Guyana Times Daily - April 30, 2015

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2478

Thursday, April 30, 2015

GECOM was informed about “stuffed ballot boxes” – Commissioners Page 6

Parties sign code for clean campaign Page 25

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Concerns growing over GECOM’s E-Day operations P7 – Govt Miner arrested with illegal gun, ammo P11 Granger P11 promises no more “massacres” in Bartica …township status, better infrastructure

President Donald Ramotar and Opposition Leader David Granger, the Presidential Candidates for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the People’s National Congress-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition respectively, sign the Political Parties Code of Conduct on Wednesday at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) building

Ramsaran relieved from duties as Health Minister

Page 3

…Westford appointed to act

1 dead, 1 hospitalised in East Coast accident

Longstanding New GPC INC employee retires P12

Page 18

Shot former Magistrate P18 out of danger

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news

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BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, April 30 – 14:30h-16:00h and Friday, May 1 – 14:30h-16:00h The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, April 30 – 14:05h-15:35h and Friday, May 1 – 14:45h-16:15h

FERRY SCHEDULE

Ramsaran relieved from duties as Health Minister

…Westford appointed to act

Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stellings on: Thursday, April 30 – 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h

WEATHER TODAY Thundery showers can be expected in the early morning with light rain showers dominating during the rest of the morning and into the early afternoon. Sunny intervals can be expected in the late afternoon with clear skies in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly between 4.02 metres and 6.25 metres per second.

President Donald Ramotar

H

ealth Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran has been relieved from his duties by President Donald Ramotar following the “distasteful” remarks he uttered against rights activist Sherlina Nageer last week.

There has been intense public pressure for Ramsaran to go and Ramotar last week had promised to act. In a statement issued by his office, the President said that current Public Service Minister, Dr Jennifer Westford will now take up the portfolio for the Health Ministry.

“His Excellency, President Donald Ramotar has named Dr Jennifer Westford to act as the Minister of Health.

Minister Bheri Ramsaran has since been relieved of his ministerial duties following a meeting with the President,” the statement read. The President reiterated his outrage at the verbal outbursts and insults which were uttered by the Minister.

High Tide: 02:06h and 14:27h reaching maximum heights of 2.34 metres and 2.37 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 08:02h and 20:19h reaching minimum heights of 0.86 metres and 0.81 metres respectively.

Candidates’ list

WEDnesday, april 29, 2015

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Meanwhile, when questioned on whether Dr Ramsaran’s name will be removed from the List of Candidates for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Government spokesman, Dr Roger Luncheon as well as Culture, Youth and Sport Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, said it could not be done at this point in time since the list would have already been submitted to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the time for changes has expired.

In his statement Friday afternoon, Ramotar strongly reprimanded Ramsaran following the revelation of statements he uttered during and following a public confrontation with Nageer in Berbice. “The statements and behaviour of the Minister do not reflect the high standards I have set for ministerial conduct nor the public’s expectations of

an office holder. It is outright disrespectful and improper. I intend to have further discussions with the Minister on this matter,” President Ramotar said, according to the Government Information Agency (GINA).

Meanwhile, the women’s arm of the PPP, the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO) also condemned Ramsaran, saying in a statement that it was “extremely disappointed” with the utterances of the Minister.

The WPO said its disappointment stemmed from the fact that Dr Ramsaran was a hardworking individual who was schooled in a political environment to respect women’s equality. “Dr Ramsaran is known for his support for women’s empowerment and has always been prepared to provide assistance to women, especially those who are medically challenged. WPO is, therefore, dismayed that he allowed himself to react to provocation without giving considerations to his manner of speech; his reaction was unacceptable. We know that there are people who would stop at nothing to make others lose their cool in the performance of their duties, but the Minister, who is an intelligent person, should have recognised that and acted with restraint at all times.”

According to the WPO, Guyanese women are no longer submissive and, as such, will not allow themselves to be intimidated by statements that seek to denigrate them. “WPO fought for women’s rights and empowerment in Guyana, but is mindful that rights come with responsibilities as well.

No one is forced to answer a question except in the court of law and one can always choose to ignore provocation and remain silent or be noncommittal.”

For their part, both the Women and Youth Groups of the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition said they were outraged by the “cursing out of a young woman at the Whim Magistrate’s Court by Dr Bheri Ramsaran”.

They said although there had been similar transgressions in the past, they cringed when they “listened to the recent threats” Ramsaran issued to the young woman. Among other things, he threatened to have “some of my (his) women” strip and beat her “just for the fun of it”. The groups said Ramsaran’s behaviour crossed every boundary of decency. “He has once again demonstrated the crassness and total disrespect for this nation’s women…”

are of the view that his behaviour warrants sanctions from the President. We are hoping the President would take the necessary actions regarding sanctions of the Minister,” Persaud told reporters.

Asked to clarify whether the call for sanctions meant the sacking of the Minister, PSC Spokesman Kit Nascimento offered: “It could. The view of the

PSC

Private Sector is that the President should act as the situation requires. What our position is that while it may have been provoked, it is a totally inexcusable behaviour coming from the Minister of Health. It matters not what the provocation is.”

Since his outburst, Ramsaran has apologised for his action, claiming that he was provoked. However, he has been roundly chastised by former President Bharrat Jagdeo, Education Minister Priya Manickchand and PPP/C Prime Ministerial Candidate Elisabeth Harper.

Adding his voice to the issue, Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Ramesh Persaud told a news conference that the actions of the Minister undoubtedly may have been provoked. However, he said: “We also believe strongly that provocation of that nature of persons in the high political offices or Minister and certain behaviours of that nature is not acceptable. It is somewhat irresponsible and we just learned that the President would have issued a statement and that he condemned such behaviour. We

Health Minister, Dr Bheri Ramsaran

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guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, april 30, 2015

Views Editor: Nigel Williams Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134 Mailing address: 238 Camp & Quamina Streets, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Editorial

Food security for the Region

T

hree years ago, Guyana was among the first countries to achieve the first Millennium Development Goal ahead of the 2015 deadline - to halve the number of percentage of persons in the country that were hungry compared to baseline figures from 1990. The PPP/C Government had kept their promise to end hunger in Guyana.

That we were only one of 18 to have achieved the more stringent World Food Summit goal set in 1996 - to halve the number of undernourished persons by 2012 - was astounding for a country that had been plunged to the level of sub-Saharan Africa by the PNC by 1992, when the PPP/C took office.

What our experience has demonstrated is that good intentions in this area are simply not good enough. The PNC, in its 1972-1976 Five-Year Plan, had explicitly stated their goals were to "feed, clothe and house" the nation by the end of the plan. But the policies that it undertook proved to be so disastrous that thousands ended up contracting "white mouth" as a visible sign of rampant malnutrition.

We can look at those plans as an object lesson as "what not to do" if we are to achieve the new "Zero Hunger Challenge" launched by the UN in 2012. The first lesson is that farmers must be given incentives to remain on the land. Appeals to "patriotism" will not suffice. One of the pillars of Guyanese food security has been the rice industry since that grain is our main staple by far.

Due to the knowledge of wet rice cultivation brought over from their native north-India by the post-1838 indentured labourers, Guyana moved from being an importer of rice to an exporter at the beginning of the 20th century.

The incentives were the profits gleaned by the farmers enabling them to claw their way up the economic ladder.

The PNC's plan was supposedly rational - on paper. They would purchase all paddy and rice from the farmers, invest initially in large scale milling facilities and control all exports. The profits were supposed to be ploughed back into the economy to fund the thrust into manufacture so that the country could climb up the value added staircase.

The fatal flaw was that the Government and its planners were either too greedy or they overestimated the patriotism of the farmers. Or vindictive. Their price to the farmers were so low that based on the foreign sale price there was an implicit tax on the rice farmers of 118 per cent.

The result, not surprisingly, was that farmers left the industry in droves and those that remained did so because there were no alternative sources of employment. Just as unsurprisingly, when the PPP/C Government reversed the policies of the PNC and also pumped money into agricultural infrastructure such as drainage and irrigation, production escalated to the present record breaking 600,000+ tonnes per annum.

From the PPP/C's manifesto, the same policy - and results - will be followed in all the other areas of food production. Guyana's comparative advantage has always been in its vast areas of available farmland and Guyana is now poised to move from food self-sufficient to becoming the breadbasket of the Caribbean.

As promised, this would involve "fully implementing the National Agriculture Strategy; improving farm-tomarket transportation, including boats to assist farmers to transport produce to markets; and establishing packaging/ canning factories in various geographical locations to preserve and add value to agricultural produce".

There would also be the "transformation of the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) to purchase produce from farmers and to re-sell to large users, like hospitals, manufacturers and for exports; strengthening and expanding rural credit facilities; and encouraging large scale soya and corn production and new crops such as quinoa, rubber and palm oil".

It is said in the vernacular that "don't fix what ain't broken". It is clear that the food security of Guyana and the region is assured under the PPP/C.

Antarctica’s Dry Valleys are the most arid places on Earth, but underneath their icy soils lies a vast and ancient network of salty, liquid water filled with life, a new study finds. Bacteria living under Taylor Glacier stain its snout a deep blood red. “Blood Falls is not just an anomaly, it’s a portal to this subglacial world”, said lead study author Jill Mikucki, a microbiologist. “It may be representative of a much larger hydrologic network.” (Yahoo! News)

Stripping Dear Editor, By asking whether PPP/C women are being trained in the art of public stripping, Dr David Hinds is engaging in some selective remembering of Guyana’s political history.

The public stripping of women has always been part of the racial violence that has marred Guyana’s political landscape. It did not only happen in the 1960s, but in the post elections violence of January 1998, and onward through the terrorism that gripped the East Coast villages in particular and had its epicenter in Buxton.

The women selected for

stripping in these attacks were perceived to be PPP supporters, that is, Indian women. They were not only stripped and humiliated, but the stripping was more often than not a precursor to rape.

Both GIFT and GIHA compiled reports on these violations and recorded accounts from the women. The hurt and humiliation that these Indian women experienced have never been validated or given legitimacy in our nation’s collective memory.

The perpetrators were not only men but included women and the atrocities were always accompanied by curses

and racial pejoratives.

It is disappointing that Swami Aksharananda in his letter requesting Minister Bheri Ramsaran’s resignation failed to mention any of this, and to make the point that the public stripping and assault of women are nothing new to Guyana’s political culture.

He was there in both GIFT and GIHA and heard many of the accounts of the atrocities first-hand.

The outpouring of anger that Dr Ramsaran’s threat of stripping has generated gives hope that any such act done by any person of any politi-

cal persuasion in the future would result in as much rage and disgust, and would lead to criminal charges being laid against the perpetrators as should have been done in the past.

There is a distinct impression that because of the PPP/C Government’s arrogance and corruption, the coalition should be held sacrosanct and above all criticism and questioning. If this is a predictor of the coalition’s style of governance should they win, where is the change?

Ryhaan Shah

NACTA poll found Health Minister should be fired

Dear Editor, A NACTA survey being conducted in Guyana on the general elections scheduled for May 11 reveals that people want the Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsaran dismissed from the cabinet for his invective uttered against an Opposition activist over a week ago at Whim, on the Corentyne.

Almost everyone who was interviewed on this issue, condemns the Minister’s behavior and his uttering.

They feel he should resign.

All right minded thinking people feel he must go to give some sense of credibility to the PPP/C Administration that it will not tolerate that kind of behaviour should it be re-elected. It is felt that if President Ramotar were to act, it will boost his approval ratings and enhance his chance of re-election.

People say a reprimand is not enough.

The poll finds that even Dr Bheri’s supporters, in the hard core of Port Mourant and the Corentyne, where

he is the geographic candidate, feel he must go. It was felt that if he did not want to resign, he should be fired.

His behaviour was/is unacceptable. Some 99 per cent of those polled feel he has to go People say they cannot understand why the Minister would not be willing to tender his resignation or why the President will not relieve him of his responsibilities. PPP/C supporters say that if Dr Bheri loves his party, he would voluntarily offer his resig-

nation.

The Minister’s behaviour cannot be condoned. People say it will not be too late even if the President were to act against him now at this 11th hour.

It is felt that President Ramotar has to show by action, not merely words, that his new Administration, should he be re-elected, will have zero tolerance for arrogant behavior and other unacceptable actions.

Vishnu Bisram

For a civilian Government Dear Editor, After the April 27, 1953 elections, the first under adult suffrage, that is, all persons 21 years and over voted for the first time in an election, the PPP won 18 seats out of 24 seats, six went to the Opposition.

With this victory, the first civilian Government was inaugurated. The PPP/C is now administering the affairs as a civilian Government, and as long as the state of Guyana exists, they would continue to do so.

A civilian Government will

always be the guaranteed legal authority of democracy in a nation.

Now on May 11, looms a military dictatorship effort by Granger;s Opposition coalition.

Therefore, on May 11, all persons 18 years and over, go

and vote for the PPP/C civilian Government to continue with a resounding victory for the PPP/C. Onward to a civilian Government victory!

Michael Singh

guyanatimesgy.com

thursDAY, april 30, 2015

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People remember rural Things I wonder about blackout under PNC

Dear Editor, My friend Freddie Kissoon recently wrote about electricity blackout in rural areas. He needs to be educated on the history of electricity supplies in rural areas.

Growing up in rural areas, people suffered racial and political discrimination (electricity and water supplies and shortage of Government transportation).

They remember well the hardship and blackout they endured for years.

I grew up in Port Mourant.

Blackout was a way of life under the PNC regime (between 1974 and 1992) in that PPP stronghold and in every PPP supported area on the Corentyne.

While Freddie got access to electricity in Albouystown, Wortmanville and Tiger Bay where he grew up, and in other urban areas that were PNC strongholds, students in rural areas were forced to study using bottle lamps (flambeau) and hand lamps.

Some families had gas lamps (the ones that worked with mantles). Freddie and his urban dwellers did not experience our suffering and as such cannot relate to it. He does not understand how grateful people are for a sustained supply of electricity, even if there have been occasional blackouts in recent times.

At least they get current whereas under the PNC, there was continuous blackout.

In Ankerville, where Dr Jagan hails from, Uncle Raghubeer used to provide “current” for parts of the village, while Uncle Katcho provided current for other parts. Miss Phoebe, Tain, Jones, Haswell, Bound Yard, Babu Jaan, Portuguese Quarter, Reef, etc had someone generating electricity for the sub-villages.

But some areas of the large, sprawling indentured estate were without current. In general, about half the village (those closer to the cane and rice fields) of some 20,000 had no access to electricity because of a lack of electric plant.

Government schools were lit by the Albion Estate. Private Schools had no electricity but some private schools had a private generator. Schools largely relied on sunlight to impart instruction.

The use of electrical equipment was not possible in schools.

There were no flush toilets because water could not be pumped to a storage water tank because of no current. Some businesses had their own generators.

In general, electricity from private generators would flow from the time it got dark (about 18:00h) till around20:30h or 21:00h and turned on again about 05:00h and discontinued when it got bright around 06:00h.

The cost was about $5 (green note) a month. If there was a yag or wake or religious service in the evening, people paid for an extra hour of service in the night.

The Government started putting up poles and running wires in Port Mourant and the Corentyne as part of its electrification project, funded by World Bank and IDB loans, during the early 1970s.

Urban or PNC supported areas were wired first; Indian villages were bypassed. Berbicians would remember this fact well. In fact, when I visited West Coast, East coast and Essequibo Coast, people related similar experiences. Some people, like Freddie and his urban friends, want us to forget this history.

Generating and selling electricity in the private sector was outlawed long before the Government started supplying electricity. People in rural areas were forced to endure life without light for long spells of time.

When houses were wired, and people had to pay for the wiring, the private electricity supply was immediately terminated. After the wiring of homes, people were forced to survive without electricity for months before the government electricity came on stream – policy made no sense.

Students and teachers from the era of the 1970s right through

1992 would remember that we studied with bottle lamps and hand lamp – that ruined our eyesight. But we did well in schools and many of us have gone to become eminent figures internationally, not ‘lagoo bagoo’ like Freddie.

In the urban areas, Government supporters had unlimited (Government) supply of electricity. Those PNC supported dwellers hardly suffered from blackouts or shortage of running water (subject of a different article). Some of the urban areas had free electricity while the rural people had to pay for current.

Rural dwellers suffered the worse form of political and racial discrimination.

In the rural areas, we lived with almost daily blackout for years. Sometimes, the blackout lasted for months. At times, Government (GEC) workers would close off electricity in the rural areas and divert the current to the urban areas if they had problems with their generating plant.

At times, there would be black outs in some rural areas to facilitate the kick down door robbers, some of whom were identified as Police men and soldiers (we remember them well).

While some areas where PNC supporters lived suffered blackout, PNC supported areas were well lit and were hardly affected by blackout. Even when there was blackout, rural people were forced to pay their bills (did not use any electricity).

Urban people were not even bothered if they did not pay their electricity bills. My late friend Lionel Peters, who was a billing agent, related numerous incidents of forced payment when they never used any electricity.

Rural dwellers were far better off with the small private electricity (village) generating plants than the large ineffective government owned plants that discriminated (based on ethnic and politics) in its supplies of electricity.

Vishnu Bisram

Dear Editor, David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo appeared in an advertisement next to a picture of President Obama. Clearly they think that this might fool some people to think that President Obama endorse them.

Does either Granger or Nagamootoo think they are like Obama? In my view neither of them comes close to Obama. I know that President Obama will never tell anyone to forget the past.

He will never tell the Jews to forget the Holocaust or tell Afro-Americans to forget the racism that existed in America and that Martin Luther King was assassinated. That is why he went to Selma to remember the past and on the struggles of African-American for freedom from discrimination.

He does not want Americans to be trapped in the past, but he certainly does not advocate anyone forgets the agony and shame of the past. Granger and Nagamootoo don’t want Guyanese to remember and reflect on the past because they don’t want to be judged by that past.

APNU+AFC supporters concocted a picture of Michele Obama with a placard reading “vote for change Guyana”.

I wonder if desperation drives them to now use the popular President and First Lady to bail them out.

I wonder what the American Ambassador to Guyana thinks and will he be bold enough to tell Guyana that the US President and First Lady are endorsing Granger and Nagamootoo. I wonder if the President and First Lady of the US even know the names of the APNU +AFC candidates for the Presidency and Prime Ministerial positions.

I wonder if David and Moses now feel they cannot sell themselves to the Guyanese people and they need divine help.

Granger said that he has nothing to apologize for. I wonder whether he will address the nation and say that the policies and the record of the PNC which he now leads, which he pledged loyalty to when he was head of the army and for which he swears he was a card-bearing member since then were all the right policies and the record is one which he is proud of.

I wonder if he will tell us that the guns the GDF gave to leaders and other members of the PNC were the right thing to do.

I wonder, really wonder if Granger is

sorry that the PNC thugs beat up many PPP leaders, including Nagamootoo.

I do wonder if he has apologized to Nagamootoo for the times Nagamootoo himself regaled us of when he was beaten and locked up. I wonder if Granger could tell us that Rodney was a gangster like the Ballot Box Martyrs.

I wonder if Granger could tell us if the PNC clothe, feed and housed the Guyanese people, as they had promised.

I wonder if Granger would tell us if it is true that Guyana was one of the most indebted countries on earth in 1992.

I wonder if Granger would tell us that the cooperative model for development worked. I really wonder many things about Granger, but I realize if I go on there are not enough space for me to tell you what I wonder about.

I wonder if Moses will allow the Clerk of the Parliament to publish Moses salary record to see if he is telling us the truth about his salary. He told the people at Whim that he never accepted any salary increase as a Minister and as an MP. To protect his integrity, would Moses mind the records to be made public?

I wonder how many people ever saw Moses sitting in business class because he told the people at Whim that he never travelled in business class. Did he travel recently to Canada on an economy ticket? I am not saying he lied. I am simply wondering.

I wonder what the military and the police officers think when Granger said they will give 20 per cent salary increase because this is the only way to stop corruption among army and police officers.

Are they offended?

I wonder if I am right in thinking this is an insult to all officers because they have been demonized by Granger as corrupt. I wonder what sugar workers must be thinking when APNU+AFC think that their wages and salary package is too big a proportion of GUYSUCO expenses.

I wonder why Moses felt compelled to disavow his indianness to fit in as Granger’s partner. I wonder why Granger felt no need to disavow his African ancestry. I wonder if either Granger or Moses would celebrate Indian arrival day this year.

But I am wondering too much. I will simply vote for the PPP/C so that I don’t need to wonder about these things.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

6news

thursday, april 30, 2015| guyanatimesGY.com

Warlock residents hurl GECOM was informed bottles at Dr Luncheon in about “stuffed ballot boxes” – Commissioners bid to break up meeting

P

eople’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/ C)-nominated Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission have confirmed that they did file a complaint with the elections body about possible rigging at the 2011 General and Regional Elections.

The Commissioners’ comments come in the wake of statements made by GECOM’s Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally dismissing allegations made by former President Bharrat Jagdeo at the PPP/C’s rally at Stewartville on Sunday that ballot boxes were “stuffed” during the November 28, 2011 elections, which saw the PPP/C losing its majority in the National Assembly.

“We, the undersigned Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission, note with concern and surprise, the position taken by Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally, that instances of unusually high voter turnout at polling stations were not previously brought to his attention. We wish to go on record as having presented such information several months ago to him and the Secretariat staff,” the Commissioners Mohamood Shaw and Athmaram Mangar wrote.

Jagdeo on Sunday de-

GECOM’s Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally

livered a stern warning to the international observers participating in this year’s General and Regional Elections, to pay keen attention to the events that will unfold on Election Day particularly at the various polling stations. He urged them to guard against the “usual sabotage” – which he said was a known ploy of the People’s National Congress (PNC).

“We know what happen in 2011. In some of the villages, where they threw out polling agents or where we didn’t have polling agents, the vote went up from an average of 74 per cent to 95 per cent. They stuffed the boxes in those areas.

We have to guard against that happening again.”

Jagdeo told the thou-

sands of PPP/C supporters that they too needed to be “vigilant”, and be on the alert for such actions. “We have to guard against that happening again, in those villages where we did not have polling agents,” Jagdeo told the cheering crowd.

“We know they often try to invade the polling stations in some areas in the afternoon. They will make an attempt to storm the polling stations as soon as it becomes dark to stir up confusion,” he warned.

He called on the international observers, among them former United States President Jimmy Carter and his team from the Carter Centre, to pay keen attention to this. “The observers have to pay attention to that, because they will spare no means to try to have political power.

They have tried it in the past through the rigging and they will do it again,” Jagdeo said.

However, Dr Surujbally, in a response in another section of the media, said “stuffed” ballot boxes were a figment of Jagdeo’s imagination. He said, “If it is true what he is reported to have said, then it’s a figment of his imagination. I have never heard of that, I have asked my staff and never heard of this accusation before,” Dr Surujbally was quoted as saying.

R

esidents of Warlock, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, broke out into a frenzy on Wednesday evening when the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) took its campaign to the small community, breaking bottles and hurling threatening remarks at the speakers.

It was utter confusion in the neighbourhood, as Police officers tried to ward off residents who were quite vocal in their displeasure at the Party taking its political campaign there.

Among the speakers at the meeting, which saw close to 400 persons present scattered around the community’s playfield, were Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon and former People’s National Congress (PNC) members Joseph Hamilton and Gillian Burton.

The crude remarks filled with derision from both young children and adults did not, however, deter the PPP/C speakers of laying out the Party’s plans for the community and the country at large.

The brunt of the illtreatment was felt by the Cabinet Secretary, who during his speech had broken bottles hurled in his direction. Police had to contain the crowd which was raucous in their screams of “we want Granger” and the constant waving of the APNU+AFC coalition flag.

But Dr Luncheon, while commending the residents for their camaraderie, reminded them that it was

the PPP/C that brought change and development to Guyana.

“The People’s Progressive Party has served all the people of Guyana, all over Guyana and we come to you tonight and we are saying the same thing to Guyanese everywhere. Give us the chance, allow us to serve and it will be for the betterment of Guyana,” Luncheon said to the jeering crowd.

Mandate

He said in all its 23 years in office, the Party has been renewing its mandate. He said Guyana was a developing country and saw this level of development only under the

since 1992... We would expect a renewal of our mandate to govern this country of ours.”

In her speech, trade unionist Gillian Burton sought to establish Government’s commitment to women in Guyana, laying out the various programmes that have been provided for their socioeconomic development. “ We are about helping you to help yourselves … we are saying to you, especially for our women, because we know of the popular saying, the hands that rock the cradle rule the world, we hear your cries and concern. We hear you talk about being single parents, we hear you trying to make ends meet and we are saying to you

Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary, Dr Roger Luncheon

PPP/C Administration.

Dr Luncheon noted that the proof was not only in Guyana, but has been sanctioned also by the international community.

“The world had made that comparison.

They speak of what has happened

that it has not fallen on deaf ears.”

Burton said while the Party was not promising to present these things on a “platter”, it could only say that it has the process for “you to help yourselves”.

She said her Party has brought the means of transforming women in Guyana and there was at least one person in the community who has benefited from the many programmes offered

by Government.

According to Burton, Government has plans of assisting women, particularly single mothers with day-care facilities among other things. She noted that while there was no “pictureperfect government, the incumbent has been trying, and will continue to do its best for its people.

“We want to see you grow from strength to strength ... across the world today there is the need for women to rise up and get on stream and become CEOs of companies ... using the ICT [Information and Communication Technology] programmes,” Burton told the sparse crowd.

Meanwhile, former PNC member Joseph Hamilton spoke about the healthcare system, which, according to him, has evolved under the current administration.

He urged the residents to make the right decision on May 11, and help the PPP/C Administration return to office.

news

Concerns growing over GECOM’s E-Day operations – Govt H

ead of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon said Government continued to call on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to reveal information on its modus operandi for Election Day, May 11.

He told a news conference on Wednesday that the issue of Joint Services members voting remained a bugbear for the Government, noting that “specifically the preparations and the approaches that have been yet to publicly air and worse, specifically provided to stakeholders.”

The Guyana Times reported on Wednesday that all systems were in place for members of the Disciplined Forces to cast their ballots on Saturday. This newspaper quoted officials of the various agencies as well as the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) reassuring Guyana that all systems were in order to facili-

igible person or elector be placed on the list and as such, the body did not have the requisite power to remove any eligible person.

Dr Surujbally related that the PPP/C should not be worried since the elections body would be ensuring that a menu of mechanisms were in place to ensure that no one was able to cheat the system. He, however, declined to disclose what these systems were, citing security reasons.

Secondly, Dr Luncheon said Government was concerned about GECOM’s reluctance to publicly vet Election Day staff. He stated that calls have been made by the Government to GECOM, for the public disclosure of staffers to be employed at its 2294 polling places. The ruling PPP/C had raised the issue before, but Dr Surujbally had said that it was not practical. The PPP/ C’s arguments have been that public vetting was nec-

Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon

tate the process. Among the agencies that will be voting on Saturday are: the Guyana Defence Force (GDF); the Guyana Police Force (GPF); and the Guyana Prison Service (GPS).

Previously, there have been several calls by the political parties, in particular the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), for the names of the Disciplined Forces members to be taken off the list of national electors. However, GECOM Chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally had noted that there was no cause for alarm by the political parties. GECOM Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield had related that while the PPP/C was entitled to raise its concerns, there was nothing that could be done by the Commission to alter the list. He noted that under the laws of the country, it would be quite illegal for the elections body to remove the names from the Preliminary List of Electors.

According to Lowenfield, it is required by law that the name of each and every el-

essary since the staff would be involved in a matter of national importance and one which had far-reaching effects. The Party said that the public vetting would involve the publishing of the pictures and names of the persons, and members of the public who may have contentious information about the GECOM personnel can come forward and make disclosures to the relevant authorities.

However, Dr Surujbally said that the idea was an unrealistic one, given the fact that thousands of people would be employed by the Commission to work on Election Day and as such, a public vetting exercise would pose difficulties.

“Do you know how many staff we have working on Election Day? We have at least 12,000 Election Day staff working on that day so how can we print all of those names and pictures for public vetting?” the GECOM Chairman queried. He said it was already communicated to the Party that this was an impracticable sugges-

tion. However, the majority of the political parties likely to contest the elections had thrown their support behind the initiative.

Proxy

Government is also calling for the public disclosure of proxies, “who applied and particularly who have gained the right to be voted for, by proxy”. He said the selection of polling places continued to be a matter of concern at Cabinet, “particularly because of what have been illustrated, the difficulties in some electoral divisions and districts, identifying precisely where the private residences are, and in some instances, the actual choice of suitability of these private residences”.

“We heard about rum shops being identified as polling places, not exactly comparable to what was proposed to be used as places of poll, and only in unavoidable circumstances, to resort to private residences,” he said.

Dr Luncheon explained that in his opinion, confidence building needed to be “more thoroughly and more aggressively embraced” by GECOM and particularly because election observers should continue to write and document that the upcoming elections subscribed to standards of international repute, “more can be done, to emphasise, particularly on those four aspects that were of concern to Cabinet”.

The PPP/C only last week had called on GECOM to release the final list of polling stations for the May 11 General and Regional Elections.

The Party’s General Secretary, Clement Rohee, said it was important that voters be given adequate time to familiarise themselves with the respective polling places. He said the Party previously called on GECOM to avoid as much as possible the use of private residences in preference to public and better known buildings as polling places.

“GECOM had agreed at a meeting held with political parties that the list would be released early for public knowledge and efforts would be made to avoid last-minute changes to Polling Day stations.

However, it was also agreed that unavoidable changes will be done in a consultative nature with all political stakeholders.” Rohee said the Party also reiterated its calls on the elections body to allow for the public vetting of Polling Day staff. He said if this should be treated as top secret, it will only serve to create doubts in the minds of people and eventually, a loss of confidence.

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GPO heist…

Robbers plead not guilty

Accused Stravo Evans

T

he men who allegedly carried out the brazen daylight heist on the Guyana Post Office (GPO) – Stravo Evans, Oliver Franklyn and Simeon Williams – were brought to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday to answer to the six charges that were laid against them.

The first charge against the defendants stated that on April 1, with others, and carrying a dangerous weapon, Stravo Evans robbed Police Officer Andre July of one G3 Rifle and 31 rounds of 7.62×51 ammunition belonging to the Guyana Police Force. On the same day, it is alleged that Stravo Evans also robbed the GPO of $42,522,000 while relieving July of a mobile phone valued $10,000.

In court, it was also stated that on April 1, the men robbed Darwin Hinds of a Toyota minibus of the type

accomplices went to Bourda Market and upon seeing the bus approaching the Bourda Post Office, they carried out the brazen early morning robbery.

They proceeded to pull the driver from his seat, subdue him and then the Police escort before tying them up together. They then drove the

bus to Cemetery Road, East La Penitence, Georgetown where they removed the money, gun, ammunition and mobile phone. They subsequently escaped in another vehicle.

The minibus was found some time later with the two men tied together in the back. Based on Police investigations, Evans was tracked down and arrested.

A Police source told Guyana Times that Evans was positively identified during an Identification Parade by the Policeman whose weapon was taken away.

The G3 Rifle was recovered on Wednesday morning in a trench in East La Penitence.

The senior rank also stated that upon his arrest, Evans remained tight-lipped about the robbery and refused to cooperate with investigators. However, this did not prevent officers from locating suspects, Williams and Franklin.

The men were not permitted to plead to the charges on their first appearance in court as the charges are indictable, however, on Tuesday the men pleaded not guilty to all six charges.

Their attorneys, Paul Fung-A-Fat and Peter Hugh made applications to Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry for bail for their clients but this was denied.

Nevertheless, Attorney

gime.

Jones served as Ambassador from January 1992 to August 1995 during which time he worked closely with former US President Jimmy Carter to support free and fair elections in the October 1992 elections which brought to an end minority authoritarian rule.

Jones had a distinguished career in the diplomatic arena which spanned a period of 40 years. After retiring from the Foreign Service in 1995, he

became actively involved in support of democratic reforms in several countries, which included several in Central and Latin America.

The late Jones will also be remembered for being a member of the US Government delegation to the funeral of the late Dr Cheddi Jagan, President of Guyana who passed away on March 6, 1997.The PPP/C extends its condolences to the wife, children, relatives and friends of the late George F Jones.

popularly known as a “Pit Bull” valued $2.4 million, property of the Guyana Post Office Corporation. The defendants are also accused of restraining both the minibus driver (Hinds) and the Policeman, abducting them during the robbery.

In presenting the state’s case against the accused, the Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru revealed that on the day in question, about 07:45h, the defendant and his

Oliver Franklyn pleaded not guilty to stealing $42 million from GPO

Fung-A-Fat told the court that the prosecution does not have any evidence against his clients, Williams and Franklyn. He stated that his clients were arrested two weeks after the incident and nothing was ever found on them. The lawyer continued that they were identified

T

Miner remanded to prison on illegal gun possession charge

A

miner was remanded to prison on Wednesday

by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts following a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Richford Atwell Shepherd, 27, called “Jumbie” of Now or Never, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, pleaded not guilty to a charge which read that on April 28, at Arau Landing, Wenamu River, he was found to be in possession of a 9mm semi-automatic handgun without being the holder of a firearm licence. The man also pleaded not guilty to a charge which stated that on the same day he was found to be in posses-

Richford Atwell Shepherd was charged for gun possession

sion of two live rounds of corresponding ammunition.

According to Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves, on the day in question while acting on information received, ranks of the Guyana Police Force went to a shop that is the property of the defendant. It was explained that a search was conducted on the shop where the firearm and the matching ammunition was found hidden under a mattress in the defendant’s bedroom. The man was then arrested and charged with the offence. The prosecution objected to bail on the grounds of the seriousness of the offence. Bail was denied and the matter was transferred to the Kamarang Magistrate’s Court for May 15.

Blind spot...

A Simeon Williams

as behaving in a suspicious manner but this was never verified.

Attorney Fung-A-Fat asked that the prosecution look into his claims.

Chief Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry transferred the matter to Court Three where Magistrate Judy Latchman presides. The trio is expected to arrive back in court on May 29.

Farmer accused of PPP/C saddened at passing of stealing cow former US Ambassador gets bail

he People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) said it was saddened at the passing of George F Jones, former US Ambassador to Guyana.

In a statement, the PPP/C said Jones would be remembered for the role he played during and after the historic election of October 1992 which saw the restoration of democratic rule to Guyana after 28 years of unbroken dictatorial rule by the People’s National Congress (PNC) re-

Eyew tness

Alleged cow thief Nashan Anthon

A

farmer was placed on $40,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on Tuesday following a charge of cattle larceny at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Nashan Anthon of Parishara Village, Central Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Esequibo) pleaded not guilty to the charge which read that between April 17 and April 19, he stole one cow valued $100,000; property of the Virtual Complainant Jeremiah Thomas.

When asked if he had any previous troubles with the , the man admitted to being charged with the use of threatening language towards a relative. Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves made no objection to reasonable bail which was granted in the sum of $40,000. The matter was transferred to the Lethem Magistrate’s Court for June 1.

...or willful blindness?

PNU MP Ronald Bulkan, accuses columnist Ralph Seeram and several other Guyanese of becoming “full-blown apologist(s) and cheerleader(s) of the PPP/C”. He claims: “This causes me to ask myself, what is it that is responsible for so many of our Indian brethren not to be able to stay the course?”

All the individuals cited had criticized the PPP/C at one time or other...and whether Bulkan’s charge is valid or not, his premise is that folks can’t support a group and at the same time criticize them. Is this the position of the APNU to which he now belongs??

A second nettlesome issue on Bulkan’s bond fides on criticizing his “Indian brethren” for presumably “flipflopping” on criticizing parties and then supporting them is he’s rather selective with his targets.

Surely he at least should’ve SUSPECTED that his new Prime Ministerial candidate Moses Nagamootoo (even though he denies being part of “our Indian Brethren”) might’ve said a few positive phrases about the PPP/C at some time or other, no?

But maybe he’s forgotten so we’ll remind him of a snippet from Moses’ speech at the PPP/C’s Good Hope Rally in 2006: “A son may walk away from home, but he always returns.

I AM BACK WHERE I HAVE ALWAYS BELONGED – IN THE HOUSE OF CHEDDI JAGAN. I have refused to join others to betray you or to destroy this home. I refused to be a neemak haram! AND IN THIS HOUSE THERE IS ROOM FOR ALL! Unlike the PPP/C, which relies on a positive campaign based on its record in Government, the PNC took the negative road. It revealed lack of vision, and refused to see the bigger picture. They became obstructionist, and opposed every move towards holding this election. They even took to the street in protest and promised protest after elections.

The PNC pronounced the elections to be rigged even before a single ballot has been cast, and wrote to the UN Secretary General to this effect! The PNC cannot get rigging out of its psyche and out of its nature. The shadows of past have enveloped the PNC to such an extent that it has become insensitive to the feelings of the people.

In the past the only word the PNC knew best was “RIG”.

So, they come to you in 2006 and ask the electorate to vote for PNC-RIG. They want you to say “Yes” to PNC-RIG. What do you say? Nooooooooooooo! Not again. Never! Nada!

Niet!”

So does Nagamootoo promising 11 per cent Indian Berbician votes and baptizing them “APNU/AFC” change their “rigging ways”??

Or does Bulkan have lower ethical standards for “nonIndian Brethren”??

...or mote in eye?

Craig Sylvester seems to be a well-meaning AFC supporter. He, like Bulkan, is also amazed that “intellectuals” like Swami Aksharananda could possibly utter words that possibly show the Opposition in a negative light.

The premise of these people is THEY are in possession of the totality of TRUTH. Never mind his claim that African Guyanese voted for the PPP/C is belied by the statistic that the PNC received 42.3 per cent votes in 1992 and only 40.5 per cent in 1964 - the most polarized election in our history!!

Sylvester also states explicitly what Bulkan implies - that people outside the penumbra of their TRUTH also “set aside the discipline of ethics”. And this is where we ought to get worried. These benighted supposedly PPP/C “supporters” are now violating THE ethical code. They’re doing “bad” things. And it doesn’t take much to take the next step.

Bad people doing bad things have to be punished, no??

Like in 1992, 1997, 2001, etc, etc.

...of eye doctor

You should only take private gratitude so far when you’re to elected to represent your constituency. The PNC sent George Norton to Cuba to become an eye doctor. But does this mean he should be blind to the PNC’s record on Amerindian land rights?

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The invisible man

GT&T donates $500,000 to Charles Roza School of Nursing

Principal Tutor Hillary Christopher and Senior Tutor Sabina Gullin accept the donation cheque from GT&T Senior Marketing Officer Anjanie Hackett

G

uyana Telephone and Telegraph Company Limited (GT&T) on Wednesday made a presentation of $500,000 to the Charles Roza School of Nursing in Linden.

The donation will go towards providing desks and other furnishing for the institution which serves as a training centre for students of Linden and other regions. It was founded in 1959 by Dr Charles Roza

to train health-care providers in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) to meet the needs of the communities.

Principal Tutor Hillary Christopher said the school continued to pride itself on the facilitation of highquality health care training. Christopher said the request for assistance came as a result of the institution’s determination to create a more conducive atmosphere for students and

tutors in order to have greater output. The donation will make a great impact on the school realising its mandate of ensuring the students offer their best service upon completion of their training.

Senior Marketing Officer Anjanie Hackett said GT&T as a good corporate citizen recognised the invaluable contribution of the institution and was, therefore, pleased to assist the school in its efforts.

news

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Granger promises no more “massacres” in Bartica … township status, better infrastructure

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r e s i d e n t i a l Candidate of the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC), David Granger on Sunday promised residents of Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) that there would never be a massacre again in their community, as he outlined his party’s vision for the region at a rally.

In a comment, a senior official of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) said that he found it strange that Granger was guaranteeing there would be “no more massacres”. According to the official, Granger seems to be saying “who owns the dog can call off the dog”, and also questioned why he did not also guarantee Lusignan. Back in 2008, gunmen led by Rondell “Fine Man” Rawlins slaughtered 12 people in Bartica, just weeks after they had killed 11 in Lusignan, on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

The Government has consistently linked the PNC with the gang that was based in Buxton, ECD – a charge it has always denied.

Granger told residents that security would be a high priority for his administration if elected. He stated that the Commander for the F Division (Interior locations), under which Bartica falls, will have to be stationed in the region and not at the headquarters in Georgetown.

He added that the Police Force needed more AllTerrain Vehicles (ATVs)

Opposition Leader David Granger

and better salaries. The Opposition Leader further noted that the Police Force was also in need of an aircraft so that it can conduct better policing of Guyana’s terrain.

Additionally, addressing the large gathering at the Bartica Community Centre Ground at the Opposition alliance’s rally, Granger stated that if his alliance was elected into Government, then on May 26, 2016, when Guyana celebrated its 50th Independence Anniversary, Bartica would be given township status.

“The Cuyuni-Mazaruni is a sleeping giant and I want to see Bartica as the capital of this great region – the second largest region in Guyana … Bartica must have good infrastructure, good roads and stellings, good street lights and if you can’t get it from the PPP (People’s Progressive Party), you must get it from your own elected MPs [Members of Parliament],

your own elected RDCs [Regional Democratic Councils] and that is what the 11th of May is all about. (It) is revival time for Bartica … You deserve to be a town and I will make you a town,” he stated.

Roads and better education Another issue, he highlighted, was the condition of the roads in Bartica and in other villages in the region. He said if elected, his administration would transform the BarticaPotaro road into a highway.

“You cannot develop this great region without infrastructure. Infrastructure is investment, it will pay for itself and if you want to win the wealth, riches of this region, you have to provide the roads,” he declared. The Opposition Leader continued with his third plan of fixing the education sector, stating that Region Seven gets eighth place out of 10 regions at the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) exam-

Miner arrested with illegal firearm, ammunition

A

miner was taken into Police custody on Tuesday evening following the discovery of a 9mm pistol and two matching rounds of ammunition at Arau Landing, Eteringbang, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

The discovery was made about 08:30h on Tuesday after Police ranks conducted a search on a shop where miners would normally congregate to take a few drinks. Upon the discovery of the arms, the man was questioned about them, but claimed that he was not the holder of a firearm licence.

He was cautioned and taken into custody.

Charges are expected to be laid shortly. Police are

continuing their investigations. Over the past few weeks, a number of illegal firearms and ammunition have been discovered in several interior locations.

In addition, there have been several cases where persons were shot.

Only recently, Romel Mendonca, 32, of Arau Landing, Wenamu River, Essequibo, was shot to his neck following an argument with another man at Arau Landing.

According to information received, Mendonca was in the company of a few friends imbibing alcohol when an argument broke out among them.

The argument turned into a scuffle during which the suspect pulled out a gun

and discharged a round in Mendonca’s direction.

Mendonca was hit to his neck and the suspect fled the scene. To date, no one has been arrested. One day after the incident, four men were arrested for unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition following the discovery of two guns and several rounds of ammunition on Saturday at Arau Landing.

Police stated that ranks conducted a raid on a mining camp in the area where an unlicensed Smith and Wesson .45 semi-automatic pistol and an unlicensed Smith and Wesson .38 revolver were found along with three matching rounds.

ination.

He noted that Bartica was known to produce brilliant minds, such as Joe Holder, the Engineer who built the Demerara Harbour Bridge. He pointed out the young people who did not have jobs, stating that the schools have failed them. According to Granger, three quarters of students of primary school age in Bartica, and the region as a whole, fail the NGSA examination.

Granger noted that the APNU/AFC intended to ensure that all children were in school and were provided with whatever necessities they need to attend.

He further mentioned that instead of giving out meagre cash grants, he would provide boats for children of riverine communities to go to school, thus lessening the transportation expenses that burden parents.

“Too many of our children are dropping out of school; too many of our young teenage girls are getting pregnant too soon and having to leave school; too many young boys are drifting into the gold fields; too many persons without jobs are being trafficked.

But it’s not only about jobs, it’s about ensuring that all children growing up in this great region benefit from the best possible education system, so that they can become entrepreneurs and build the community’s economy,” he disclosed.

Agriculture institute On this note, Granger mentioned that the APNU/ AFC coalition intended to build an agricultural institute in all the regions to train youths. The Opposition Leader told residents of Region Seven, that his Government will give them a technical institute so that all the gold and timber from the region would not have to be exported as is.

“I want to see jewellery stores in Bartica with the finest jewellery from your own gold; I want to see furniture made from woods coming out from this region; I want to see tourists coming in here looking at your flora and fauna. That is the type of employment that I see coming to this region. You have the talent, energy and intelligence to produce manufactured goods,” Granger stated.

Small miners Furthermore, he noted that small miners in the region were facing a lot of issues, stating that the ruling party has done nothing for them, but was helping the large-scale miners. According to the APNU/AFC Presidential Candidate, despite having so much wealth, the region still remains poor and this is because the ruling PPP/C made it this way.

Granger told the gathering that they have to decide whether they will bring back the PPP/C or kick them out. He noted that in 2011, APNU and AFC got 49 per cent and nine per cent of votes from Bartica respectively; he pleaded with them this year not to give the PPP/C any.

“Bartica, please don’t do it again! Give them two votes, the first and last one.

Send them a message they cannot forget, they cannot treat Bartica like dirt, they must treat you with dignity and respect, because your wealth, your timber, your gold, your diamonds, your tourism can propel this country forward,” he noted.

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NCN offering free air time to all political parties

Longstanding New GPC INC employee retires

Rowena Hussain has given 41 years to the New GPC INC

A section of the crowd protesting in front of NCN

T

he stateowned National Communications Network Inc (NCN) has rejected allegations that it is providing biased coverage for the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), especially now during the height of the election campaigning season.

expressing their views concerning the provision of fair coverage to all political parties by NCN. A group known as the “Coalition of the 1823 Monument” staged the small picketing exercise.

Leader of the group, Penda Guyan told this publication that she believed that NCN was being unfair in

Penda Guyan leading the protest in front of NCN

This statement comes in light of a protest in front of the state broadcaster’s Homestretch Avenue headquarters on Wednesday which saw several persons

its coverage and, therefore, the electorate would not be equally knowledgeable of the policies of all the political parties and would eventually not be able to make

an informed decision come May 11. “NCN is a state media and it was set up to be able to serve the entire nation and that is our social, cultural and political needs in a fair and equal manner. What we have noticed is that the NCN has been carrying wholly and solely the PPP/C agenda. The people in the hinterland have been complaining that they cannot hear the other political parties on an equal basis … the APNU/AFC, which is the greatest force, needs to have equal air time as the PPP/C,” she contended.

NCN, over the years, has been accused of constantly promoting the Government and neglecting the parliamentary Opposition.

However, the Guyana Times understands that the media outfit has been providing free coverage for all political parties contesting the upcoming General and Regional Elections on May 11.

In fact, it was noted that some of the parties are taking advantage of this offer and the station would air televised advertisements of any political parties that request their ser-

vices. It was also noted that the Government will soon be issuing a statement concerning this new arrangement that was put in place to facilitate fair access to the state media during this period.

Meanwhile, the protesters explained that they will be submitting a letter to NCN Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Molly Hassan expressing their dissatisfaction with the coverage being provided. They said she will be given 48 hours for a favourable reply, and failing that, they intended to continue and intensify the protest actions.

L

ong standing employee of the NEW GPC INC, Rowena Hussain has retired after giving 41 years of sterling service.

In a statement, management and staff of New GPC said they are proud to celebrate 41 years of sterling service given by Hussain.

Hussain’s retirement, according to Production Manager Ramesh Persaud, “is a sad occasion for us because employees like her have become rare over the years.”

Persaud noted that coming from a cadre of employees who have been the foundation of New GPC, her work ethic has been pivotal in creating the discipline “we enjoy today, something we value and are very proud

of.”

Hussain, who was employed with the Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (GPC) in 1974 as a Line Attendant, served with distinction throughout her tenure with the company as Production Control Clerk, Technical Assistant and Production Supervisor.

Her dedication to her work, ability to skilfully navigate difficult situations, and her characteristic caring, friendly and good nature will, no doubt, leave an indelible mark on all who have worked with her, the company said. “New GPC INC wishes to thank Mrs Hussain for her exceptional contribution, and wish her happiness and success in her future endeavours.”

Man jailed for threatening language

A

man was sentenced to 21 days in prison on Wednesday

by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts following a charge for use of threatening language.

Colwyn Cort, 24, pleaded guilty to the charge which read that on April 9, at the Camp Street Prison, Georgetown, he made use of threatening language against Renita Singh.

According to Police

Prosecutor Steven Gonsalves, on the day in question, the defendant who is facing an attempted murder charge was scheduled to appear at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Gonsalves added that while at the Camp Street Prison, there was an exchange of words between Cort and Singh during which he made use of threatening language against her saying that he would “kill her”.

The Police Prosecutor had earlier stated that he

was present at the time of the incident and heard the defendant threatening to shoot and kill Singh.

After listening to all the facts presented, the Chief Magistrate sentenced the man to 21 days in prison on the threatening language charge. The man had previously been sentenced to 21 days in prison on a charge of abusive language and disorderly behaviour and has several pending matters in court.

IAC waives admission fee for “Hamara” concerts

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he Indian Arrival Committee (IAC) has announced that it is removing all admission charges for its “Hamara Guyana Concerts” slated for Friday, May 1, at the National Stadium, Providence; Saturday, May 2, at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground and Tuesday, May 5, 2015, at the Albion Sports Complex.

The IAC’s decision to waive the admission charges for the three events is based on the strong support it continues to receive from

well-wishers and benefactors. “The IAC takes this opportunity to express its gratitude to the individuals and organisations that have made the free admission possible.”

The three “Hamara Guyana Concerts” are activities to commemorate the 177th anniversary of Indian arrival in Guyana.

Trinidadians KI, Artie Butkoon and Satnarine Raghu, along with international Guyanese artiste Terry Gajraj and Marissa Deodat, will perform at the

National Stadium and will be backed by KI’s band.

Gajraj, Deodat, Butkoon and Raghu will perform in Essequibo and will be backed by the Sangeet Rhythms Band.

Raghu will be replaced by Neval Chatelal for the Berbice concert with the artistes being backed by the Shakti Strings Orchestra. Some three dozen local dancers will also be part of these events. All events will commence at 17:00h and gates will be opened from 15:00h.

No alcohol will be allowed.

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taxi driver became the latest road fatality following an accident along the Montrose, East Coast Demerara (ECD) road on Tuesday evening, while a young girl is battling for her life at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The dead young man has been identified as Arif Williams, 22, of Lot 77 Dr Miller Street, Triumph, East Coast Demerara. The young woman, Ashley Singh, 10, of La Bonne Intention, ECD is listed as in serious but stable condition. A third person, Mahendranauth Krishram, 52, of Atlantic Gardens, ECD was also injured in the accident but was treated and sent away.

According to information received, the now dead man operates his car during the evening as a taxi and about 22:30h, he was on his way to drop off a passenger at La

Dead: Arif Williams

Bonne Intention (LBI) when the accident occurred.

Williams was reportedly driving at a fast pace and in the vicinity of Montrose, ECD, he swerved from hitting a pedestrian who was attempting

to cross the road. Owing to the speed at which the car was travelling, it toppled several times before crashing into a guard hut.

Krishnaram, who was in the guard hut at the time, sustained minor injuries and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he treated and sent away. The two occupants of the car were pulled from the wreckage and rushed to the medical institution where Williams was pronounced dead on arrival.

Williams reportedly suffered broken bones and severe head injuries.

Singh sustained lacerations to the head and body with a few injuries to her feet and hands. The Police have launched an investigation into the accident.

When contacted, Williams’ sister told the Guyana Times that she was at home when she received a phone call from

a friend informing her of the accident. The friend, she added, instructed her to “hurry” to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

As she arrived at the hospital, the young woman claimed that she saw her brother lying on a stretcher and from all indications, he was already dead. He was reportedly bleeding from his head, nostrils and mouth. The relative recalled the last time she saw him alive was on Tuesday afternoon when she left home for work.

The distraught young woman said she did not know the other occupant of the car.

The former Apex Academy student was described as a very polite person who was also a safe driver. His body is at the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. He leaves to mourn his parents and sister.

Shot former Magistrate recovering …but no arrest yet by Police

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ive days after former Magistrate Fazil Azeez was shot twice during an attempted robbery at Eccles, East Bank Demerara, the official was recovering, but the Police were yet to arrest the shooter.

A relative of the shot man who asked to remain anonymous told the Guyana Times on Wednesday that the former Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) General Manager was out of danger and was recuperating nicely.

She, nevertheless, hinted that he remained in hospital where he was being monitored.

Meanwhile, a Police source told the Guyana Times that law enforcement was still hunting for the shooter. He added that they have several leads.

Azeez, an Attorney-at-Law, was reportedly shot twice to

his abdomen by a lone gunman during a scramble at his Eccles home that is under construction.

According to information received, Azeez was at his work site in Eccles, EBD, when he was shot by the man who entered the premises under the pretext of searching for work.

The gunman reportedly walked into the yard and enquired about the contractor, but was told that he was not around. Upon seeing the bag in Azeez’s hands, the gunman attempted to relieve him of it, but the former Magistrate put up a fight and was shot instead.

After pulling the trigger, the man fled the scene. The former Magistrate, of Lot 70 Dowding Street, Georgetown, was picked up and rushed to the Woodlands hospital where he was admitted. Police are continuing their investigations.

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Gafsons donates to blind couple, Uncle Eddie’s Home

Gafsons Industries Administrative Assistant Dione Foo presents the keys to Alfred Adolphus Rogers and Brenda Nurse

G

afsons Industries Limited continues to provide support to less fortunate persons residing in Guyana with the most recent contributions being made in aid of a blind couple who were in need of a home and residents of Uncle Eddie’s Home in the city.

The company built a concrete house, valued at more than $2.2 million at Lamaha Park, East La Penitence for Alfred Adolphus Rogers and Brenda Nurse. Alfred has been blind for 10 years and Brenda for seven, both of them due to glaucoma and they are members of the Guyana Association for the Blind.

The couple, who have two sons, noted that they previously lived in a dilapidated wooden structure that was uneven and shaky and over water. “We were fearful that it would fall anytime,” the couple said.

Years ago, Rogers worked with a contractor on the Gafsons building and hence, they decided to approach the Chairman of Gafsons, Sattaur Gafoor for assistance.

“I feel bubbled up inside, words cannot express my joy, this is a blessing, it is a gift and I am very happy about it, it is a dream that came true for me,” Nurse said upon receiving the keys.

Meanwhile, Rogers stated that he was very happy with the support they received from Gafoor and would always be indebted to him.

The keys to the home were presented to the couple by Dione Foo, Administrative Assistant at Gafsons Industries, who noted that such gestures were often made by the company, as its Chairman, was always looking to help the less fortunate.

Meanwhile, in assisting the senior citizens, Gafsons supported the re-roofing of the main building of Uncle Eddie’s Home and constructed another small building for the Home at a cost of more than $1.3 million.

As far as the company can, it also responds to a number of requests from churches, youth groups and various other social and cultural organisations for material support. Every day, the company provides

Dione Foo shakes hands with a representative of Uncle Eddie’s Home

Nurse added that she and her husband were very nervous when they approached Mr Gafoor because they knew if he had not rendered assistance to them, they would have had to go on the streets and plead with persons for financial assistance.

Charitable

She noted that they asked Gafoor to help them repair their home, but after considering the high cost he decided to invest in a brand new home.

160 lunches – 100 for school children, 40 for senior women with no dependents and the remainder for needy persons.

Supporting the less fortunate is one of the philosophies upon which Gafsons Industries has always embarked. Gafoor noted that he have spent all his years within the Private Sector seeking to assist persons in whatever way he can, whether it be voluntary support or the creation of employment for persons from which they can set a foundation and progress towards attaining their goals.

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Jagdeo talks up progress under PPP/C …assures residents of continued growth

W

ith less than two weeks before the May 11 General and Regional Elections, the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has upped its campaigning activities, this time taking its meeting to Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara.

In his near-hour long address, former President Bharrat Jagdeo told residents that if they look around, they would see progress that was only possible under the PPP/C Administration. “Progress is everywhere,” he thundered while reflecting upon the many developmental projects that the incumbent Party has undertaken during its time in office. He mentioned the recently commissioned state-of- the art synthetic track at Leonora, WCD, as well as the many housing schemes that Government built not only

op this Guyana into a developed country. “We don’t have to work to make it like the US, we have to work to make it better than the US,” he stated. On this note, the former President admitted that the PPP/C was not perfect and recognised the need for improvements. He noted that Guyanese accepted the PPP/C as a family and family stick together.

Track record

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) but across the entire country. He noted that this housing drive has seen many Guyanese owning their own homes.

Jagdeo urged the West Demerara residents to further encourage the country’s development by voting the PPP/C back into office so that it could continue to work and devel-

Van West-Charles to Albouystown residents...

"Come out and vote"

"We need to come out and listen to our people ... We're not perfect but we have a good track record to prove …

We are a family ... support the PPP and encourage your neighbours to vote...this is a family affair,” Jagdeo declared.

The former President went on to talk about the Opposition’s promises to foster development, pointing out that it had no grounded vision. “Their manifesto says that they’ll improve the country within the first 100 years…their plans are for the far future,” Jagdeo highlighted.

He further accused the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)-led A Partnership for National Unity- Alliance For Change (APNU-AFC) of plagiarism, saying “75 per cent of their manifesto comes from docu-

ments that we (the PPP/C) have published. We have noted large excerpts of their manifesto to be direct copies of these documents,” he alleged.

Furthermore, Jagdeo remarked that there were Opposition elements who were inciting race hate and racism. He further stated that “Stabroek and Kaieteur News have become the open Opposition”, and seem to be on a mission to destroy the PPP/C’s reputation through false and malicious advertising.

According to Jagdeo, these media houses no longer need ads from the Opposition alliance but generate their own, in attempts to disparage the ruling party.

“Racism is being peddled online,” he added, while highlighting the issue of cyber bullying of those who openly expressed their support for the PPP/C. The former President urged the younger generation to exercise caution in trusting articles as the Internet has become a channel for encouraging racism and hate.

Other speakers at the meeting included PPP/C’s General Secretary Clement Rohee and Executive Member of Party, Irfaan Ali. Only on Sunday dur-

ing a massive rally at Stewartville, the PPP/C laid out plans for the development of Region Three.

Foremost among them is establishing call centres along the West Demerara corridor which will create thousands of jobs.

In its bid to promote Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Guyana, the Party also disclosed that there was already a bill in Parliament to liberalise the industry in order to provide stiffer competition, which will eventually lower the cost of bandwidth and Internet services, ultimately benefiting the entire Guyanese population.

It also boasted about the major road projects scheduled to commence on the West Demerara highways that will see the widening of the roads.

The road leading to Canal Polder Number One and Canal Polder Number Two was also on the agenda for upgrading. The biggest road project in that region was probably the opening of the old Del Conte Road leading to Riverview, opposite Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni- Mazaruni).

Through the opening of this road, many opportunities will become available, especially for farming lands.

President lays out PPP/C’s plans to Berbicians

A section of the gathering at the APNU/AFC meeting in Albouystown on Tuesday

W

ith less than two weeks before the May 11 General and Regional Elections, A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition continued with its countrywide campaigning activities.

On Tuesday, the Opposition alliance went into one of their strong-hold communities, Albouystown, where residents were told that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had failed to address the unemployment woes the country is facing despite being in office for 23 consecutive years.

This was echoed by People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Secretary of the Georgetown District, Shondel Hope. She told the hundred plus gathering on James Street, Albouystown, that the fate of a nation can be decided in one decision.

Hope said to resounding applause from the gathering that it is time; time for equal opportunities, time for youth development, time for security among other important issues.

However, during her address, Hope spoke extensively on the shortage of jobs which she said has left many young people frustrated and desperate. She added that this has also resulted into the spiralling of crime in the

country.

According to the PNCR member, the Government ministries conducted short term training courses but fail to deal adequately with the issue of unemployment. Hope pointed out that the APNU/ AFC intends to deal with the lack of job opportunities and poor education sector.

On this note, she referred to the millions of dollars that were spent to build the Marriott Hotel that could have otherwise been put into the education sector and the failing health sector. Hope mentioned too that Guyanese could not have gained employment from the project.

Furthermore, the PNCR member stated that the Opposition alliance plans to prepare the country’s youths for long-term employment through vocational institutes that it intends to build in all 10 administrative regions.

“We will invest in our youth and provide opportunities for them to develop this country,” she stated. Hope told the gathering that they should not vote for a party that is responsible for the employment crisis that the country is currently facing.

“In 1992, the PPP asked you for a chance but this historic coalition will not ask you for a chance; this is not a raffle! We are asking you to give us the privilege to serve

you and develop the country,” she stated.

Meanwhile, AFC Executive Michael Carrington, called on the residents to play their part in getting the incumbent party out of Government. He urged them that in addition to going out and vote, they should also get their neighbours, friends and family to vote and do so for a government that will bring about change, that is, the APNU/AFC alliance.

“If one party is doing nonsence, you change them…

I will not take nonsense from any leader and you should not either,” he stated.

Carrington pointed out that despite Guyana being filled with raw materials and minerals; it is still poor because the PPP/C Government lacks vision.

He said that APNU/AFC’s Presidential Candidate and Prime Ministerial Candidate David Granger and Moses Nagamootoo have joined forces because they have had enough. Also speaking at the public meeting was Richard Van West-Charles, who is the son-in-law of late former President and PNC founder Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham.

Van West-Charles encouraged the residents of Albouystown to "come out and vote".

W

ith general and regional elections a mere 11 days away, the incumbent President and PPP/C Presidential Candidate Donald Ramotar continues to meet with citizens as he outlines his party’s plan if his party is returned to government.

The President met with residents of Mibicuri, Black Bush Polder and Adelphi, Canje where he was greeted by large crowds of residents.

Given the fact that Region Six is one of the largest contributors to the rice and sugar industries, the president spoke directly of his government’s plans for these two key areas.

In laying out his strategies for the agriculture sector, the President said plans are afoot to establish a vibrant manufacturing and agro-processing sector as his administration seeks to diversify the non-traditional sector.

A new and emerging sector, the President said, will seek to create a better standard of living for citizens while simultaneously creating highly skilled jobs, and job training for many.

“We have to also modernise our traditional sector, every single day we agonise in government how we can make people’s lives better.”

However, with specific reference to the rice industry, President Ramotar spoke of his government’s continued investments in drainage and irrigation for farms lands which are critical for better

production.

“We have to create the conditions so that you can produce more, and you have been producing more.”

Speaking of a period of time when Guyana was importing rice for local use, the President stated that the industry has come a far way, as its yearly yield currently stands at over 600,000 tonnes.

He however, noted that his government’s plans for the industry are for it to surpass the current yield by exploring more varieties, and high yielding ones.

President Ramotar added that, at every opportunity, which presents itself the government has been looking for new and larger markets for rice.

“We are now looking at more Central American countries and even in Africa we are looking to sell our rice so that we can have a higher quality of life for our people.”

He added that, his government also believes that for the industry to further expand, value added products must be pursued.

“We will encourage more packaging of rice so that people can earn more money from just adding value by packaging and exporting package rice.”

Acknowledging the fact that cheaper and more reliable energy is a major hindrance for the manufacturing sector, the President said it is for this reason other companies should follow suit by using the gasifier. Already he

pointed out that Ramlakhan and Sons Rice Mill on the Essequibo Coast has utilised the initiative and already the gasifer is cutting cost at that rice factory. It can produce electricity that can be sold to the national grid, he said.

Noting too that he is aware of the issues of fluctuating paddy prices, the Head of State said, “In our manifesto we are promising that we will set up price support mechanisms to try to deal with the some of the variations of price to ensure that our farmers’ standards of living continue to grow.”

Similar plans, the president said, are on stream for the sugar industry, which he acknowledged, has been experiencing some difficult times.

President Ramotar told the residents of Adelphi and Mibicuri of his government’s plan to modernise the sugar industry and explore options of creating value added products.

Already, the President said the Indian government had committed to helping in the modernisation process.

During a visit to India earlier this year, the President said he was assured of that government’s financial and expert aid for the sugar industry.

However, he pointed out that for all of this and more to be accomplished come May 11, it is up to citizens to have their voices heard so that all these plans can be realised for the betterment of all Guyana.

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Political parties sign code EU hails Guyana’s forest management for clean campaign ...as pilot project on timber harvesting unveiled

BY GOMATIE GANGADIN

T

he Political Parties Code of Conduct was signed by all eight parties contesting the General and Regional Elections on Wednesday afternoon at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) building on High Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

The signing of the Code of Conduct comes at a time when there are mounting concerns about both the language and some of the messages being sent by political leaders on the platforms as they contest ahead of the May 11 polls.

The signing also took place two weeks from polling day with some saying that it will have minimal impact on the state of affairs going forward.

The parties which signed onto the Code of Conduct were the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), The United Force (TUF), the Healing the Nation Theocracy Party, the United Republican Party, the Independent Party, the National Independent Party and the Organisation of the Victory of the People Party.

Delivering the key remarks was Chairman of the Commission, Dr Steve Surujbally who told the parties that the event was of historic proportion, while noting that the document would serve as a reinforcement of the desire of having political maturity.

“Today we have come together to create another red letter day. Notwithstanding the fact that we have carried out a similar exercise as a preparation for the 2011 General and Regional elections, we must recognise today also as an occasion of historic proportions; a day which will be long remembered by the political analysts of our country; a day which reflects the reinforcement of the desire to exhibit political maturity. This day begins the process in which political differences are consciously cast aside,” he told the parties.

Dr Surujbally told the representative that by plac-

ing their signatures on the document, they are in effect, placing the nation first, stating that “you are demonstrating your willingness, your preparedness, your commitment to adhere to the rules of the Code of Conduct.”

According to Chairman, while the document might be a late in coming, given the fact that elections are mere

made at news conferences and at the streets meetings must be to edify and inform not to mystify, create doubt and social unrest. It follows therefore; signing on to the code is the right and correct thing to do,” the GECOM’s Chairman said.

According to him, the signing to the document has now elevated all to a moral high ground, since the Code

Chairman of GECOM, Dr Steve Surujbally

days away, decency did not have an expiry date and the document served to ensure that that decency is maintained explicitly expressing that the document must be seen as the “holy grail of campaigning.” He said that the Political Parties’ Code of Conduct signalled the path to a free, fair and credible election.

Further, Surujbally told the leaders of the parties that the document was not born out of an illusion or by a flight by night process, but was rather, out of the need for such a document to monitor the campaigning activities of the parties and it was the “right and correct” thing to do.

“The Code of Conduct for the 2015 General and Regional Elections is not an illusion, it was not conceived as a transitory flight by night referendum. This signing is not symbolic that should react to national insistency but we use as a diversion or criticism. This code emerged from the genuine conviction well equipped to a need for such a guiding document and it is here to stay.

It does not have a moratorium. Decency does not have an expiry date. Statements

could not be faulted and it was not a punitive one. “It is very straight forward… peace and order, compliance with electoral laws and respect for the parties and the electorate are of paramount importance…

GECOM must not be placed in a position to manage elections in an environment of hostility and unnecessary vulgarity. We are here to heal,” he said.

Meanwhile, the British High Commissioner to Guyana, Greg Quinn; US Charge d’ Affaires to Guyana, Bryan Hunt and Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Nicole Giles all praised the move by the parties and

by GECOM to have the official signing onto the Code of Conduct. They noted that they expect that the campaigns will now be more focused on issues and not on personalities in the Opposite camp.

“We expect all of the political parties to live up to the Code of Conduct which they have signed onto. We expect them to uphold those standards,” Hunt said.

The diplomatic community has been calling for the political parties to sign onto the code for weeks now.

By Devina Samaroo

E

uropean Union (EU) Ambassador to Guyana, Robert Kopecký has expressed confidence in Guyana’s efforts to manage its forest over the years, as it has significantly limited illegal harvesting and maintained low rates of deforestation.

This commendation was made at the launch of a Natural Resources and Environment Ministry project, aimed at improving compliance among small miners, which is consistent with the EU’s Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (FLEGT) Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA). Guyana has made significant strides in complying with international best practices to preserve and conserve its forest landmass through various projects, one notably being the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). The LCDS, which was launched by former President Bharrat Jagdeo in June 2009, outlines Guyana’s vision to promoting economic development, while combating climate change. It is scientifically conclusive that one of the major contributors to global warming is tropical deforestation, and with Guyana making strides to curb this issue, it is eventually contributing immensely to the fight against climate change, all of which is consistent with the EU’s global agenda.

Guyana is now being financially rewarded by the Government of Norway through an agreement for its commitment to preserving its forests.

Partnership Agreement for timber exports and through capacity-building projects like the one today is a noble cause,” he stated. This project is one of many similar capacity-building projects being funded by the EU towards fostering better system within the forestry industry in Guyana.

The EU is plugging some US$122,000 into this project, which was coordinated by the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). This in-

EU Ambassador to Guyana, Robert Kopecký (eeas. europa.eu photo)

Kopecký expressed his satisfaction with the partnership between Guyana and the EU throughout his years as Ambassador to this country. “I am in my fourth and last here in Guyana as the EU Ambassador …

The EU and Guyana (have been) working together on various levels to preserve its heritage in the climate change negotiations aiming to conclude the Voluntary

itial project, which is aimed at developing a pilot timber harvesting and forest monitoring model for the small loggers associations across Guyana to improve compliance with local forest laws and agreed forest management prescriptions, will see the participation of six small loggers associations, all of which are from Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

By way of ensuring this capacity building, the project will see the introduction of technology to improve the systems in the sector to make certain the work is conducted in a more efficient and effective manner.

At the end of the project, the objectives to be achieved include: boosting the capacity of members of the associations in ensuring they are in compliance with the procedures in place for harvesting and that it will be sustainable; enhancing the livelihood of all stakeholders involved; developing a model that will help monitor the concessions given to all members of the associations; implementing a better system of

eral occasions and the Union was advised that the matter would be addressed. However, after months of silence from the Education Ministry, at a recent Union General Council meeting, the officials highlighted that they would be moving to industrial action if their needs were not met.

The President added that when this proposal was raised, Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger

Luncheon contacted the GTU’s General Secretary, Coretta McDonald asking that she forward to him the information relating to the Debunching Agreement; however, after weeks of waiting for a response, they were informed by Dr Luncheon last Wednesday that the union should have known that the teachers could not receive any payment because all the books were closed in December 2014 and following the

Better system

data collection among members; and improving communication between the associations and the Guyana Forestry Commission and transparency and accountability.

Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud, during his address, underscored the importance of the project as he urged all participants to take full advantage of the opportunities available.

He also refuted the claims that the Government gives preferential treatment to international investors over local investors. “I want to refute any perception that there is preferential access to non-Guyanese … if we discriminate, we discriminate in favour of Guyanese communities …. we don’t want Guyanese operators within the community to be left behind…that is why we are building capacity,” he asserted.

Nevertheless, Persaud said, the Government would not neglect the offers made by foreign investors, as they too can contribute heavily and positively towards development of the sector.

He pointed out that even internationally renowned leaders, like US President Barack Obama, recognised the importance of globalisation because of the many opportunities it creates for one’s country.

“Even though we want to enhance local investors, we cannot neglect foreign investors,” Persaud noted.

Further, he explained that modules and policies being used by the regulatory agencies here were in accordance with international best practices and the systems in place were always open for public scrutiny from independent bodies, both locally and internationally.

Meanwhile, also addressing the forum were Manager of the Forestry Training Centre, Quacy Bremmer and representative of the FAO, Rueben Robertson, who reiterated the nature of the project, its benefits and underscored its importance to the forestry sector in Guyana.

GTU threatens countrywide action over debunching payments

T

he Guyana Teachers Union has threatened countrywide industrial action from May 4 over the Education Ministry’s failure to honour the payment of debunching monies to teachers within the public education system.

At a news conference held at the GTU Headquarters on Wednesday, Union President Mark Lyte confirmed the industrial action, noting that it would

be a “work-to-rule” action in which teachers by all means can refuse to work providing that the nonacademic terms under the work rule document are not reached. Lyte explained that he was extremely dissatisfied with the responses he has been receiving from the Education Ministry for the past several years.

This publication understands that from 2006 to 2015, there were proposals made on sev-

GTU President Mark Lyte

prorogation of Parliament there was no budget and, therefore, no account for the Debunching exercise of teachers.

M e a n w h i l e , Administrative Field Officer Lancelot Baptiste highlighted that despite numerous promises made towards resolving the issue, they were saddened to become aware that no money has been budgeted for what he viewed as a “crucial exercise”. turn to page 26

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2015 elections campaign….

Granger claims all elections since 1992 rigged ...fears raised of setting stage for post elections violence

BY MICHAEL YOUNGE

P

residential Candidate for the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change coalition, David Granger says he “fears” that every election since 1992 were rigged in favour of the ruling Peoples Progressive Party Civic.

Granger expressed that stunning sentiment during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Times at his party’s campaign office in Queenstown.

His comments were made on the heels of growing concerns by the ruling party that the heavy militarized opposition coalition group is setting up its supporters not to accept the results of this year’s elections if they are not in his party’s favour. Each time after the 1992 elections, a senior leader of the opposition used coded language to deny the veracity of the internationally observed, accepted and accredited results of elections in Guyana it resulted in post-elections violence.

The PNC was accused of inciting violence in the country by several stakeholders when it leaders failed to accept fully the results of 1997, 2001 and 2006 elections. Following the 1997 elections, the PNC brought its supporters into the streets in protests, which escalated into

citizens being beaten and buildings burnt into the ground. In 2001, the strategy of “mo fyaah” was ratcheted into “mo fyaah” that involved armed gangs taking on the state. In 2006, “mo fyaah” was building to its apogee of the Lusignan and Bartica massacres. In 2011, APNU led protest-

Presidential Candidate for the APNU+AFC Coalition, David Granger

ers that broke the law and forced the police to open fire with rubber bullets.

The Presidential Candidate’s comments are also being made at time when the PPP/C has also heavily criticised Granger’s party, the Peoples National Congress (PNC) for its role in rigging countless elections and prolonging its life in Government from 1985 to 1992 until the return of democracy in that year.

He was at the time being questioned by this news-

paper about some comments he made in his book, ‘New Road’, which justified the role played by the Guyana Defense Force in 1973 which saw it removing ballot boxes from the place of poll and transporting it to their headquarters in Georgetown so that they could be counted. Credible observers, including the U.S. factbook on Guyana described the election that gave the PNC a two thirds majority, “severely rigged”.

Granger had claimed the soldiers performed “splendidly” when they shot and killed three men were shot and killed while they were trying to defend the ballot boxes which contained their votes.

But when asked to answer for his party’s track record as far rigging is concerned, Granger refused to speak directly to that concern and whether it justified the people’s behavior and the violence which occurred.

“Well I have fears that the election of 1992, 1997, 2001, 2006 were rigged”, he said when asked an indirect question about the 1973 elections and the fears of the people around that time that led to protest for their rights after previous election of 1968 were rigged.

Asked why he never said anything publicly raising an alarm within the public sphere before, Granger responded, “I have

GTU threatens countrywide...

from page 25

said a lot”. “…All of them were rigged. I said that Mr Goocool Boodhoo deserved to be removed from the election commission. I said that he was a serial blunderer. He ran three elections and all were fraudulent”, Granger maintained during the elections.

Pressed harder for more clarity, the PNC-led APNU/AFC Presidential Candidate said there have been no elections in Guyana since his party demitted office that has been free from flaws or fair.

This is the first time Granger has made such an accusation after coming to the helm of the PNC and APNU back in 2011.

Former President Bharrat Jagdeo had warned that the PNC/Rled coalition group was setting its supporters up for a major disappointment as it seemed to be deliberately telling them that the coalition was going to win the elections.

He urged Guyanese while speaking at the launch of the PPP/C reelection bid that they must never allow the coalition to taste Executive power again as he pointed to many instances in past where persons were beaten and killed while seeking to defend their democratic rights and their ballots during the dictatorship they established.

He noted that the teachers, over the years, have been very patient: they even worked under strain and unsatisfactory conditions at the various schools without even complaining. He added that the payment would benefit all the teachers when compared to having other benefits such as vehicular duty-free concessions which target only the Head and Deputy Head Teachers.

In addition, he said that the debunching payment was intended to cater for the salaries of the teachers which would ensure that a teacher who has over 5-10 years of experience will not be paid on the same scale as a teacher who was now being trained in the education system.

“Teachers have been longing for this payment being made to them for quite some time, in that it will be able to assist them in their many financial debts in which they have to cover on a monthly basis.”

In a fit of rage, Baptiste expressed that “we didn’t prorogate Parliament, we expected in all fairness that after being told the budget will be completed, Parliament will be resumed and the teachers will be able to get their money; however, now we are hearing that we have to wait until the 11th Parliament”.

“Work to rule” The “work to rule” industrial action, as highlighted by the Field Officer, will progress to-

wards ensuring that teachers work under satisfactory conditions and this action will continue until their needs are addressed.

For instance, “if there are insufficient sanitary facilities at the various schools, teachers will be allowed to go home and if they live very far they ought not to return to duty; if the class size is beyond the prescribed amount, they can refuse to lecture and also if they are not enough water portable tabs teachers by all means will be given the opportunity to go home, since it is impossible to lecture for hours without consuming a bit of water, there is no part in the agreement that states that teachers should walk with their water bottles,” he said.

Baptiste pointed out that they have taken this step rather than have a sit-in because the children were not at fault. He noted that they care for the education of the youths, as, after all, they are the future of our nation; however, if the teachers’ needs were not met, the Union would ramp up its action as teachers were as vital to the education system.

“The actions are in coordination with the General Council and all the officers of the Union can be censored if they fail to carry out this regime,” Baptiste said.

The various schools will soon be sent correspondence as it relates to the decision that has being taken by the General Council.

PPP/C lashes coalition for visionless manifesto

T

he People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on Wednesday lashed out at the Opposition coalition A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) for its lack of vision and credibility in its leaked Manifesto.

Speaking at a news conference at Freedom House, the PPP’s headquarters, Ministers of Finance and Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Ashni Singh and Dr Frank Anthony, compared and contrasted the manifestos of the APNU/AFC and the PPP/C. They noted that while the coalition has said that the document was leaked, they believe that the document was the final one, but its lack of vision and credibility embarrassed the Opposition and as such, it was rushing to disassociate themselves from the policy document.

According to the Ministers, while the claim might be that the manifesto was leaked and unofficial, the PPP/C was of the strong belief that it was the original since all of the Opposition’s

advertisements in the media were extracted and taken from the document.

Dr Singh said that the Opposition, in its leaked manifesto, had made promises which it would not be able to fulfil, in direct contrast to the PPP, which has made promises which are achievable and implementable. “Nothing in the document can be believed and the APNU/AFC has no intention of implementing any of the initiatives outlined.”

In dubbing the promises unrealistic, Dr Singh went on to point out the ways in which they reeked of impossibility.

According to him, the APNU/AFC coalition and its Prime Ministerial Candidate Moses Nagamootoo have been harping constantly that they would reduce the powers of the President should they be elected, but while Nagamootoo was boasting of powers which would be transferred to him, Presidential Candidate David Granger himself has remained mum on the issue

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh

while the manifesto paints a different picture.

Citing an excerpt from the Guyana Review, a feature in another section of the media, Singh said that Granger was pointedly asked about the reduction of presidential powers, but sidestepped the question by talking about education and security.

“Clearly, Mr Granger has no intention of reducing any presidential powers because when asked about it, he goes off and speak about

education and national security and deliberately sidesteps the matter of presidential powers, while Mr Nagamootoo going around saying publicly to the people of Guyana that Mr Granger intends to hand over presidential powers to the Prime Minister,” the Finance Minister said.

He further pointed out that while the APNU/AFC has been going into the villages of sugar workers, saying that they will save the sugar industry; in the leaked manifesto, it states that “the sugar lands are tailor-made for aquaculture ponds” and that it was a lucrative activity.

Insult

In further lashing out at the Opposition, the Finance Minister told media operatives that it was an insult to the electorates that with mere days to go, the Opposition was yet to launch its manifesto, and to lay its policies on the table. He noted that the coalition has thus far only been able to

settle on positions in the alliance, but could not settle on policies for the better of the country.

“To date, we have not seen the final document for the APNU+AFC in the event it was indeed leaked. I am asking the Opposition when will the nation see your final manifesto? We have seen how you will be distributing the spoils of power, but we have not seen as yet, we are days away from elections and we have not seen their final manifesto,” Dr Singh said.

“Ironically, the APNU/ AFC is the party that has to pretend it occupies the high moral ground and they are the party that likes to say you should vote on the issue, but they are still to present their policy on the issues. It is telling that they can hammer out the distribution of ministerial offices, but cannot hammer out their policies on issues,” he further expressed.

Meanwhile, Dr Anthony, in comparing the PPP/C’s manifesto to the leaked ver-

sion of the APNU/AFC’s, outlined several major developmental programmes the incumbent had for the area of Sport while pointing out that the APNU/AFC had none detailed in theirs.

“When we look at sport, the PPP has outlined a number of areas we believe we can make advancements in sports … for example, physical education in all schools; that is something we feel strongly about and we want to make this happen. We also want to develop the sports facilities within the school system. Every school must have these types of facilities.

When you look at the manifesto of the APNU+AFC, you do not see anything for that area…,” Anthony said.

He further pointed out that the incumbent was looking to develop community sports facilities since these play a major part in social cohesion; it will invest in long-term athlete development programmes as well as sports tourism by increasing the number of bids to international sports events.

thursday, april 30, 2015

Simmons not discouraged

by Test defeat

D

espite his team’s loss to England on the final day of the second Test in Antigua last week, West Indies coach Phil Simmons said he was encouraged by the performance but wants to see improvement from his players in the final Test bowling off in Barbados on Friday.

Speaking to the media this week, Simmons revealed that Jason Holder, who injured his left ankle during the second Test in Grenada, “has recovered well.”

“It was not too bad. We will see how he goes and if he can start some bowling tomorrow [Wednesday] or Thursday,” said Simmons.

Asked if he was encouraged despite England’s nine-wicket win which gave the visitor a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, Simmons said: “Yes very much so. I think we start well, we just need to understand what happens in the middle session and the end session of a day but we have come back well.”

He said it was a bit of negligence on the final day that cost them and that the players are learning international cricket on the international stage which is not an ideal situation.

“We had two hours of what I would call negligence on the last day and we lost the Test match but that is Test cricket. You can rule for 3 1/2 days and in the next half day the Test match goes away from you.

(However) I am very encouraged by what I have seen,” he explained.

He said that because of

Phil Simmons: “We had two hours of what I would call negligence on the last day”

the level of first class cricket in the region, when players come up to the Test level, “the biggest thing for the young players is to understand the situation and how they have to play in those situations and that is determined by what the teams needs and the scoreboard.”

“I think they just started learning so they are enthusiastic and want to learn and then you have the four experienced guys who need to make sure their presence is felt in this Test match coming up.” “We will be trying to improve our game,” Simmons added.

“One of the biggest areas that has to change is the mindset of how long I have to bat or how I bowl in four day or Test matches. That is one of things we have to address. I don’t know how yet but as we go along we will have to find a way,” Simmons explained.

Asked what was the most

starling thing he saw in the second Test, Simmons said: “The way we batting on the last morning.

“I think that has been the most startling. You are away from it and you here people taking about how bad this is but when you are in the camp it is not as bad as people say.

“There is learning to be done about the way things have to be done for us to be successful,” he said.

“I would like to see us play two or three sessions consistently...You are learning international cricket on the international stage but that is not ideal,” the Windies coach added.

He also spoke about Jerome Taylor’s recovery saying the pacer, who was ruled out of the second Test with a shoulder problem, bowled yesterday and will bowl again today but he could not confirm if the Jamaican will be fit enough for Friday’s start. (windiescricket)

New Amsterdam/Canje, Upper Corentyne name teams for May Day Cup

T

he New Amsterdam/ Canje and Upper Corentyne Cricket Association have announced their respective teams to contest the May Day Cup one-day tournament.

Anthony D’Andrade has been named captain of the New Amsterdam/ Canje team, while Shawn Perriera will lead the Upper Corentyne squad.

The May Day Cup oneday event is billed for May 2 at the historic Albion Sports Complex.

New Amsterdam/Canje full squad reads: Anthony D’Andrade, Ishwar Singh, Keon DeJesus, Joemal

on 695-2007.

Upper Corentyne Cricket Association full squad reads: Shawn Perriera (Captain), Viendra Gooniah (Vice-captain), Renrick Batson, Akshay Homraj, Vidal Crandon, Naeem Yacoob, Junior Blair, Omesh Khemraj, Christopher Jaundoo,

Shawn Perriera

Shimron Hetymer

Anthony D’Andrade

LaFleur, Kevin Ramdeen, Kassim Khan, Herman Latcha, Suresh Dhanai, Linden Austin, Niall Smith, Brentnol Woolford, Damion Vantull and Shimron Hetmyer.

The New Amsterdam/ Canje players are asked to make contact with Coach Julian Moore on 615-9239 and Manager Kwesi Maltay

Roopchan Latchman, Permashwar Chatterpaul, Davanand Chatterpaul, Delbert Hicks (Coach/player) and Vicky Bharosay (Manager) Proceeds from this event will be donated to the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to carry out its work in preparation for the 2015 elections and beyond.

Archrivals Berbice and Demerara clash in the feature T20 game. Several top national and international players will be on show in the T20, according to the organisers.

The winning team will collect $200,000, while the

Chelsea on brink of title after win C

helsea stand one win away from the Premier League title after mounting an impressive comeback to beat Leicester City 3-1 at the King Power Stadium.

Jose Mourinho’s side needed to call on all their reserves of quality and resilience to overcome Leicester City’s fiercely determined challenge which earned them a deserved first-half lead through Marc Albrighton.

As expectations of another victory on the road to Premier League safety rose

in a thunderous atmosphere, Chelsea responded in the style of champions-elect to earn the victory that means they will be crowned champions for the first time in five years if they beat Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Didier Drogba restored equality early in the second half and further goals from captain John Terry and Ramires wrapped up a win that was testimony to the qualities that have put Chelsea on the brink of glory.

And in a swipe at the Arsenal fans who criticised their approach in Sunday’s goalless draw at the Emirates, the visiting fans roared their team to the final whistle with chants of “boring, boring Chelsea”.

This defeat ends Leicester’s run of four straight wins that has lifted them out of the relegation places but there was enough contained within this display to maintain manager Nigel Pearson’s belief that they will retain their Premier League status. (BBC Sport)

27

John Terry’s goal assisted in the win

losing team will get half that amount. The Manof-the-Match will receive $20,000.

Further, the event will see four exciting zone teams from the county of Berbice – West Berbice, New Amsterdam/Canje, Lower Corentyne and Upper Corentyne/ Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) clash. Matches will be 15 overs-a-side with two semi-finals and the grand final.

The winners will take home a trophy and $100,000, the runner-up $50,000, and the two losing semi-finalists $25,000 each. The Man-ofthe-Match will also receive a trophy and $10,000.

Following the cricket, Shakti Strings Orchestra, accompanied by the popular Crown Vibes International, will entertain the crowd during the big after-party lime.

The day’s activity will bowl off at 10:00h. Tickets cost $1000, with children under 12 admitted free.

28

guyanatimesGY.com

thursday, april 30, 2015

Mayweather aims money taunt at Pacquiao

F

loyd Mayweather taunted Manny Pacquiao ahead of their eagerly-anticipated super-fight on Saturday, telling him he should be earning more money.

The fight is the richest in history, with the fighters sharing around £150 million, although the exact figure is unknown.

However, the purse split is 60-40 in Mayweather’s favour and the American legend said his Filipino rival had not been looked after properly.

“If he’d have worked with us, he’d have made $100 million (£65 million),” said Mayweather.

“Financially, he hasn’t been treated right for this fight. And [this fight] is all about the money.

“Saturday is just work, I’ll just do what I do. But I’ll make upwards of $200 million for this fight, which is $50 million apiece for my kids. So it was a smart move.”

Five-weight world champion Mayweather, nicknamed ‘Money’, came face to face with six-weight world champion Pacquaio for the first time at a Miami Heat basketball game in January.

The 38-year-old American said he instigated the initial meeting in Pacquiao’s Miami hotel suite - which Mayweather said was not up to his exacting standards.

Mayweather, who is unbeaten in 47 professional fights, explained: “I went over to Manny and

RCB v RR, IPL 2015, Bangalore…

Rain plays spoilsport after Sarfaraz blitz V

irat Kohli and Chris Gayle were gone inside three overs, AB de Villiers was run out before the death, and rain washed out play after the first innings, yet the Chinnaswamy Stadium was dazzled by a 17-year-old’s 45 not out from 21, as Royal Challengers Bangalore sped to 200-7.

Playing his second IPL innings, Sarfaraz Khan clubbed six fours and a six to ensure the hosts did not suffer for conceding two run outs in the middle overs, taking a particular liking to the bowling of Pravin Tambe - a man 26 years his senior.

Sarfaraz began his charge with an upper cut four off James Faulkner in the 16th over, before finding

SCOREBOARD Mayweather on Pacquiao: “If he’d have worked with us, he’d have made $100 million (£65 million)”

said: ‘I don’t know what [Pacquiao’s promoter] Bob Arum is saying to you, but it’s not true.

“When Manny Pacquiao said he had signed paperwork to fight me, he must have been signing half of his money away. He hadn’t signed to fight me.

“I told him that if we agree to drugs testing and we’re on a level playing field, we can make the fight happen. The fight came about because of me.

“But why did they have him staying in that type of hotel? It wasn’t right.”

Mayweather also reit-

erated his intention to retire after one more fight in September, even though two more victories would leave him equal with heavyweight legend Rocky Marciano’s 49-fight unbeaten record.

“People ask me about Rocky Marciano’s record but it’s time for me to walk away. And I won’t miss boxing,” said Mayweather.

“The money is more important than any unbeaten record - my daughters can’t eat no ‘zero’.

“Getting to 50 fights unbeaten might be special for you, but for me it’s not.” (BBC Sport)

Royal Challengers Bangalore innings (20 overs maximum) CH Gayle c Hooda b Southee 10 V Kohli* c †Samson b Southee 1 AB de Villiers run out (Hooda/†Samson) 57 Mandeep Singh lbw b Binny 27 KD Karthik† run out (Southee/†Samson) 27 SN Khan not out 45 D Wiese c Southee b Kulkarni 11 HV Patel run out (Rahane/†Samson) 6 Extras:(b-5, lb-3, w-6, nb-2) 16 Total:(7 wickets; 20 overs) 200 Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Gayle, 0.4 ov), 2-19 (Kohli, 2.2 ov), 3-93 (Mandeep Singh, 11.1 ov), 4-124 (de Villiers, 13.5 ov), 5-152 (Karthik, 16.2 ov), 6-184 (Wiese, 18.5 ov), 7-200 (Patel, 19.6 ov) Bowling: TG Southee 4-0-322 (1-nb), DS Kulkarni 4-0-361 (2-w), JP Faulkner 2-0-260 (1-w), SR Watson 3-0-27-0 (1-nb, 3-w), PV Tambe 3-039-0, STR Binny 4-0-32-1

Sarfaraz Khan was innovative during the dying stages of the innings

the boundary off successive Shane Watson balls the following over. It was his taking apart of Tambe in the 18th over, though, which made 200 possible for Royal Challengers. Sarfaraz swept Tambe powerfully first ball, then advanced to launch the bowler over his head for six.

An inside-out four would come three balls later. The 18 runs from that over pushed the score to 175-6, after which David Weise and Harshal Patel helped add the finishing touches.

Rajasthan Royals had began brightly enough, when the recalled Tim Southee had Gayle caught at midwicket in the first over, then had Kohli

nicking behind in the third.

De Villiers was not compelled to caution by a scoreline of 19-2 however, and he struck James Faulkner for three successive fours in the fifth over.

He and Mandeep Singh put on a 74-run stand, the highlight of which was de Villiers’ wallop over the deep-midwicket fence off Stuart Binny.

That shot brought up his fifty off 41 balls, but a mix up with Dinesh Karthik cost him his wicket in the 13th over.

All this would abe of no avail in the end, though. Rain began to fall in Bangalore during the innings break, and did not fully abate until 11:39 pm, when the match was called off. (Cricinfo)

Dead pitches not the issue, says Sir Viv F

ormer West Indies captain Sir Viv Richards has brushed aside arguments that poorly prepared pitches at both the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua and the Grenada National Stadium played against the West Indies during the first and second Tests against England.

Admitting that the pitches, during both matches were not of the best quality, Sir Viv said the home team had equal opportunities to make runs but failed to capitalise.

“How can these wickets be so bad when our players keep getting out at crucial times but when you look at the wicket itself, especially the one that we had here in Antigua and Barbuda, the one in Grenada, apart from maybe the first day, where we saw some slight move-

Sir Viv: “How can these wickets be so bad when our players keep getting out at crucial times…”

ments and seam movements in the air and things like that, Antigua is pretty much dead. They are good batting wickets and this is why I felt West Indies missed a wonderful opportunity,” he said.

Last day heroics from Jason Holder, who made 103 from 216 deliveries, ensured a draw for West Indies in the first Test in Antigua, while England won the second Test by nine wickets in

Grenada.

Sir Viv said players hoping to make a name for themselves should take advantage of the opportunity to get as many runs as possible.

“They’re going to become times when the wickets are going to be doing much more than that and then you would be struggling, so whenever you meet wickets that are quite conducive to your play then you to try and make hay while the sun shines,” the former skipper said.

“We are as good at striking the ball as any, but sometimes our thinking process at crucial times in matches is just letting us down,” Sir Viv added.

West Indies go into the third and final Test against England in Barbados, starting Friday needing a victory to level the series. (windiescricket)

Sports

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Bangladesh v Pakistan, 1st Test, Khulna, 2nd day…

thursday, april 30, 2015

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Hafeez century leads strong Pakistan reply C

oming into the Test series, Mohammad Hafeez had only scored 34 runs in four innings on the tour. He had only bowled in two of those innings after his action had been cleared by the ICC, but had gone wicketless. On the second day in Khulna, however, Hafeez was at the centerstage of a revival not only his own, but of Pakistan.

Hafeez had found drift and good control with his newly-remodelled action to pick up a wicket on the first day. On the second day, however, his dismissal of a fluent Soumya Sarkar triggered a Bangladesh collapse that saw the home side

It was Mohammad Hafeez’s eighth Test century and third in three Tests

lose their last five wickets for 27 runs to be bowled out 20 minutes into the

SCOREBOARD Bangladesh 1st innings Tamim Iqbal c Azhar Ali b Yasir Shah 25 Imrul Kayes c & b Mohammad Hafeez 51 Mominul Haque lbw b Zulfiqar Babar 80 Mahmudullah c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Wahab Riaz 49 Shakib Al Hasan c Asad Shafiq b Zulfiqar Babar 25 Mushfiqur Rahim*† c Misbah-ul-Haq b Yasir Shah 32 Soumya Sarkar c Asad Shafiq b Mohammad Hafeez 33 Shuvagata Hom not out 12 Taijul Islam b Yasir Shah 1 Mohammad Shahid c Misbah-ul-Haq b Wahab Riaz 10 Rubel Hossain c †Sarfraz Ahmed b Wahab Riaz 2 Extras: (lb-5, nb-7) 12 332 Total: (all out; 120 overs) Fall of wickets: 1-52 (Tamim Iqbal, 26.6 ov), 2-92 (Imrul Kayes, 40.2 ov), 3-187 (Mahmudullah, 73.6 ov), 4-236 (Mominul Haque, 89.5

ov), 5-243 (Shakib Al Hasan, 93.1 ov), 6-305 (Soumya Sarkar, 111.2 ov), 7-310 (Mushfiqur Rahim, 112.4 ov), 8-312 (Taijul Islam, 114.4 ov), 9-329 (Mohammad Shahid, 117.6 ov), 10-332 (Rubel Hossain, 119.6 ov) Bowling: Junaid Khan 16-2-400 (2-nb), Wahab Riaz 26-7-55-3 (1-nb), Mohammad Hafeez 185-47-2, Zulfiqar Babar 32-3-992, Yasir Shah 28-4-86-3 Pakistan 1st innings Mohammad Hafeez not out 137 Sami Aslam c †Mushfiqur Rahim b Taijul Islam 20 Azhar Ali not out 65 Extras: (lb-2, nb-3) 5 Total: (1 wicket; 58 overs) 227 Fall of wickets 1-50 (Sami Aslam, 11.5 ov) Bowling: Rubel Hossain 110-50-0 (2-nb), Mohammad Shahid 7-0-29-0 (1-nb), Taijul Islam 16-2-43-1, Shuvagata Hom 8-0-34-0, Shakib Al Hasan 12-0-57-0, Mahmudullah 2-09-0, Soumya Sarkar 1-0-20, Mominul Haque 1-0-1-0

second session. Hafeez, introduced after 19 overs, induced a false shot in his second, breaking a 62run partnership between Sarkar and Mushfiqur Rahim that had helped the home side ease past the 300-run mark. The rest succumbed in no time and Bangladesh were stalled to an underwhelming 332.

Hafeez’s other telling contribution, however, was to come later. Making most of the excellent batting conditions, Hafeez led Pakistan’s response with his eighth Test century. He may have had a tough last few months, but Hafeez’s Test form picked up from where he had left it.

With his third century in three Tests, he joined an illustrious group - Zaheer Abbas, Mudassar Nazar, Shoaib Mohammad, Mohammad Yousuf (twice) and Younis Khan - of Pakistan batsmen. (Cricinfo)

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he Beef Humphrey’s annual memorial football tournament for teams in Berbice opened on Tuesday at the All Saints Scotts School ground on Princess Elizabeth Road in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice/ Corentyne).

The double header saw Vryman’s Ervin Secondary (VESS) and Canje Secondary (CSS) moving to the semi-final stage of the three-day tournament.

In the opening game, VESS recorded a 2-0 win over Berbice High School (BHS). Osafo McDonald netted in the 47th minute

and the deal was sealed three minutes later when Keron Andrews scored.

CSS had to go the penalty spot to decide the winner of their encounter with Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) after the two schools played to a 1-1 draw at the end of regulation time. Troy Amond opened up the scoring when he put CSS ahead from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute.

The equaliser came off the boot of Shane Hamilton in the 52nd minute. The exciting and keenly contested penalty shootout ended 3-2 in favour of CSS.

The competition was continued on Wednesday with VESS taking on New Amsterdam Multilateral School (NAMS) and CSS taking on Tutorial Academy (TASS).

This is the 2014 version of the Beef Humphrey annual memorial football tournament.

Organiser Neil Humphrey explained that it was impossible to have the tournament last year because of other football tournaments that he was involved in at the primary school level. Meanwhile, the 2015 tournament will be held in June.

30

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thursday, april 30, 2015

Sport Journalist Calvin Roberts passes on C

hronicle Sport Journalist, Calvin Roberts, took his last breath on Tuesday evening while a patient at the Davis Memorial Hospital in Georgetown, after months of battling renal failure.

At the time of his passing, Roberts, 43, who has captained the Guyana Media XI cricket team on many occasions, was attached to the Guyana Chronicle newspaper as a Senior Reporter and Assistant Sport Editor. He previously worked for the Stabroek News.

Roberts was diagnosed with the condition on January 15 this year by Dr Clem McEwan, and subsequently required dialysis three times per week. This publication understands that Roberts died during an emergency operation Tuesday night.

As news got around on Wednesday about his demise, several of Roberts’ colleagues, friends and followers took to social media to pay tribute to the father of two.

Veteran Sport Journalist and Guyana Chronicle’s Correspondent in Toronto, Fredrick Halley, spoke highly of Roberts’ kindness and his efforts in promoting sport through his writing.

“It is with great sadness and regret I learnt of the death of fellow sport journalist, Calvin Roberts. Although we never worked together at

Flashback! Calvin Roberts (second right) leads the Guyana Media XI off the field against Enmore Over-40 on June 1 last year.

He took three wickets to lead the victory charge

the Guyana Chronicle, I subsequently met him on each of my visit home and he was always a fun-loving person who took his job very seriously and will surely be missed,” Halley said.

John Ramsingh, who took over the captaincy of the Guyana Media XI after Roberts took ill, reflected on his former team-mate’s life, noting that he was a “pillar of strength.” “‘CR’ or ‘Robbie’, like we fondly call him, was a pillar of strength and I always let him know it. He could have taken a criticism and smile; he could have taken a blow on the field, and clap to urge

the team on. He was my “go to” mate in the various media centres across Guyana and in the few Caribbean islands when we worked together, whether for our respective media house or for the WICB,” Ramsingh, who works at the National Communications Network, reminisced.

Ramsingh added that Roberts was always dedicated and willing to learn and share information. He also spoke highly of Roberts’ traits as the ultimate team man.

“On the field of play, he gave his all. Even when he was ill he wanted to contrib-

ute and never missed the team’s matches during his period of illness. At those matches, he was very vocal when things were good and more vocal when we were up against it. I will miss him when I travel as well, because he was like a brother on tours where we travel, eat, work, play, shop and laughed together. While sometimes we have our differences mainly about the job, we both recognised that it was all part of a day in the life of a sport journalist and we laugh it off. CR was a true friend, colleague, team mate and brother, who is now gone to a higher calling, but for me he is gone too far too soon,” Ramsingh reflected.

Guyana Times’ Sport Journalist, Rajiv Bisnauth, stated that while he is saddened by the news of his colleague’s passing, he is blessed to have known Roberts.

“I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend and colleague, Calvin Roberts. He was a true force of strength and his charac-

ter was that of a champion. Robert was always helpful, positive, and had a great sense of humour. His integrity and passion as a journalist and his devotion to the job will definitely be missed.

I am devastated by what has happened, but I feel blessed to have known him. My heartfelt thoughts and sympathy go to his family and friends,” Bisnauth related.

TVG News Anchor and Guyana Times Sport Journalist, Avenash Ramzan, also shared fond memories of Roberts, whom he worked alongside on numerous assignments.

“I would always remember Calvin as this outspoken person, who, regardless of whether he was right or wrong, would find ways of defending his position. Such persona obviously did not find favour with everyone, but I, like many of our colleagues in the sport media, had grown to understand him for the person he was and what he brought to the table. Many a times Calvin’s

discourse would lead us into heated, albeit healthy discussions. For us all, it was just another day in the job of a Sport Journalist,” Ramzan highlighted.

He added, “I remember fondly how enthusiastic he was just at the start of 2014 when he single-handedly led the resuscitation of the Guyana Media XI cricket team. He approached many friends of the media to support the team to have uniforms and gear, and was also very active in organising games. His crowning moment no doubt for the Guyana Media XI would have been at Enmore on June 1 last year when he dismissed three top order batsmen, including former national player Sheik Mohamed, in a devastating and match-winning spell against Enmore Over-40. He was on top of the world. Less than a year later, it’s hard to believe that a man who possessed so much enthusiasm, talent, sport foresight, and organisational capabilities is no more. But Calvin, like all those with an affiliation to sport, would know that the umpire’s decision is final. The greatest umpire of them all has made his call.

He knows best. Calvin would have to retreat into the comfort of his arms. Well played ‘Champo.’”

Stabroek News Sport Journalist, Clifton Ross, said of his late colleague, “Calvin was very passionate about his job, especially cricket.

I think if he had it any other way he would have been a cricketer first and a Sport Journalist second.”

Roberts, who was rewarded by the Guyana Cricket Board and the National Sports Commission for his contribution to sport, played competitive cricket for Ace Warriors and Malteenoes Sports Club.

guyanatimesGY.com

thursday, april 30, 2015

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RHTY&SC mourns Neville Sarjoo Memorial T20 passing of Roberts final set for Friday T T he Patron, President and members of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) have registered their profound sadness on the sudden death of Guyana Chronicle Sport Journalist, Calvin Roberts.

Roberts was not only an honorary member of the RHTY&SC, but also played a major role in promoting the work of the club, firstly at Stabroek News and later at the Guyana Chronicle.

Below is the full text of a message sent to the media by the RHTY&SC on Wednesday.

“Everyone of our members, especially the Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster, has been floored by the news of Calvin’s death as only on Saturday last, he was with us during the final of the Busta Champion of Champions.

We considered it a privilege to have known Calvin as a friend and on a professional basis and we would always remember him for his dedication to the development of cricket, his warm personality and his ability to get things done.

The RHTY&SC had the pleasure on four occasions to honour our departed brother for his service to the RHTY&SC and on Saturday last we assisted

him with a financial contribution towards his medical bills. If only we had known that it would have been our final get together, we would have taken the opportunity to thank him for being one of the finest human beings we had the privilege of meeting.

As humans, we would have had our shares of disagreements, but our friendship, based on mutual respect saw us through those difficult moments.

The RHTY&SC would like to appeal to all those involved in cricket administration in Guyana to use Calvin’s death as a period of healing.

Too many persons are involved in the administration of cricket for the wrong reasons and our greatest tribute to this outstanding journalist who did so much for Guyana’s cricket would be unity and proper development of the game.

As administrators and true lovers of cricket, we must work for the betterment of cricket and to make sure that every young cricketer in Guyana fulfills his/ her true potential.

The RHTY&SC would honour Calvin Roberts, our friend and role model by naming our annual Most Committed Award in his memory and would also be assisting his son in his educational pursuit. We would

ECB limited-over festival set to bowl off Friday

T

he 2015 Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) Busta sponsored 50-overs-a-side festival is set to bowl off on Friday with four matches across venues in the county.

Defending champions East Bank Essequibo will take on Pomeroon at Imam Bacchus ground, Affiance;

Ronsford Beaton

Kevon Boodie

Wakenaam will play Bartica at Pomona; Leguan will face South Essequibo at New Opportunity Corps (NOC) ground and North will battle Central Essequibo at Anna Regina in the first round.

The semi-final will be contested on Saturday at the NOC and Imam Bacchus

grounds, while the final will be played on Sunday at Imam Bacchus ground.

The champion team will take home a trophy and $75,000, while the losing finalist will collect $25,000 and trophy.

Among the players expected to be on show are Kevon Boodie, Travis Drakes, Kemol Savory, Ronsford Beaton, Norman Fredericks, Anthony Adams, Royan Fredericks, Kemo Paul and Ricardo Adams.

The tournament will be used as yardstick for the Essequibo senior selectors to pick the senior team for the upcoming Inter-county tournaments.

West Indies Test player Assad Fudadin of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club presents the club’s contribution to the late Calvin Roberts, Sport Journalist of the Guyana Chronicle

like to express our deepest sympathy to his family, friends and colleagues and wish to reassure them that

they are in our thoughts and prayers. May the god they believe in bless and watch over them.”

he Laluni Sports Club ground will be the venue for the long awaited final of the Neville Sarjoo Memorial T20 cricket tournament on Friday.

The competition, which is being sponsored by the wife and children of the late Neville Sarjoo, is organised by the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association (EBDCA). A total of 14 teams started the competition in 2014.

The final will be contested between North Soesdyke Sports Club and Ruimveldt Sports Club. The first ball will be bowled at 11:00h.

There is a presentation ceremony to follow where the winning team will receive $20,000 and a trophy; the losing finalist will take away a trophy and $15,000; while the Man-of-the-Match in the final will pocket $5,000 to go with a beautiful trophy.

Neville Sarjoo

Neville Sarjoo was a long standing cricket administrator where he served as a national selector until his death in 1998. It is in his honour that the competition is played on an annual basis on the East Bank of Demerara. The umpires for the match are Eddie Nicholls and Zaheer Mohamed.

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

thursday, april 30, 2015

Busta Soft Shoe semi-finalists decided

T

he semi-finalists of the inaugural Busta Soft Shoe football tournament have been decided following exciting quarter-final action at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, Bourda, on Tuesday evening.

The teams that now remain in the battle for the top prize of $600,000 are Queen Street- Tiger Bay, Kitty Weavers, West Front Road and Sparta Boss.

In the opening match, Darrel Harris scored both goals for Queen Street- Tiger Bay in their 2-0 success over Bent Street. Harris was on target as early as the second minute, and added another

goal 11th minutes later.

Kitty Weavers emerged with a 3-0 win over Festival City to continue their journey in the tournament.

Colin Clarke put Weavers ahead in the seventh minute, a lead that they would never relinquished as Wendell St Hill netted in the 19th minute and Quincy Madramootoo made it 3-0 10 minutes later.

The West Front Road/ Cross Street clash was the least productive in terms of goals scored with West Front Road needing just a single goal to advance to the next stage. The all-important strike came off the boot

Only four teams remain in the hunt for the top prize

of Randolph Wagner in the 20th minute.

In the final game of the night, a hat-trick from national player Gregory Richardson helped Sparta Boss overcome Sophia 5-2.

Richardson netted for Sparta Boss in the eighth, 33rd and 37th minutes, with supporting goals from Travis Grant and Devon Millington in the 18th and 34th minutes respectively.

Shem Porter had earlier given Sophia the lead as early as the 31st second, while Dwayne Lowe added another in the 27th minute.

The semi-finals are billed for Friday at the same venue.

BCCI bans Narine from Lowden adds Over-35 bowling off-breaks Singles title to collection Assuria Tennis Classic…

Sunil Narine’s bowling action has been at the centre of attention recently

S

unil Narine has been banned from bowling his off-breaks in any match organised by the BCCI, including in the IPL. He may, however, continue to bowl his other deliveries - the knuckle ball and the quicker straight ball. If he uses the off-break again in

the ongoing IPL, he will be suspended from bowling in BCCI-organised matches.

Narine had been reported again for a suspect action following Kolkata Knight Riders’ game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 22 in Visakhapatnam.

He then went to the ICC-

accredited Sri Ramachandra Arthroscopy and Sports Sciences Centre in Chennai for a biomechanical analysis of his bowling action. The BCCI suspect bowling action committee reviewed the evidence of the match footage and the analysis, and concluded that Narine’s action for his off-break was illegal.

Since being reported, Narine missed Knight Riders’ match against Chennai Super Kings on Tuesday as the franchise had decided to not risk playing the off-spinner.

Narine had been reported twice during the Champions League T20 last year and was subsequently banned from bowling in the final of the tournament. He skipped West Indies’ tour of India and later withdrew from their World Cup squad, choosing to focus on remodelling his action.

He underwent testing at the University of Loughborough and was cleared but the BCCI asked him to undergo another round of tests at the Sri Ramachandra University.

He was then cleared by the BCCI suspect action committee and played five games for Knight Riders this season before being reported again.

He will now have to undergo corrective work on his action again after which he can request for another assessment by the BCCI committee. (Cricinfo)

G

odfrey Lowden spared no time in capturing the Assuria Men’s Over-35 Singles title from Carlos Adams in straight sets with a 6-3, 6-0 win on Monday evening at the LeRessouvenir Tennis Club.

The two have a rivalry that go years back and expectations were high since both men are very resilient in their attempt to be Guyana’s modern day veteran tennis champion.

There were a flurry of shots between the two players as they both seemed energised enough to break each other serve until 3-3 when Adams seemed to slow down with a high level of unforced errors.

This is when Lowden started to deliver spectacular passing shots to easily take the first set 6-3.

Lowden started the second set re-energised as he played a slower and more tactical game immediately breaking Adams first service game.

This threw off Adams who seemed uncharacteristically low on energy. He started to land more balls in mid court. Lowden, recognising this opportunity, moved into the net which proved very effective as he whitewashed Adams to take the set 6-0.

Godfrey Lowden

The two were set to engage in battle once again Wednesday night at the

Nash Tennis Court, this time in the Men’s Over-45 Singles.

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