march holding images of their sons during a protest march yesterday. MEXICO CITY — The families of 43 missing Mexican college students led a march of unions, students and other supporters through the capital Monday to demand the young men be found on the second anniversary of their disappearance. On Sept. 26, 2014, the students from the Rural Normal School at Ayotzinapa were in the southern city of Iguala hijacking buses. Local police intercepted them and turned them over to a local drug cartel. The government’s initial investigation decided the students were killed and incinerated in a fire, but international experts have cast doubt on this theory and the families have not accepted it. “Our fight continues firm; we’re still standing,” said Clemente Rodriguez from Tixtla in the southern state of Guerrero, whose son Christian is among the missing. Wearing a white shirt and pants and a straw hat, Rodriguez marched with other relatives of the missing at the front of the demonstration down Mexico City’s central
boulevard. “It’s not easy to leave family (to march all over the country), but I have the conviction and the certainty that the boys are alive.” Felipe de la Cruz, a spokesman for the families, said the two years have been hard on relatives who have worked to maintain pressure on the government by demonstrating all over the world. “There are illnesses, there is exhaustion, there psychological torment, day after day to sleep and wake to the same situation,” he said. The government’s version has maintained that the burned remains were dumped in a nearby river. Only one bone fragment was positively linked to one of the students. Last week, Alfredo Higuera, the special prosecutor on the case, said the federal Attorney General’s Office planned to make a fifth forensic examination of the dump site in Cocula where the students were allegedly burned. Authorities have so far arrested 128 people. Seventy of those, mostly police officers and alleged cartel members, are currently being pros-
ecuted. A number of them have alleged torture by officials and it is unclear how that will affect their cases. Experts sent by the InterAmerican Human Rights Commission were highly critical of the government’s investigation. The lead government investigator Tomas Zeron left the Attorney General’s Office earlier this month, but was promptly given a national security position in the administration of President Enrique Pena Nieto. Zeron’s exit had been one of the main demands of the students’ families. The families’ lawyers say that in recent months authorities finally began analyzing the cellphones of everyone who was in the area and are using technology that aids in seeing what is below the ground’s surface in the search for hidden graves. Pena Nieto on Monday, attending the signing of the peace accord in Colombia, said his government has the “firm commitment” to arrive at “the ultimate consequences of the investigation.”
Murders in United States jumped nearly 11% in 2015 - FBI New York, US (New York Daily News) -Murders nationwide jumped by 10.8% in 2015 and overall violent crimes increased 3.9% over 2014 levels, according to FBI data released Monday. The surge in murders and non-negligent manslaughters to 15,696 last year marked the largest single-year increase in decades. Yet both the overall number of murders and other violent crimes tracked by the annual “Crime in the United States” report fell when compared to 2006 figures. The crime data show “we still have so much work to do,” Attorney General Loretta Lynch said Monday in Little Rock, Ark.
“And it is important to remember that while crime did increase overall last year, 2015 still represented the third-lowest year for violent crime in the past two decades.” The nation’s murder rate in 2015 remained roughly have that of peak levels in the 1990s, The New York Times reported. And the total number of murders in 2015 made up a 7.1% higher figure than those in 2011 but a 9.1% lower total than those in 2006, according to the FBI. Yet the 10.8% spike between 2015 and 2014 represented the largest one-year increase since 1971, The Guardian newspaper reported. There were 1,500 more murders with guns last year
and 900 more black men killed than in 2014, the figures showed. Rapes also increased by 6.3% in 2015, aggravated assaults grew by 4.6% and robberies ticked up by 1.4%, according to the FBI. The 1,197,704 overall total violent crimes in 2015, though, marked a 0.7% lower figure than those reported in 2011 and a 16.5% drop from 2006. This complex rise in violence figured to be a topic in Monday night’s presidential debate between Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton. Experts told the Guardian they expect politicians of all stripes to react with “hysteria” to the figures.
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SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.-CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, C a n a da & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 6267040; 265-4535. INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Passport, permanent & visitor visa application, Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita Immigration Services. Call: 225-6496; 662-6045 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:629-4946 or 225-4822 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257
PROPERTY FOR SALE
VEHICLE FOR SALE
VACANCY
Transported property @ Grove and Diamond $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 High value transported land and 2 bedrooms newly built house, Greater Diamond E.B.D -$14M negotiable. Call: 265-4338 La Parfaite Harmonie, 124 Recht Door Zee, WBD: 2 storey house, 3 bedroom upstairs, toilet & bath upstairs & downstairs & a guess room. Call: 623-5566
A4 Audi -$3.9M, IST-$2.1M, 318i BMW-$2.9M, Fielder$2.1M, Spacio-$2.1M, Forklift-$1.2M. Contact#6500402
Cashiers for supermarketCall: 624-0033, salesgirls – Call: 624-0033, Pump attendants –Call: 680-3863
Transported 2 storey newly renovated building @ 12 Sussex Street Charlestown – Call: 219-1951/659-3597
TO LET 3 Bedrooms Luxury apartments fully furnished long term and short term rental- Call: 665-3505 2 Bedrooms apartment at Timerhri. Call: 658-4754 2 Bedroom Apartment in exclusive residential Airport, close to Ogle Airport , with all modern amenities. Call for appointment 622-5725.
Business/Residential: house & land @ LBI Road Side, prime location, price $60,000,000 negotiable. Contact 669-5820/647-8786 3 7 0 / e m a i l : loveshanaz82@gmail.com 1TWO STOREY BUILDING 50X25 @402 GOOD HOPE E.C.D – CALL: 220-3185
FOR SALE/RENT American Pool Table. Call: 277-0578 House for rent/ sale @ Lot 107 Durbana Square Lamaha Gardens with 5 bedrooms large parking. Call: 661-8908
EDUCATIONAL IAE – CXC Jan/June 2017 – full time school; lessons/ classes for students, adults, repeaters & beginners. Call Mr. Roberts: 683-5742 American Standard Diploma Course: HRM; Customer Service Relations. Call DTI on 616-5204 & save big in September!!
HEALTH Stop suffering from Diabetes, Hypertension and other sickness, follow me sexual enhancers for men. Call: 645-9528
1 Toyota Noah BSS seriesCall: 653-8791 One Toyota Hilux E/Cab, Gasoline, M/T, 4WD, ACCall: 676-0931 Oswin J’s Auto Imports; New Arrivals: Premio, Allion, Fielder, Axio, Rush, X-Trail. Free full coverage insurance. Call: 609-2815 RZ, Pit Bull, 212 Carina, IST, Verossa, Suzuki Vitaera, Premio, Allion, Fielder Wagon, Spacio- Call: 6507501/ 616-2577 2010 PREMIO -$3.3M, 2010 SIENTA- $2.5M, 2011 ALLION-$3.4M, 2010 ARIUS -$2.5M (NEGOTIABLE) UNREGISTERED & FULLY LOADED. CALL: 642-7295 1 Jaguar XJ6 Sedan Motor car, good condition, most systems working, original parts, price to sell. Call:2278448/612-8319
Salon Space @ Regent & Orange Walk area. Call: 616-4819
Trade in your old empty printer ink cartridges for a new full one and pay HP $1500, Canon -$2,000. Call: 690-3883 Need a building contractor? House plan to be drawn or just an Estimate? Then call: 216-0671/ 692-8464/622-0267
Looking for a Job? Improve your resume & skills for interviews, coach of 9+ years experience available. Call: 658-9886
AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BRR, RZ & Pitbull, Pajero Junior, Spacio: Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154
Site, safety & electrical engineer- experienced need, age 25-45, very good salary & conditions. Call: 261-2280; 261-2280; 697-4344
CAR RENTAL
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM WINGS CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP REATES,SPECIAL OFFER FOR THE SUMMER. CALL: 690-6494
DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL. COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL: 4WD PICKUP, CHEAPEST RATE & SPECIAL RATE FOR LONG TERM. CALL: 698-7807 Keep your image up! Lease a car and stay on the move for young professionals! Call: 658-9886
LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Cargo Trawler. Call: 682-8724; 616-5954
Cook/baker for the Interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020
Gas/stove range GEAmerican made, stand up freezer, hot dog machine, supermarket mirror. Call: 680-3863
Ramnarine Mining Enterprise: welders, operators & labourers –Call: 679-0550/ 624-0501
One “45” feet comp l e t e cabin cruiser, trout seines, excellent condition. Call: 654-2817/648-6815
Truck driver to travel in and out of the interior, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020
1 55ft Fishing boat, 2 Engines, GPS, Compass & 2000 lb seine, price -$4.5M. Call: 676-1363/ 652-5184
Captains: Valid Certificate of competence as Master of a Power Driven Vessel – Call: 226-1100/ 226-5380
Items for sale: water tanks, used clothing, living room suites, wares & doors. Please call for any inquiry on: 2311284
Female sales clerk, hand written application: Perfumes Dazzle 137 Regent Street. One experienced Accounts clerk, apply in person to Alabama Trading Georgetown, Ferry Stelling, Stabroek. Receptionist, desk staff, security guards (males). Call: 225-0198 or visit 233 South Road, Lacytown. 1 Admin Clerk; must have driver’s license- Call: 2181459
1 Perkins V8 Turbo Charge 170KVa Generator in working condition, Call 223-7380 Dairy cowand goats, etc- Call Ramsadeen: 226-1322/6799770 Terrazzo Machine and discCall: 616-3094 Ashley 3X2X1 suite, microwave, gas stove, bed, AC unit, kitchen cupboard, washer, dryer, wardrobe etc. Call:658-5897/673-2692 3 Dish Plough –Call: 6616343
One Trainee A.C, Refrigerator, Technician – Call: 231-0655
Unregistered Corolla Fielder 2009, Axela 2011, dark interior, rims, TV, navigator, rear spoiler. Call: 617-5536
General Marketing Enterprise Realty: Real Estate Assistant (salary), Real Estate Agent (commission). Text: 648-2345/ email:gmerealestateagency@ outlook.com
Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, phone games, applications & repairs – Call: 672-2566; 2653231
Seeking spindle turner full time or part time, kindly contact: 216-0057/684-4510 for more information
1-2 Story 4 bedrooms house on the East Bank Demerara $20M negotiable; serious enquiries only- Call: 643-6200
Jean offers courses in dre s s m a k i n g , c u r t a i n s , floral, cake decoration @ 153 Barr Street Kitty- Call: 670-2653/ 638-8449
1 7 5 Ya h a m a O u t b o a r d Engine, very good condition. Call: 259-0302
Labrador, Rottweiler, German Shepherd and Pit bull pups for sale. Call: 692-8968
DRESSMAKING
TAXI SERVICE GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)
FOR SALE
Toyota Raum -$800,000 negotiable-Call: 697-2550/ 613-1810
Improved your health through iridology- Contact Hazel’s Herbal Store- Call: 226-9136
LEARN TO DRIVE C. Persaud & N. Outar Driving School formerly Soman & Sons Driving School @ Maraj BuildingCall: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 (affordable packages)
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
LAND FOR SALE La Parfaite Harmonie $1.2M & $1.6M, size 80ftX45ft (title available). Call: 658-5897/673-2692 Land @ Tuschen School Street -$3M, La Parfaite Harmonie: $3M, $1.6M, $1.4M, $1.2M, Diamond -$2.5M & V/HoopCall: 604-6724 Land at Friendship, E.B.D $2.5M per lot. Call: 692-8513/ 617-0465
LAND FOR SALE House lot for sale in Uitvlugt W.C.D -$3M. Call: 676-4051 La Parfaite Harmonie -$800,000, $3.2M, Diamond -$3.2M, Loo Creek (front) - $7M, Saxacalli, Farm, Kuribrong, La Grange 37X600.Call:231-7805/618-7483 Continued on page 23
Tuesday September 27, 2016
PAGE 23
Kaieteur News
Arrest warrant issued for convicted woman drug trafficker A mother of four was sentenced in absentia to four years’ imprisonment and fined $30,000, after she was convicted for trafficking cocaine. Magistrate Zamilla Ally-Seepaul handed down the sentence yesterday in the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Courts. Zainab Muhammed, 30, of 197 Pineapple Street, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown was found guilty for having 1.426 kg of cocaine in her
possession for the purpose of trafficking at the then Ogle International Airport, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on May 21, 2015. She failed to turn up in court yesterday, causing a warrant to be issued for her arrest. Initially, Muhammed had appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where she denied the allegation and was r e m a n d e d to prison. However, the matter was later
transferred to the East Demerara Magisterial District and she was granted bail by the High Court. At yesterday’s court hearing, the trial commenced and ended after four witnesses were called by Police Prosecutor David Goodridge. Thereafter, the Magistrate made a ruling. Attorney Dexter Todd, who made an appearance on behalf of Muhammed, arrived at court after the Magistrate had handed down her
sentencing. Todd asked that he be recused from the matter. A c cording to reports, Muhammed was an outgoing passenger on a LIAT flight destined for Barbados. She was intercepted by security officials at the Ogle International Airport, East Coast Demerara (ECD) after acting suspiciously. She was then discovered with the cocaine strapped to her body and was subsequently arrested.
Unhelmeted motorcyclist dies after slamming into utility pole A 22-year-old man was on Saturday last killed after he lost control of his motorcycle and slammed into a utility pole. Dead is Hemraj Sudama of Line Path, Skeldon, Corentyne who succumbed to his injuries at the Skeldon Public Hospital. According to Traffic Chief of ‘B’ Division, Mr. Bhudnarine Persaud, it was reported by an eyewitness that the young man was riding his motorcycle bearing registration number CF 5587 along Jumai Street, #78 Village, Corentyne at a fast rate when he swerved into a pothole and subsequently, lost control of his motorcycle, before slamming into a utility
pole. According to reports, Sudama was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the Skeldon Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The traffic chief said that Sudama was reportedly not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident and is suspected to have been intoxicated. A post mortem is expected to be performed today to determine the cause of death while investigations are continuing. Sudama was said to be working at the Guyana Sugar Corporation.
From page 22
WANTED
FOR RENT
Experienced male salesperson must be able to multitask, communicate well & have computer skills @ KeyFood Trading McDoom.
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
Female shop worker for Interior. Call 231-0363 between Mon- Fri 8:30-11:30 & 1:30-4:30
Hair station for rental, convenient location, discounted price for new customers. Call: 638-1106
Experienced salesgirl & 1 experienced porter@ Christine’s Fashion, 23 Lambard Street. Call:2278529/233-7356
House for rent in Golden Grove, EBD - $65,000. Call:692-8513/ 617-0465
Handyman for G/T & Interior location- Call 231-0363 between Mon- Fri 8:30-11:30 & 1:30-4:30
Killed: Hemraj Sudama
Mature experienced couple to live in and work at a Resort at Parika. Call 231-0363 between Mon- Fri 8:30-11:30 & 1:30-4:30 1 experienced Chief Security Officer to manage a security concern. Attractive salary & benefits.Apply by Sending message/ WhatsApp: 6444284
Govt targets apartment buildings, mini-malls...
One masseur or masseuse to function four times a week. Text message to 6969386 Workers to work in Interior. Call: 694-2310 8:30am-4:30pm Security to work in the Interior & G/Town, ex-military an asset, age 35-50. Call: 6251413/226-9768/698-7083 Experienced Diesel Mechanic to work in Interior with Perkins, Deutz engine & Doosan excavator knowledge. Call: 625-1413/ 226-9768/698-7083 1 Male cook in the Interior. Call: 678-0565
Government has released over 250 acres of lands in Demerara to target low cost housing, including apartment buildings in a housing drive that aims to do things differently. From page 8 preparation, construction of roads, drains, structures, heavy duty bridges, installation of pure water distribution network and installation and construction of electrical networks. In the second phase, Government will move for the construction of apartment buildings-up to four stories- as well as single flat houses.
The third phase will focus on the construction of social infrastructure. These include recreational and commercial facilities. The latter include mini malls, educational facilities, health and environmental facilities--for example: a waste treatment facility. According to the Ministry of Communities, the areas comprise undeveloped lands at Little and Great
Diamond, East Bank Demerara; Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara and La Penitence, Georgetown At the Diamond area, the ministry disclosed that some 150 acres previously under cane will be made available. At Cummings Lodge, almost 100 acres previously under sugar cane cultivation will be released. Meanwhile at La Penitence,
just over two acres will be up for development. Many housings schemes are still incomplete with basic things like police outposts absent. Anew Board of Directors at the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), which is tasked with overseeing housing development in Guyana, has been mapping a new way of handling the sector in Guyana. A report of a forensic
audit was recently completed into past CH&PA’s transactions. This time around, developers have some tough criteria to ensure developers toe the line. In the past, poor monitoring and questionable spending had raised concerns about billions expended in the housing sector. In addition to tax and other documents, developers will have to show experience in construction with the necessary staffers and equipments. The East Bank and East Coast as well as West Coast of Demerara, have been areas in high demand for housing.
Bottom flat supermarket located @ First Bridge Diamond E.B.D- Call: 6017749; 216-3069; 626-7064; 691-4808 Vacant lot @ Duke Street, Kingston- Call: 663-4304/ 616-3094 Fully furnished apartment in South & 2 bedrooms unfurnished apartment in Ben Street. Call: 689-5877 Business bottom flat for rent in New Road, Vreed-enHoop. Call: 227-4377/ 2270613/ 624-6013 Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park 2 bedrooms, recently renovated, free WiFi. Call: 227-5194 Property 1st & 2nd floor 102X36 ideal for office or school, lot 41 Seaforth Street Campbellville, Georgetown. Call: 614-2206/ 610-7902 Spacious two bedrooms upper flat at Herstelling E.B.D. Call: 265-0204/ 6010223/645-9921 Space for rent at Ashmin’s BuildingIdeal for commercial and office useCall: 683-7954 Upper flat for rent 3 bedrooms in Atlantic Gardens- Call: 227-4377/2270613/624-6013 Top flat for rent in Diamond Scheme- Call: 678-3388 Prime business premises (bottom flat) for rental at 13 Vlissengen Road, Newtown Kitty, G/Town. Call: 618-3002
Female worker wanted sound secondary education, computer literateTel: 622-5518
PAGE 24
Kaieteur News
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Brazil police arrest ex-finance minister in graft probe RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Brazilian police on Monday arrested Antonio Palocci, a powerful former finance minister and presidential chief of staff in recent Workers Party (PT) governments, as a sweeping anticorruption probe hit even harder at the left-leaning party. Prosecutors said at a news conference that Palocci acted as a liaison between the PT and Brazil’s largest engineering and construction conglomerate, Odebrecht SA [ODBES.UL], from 2006 to 2013 in a kickback scheme centered on contracts at stateled oil company Petroleo Brasileiro SA, or Petrobras. “Evidence has surfaced ... that he was responsible for coordinating his political party’s receipt of surreptitious payments from the Odebrecht Group,” read Monday’s search and arrest warrant signed by anti-corruption judge Sergio Moro. Investigators allege
Palocci improperly approved loans from state development bank BNDES to Odebrecht in Africa and for oil platforms. They also allege that he pushed legislation through Congress to help the company win tax advantages. Prosecutors said they had found evidence that Odebrecht paid 128 million reais ($39.5 million) to the Workers Party and its representatives between 2008 and 2013, including Palocci. Construction magnate Marcelo Odebrecht, whose family owns the namesake company, received a 19year sentence in March for bribery, money laundering and organized crime in relation to the scandal at Petrobras. Two former aides of Palocci were arrested in Monday’s police sweep. A medical doctor by training, Palocci was former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s finance minister and a key player in the 2002 elec-
Former Finance Minister, Antonio Palocci tion campaign that put the union and PT leader in the presidential seat. He also served as chief of staff to Lula’s hand-picked successor, Dilma Rousseff, ousted last month in an impeachment trial that ended 13 years of PT rule. She was succeeded by her former vice-president Michel
Suriname Not Withdrawing From IMF Loan Agreement, Says President PARAMARIBO - The Suriname government has refuted claims made in an article published by the Associated Press (AP) that the country may move to withdraw from a multi-million dollar loan agreement signed earlier this year with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). According to the AP report, President Desi Bouterse allegedly said during a press conference last Tuesday that his administration might cancel the deal with the IMF and seek financial support from other sources such as the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). The Office of the President released a statement on Friday night saying that the comments of the head of state were “taken out of context and
presented in a way that is at odds with the position of the president and the government.” The government noted that in recent months it has begun with the implementation of economic reforms with the support of the US$478 million stand-by arrangement (SBA) with the IMF. “We are seriously and wholeheartedly implementing the program, which has so far resulted in achieving all except two ‘hard’ objectives of the SBA,” the statement said. Bouterse and his economic team said they are aware that the economic slowdown and adjustments are taking a heavy toll on society and it was therefore decided to spread out the in-
Cops hunt suspect in... (From page 21) accused told police that he and his friend “accidentally” killed Anita Mohan, 48, a vendor. He reportedly told detectives that he and a friend had gone to the woman’s home in the day to purchase marijuana. However, the accused said t h a t w h e n t h e y returned later in the day for more of the illicit drug an argument ensued between them and his aunt over payment. One of them is reported to have struck the woman on the
head with a rolling pin, which was recovered in a bloody state, by detectives. A post mortem examination performed on the woman’s remains revealed that she died from multiple injuries. Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Hopkinson are being asked to contact police on 229-2289, 229-2557, 229-2750, 225-2227, 225-0575, 911 or the nearest police station. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence.
crease in fuel tax and electricity tariffs over a longer term than was agreed upon with the IMF. At Tuesday’s press meeting, Bouterse said that the IMF is “cold and calculating, thinking only in numbers and the deadlines we had agreed to”. According to the government leader, the IMF suggested that he increase the fuel prices to about US$1.20 per liter at once. “If I do that, the minister of finance will be a happy man, but then I will be out of office,” the president argued, suggesting that the electorate will dump him due to the steep fuel price hike. While the price hike is necessary, the implementation, according to Bouterse, would be political suicide. The president disclosed that negotiations with the IsDB have resulted in the allocation of a massive US$1.8 billion financing portfolio. Over the next couple of years Suriname has the opportunity to submit projects in several economic fields for financing. Nearly 75 percent of the resources is earmarked for investments in the energy sector. “We need to invest heavily in the energy sector, because without reliable and sufficient energy there could be no development,” Bouterse said.
Temer, whose political and economic policies have veered sharply to the right. Palocci’s lawyer did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Monday’s accusations. Odebrecht’s press office said the company would not comment. BNDES officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Palocci’s arrest brings the investigation of Brazil’s biggest corruption scandal further into the core leadership of the PT. Last week, police detained Guido Mantega, who succeeded Palocci as Lula’s finance minister and stayed in the post for almost nine years. Mantega, who was accused of corruption, was released after a few hours. Palocci was picked up on the same warrant, which could mean his detention will also be brief. “This is another nail in the Workers Party coffin,” said Andre Cesar, a political analyst at Brasilia-based public policy consultancy Hold Legislative Advisors. “The circle is closing.” Lula was indicted last week on corruption charges in a case involving a luxury seaside apartment that prosecutors say was a disguised bribe from a construction company implicated in the Petrobras scheme. Still one of
Brazil’s most popular politicians, his arrest is unlikely before he goes on trial. Palocci helped Lula change his image from leftist radical into a business friendly and socially progressive leader who finally secured election on his fourth bid. As finance minister from 2003 he continued the antiinflation and pro-market policies of the previous centrist government, helping calm financial markets’ concerns about Lula’s presidency. But Palocci was forced to resign in 2006 amid allegations he lied to congress about frequenting a mansion used by lobbyists in the capital Brasilia, where political graft was alleged to have been negotiated. He joined Rousseff’s administration as chief of staff. However, he stepped down six months later on media reports that his personal wealth jumped by a factor of 20 as a consultant for private companies while also serving in Congress from 2006 to 2010.
Venezuela opposition calls October 12 protest to press Maduro recall Venezuela (Reuters) Venezuela’s opposition called on Monday for mass rallies nationwide on Oct. 12 to push for a referendum to recall President Nicolas Maduro this year as they seek to oust his Socialist Party in an early presidential election. The campaign for a recall vote has run into resistance from the country’s elections board, which is imposing further restrictions and argues it will take until 2017 to put the proper conditions for such a referendum in place. The Democratic Unity coalition urged daily protests against “anti-constitutional” conditions set by the electoral board. “We will overflow the streets peacefully all over the country so that the regime and its electoral agents know that the referendum ... will take place this year,” Jesus Torrealba, head of the opposition coalition, told hundreds of supporters in Caracas on Monday. Maduro’s term in office runs until 2019. But if Maduro lost a recall this year, as polls suggest he would given the country’s severe economic crisis, presidential elections would be called under the Constitution. If next year, the vice president would take over and serve out his remaining two years. Venezuela’s electoral council last week said the
Tough times: Venezuela’s President, Nicolas Maduro soonest a referendum could be held, if at all, would be early 2017. That would effectively guarantee that the Socialist Party remains in power until 2019, even as food shortages and soaring prices have many Venezuelans skipping meals. The elections board has stipulated that 20 percent of voters in each of the country’s 23 states must sign a petition Oct. 26-28 supporting a referendum for it to go ahead. The opposition argues the 20 percent threshold needs only to be met nationally, representing about 4 million signatures, and says the electoral council is just a puppet of an increasingly authoritarian government. The ruling Socialist Party, which has for months insisted that there will be no recall referendum held this year, dismissed the opposition’s planned mobilization as part of a plot to destabilize the
government. Venezuelan officials blame the opposition for the timing, saying the coalition took three months to reach a consensus on the referendum and that fraud was committed in a preliminary signature drive. “Those announcements that were made today are nothing more than a call to violence,” said Socialist Party director Jorge Rodriguez, who in a press conference insisted the recall push was carried out through a fraudulent signature collection. The opposition spent the weekend debating strategy before Monday’s announcement at which Torrealba was flanked by opposition leaders in a show of unity by the historically divided bloc. “The recall referendum has to be in 2016, the country’s conditions demand it,” said opposition supporter Joaquin Mendoza, a 68-yearold publicist.
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
Colombia, Marxist rebels sign accord ending 52-year war
Colombia’s President Juan Manuel Santos Colombia (Reuters) Colombia’s center-right government and the Marxist FARC rebel group signed a peace deal on Monday, ending a half-century war that killed a quarter of a million people and once took the Andean country to the brink of collapse. After four years of peace talks in Cuba, President Juan Manuel Santos, 65, and rebel leader Timochenko - the nom de guerre for 57-year-old Rodrigo Londono - warmly shook hands on Colombian soil for the first time and signed the accord with a pen made from a bullet casing. A crowd of dignitaries chanted “long live Colombia,
long live peace” as Santos handed Timochenko a white dove pin. One man waved a large Colombian flag that had an extra white stripe in homage to the peace deal. “The horrible night of violence that has covered us with its shadow for more than half a century is over,” Santos said. “We open our hearts to a new dawn, to a brilliant sun full of possibilities that has appeared in the Colombian sky.” Attendees observed a minute of silence in memory of those killed, maimed, raped, kidnapped and displaced during the war. The end of Latin America’s longest-running war will turn the FARC guer-
rillas into a political party fighting at the ballot box instead of the battlefield they have occupied since 1964. “No one should doubt that we will conduct politics without arms,” said Timochenko, who asked for forgiveness from FARC victims. “We are all prepared to disarm in our minds and our hearts.” Guests at the ceremony in the Caribbean coastal city of Cartagena were asked to wear white and included United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Cuban President Raul Castro and U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. Showing its support for the peace deal, the European Union on Monday removed the FARC from its list of terror groups. Kerry said Washington will also review whether to take the FARC off its terror list, and has pledged $390 million for Colombia next year to support the peace process. “Anybody can pick up a gun, blow things up, hurt other people, but it doesn’t take you anywhere ... Peace is hard work,” he said of a rare diplomatic good news story for the Obama administration as it contends with the seeming intractable war in Syria and other conflicts.
Lawyer for Mexico drug lord ‘El Chapo’ Guzman claims torture
Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman MEXICO CITY (AP) — A lawyer for Mexican drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman said Monday he will argue that his client has been the victim of torture. Attorney Jose Refugio Rodriguez said the convicted Sinaloa cartel boss’ legal team has submitted evidence of alleged abusive treatment of Guzman in prison. “Cruel and unusual treatment is torture,” Rodriguez said. Guzman’s lawyers have complained in the past that he is not being allowed to sleep, mix with other prison-
ers or receive enough visits. They said that caused him anxiety and elevated his blood pressure to dangerous levels. The government says special security measures are needed following Guzman’s escape from the maximum-security Altiplano prison near Mexico City in 2015, when he fled through a mile-long tunnel dug to the floor of his shower. That was his second prison break. After Guzman was recaptured in January, prison authorities woke him every few hours for head counts but later softened that security
procedure. Lawyers have filed appeals seeking to prevent Guzman’s extradition to the United States, where he faces drug-trafficking, money-laundering, weapons and murder charges. The torture allegations are not related to those appeals. On Monday, a judge postponed issuing a ruling on the extradition appeals at a hearing. Another of Guzman’s lawyers, Andres Granados, said it could take up to three months before there is a decision. Either side could then appeal. Guzman is currently being held in a federal prison on the outskirts of Ciudad Juarez, which borders El Paso, Texas. However, he has won an initial judgment in favor of sending him back to the Altiplano prison, which is closer to where hearings in his case are being held. A federal official said prosecutors have appealed that decision. The official was not authorized to be quoted by name and spoke on condition of anonymity.
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Tuesday September 27, 2016
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
Holness Declares ‘Results Soon’ In MoBay Crime Fight
Jamaica (Jamaica Gleaner) -Following a tour of sections of crime-ravaged St James Sunday, during which he met with the top leadership of the security forces and key business stakeholders, Prime Minister Andrew Holness says he has been given an assurance that the crime situation will be brought under control. “I met with the security apparatus here, and I am confident and satisfied that they are motivated and committed and that they are going to do everything within the power of the law to bring the situation under control, and I expect that there will be results soon,” the prime minister said. However, despite his expression of confidence, Holness - who was accompanied on his tour by National Security Minister Robert Montague; Attorney General Marlene Malahoo Forte, who is also the member of parliament (MP) for West Central St James; Brigadier Antony Anderson, chief of defence staff of the Jamaica Defence Force; North West St James MP Dr Horace Chang; and the top brass of the Area One police command structure - stressed that the situation would not be brought under control overnight. “We don’t have a switch to turn off crime ... . The strategies we are putting in place will take some time to bear fruit, but we are working with the greatest speed and alacrity to ensure the results bear fruit,” the prime minister said.
Police Commissioner Dr Carl Williams (left); Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Clinton Moore (second left), the officer in charge of the Montego Hills police station; DSP Marlon Nesbeth (centre), the commanding officer for St James; and Assistant Commissioner of Police Warren Clarke (right) in dialogue with Prime Minister Andrew Holness during his tour of crime-plagued Montego Bay, St James Holness also noted that legislative reform would have to take place to facilitate the military and the police working together to combat crime. “There is a need for legislative reform to empower our police - and military in support of the police - legislation that is relevant and applicable to the crime situation we face ... ,” said Holness. “More will be said about that when we go to Parliament [this week] ... . The security [forces] will have to do far more searches.” NOT ONLY SECURITY PROBLEM In explaining some of the strategies that will be brought to bear on the situation, the prime minister said a coast guard port is to be established in Montego Bay to
stem the flow of weapons and that the matter of “more boots on the ground” and the mobility of the police would be addressed. “The crime situation in Montego Bay cannot be viewed in a uni-dimensional [way]. The crime situation has many different angles to it. It is a multifaceted problem, and from what we have seen, from our debriefing with the commissioner and the chief of defence staff, and the members of parliament in the area, it is clear that it is more than just a security problem. We have to bring in the other agencies of Government to help to stem the crime problem,” he said.
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Tuesday September 27, 2016
Tuesday September 27, 2016
FIFA under fire for disbanding anti-racism task force MANCHESTER (Reuters) World soccer’s governing body FIFA was under fire on Monday for winding up its anti-racism task force with former presidential candidate Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein of Jordan describing the move as worrying and shameful. FIFA secretary general Fatma Samoura confirmed the decision when she spoke to the Soccerex conference in Manchester, saying the task force had a “very specific mandate”. “We will turn its work into a strong program of zero tolerance policy toward discrimination of any kind, including violation of human rights,” she said. “We can live with perception
(created by disbanding the task force) but we are taking very firm action.” However, Prince Ali, a former FIFA executive committee member who has twice run for the presidency, said that “the notion that the current FIFA leadership believes that the task force’s recommendations have been implemented is shameful.” He added that the announcement was “incredibly worrying”. “Never has the need to combat racism and racial discrimination been more evident than it is in the world we live in today,” Prince Ali said in a statement. “It is not something that any governing body with
any semblance of responsibility can down play or deny. “The reality, as with many programs within FIFA, is that the task force was never given real support since its conception and its role was more about FIFA’s image than actually tackling the issues.” The decision emerged on Friday when Osasu Obayiuwana, a Nigerian broadcaster and lawyer who was a member of the panel, published on Twitter a letter he received from FIFA announcing the end of the task force. It said the task force had achieved the goals which were set out for it when it was created under the leadership
Tuesday September 27, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You will inspire confidence in others. Your ability to get the job done will result in added responsibility and possible promotion. Things will be emotional with your mate. TAURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) Your outgoing nature might work against you today. Spend some time with people who can shed some light on your personal situation. Be courteous if you wish to avoid major delays. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You will need to work diligently in order to accomplish even the smallest amount. An older member of your family may have left you with a pressing situation. You can meet potential new mates if you socialize with friends. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Put something away in case of an emergency. Be careful of disclosing personal information. Try to be as mellow as possible. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Follow through on some of the good ideas that come up, and you could have a real winner of a deal. Electrical problems may be an issue. Problems with financial investments could make you nervous. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Work quietly behind the scenes. Financial limitations are likely if you take risks. Your knowledge and good sense will help more than you think
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LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Concern yourself with legal matters and formulating contracts rather than finalizing your objectives. Go after your goals. Travel will be fun, but expect it to cost you. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Overindulgence could lead to problems with digestion. Your tendency to overreact could get you into trouble. Back off if you want to keep the relationship intact. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Anger could lead to problems. The emotional state of peers may cause a problem for you. You'll find love and you'll get into tiptop shape at the same time. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Yo u r a c c o m p l i s h m e n t s could exceed your expectations if you mix a little business with pleasure. Your involvement in organizational events could open doors to new and exciting opportunities. Work quietly on your own. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You could make extra cash through creative hobbies. Be sure to pay attention to your bank account. Try to curb your bad habits, and compromise if your partner gives you an ultimatum. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Try to stay calm and understand both sides of the situation. Try not to lend or borrow money today. Prove your worth; concentrate on getting the job done and steer clear of office politics and gossip.
of disgraced former FIFA president Sepp Blatter in 2013. The task force’s original chairman, Jeffrey Webb, was among high-ranking soccer officials arrested in Zurich in May last year. Webb has since pleaded guilty in the United States to offences linked to racketeering, fraud and money-laundering. He was one of 42 soccer officials and entities indicted last year, plunging FIFA into its worst ever crisis. Webb was replaced as head of the task force by Constant Omary, a FIFA Council member from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Britain’s Kick It Out antiracism group said it was perplexed by FIFA’s decision, especially as the move came less than two years before the World Cup in Russia, a country it said was “notorious for racism and abusive activities toward minorities”. It said football should seek to lead the way in combating violence, prejudice and hate and that organizations fighting racism would be “deeply disheartened to hear news of the disbandment, as they look to FIFA for leadership.”
Rookies lead Cowboys... (From page 29) as a surprise. Following their first week loss to the New York Giants, in which wide receiver Dez Bryant caught just one pass, Prescott went about building a connection with his key pass catcher and the work paid off when he found Bryant for a 17-yard touchdown. “It meant a lot,” said Prescott. “It took a lot of pass attempts to get it but it definitely felt good.”
RHTY&SC Cricket teams... (From page 28) anniversary celebration to the RHTY&SC and the cricket teams. The 2016 Rose Hall Town Week he stated is without doubt the best organised and most impressive of its type, ever organised in Guyana. The Mayor also told students in the audience to be committed to their studies. The RHTY&SC, MS would like to express gratitude to Minister Volda Lawerence and the Ministry of Social Protection for the donation of fifteen hampers. The hampers worth $10,000 each were handed over to the senior citizens.
Daley hits brace as... (From page 31) move by easily slipping the ball wide of the goalie. After a lull in offensive industry, Curacao got some temporary spark back in the 57th minute when Dorothea played a cheeky ball for Bernardina bursting into the Jamaican box, but he could not find Daniel Russell’s goal. But Russell was to be tested in the 65th minute when Shurendric Frasinet’s powerhouse from just inside the 18yard box brought out the best in the Jamaican custodian, diving to his left. But there was no doubt who controlled the second half as the Young Boyz kept the Curacao defenders on the retreat, exposing them by going down the middle or opening them up down the flanks. And in another superb individual effort, Daley made it 3-0 in the 70th minute, outmuscling his marker to drive goalwards, side-footing past the ‘keeper.
Providence Stadium preparation... (From page 26) to the Fire Hydrants are almost fully done. “Tickets for the Stands are mark e d R e d , G r e e n , Orange and Mound and steps and exterior of the stands were painted in white so to make it easier for spectators to indentify the Stands we have painted the steps in the color of the stands,” Ghanshiam informed. Long serving Stadium
Manager Anthony Xavier said that the Stadium had written to the Enterprise ground committee seeking a donation of the earth and disclosed that the approximate cost to relay the pitches and to transport the soil to the Staidum from East Coast was $3Million. He too is confident that everything will be ready by November 11 when Guyana Jaguars face T&T’ Red Force at Providence.
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Tuesday September 27, 2016
Providence Stadium preparation on track, ready to host CPL opener on Nov 11
Assistant Stadium Manager Mahinder Ghanshiam watches as Head Curator Wazim Habib work on the recently relayed pitches at Providence. (Sean Devers)
The repainted steps leading to the Red Stand with the a Fire Box & Hydrant at the Stadium. (Sean Devers photo) By Sean Devers Transformed from a Sugar Plantation into Guyana’s only Cricket Stadium, the Guyana National Stadium at Providence was built at a cost of US$30Milllion from grants and loans from the Indian Government for the ICC 2007 Cricket World
Cup. Four pitches at the venue which will celebrate its tenth Anniverary next year and has hosted two Tests, 16 ODIs & 5 T20Is, are currently being relayed after criticisms of them being too slow and unsuitable for International cricket. The soil for the original ‘square’ was sourced from
Mahaica which is predominantly a rice producing area on the East Coast of Demerara and it is felt that Chemicals used in the Rice industry contributed to the poor quality of the soil. It is a also believed that high stand content of the ground makes it arguable the fastest drying International
cricket ground in the World but that has also contributed to low and slow nature of the Providence pitches over the years. However, the practice pitches at the back of the ground received several compliments from International batsmen who batted on the pitches which had truer pace, bounce and
WDFA/STAG Senior League
Uitvlugt Warriors and Stewartville unstoppable
Paul Hector (right) and Orette Stephenson - Stewartville FC. U i t v l u g t Wa r r i o r s thumped Beavers FC 4-0, while neighbours Stewartville defeated Wales United 2-0 as the teams from the West Demerara blanked their West Bank rivals when play in the STAG sponsored West Demerara Football Association Senior league continued on Sunday last at the Den Amstel Community Center ground. Uitvlugt were gifted the perfect goal when Beavers
scored against themselves to break the deadlock on 34 minutes and it set the tone for the Uitvlugt team to canter to a big win. Before the end of the first half the lead was doubled with a Kevin Duke 38th minute goal. Even though enjoying the lead, Uitvlugt was made to work hard as Beavers stood firm for lengthy periods but once they buckled, it allowed Uitvlugt to score quick goals.
Uitvlugt Warriors scorers from right, Kevin Duke, Cosper Evan and Kevon Duke. That was exactly how the third and fourth goals came. Kevon Duke was on target in the 70th minute to increase the lead to 3-0 and one minute later the deal was sealed when Cosper Evan added his name to the score sheet to make it an unassailable 4-0 lead and eventual win. Even though Uitvlugt lost Jamaal Petty in the 56th minute as a result of his second yellow card, the first issued in the 16th minute,
Beavers were not able to make the one man advantage work in their favour. The opening match saw Stewartville on account of two first half goals romping to a 2-0 win over Wales United. Paul Hector it was who scored in the 22nd minute and two minutes before half time three points were sealed with Orette Stephenson’s goal. Matches will continue this weekend.
carry than the ones on the ground. According to Wazim Habib, tasked with preparing the ‘nets’ pitches, the foundation of the six ‘match’ pitches has five inches of sand while the ones at the back has no sand base. Habib, who hails from the East Coast Village of Enterprise, is now the Head Curator at the Providence Stadium and disclosed that four pitches were dug-up in mid August. The ‘old soil’ was replaced with soil from Enterprise with higher clay content and the foundation changed. “There are six pitches on the square here but we are only relaying the four in the middle where the TV cameras focus on and that are mainly used for International games. We are replacing the five inches of sand in the foundation of the square with five inches of Crush & Run (small stones that are used for road foundation) and then put eight inches of soil on that,” Habib explained. The experienced Curator informed that there were some delays due to unseasonal rain but added newly laid square is on target for completion by next month and should be used for the Regional Super50 in January 2017. The Stadium will host the opening round of the CPL four-day tournament slated to start on November 11, while the other game for the year is scheduled for December 16-19. “Those two matches will be played on the pitch which was not touched and on which the Unity match when Gayle got a century. Grass
will be planted on the relayed surface in two weeks time so it will ready for the players to run on,” Habib pointed out. Sandy patches were noticed on the ground it was revealed that the Guyana Franchise players are allowed to use the Staidum twice per week but have not used the facility since the GCB Jaguars Franchise League began this month. “When their pegs steer up the dirt the grass roots are weakened and Mole Crickets eat the grass which is casing the bald areas where you see the sand,” Habib explained. It was disclosed that Chemicals are available to control the insects but that would be done at a later date when fertilizer will also be used to replenish the grass on the outfield which will then be cut and rolled. “We have to veriticut the ground so we can’t put the Chemicals on the ground as yet,” Habib added. According to Habib to ‘veriticut’ the ground simply means that a special mower will chip the grass on the outfield which will then be used to grow grass on the pitches since this is a faster method of producing grass than planting it by using grass seeds. Assistant Stadium Manager Mahinder Ghanshiam said that painting of the exterior of the stands have already been completed while grilling of the Hospitality Boxes have already been done. The Guyana Fire Service will be pleased that the Fire Boxes in the stands are 100% completed and minor repairs (Continued on page 25)
Tuesday September 27, 2016
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Calvin Ming opens FIA Fórmula 4 México Championships in impressive style Austin, Texas, USA – Circuit of The Americas in Texas, USA was the opening round of a total of 8 rounds featuring 24 races in the 2nd F4 Nacam Championships. This past weekend saw just about all kinds of weather that the racers had to endure on the 3.410 Mile technical track at the wheel of these 1.6 Litre Ford EcoBoost engines riding on the MyGale Chassis on Pirelli tires. # 4, Calvin Ming of Team Ming of Guyana qualified in 4th but, quickly moved up a couple of positions on the first lap of start of race #1 as he continued his quest towards the front. Unfortunately, mid-way through the race, he experience gearbox shifting issues which caused him to lose a few seconds per lap but, he babied the car
around to a 3rd place finish as he was passed in the late stages. The race was won by #2, Jose Sierra with #4, Ming about 14 seconds behind. Race #2, The young Guyanese started in the 5th position but, shortly after the drop of the green flag, it began raining which made it difficult for the drivers’ to find traction as the field had all selected slicks. Even though, #4, Ming was on slicks on a wet surface, he made his way to the front of the 14 car field and led for a couple of laps. However, by the midway point of the race, the skies opened up and it began to pour which made some drivers’ make a mad dash for the pits to switch to rain tires. Ming had no choice but, to make a pit stop 1 lap later for the rain tires but, it was a bit
too late as the other drivers’ had gained significantly on him and the lead pack. Nonetheless, # 4, Ming finished in 3rd overall, which was about 1:25 behind the race winner, # 7, Andres Gutierrez. Race #3 saw much better conditions under overcast skies with much closer racing than the first 2 races. # 4, Calvin Ming was always in the thick of things throughout the race but, by the time the checkered flag was shown, he finished in 6th place but, was only about 8 seconds behind race w i n n e r, # 7 , A n d r e s Gutierrez who won for the second consecutive time and now takes a commanding l e a d i n t h e d r i v e r ’s Championships towards the 3 n d F 4 N a c a m Championships.
Calvin Ming (right) in Mexico on the podium.
Buoyant Pakistan eye whitewash against world champions today ESPNcricinfo - Bereft of confidence and 0-4 down, not much was happening for Pakistan’s limited-overs squad in their ODI series against England last month. But, as is the case in sport, one moment of clear thinking can help a team turn in around. Pakistan achieved that through a partnership between their best limitedovers batsmen, Shoaib Malik and Sarfraz Ahmed, in a demanding chase of 303in Cardiff. Three convincing T20 wins followed, and now, Pakistan have an atypical sense of belief in their own game, and camaraderie under newlyappointed captain Sarfraz has hit a new level. Although this series is done, Pakistan are still striving to find the glue that can hold it all together: consistency. Pakistan’s series win against West Indies has been built around the same modus operandi they’ve used for decades - bat to par and bowl well above that. Reducing the world champions to 48 for 8and 89 for 7 in the first two T20s showed their discipline with the ball. A youthful side has
West Indies’ batsmen have to deliver to avoid a series sweep © AFP/Getty Images
also shown the ability to save runs on the field. But, how will Pakistan’s newlook outfit hold their own under the duress that this format often brings? As teams master the T20 format, they also sometimes deem a “bad day” acceptable. West Indies’
batsmen suffered two in succession, which has cost the team the series; their sixhitters have hit the wall when unable to find the boundary. “West Indies are known to be a boundary-hitting side. But it’s up to us to find a way around that,” batting
coach Toby Radford said after the second T20. If they don’t, a whitewash may be inevitable. In the spotlight Shoaib Malik has been one of Pakistan’s most consistent T20 performers. In his last 16 T20I innings, Malik has failed to register a
double-digit score just once. Malik’s experience and fielding prowess have also helped Pakistan in their dramatic limited-overs revival. West Indies’ middle order, which includes Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard and Carlos
Brathwaite, is arguably the best in the world. Bravo resurrected West Indies’ innings in the first T20 with a 54-ball 55. But for them to be at their destructive best, West Indies’ top order has to set a base from where the middle order can attack effectively. Team news Pakistan have no reason to change their winning combination with a whitewash in sight. With the series gone, West Indies may hand Rovman Powell a debut, bringing him in for Nicholas Pooran, who has scores of 5 and 4 in his first two T20Is. West Indies may also rejig their misfiring top order. Pitch and conditions Abu Dhabi, with its larger dimensions, will provide a different challenge to the batsmen. P a k i s t a n ’s b a t s m e n scampered through for plenty of twos in the smaller Dubai outfield, which could continue. West Indies’ six-hitting ability and adaptability will be tested. The nature of the pitch is unlikely to be too dissimilar from the first two T20Is.
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Tuesday September 27, 2016
GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Nat. U-17 League
Durant’s 8 orchestrates annihilation of BYD; Mahaica trounce Ann’s Grove Buxton United Captain Kobe Durant tries to work his way through two Buxtojn Youth Developers defenders on Sunday last at the Melanie ground.
Ozelle Jacobs - Mahaica Determinators FC On a day when 20 goals were scored in 180 minutes of football, Buxton United’s Captain Kobe Durant led with aplomb in blasting 8 of his team’s goals in their 14-0 demolition of fellow Buxton s i d e B u x t o n Yo u t h Developers. It was another day in the East Demerara Football Association leg of the G F F / N A M I L C O Thunderbolt Flour Power
National Intra Association Under-17 League when two more matches were contested on Sunday afternoon. The feature match of the afternoon, while not being a goal feast as the first, did produce a fair amount of goals as Mahaica Determinators following up on a come from behind 1-1 draw with Buxton United one week earlier, pounded
out a 5-1 win over Ann’s Grove after finding themselves trailing from the 14th minute when Trion Boston put them ahead. Like they did against Buxton United, Mahaica struck back but this time around it was way earlier and even better, it sparked a flurry of unanswered goals for the Mahaica boys who were determined to take full points from the match.
Julius Hamilton netted the equalizing goal and an eventual double for the winners in the 16th and 90th minute, while there was one apiece for Nicholas Jardine (23rd), Gary Jardine (35th) and Ozelle Jacobs in the 75th minute. But stealing the show on the day was Buxton United’s Captain Kobe Durant who was in the finest goal scoring form of his young career
when he blasted 8 goals to lead his side to their most emphatic win, 14-0 over their hapless fellow villagers, Buxton Youth Developers. Durant, who scored his side’s lone goal in the Mahaica draw, once again showcased his ability to find the back of the nets. He drilled goals in the 5th, 30th, 35th, 50th, 60th, 65th, 67th and 76th minutes and found
able support from Troni S e m p l e a n d Ty r e s e Anderson who each achieved a brace. Semple was all glee in the 37th and 70th minute, while Anderson displayed similar joy in the 80th and 86th minute. Closing out the demolition were Allister Thomas in the 75th minute and Kifambo Goodman in the 85th minute.
Rose Hall Town 46th Anniversary
RHTY&SC Cricket teams and Ministry of Social Protection honours senior citizens Fifteen senior citizens over the age of 80 years on Tuesday last were honoured by the eight cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS and the Ministry of Social Protection. The senior citizens were honoured as part of the 46th anniversary celebration of Rose Hall Town, which is being organised by the cricket teams – RHT Farfan and Mendes Under 15, Bakewell Under 17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under 19 and Intermediate, Metro Females and Gizmos and Gadgets Under 21 and First Division. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the RHTY&SC and its eight cricket teams were honoured to recognise the contribution of the senior citizens who
played a major role in building the foundation for the township. The long serving Club Official stated that it was very important to honour heroes of the past, so that the younger generation of residents can be inspired to follow in their footsteps. The RHTY&SC, MS he proudly stated was in a class of its own and no other youth and sports organisation stand close to it in terms of activities, achievements and the impact it is creating on the lives of youths, the elderly and less fortunate. Foster challenged the senior citizens to share their vast experience with youths and to inspire youths to develop a culture of honesty, hard work, faith in God and personal discipline. The RHTY&SC he stated would continue to invest in
The senior citizens pose with RHTY&SC and Town Council representatives. assisting the elderly and would work hard to improve conditions for them to live out their golden years.
Town Clerk Natasha Munroe stated that she was pleased to be part of a programme to honour senior
citizens who she hailed as the township’s unsung heroes. Mayor Vijai Ramoo stated that he was delighted that the
Town Council took the right decision to award the organising of the 46th (Continued on page 25)
Tuesday September 27, 2016
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Haiti tops Cuba for CFU U-17 title
Haiti celebrates with the trophy after defeating Cuba in the final of the Caribbean qualifying tournament for the next CONCACAF Under-17 Championship. (Photo: CA-Images) Couve, Trinidad & Tobago – Haiti exploded for four second-half goals to earn a 5-0 win over Cuba in the final of the Caribbean qualifying competition for the 2017 CONCACAF Under-17 Championship on Sunday at the Ato Boldon Stadium.
The Haitians completed the final round with a 4W1D-0L record, scoring 15 goals and conceding only one, while Cuba lost for the first time after posting four straight wins. Steeve Mondestin scored in a third straight game to give Haiti a 1-0 lead in the
36th minute. Ten minutes after the break, Steeve Selso SaintDuc doubled the advantage with his team-high fifth goal and Jean Jacques Danley made it 3-0 in the 63rd minute. Luidon Casseus (78’) and Nael Wellofky Elysee
(90’+2) completed the scoreline with their second and third goals of the tournament, respectively. In the match for third place, Jamaica posted a 3-0 victory over Curacao. Raewin Senior got things started with a 21st-minute
goal and Nicque Daley (48’, 70’) netted a second-half brace. Senior and Daley finished the tournament as the team’s co-scoring leaders with four goals each. Cuba, Curacao, Haiti and Jamaica had previously earned berths to the
CONCACAF event, which will be played in Panama from April 21-May 7, 2017. The field also includes the host nation, Canada, Mexico, Suriname, the United States and three tobe-determined Central American sides. (CONCACAF)
Rookies lead Cowboys to easy win over Bears
Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) leaps over Chicago Bears safety Chris Prosinski (31) in the fourth quarter at AT&T Stadium. (Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) throws in the pocket against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium. (Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports) (Reuters) The Dallas Cowboys’ rookie tandem of quarterback Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott lifted the Cowboys to a 31-17 triumph over the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Prescott was in total command of the offence for a third consecutive game, and
has now thrown 99 career passes without an interception, while Elliott rumbled to 140 yards from 30 carries for the most productive game of his fledgling career. Their performances over the last three games have given a Cowboys team
struck by injury in recent years some optimism for the future. “We have a bunch of veterans that allow us to play and be ourselves. These guys give me all the confidence in the world,” said Prescott after completing 19-of-24 passes for 248 yards and his
first touchdown pass. “We have a great offensive unity and I’m glad to be a part of it.” Elliott had huge expectations upon him after he was the first running back drafted and the fourth overall pick. He has proven capable of
carrying a large load for Dallas and turning in spectacular plays, like when he hurdled a Bears defender trying to bring him down in the second half. “Big backs have a lot of guys shooting for our legs. Adding a hurdle to my game is something that makes me a
little more dangerous,” Elliott said. “I just keep going to work every week. Today I took a step forward.” Unlike Elliott, Prescott’s ascension from a fourthround draft choice to a starter after Tony Romo went down with a back injury has come (Continued on page 25)
Kaieteur News
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GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Nat. U-17 League – WDFA
Eagles FC soar past Slingerz
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Mackenzie High, Kwakwani Secondary rout Georgetown opposition -NSBF restarts at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall
Glenroy Duncan flanked by Marcus Thomas (right) and Charles Dann - Eagles FC West Demerara. When the West Demerara Football Association leg of the GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power National Under-17 Intra Association league continued on Sunday last at the Den Amstel ground, Eagles FC of Stewartville soared to a 3-1 over Slingerz FC. Slingerz suffered their second loss in as many matches having gone down to Den Amstel 3-4 the week before at the same venue. However, in Sunday’s clash
with the Eagles, the Slingerz boys could not find their shooting range as they only scored once. Eagles took first jump in the 19th minute when Marcus Thomas rocked the back of the nets. Four minutes later Glenroy Duncan scored Eagles’ second goal came compliments of Glenroy Duncan. As the match moved closer to the half way mark, Slingerz, through the efforts of Odell Duncan was able to
score their first of the match in the 44th minute which reduced Eagles’ lead to one, 2-1. ut the Eagles were not in an accommodating mood and on the stroke of half time they restored the two goal cushion thanks to a goal off the boot of Charles Dann. The second half saw both teams going after each other but no goals were scored as the lads from Stewartville were able to defend their first half two-goal cushion to walk away with three points.
Mackenzie High School and Kwakwani Secondary blew away their respective opposition from Georgetown on Sunday in the Under-14 group when the National Schools’ Basketball Festival (NSBF) continued at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Mackenzie High topped Bishops’ High 41-25 with Kobe Tappin and Shamar Savoury dumping in 10 points apiece. For Bishops’, Tyrone Singh had eight points and Duwon Younge had seven points to usher in the resumption of the basketball festival. Kwakwani whipped St. Rose’s High School 52-7 in the other U-14 game. Kadeem Dover put up 12 points and 10 steals, while David Conway scored 10 points, six rebounds and Javon Brutus 11 points. For Rose’s, Jaheim Barton had five points. In the U-16 category, St. Rose’s High outlasted Bishops’ High 34-18 with Anthony Yansen putting up 14 points and Kwasi Roberts nine points. Roydon Glasgow finished with six points and four rebounds for Bishops’ High. President’s College then
Kobe Tappin prolonged the already bad night for Bishops’ High with a 37-25 victory in the Under19 group. Jaleel Duke scored 10 points while Leon Harte finished with eight points and Anton Fileen six points. Timothy Thompson had 11 points and 11 rebounds for Bishops’ High. Meanwhile in the female competition, Marian Academy defeated Mackenzie High School 242 to secure the blowout win. National players, Jada Mohan and Georgiana Vyphuis scored eight points apiece; Jahrier Young six points for Marian. Digicel Guyana Inc., Edward B. Beharry and Company Ltd. and Banks
Georgianna Vyphuis
Jada Mohan DIH Ltd. are the major sponsors of the NSBF that will continue on Friday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
Barnwell leads Floodlights to victory National all-rounder Christopher Barnwell struck a fine unbeaten 87 to lead Floodlights to an eightwicket victory over G Square Cavaliers of Wakenaam in a T20 fixture played on Friday night at Demerara Cricket Club. Barnwell hammered four fours and eight sixes as Floodlight chasing 176, reached 178-2 in 18.1 overs. Anil Beharry was not out on 26 when victory was achieved, while Yunnis Yusuf made 35 (3x4,3x6) and Ramo Malone 20 (3x4). Kamal Khan and Mahindra Dindyal took one wicket
each. Earlier, Kamal Khan led Cavaliers batting with 43 including three fours and four maximums, while Jaggernauth Manbodh made 40 (6x4), Heera Sukram 26 and Toolsie Sahadeo 23. K. Baksh and Dharam Persaud claimed two wickets each and Romeo Deonaraine one. Patrick Khan of Floodlights was given the best fielder award, Deonaraine the best bowler prize and Barnwell the best batsman accolade. Both teams received trophies. The game was sponsored by Factory Price.
Floodlights skipper Ricky Deonaraine accepts the trophy from Lei Sahadeo of Factory Price in the presence of his team mates.
Tuesday September 27, 2016
Kaieteur News
Rising Sun expresses appreciation for support of Real President Cup Horserace meet The management and staff of the Rising Sun Turf Club and Friends of Rising Sun takes the opportunity to express their heartfelt gratitude and thanks to all those who contributed in one way or the other in making the recently held Real President Cup Horserace meet a success. The organisers would like to say a big than you to his Excellency President David Granger for giving his
blessing to the event, the Government of Guyana, Minister of State Joseph Harmon, Banks DIH Limited, Inshan Bacchus M i n i n g a n d Tr u c k i n g Service and Racing Stable, Jumbo Jet Auto Sales and Racing stable, Trophy Stall, Nand Persaud and Company, Chico Singh and Gansham Singh Lumber yard of No 6 West Coast Berbice, Hablaw Meat Centre, Rising Sun Cattle
Ranch and the Chester Fry Chicken of Bush Lot among others. The organisers would also like to say a special thank you to Commander of Police B Division Ian Amsterdam and his staff. They are also saying a big thank to the various media houses that helped to publicizing the activity and look for continue support in upcoming activities. (Samuel Whyte)
PAGE 35
44th annual CACBBFF
NSC fuels Mr. Guyana in CAC medal bid
Daley hits brace as Boyz whip Curacao to seal third place
Jamaica’s Nickque Daley (left) being tripped up by his Haitian opponent during their group game earlier in the Caribbean Football Union Championship at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Trinidad. (Photo: Dexter Philip/Trinidad Express) (Jamaica Observer) C O U VA , Tr i n i d a d & Tobago — Following a cautious first half, Jamaica’s Under-17 Reggae Boyz exploded in the second period with a dominant display to brush aside Curacao 3-0 in their CFU World Cup-qualifying thirdplace play-off at the Ato Boldon Stadium Sunday. Jamaica’s victory was led by a pair of well-taken goals by Nickque Daley in the 47th and 70th minutes, while Raewin Senior got the other in the 21st. The Young Boyz, like all the semi-finalists and best third-placed group finisher Suriname will now look to the CONCACAF Championship to be played in Panama next year. From the confederations play-offs, four teams will advance to the FIFA Under17 World Cup in India next August. Jamaica were beaten finalists in the last CFU tourney in 2014 when hosts Haiti won 2-0, both strikes
from the penalty spot. Sunday, Jamaica’s first chance came in the fourth minute when midfielder Cobi Atkinson was played into the danger area by goalscorer Senior, but the former seemed in two minds and went for a cross instead of exploring the better option of shooting. Seven minutes later, Jabari Morrison, in his first match of the tournament as coach Andrew Edwards rang the changes, went for an ambitious 25-yard drive after being played in by right back Jordan Petrekin, but his effort flew high. But between all of that, Curacao were having their moments, threatening all the time mainly through Angerick Dorothea, Jonathan Libania and Nathan Bernardina. In one of those Curacao attacks, Bernardina was played through from midfield in minute 18, cleverly slipping between two Jamaica defenders, but his angled right-footed shot
from the edge of the area sailed high. In the 21st minute and against the run of play, the Young Boyz got their goahead goal when Daley snatched possession in a promising area, then laid off to Morrison, whose defencesplitting pass to Senior was met and finished off with aplomb after expertly disposing of goalkeeper Kevin Juliana. Senior, who plays youth cricket for Jamaica and the West Indies, was getting his fourth goal of the tournament. Yesterday’s brace by Daley took him to four goals as well. Trailing the Jamaicans and desperate for the equalising goal, Curacao put their attacking game into higher gear, occasionally spreading the Jamaicans in midfield and defence. Even as the Jamaican defence of Nickashe Murray, Calwayne Murray, Damani Osei and Jordan Petrekin appeared unhinged at times, they somehow managed to keeping marauding Curacao off the scoresheet. In perhaps their slickest move of the half, Jamaica in the 40th minute worked a nice combination starting with Atkinson, who sprayed a delightful pass to the lurking Parris out right, and instead of his usual trickery, he delivered a quick pass inside for Senior whose final effort was blasted high from 18 yards. Two minutes after the half-time break, the Jamaicans doubled their lead when Daley went on a solo run down the left side, using sheer strength and pace to cut a path to goal, ending the (Continued on page 25)
Mr. Guyana Kerwyn Clarke (right) receives the NSC’s contribution from Director of Sport Christopher Jones. The National Sports Commission (NSC) through Director of Sport Christopher Jones has further fuelled Mr. Guyana Kerwyn Clarke in his bid to flex his way to the gold medal at this weekend’s 44th Central American and Caribbean Body Building and Fitness Federation Championships which is all set for Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. Jones, in handing over the NSC’s contribution to Clarke and conveying best wishes on behalf of the Sports Minister and Ministry, informed him that this nation is rallying behind him and the other Guyanese athletes who will be vying for top honours. The NSC boss noted that body builders and athletes on the whole have to display a high level of discipline in bringing their bodies to a competitive level. ”In this year of our Golden Jubilee we are backing you and the other athletes to turn in golden performances. We know that you have all trained hard towards m a k i n g y o u r bodies ready for this challenge on the weekend. We will always support and invest in our athletes as you are a vital part of this nation.” Clarke, a two-time CAC bronze medalist and fourtime Mr. Guyana, conveyed
thanks to Jones and Minister Nicolette Henry for their support whilst promising that himself and the others will be giving of their best in order to become victorious. The reigning Mr Guyana would be taking aiming to gain the nod of the judges in Friday’s semi finals in the middleweight (165 -176lbs) division before conquering his opposition in Saturday night’s final. Clarke commented: “I have made general improvements to my physique and I am happy with the symmetry and balance that I now sport. Hence, to the best of my ability I would display to the panel of judges that I have a well put together and total package.” Some 24 countries have already confirmed that they will be competing including Guyana and the host nation. The others are Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba,
Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, Costa Rica, Curaçao, El Salvador, Grenada, Guadalupe, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Martin / St. Maarten, T r i n i d a d & To b a g o , Venezuela and the United States Virgin Islands. Clarke is expressing sincere thanks to all the sponsors who have made his trip a reality: NSC, Fitness Express, Global Health Care Supplies, Star Party Rentals, Danesh Persaud, Nigel’s Supermarket, Professional Key Shop, Mahabeer & Sons Cambio, Industrial Supplies, Indesco, Constantine & Sons, The Gift Center, ACS Auto Spares, Attorney-atLaw Sohail Poonai, BK International, Carl Adams, C&L Construction, Attorney-at-Law Roger Yearwood, Ansa McAl, Bruce Whatley and Akbar Auto Sales.
t r o Sp Providence Stadium preparation on track, ready to host CPL opener on Nov 11
Work on the relaying of the Stadium pitches in progress at Providence yesterday. (Sean Devers photo)
Calvin Ming opens FIA Fórmula 4 México Championships in impressive style
GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Nat. U-17 League
Durant’s 8 orchestrates annihilation of BYD; Mahaica trounce Ann’s Grove
Calvin Ming in action in Mexico Formula4 series. (Calvin Ming Facebook)
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