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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 2933

Monday, August 1, 2016

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WHAT'S INSIDE: Belle West mechanic murder

Suspect still on P8 the run

Emancipation message at Den Amstel…

President charges villages to revive role as pillars of national prosperity

– weeks after fleeing Police custody

Page 3

16-year-old confesses to La Grange murder – source

Woman chopped, arm almost severed by ex-lover Page 2

Page 7

Preserving African culture

Buxton group holds libation ceremony

Page 14

Drummers at Buxton release the sounds on the eve of Emancipation just like their ancestors have been doing for hundreds of years after the libations were poured

(Dexter Ceres photo)

Domestic violence “highly acceptable” in Guyana – Amnesty International Page 7

Keeping death penalty signals State has “no value for life” P9 – Dr Hinds

Online petition created to “Save Wales Sugar Estate”

“SARA is a political unit masquerading as a law enforcement agency” P10 – Nandall

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news

monDAY, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Woman chopped, arm almost severed by ex-lover

By R omario S amaroo

A

Sunday morning trip to the La Penitence Market, Georgetown, for Wanita Herralall made a turn for the worse when she was confronted by her estranged husband who dealt her several chops about her body.

Herralall, 31, of Lot 8 Laing Avenue, Georgetown, left for her usual market visit but ran into the man, identified only as ‘Buckman’ of Anna Regina, Squatting Area, Region Two, (PomeroonSupenaam), Essequibo Coast.

The incident took place at approximately 10:30h and lasted for about three minutes, leaving market vendors and shoppers baffled as to what had transpired.

Eyewitnesses say the seemingly enraged man whipped out a blade from his side and was about to behead the woman when

she pleaded not to. The accused then swung one chop to the head, bashing the woman over her right eye. The man then shouted to her, “don’t scream” and forcefully pinned the woman’s hand down before hacking at it several times between the elbow and wrist.

With the woman’s mangled hand barely hanging on, the angered Essequibian allegedly told her to “take your hand and move from here.”

In a bid to escape, the man tried running through the crowd, only to be captured and dealt a thorough beating, before being turned over to the Ruimveldt Police Station.

The woman in an unconscious state was placed in a minibus and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she remains a patient.

According to Herralall’s reputed husband, Dharmindra Phagoo, the couple would usually go to

the market together but this time she went by herself. He was at home having breakfast when he got a call from a vendor telling him to “go to the hospital quick! Wanita get chop up.”

“When I reached to the hospital, I see my wife covered in blood with several chops including a large one over her eye and multiple gashes on her arms,” Phagoo added.

Guyana Times understands that the woman shared a 12-year relationship with the accused, of which bore five children, the eldest being thirteen and the youngest five. The couple separated in 2015 when the woman moved to Georgetown due to years of alleged domestic abuse.

Since then, Herralall has been reportedly stalked by ‘Buckman.’ In February, Guyana Times was informed that the mother of five went to her home town of Essequibo, where the estranged hus-

band reportedly took away her mobile phone and administered a beating on her.

The matter was reported to the relevant authorities but nothing has been done.

Phagoo is of the belief that the Police were negligent.

The reputed husband is thankful that the woman survived this vicious attack, but is particularly hurt that the man did such a cruel thing in the presence of their youngest child.

Phagoo and Herralall have been living together for the past six months and are well known to the market vendors and people in the community, since they operate a snackette in Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, and go to the market on a daily basis.

This publication understands that the perpetrator had travelled to the capital city nearly one week ago with the inten-

Wanita Herralall was brutally chopped by her estranged husband in an apparent execution attempt

tion of killing the woman, as he was reportedly aiming for her neck.

Herralall is currently at the Georgetown Public Hospital receiving treatment. One of the chops went through the bone of

her arm and it was up to press time unclear whether the arm can be saved.

The man is in custody assisting Police with investigations and is expected to be placed before the courts soon.

news

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monDAY, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

P

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, August 1 – 15:45h-17:15h and Tuesday, August 2 – 16:35h-18:05h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY Heavy rain showers will prevail throughout the day. Light to partly cloudy skies can be expected in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly to South-easterly between 1.78 metre and 3.59 metres.

High Tide: 15:37h reaching a maximum height of 2.49 metres.

Low Tide: 09:16h and 21:28h reaching minimum heights of 0.63 metre and 0.72 metre respectively.

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Emancipation message at Den Amstel

President charges villages to revive role as pillars of national prosperity

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, August 1 – 14:30h-16:00h and Tuesday, August 2 – 14:30h-16:00h.

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DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

resident David Granger on Sunday called on residents of Den Amstel Village, West Coast Demerara (WCD), to take up the mantle and continue to build strong villages, through the upholding of the four historical pillars of success.

These pillars he laid out, are family, religion, education and gainful means of employment, especially in the area of agriculture.

President Granger was at the time speaking at the West Coast Demerara Group of Congregational Churches and the Religious Community of Den Amstel’s Inter-Denominational Independence and Emancipation Service, which was held at the Ebenezer Congregational Church in the village. He said that emancipation saw the development of new societies, which were established through village movements.

“That Emancipation movement led to other movements.

It led to the village movement and last year I passed an order so that November 7 of every year is commemorated as the National Day of Villages.

It is not a holiday but stamps have been issued and it is to be observed as the day when our first village, Victoria, was established. That of course led to hundreds of other villages and village movements and that includes, of course, Den Amstel”, the Head of State said.

He noted that emancipation was important since it triggered all of the movements that followed: “I’ve often said that these villages, which were established on the coastland, were the single most economic, social and political development in the history of our country.”

Homes, the President said, play an important role in every village, since these are responsible for families, for the teaching of values and the moulding of mind and character.

“First of all, it’s the home because there were no homes on the plantations. People couldn’t marry and even if you had a partner, she could be sent to Wakenaam, your children could be sent to Bagotville. Family life was

President David Granger delivering remarks at the celebrations on Sunday

not permitted.”

He said after emancipation, persons returned and reconnected with their wives and children.

“So that they could build and that is why they had to get off those plantations, so that they can build homes.

That was the first pillar on which these villages were built. Family and homes and keeping the family together and we must never forget that. Every child belongs in a home,” the President said.

Places of worship, especially churches, during those days, also played a critical role in the establishment of villages since they set a foundation of strong morals, educated the young and helped to shape their future.

“The second pillar was the church and that is why I am so fond of the Congregational Church because they were on the scene, they took the licks, they took the persecution, they stood by to freed Africans and gave them support,” Granger remarked.

Education, which was in many ways linked to religious education, played a critical role in the development of villages and President Granger said that it continues to be important to the development of all communities and the country.

“Schools were the third pillar of which the villages were built, and yes, some people did leave the sugar cane plots to go to school and that’s why after Emancipation, so many of our teachers, our pastors, were educated people,” he said.

The President, who has been pushing an ‘Every Child in School’ policy since his as-

sumption to office, called on all residents to make that policy their personal responsibility in a cooperative effort to stamp out illiteracy, truancy and delinquency, so that the villages, communities and ultimately the country, can benefit from young, bright minds, to drive the economy forward.

The fourth pillar is the farm or investments in agriculture, which are necessary for food security, not just for the villages, but the country as a whole. Persons must be encouraged to become entrepreneurs so that farming initiatives in the villages can prosper, the President said.

According to Granger “integration started with these villages where there were homes, schools and farms and those were the four pillars on which these villages were established and when you shake those pillars, the house will fall. When you shake the home, the school, the church, the farm, the villages will collapse because you will have nothing to rest on… We have to plan, to perform and produce.”

Right Reverend Valeska Austin from the Den Amstel Ebenezer Congregational Church, in acknowledging the charge given by the President, gave the assurance that the church and the village will work together to ensure that this vision becomes reality.

Chairman of the Hague/ Blankenburg Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Kenton Hilliman in his brief remarks said the village movement was a tradition started by the freed slaves and is responsible for the establishment of Den Amstel. He noted that he foresees a bright future for the village since every stakeholder will be encouraged to pool their efforts, as in the past, to make the area a success story.

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mondAY, august 1, 2016

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Editorial

Positive Emancipation

O

ne hundred and eighty-two years ago in1834, subsequent to the British Parliament’s Slavery Abolition Act (1833), slavery ended in the British West Indian territories: the African slaves were to be “emancipated” from the condition of being “chattel”. The British Government allocated the sum of £20 million (the equivalent of £16.5 billion today, when calculated as wage values) to compensate the owners of the slaves and nothing to the slaves.

They were not even “emancipated” immediately: they had to work for stipulated hours and wages on the plantations as “apprentices” for four years. While the British insisted they abolished slavery for “humanitarian” reasons, their humanity did not extend to not denying humanity to the slaves, and leaving the latter without compensation for their labour provided free of cost for hundreds of years. This injustice is the basis of the claims for “reparations” in the present.

Back in the middle of the last century, the British philosopher Isaiah Berlin made a seminal distinction between “negative and positive Liberty”. As articulated

by Wikipedia: “Positive liberty is the possession of the capacity to act upon one’s free will, as opposed to negative liberty, which is freedom from external restraint on one’s actions.” From this perspective, we can now appreciate that Emancipation only granted the Africans “negative liberty or freedom”: the planters could no longer force them to work on the plantations legally.

But what about “positive Liberty” – their capacity to act in accordance to their own “free will”? After enduring the kind of suffering at the hands of the planters which resulted, in the words of one sociologist, “social death”, some may assume that the Africans would now want to exact revenge on their former oppressors. The British Government thought so, since they launched a Police Force in 1839 that was not organised like the one in England to “keep law and order” with batons, but one modelled on the armed Irish version designed to suppress uprisings. Very soon, however, the Africans demonstrated they simply wanted to live as humans.

One path they chose to accomplish this goal was to earn wages that could provide them with the basic necessities of life – food, housing and clothes. But even before they were in a position to demand higher wages as “free people” after 1838, the planters launched a programme to checkmate their aspirations. In 1835, they started to introduce impoverished Portuguese from the island of Madeira and also free Africans from other West Indian islands as “indentured labourers” that had to work at a depressed wage scale for a fixed number of years – two to four years.

While a strike by the “free” Africans in 1842 succeeded and their wages were increased, another one in 1847/48 failed because by now the Portuguese and West Indian indentureds (augmented by some Indians) could provide labour to the planters at rates that were satisfactory for them. Africans were thus denied their positive freedom to become wage labourers.

While in some islands like Barbados there was no alternative to the free Africans remaining on the plantations and working for the subsistence wages offered ( this is what made so many of them willing to come to Guyana as indentured labourers,) in Guyana there was land for possible farming. First, there were Crown Lands on which they could squat and then there were several plantations abandoned by planters who took their compensation and returned to Britain or the US –- up for sale. Both options were taken up after 1848 when the majority of the freed Africans left the plantations.

But while they bought plantations, squatted and went into the interior in search of gold, all sorts of “legal” barriers were placed in the way of free Africans by officialdom to stymie their will for positive freedom. Today, the cumulative effects of those barriers, which became systemic, still loom large in the psyches of large swathes of African Guyanese.

Reparations must be demanded to deliver positive freedom.

Guyana Times employees dressed in Africa-inspired clothing in a pre-Emancipation celebration of the day

Ceres photo)

(Dexter

Libation is pivotal to the development of the Christian doctrine Dear Editor, When I pour libation I am accessing the brain directly, of all who are present, rather than “appealing” to the physical person.

The process is not a psychological one. It is neuro-cosmological. Other cultures symbolically pour water for a variety of reasons, but always as a symbolic “washing away.”

Libation is the pouring of liquid ceremoniously. Libation is poured by all cultures under different names for various occasions. Different groups have different reasons for the pouring of liquids ceremoniously.

Libation, or the pouring of liquids, is performed at ceremonies such as the launching or christening of new ships, to the christening of the new human baby.

Traditionally the christening is done by breaking a sacrificial bottle of champagne over the bow of the ship, as the ship’s name is called aloud during its launching. It is said that this is done to invite good luck.

In India for example ships were historically launched “with a Puja ceremony that dedicates the ship to a god, and seeks blessings for her and her sailor.” Presently in India ships are launched “with a lady breaking a coconut on the bow of the vessel, which is sometimes followed by a small Puja.”

In England on “4 July 2014 the Queen named the Royal Navy’s new air-

craft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (RO8) with a bottle of single malt Scotch whisky from the Bowmore distillery on the island of Islay instead of champagne, because the ship had been built and launched in Scotland.”

In the United States of America (USA) the Libation or Christening of ocean vessels is said to have its roots in Europe. However Libation has a long history in independent USA. It is said that the “first description we have of an American christening is that of Constitution famous ‘Old Ironsides,’ at Boston, October 21, 1797.”

It is reported that her “sponsor, Captain James Sever, USN, stood on the weather deck at the bow.

Then ‘At fifteen minutes after twelve she commenced a movement into the water with such a steadiness, majestic and exactness as to fill every heart with satisfaction of joy and delight.’

As Constitution ran out, captain Sever broke a bottle of fine old Madeira over the heel of the bowsprit.”

The historic and continuous use of Libation by the USA, is of great concern to us. It is from the USA that individuals trained as priests and pastors by the many branches of the Anglo-Saxon protestant religions, come to Guyana to tell Guyanese that Libation is evil; that it is witchcraft or Obeah.

For that reason the following is included in this paper.

Some Africans in Guyana consider Libation as “evil”. For that reason they excuse themselves from the place where libation is performed as a recognition of African ancestral culture.

The same individuals attend funeral services in churches where the priest pours water (Libation) on the coffin of the deceased. They also present their babies to the church to be “baptised” as water (Libation) is sprinkled on the young child.

In reply to the question “What is the symbolism of water baptism?” the following answer was given: Water baptism symbolises the believer’s total trust in and total reliance on Lord Jesus Christ, as well as a commitment to live obediently to him. It also expresses unity with all the saints (Ephesians 2: 19), that is, every person in every nation on earth who is a member of the Body of Christ {Galatians 3: 27-28).

Water baptism conveys this and more, but it is not what saves us. Instead, we are saved through faith, apart from works (Ephesians 2: 8-9). We are baptised because our Lord commanded it.”

Africans who are Christians also believe that “Water baptism (Libation) are for believers who “must come to believe that we are sinners in need of salvation” (Romans 3: 23).

We are spending a great deal of time on baptism because it shows that

Libation, instead of being alien to Christian teachings, is pivotal to the development of the Christian doctrine.

To conclude this emphasis let me present the following quotes.

What then does baptism mean?

“1 .It means we have turned from the old life of sin to a new life in Jesus Christ 2. It means we are publicly identifying with the death, burial and resurrection of Christ 3. It means we are openly joining the ranks of those who believe in Christ KaMaatic Africans pour Libation primarily as acknowledgement to our ancestors. In the Libation ceremony, the physical properties of waterare symbolically utilised: wash, cleanse, revive, awake, refresh, etc.”

In pouring Libation, KaMaatic (Africans) are not concerned with the Libation practices of others. However I would like to conclude by drawing attention to the expressed role of Libation (baptism) as a Christian ceremony.

It is said that baptism gives us a new life in Christ. If that were so, when Jesus was baptised, was he seeking a new life in himself? In other words, what of Moses, Abraham, David, etc? Were they baptized “in Christ?”

Yours faithfully, Rev Dr Rudi R Guyan Ms D, DD, Pm D

guyana-times.com

MOnDAY, AUGUST1, 2016

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You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate, Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

American elections – the world stage will not be the same again

Dear Editor, We are seeing a revelation in American politics like never before in its history. The American voters are beginning to realise that they never had much of a choice in their democracy. Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump proved that America is truly divided and is disgusted by the status quo.

However, now that the candidates have been selected we are left pondering and scratching our heads. On one hand, you have a woman who is not really a true reflection of the women’s struggle since she has a distinct track record of driving the agenda of the “good old boys club” and more so on the world stage, with her role in the “Arab

Spring”, Benghazi, Corruption in Clinton Foundation and of course, the emails.

And on the other hand, we have the worst thing to show its head since Governor Wallace from the “Jim Crow” era. An era where we saw the southern states pushed aggressively to keep the blacks oppressed with no intention to release its noose from the necks of black people.

Narcissism, ego, Machiavellian, racial, fear, con are just some of the words that fairly sum up who Trump is.

I truly feel the disappointment of Sanders supporters, because I believe they are the future of a good America, an America that understands how to bridge the divide and pave

the way for our children to secure a good standard of living that’s inclusive and multicultural in a genuine way.

On the international scene, the world is at a loss for words on what exactly is going on in the USA and is not sure what to make of this madness that America calls a “Democracy”.

These countries must be wondering if this is the democracy

that America has been exporting and enforcing on others for over eight decades, leaving bloodshed and despair in its path.

But we must not lose focus on what the outcome may be, because believe it or not, our future around the globe will depend on what happens next.

Regardless of the outcome of this election, the world stage will not be the same again. If

Hillary wins, you can be sure that there will many more Arab Springs coming to a neighbourhood near you. And if Trump wins, his pure arrogance and stupidity will generate flash

wars and conflicts that will create instability on a gigantic scale.

Now let’s watch the show!

Malcolm Watkins, CSCP

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monday, august 1, 2016

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Foundation

Look Up: The surprising joy of raising your gaze The perils of social – when we look upwards we change our patterns of thought comparison

By Colin Ellard, PhD

I

’ve just come home from a week spent camping in the woods with my children. Along with a few insect bites, a sunburned nose, and a trunk full of rainy day mud, I’ve

brought home some refreshment. As a scientist who touts the value of time spent immersed in nature, I’m relieved to say that having walked the talk for a few days, I’ve experienced first-hand many of the benefits of nature exposure. I feel re-set, relaxed, and happy.

But there’s one memory that I keep returning to – something that seemed innocuous at the time. I was sitting at the campsite one morning, having let my kids know that, nature’s splendour notwithstanding, nothing was going to happen that day until dad finished his morning coffee. My son, watching me with curiosity, asked me a simple question: “Dad! What are you looking at? Why do you keep looking up?”

I hadn’t realised that I was. But my son’s question made me realise that I must have looked odd, sitting on that little camp stool, hugging a mug of coffee, and staring upwards into the treetops. I think it looked so

unusual to my son because it’s not something that we do very often. Check this for yourself. Next time you’re in a crowded public place, look around. How many people do you see looking

u p wards? For most of the day, our focus of attention is either downwards or, at best, towards the horizon. In many ways, this makes perfect sense. We spend most of our time interacting with what’s right in front of us, usually within arm’s reach.

The majority of our interactions with the world, preparing meals, working on a computer, using a mobile phone, or brushing our teeth require us to focus on a small part of our visual fields and almost always below the horizon.

We look up to scan the skies, to check the weather, inspect an impressive tall building or a natural vista. In my particular case, my attention had been drawn upwards by the massive hardwood trees, the glint of sunlight through the foliage, the patches of blue sky, and the interesting puffs of cloud that were visible.

None of this might seem to be particularly profound.

We look up, just as we look anywhere, when there are interesting things to be seen.

In my reflective state in the woods, where there was nothing in particular to be done other than to enjoy my surroundings, my gaze was drawn to the beauty and motion overhead. What is interesting about this, though, is that it turns out that our visual brains have several distinct systems. One of them is more specialised for the graspable interaction space of the lower visual field and another is specialised for the visual field above the horizon. In his fascinating book, The Dopaminergic Mind in Human Evolution and History, along with many more technical articles, the neuroscientist Fred Previc argues that this second visual system, specialising as it does in surveying “extrapersonal space,” the distant vistas above the horizon, is especially well-developed in human beings. Previc goes on to argue that this area of the brain is strongly activated during religious experiences, meditative activity, dreaming, and probably any kind of artistic or creative activity that encourages us to reach beyond the bounds of nearby time and space into the infinite and eternal.

It’s no accident, according to Previc, that meditative states, trances, mystical or religious experiences are often accompanied by upward deviations of the eyes.

It’s not just when we are gazing into a canopy of trees or a sky full of clouds that we raise our gaze. When we enter large and impressive buildings it’s also reflexive for our eyes to flick upwards. Think of a visit to a massive cathedral, a large

courthouse, or even a corporate headquarters. That great expanse of space, so costly to build and to maintain, is there for a reason. It influences how you feel and what you think. Builders of impressive religious architecture have always known this.

Large built spaces not only convey power and strength but they also cause us crane our heads in awe and to engage with the infinite. A recent initiative from the American Institute of Architects also urged us to look up. The motivation of that campaign was to encourage people to pay attention to the great architecture that’s around them—to look up from their phones and their immediate surroundings and take in the awe-inspiring vistas of the human creations that surround them. I could well imagine that when we do so, we’re also putting ourselves into contact with the lofty infinite, thinking big thoughts, and contemplating our place in the Universe.

It’s also not at all unreasonable to suppose that the verbal associations that we make between the overhead and spiritual, religious, and moral dimensions of our lives may be related to this division of labour among the visual streams of information in our brains. Supreme beings are most often imagined as being far above us and not below us. We stake out the moral “high ground.”

Next time you’re out and about in the world (which I hope will be very soon), look up. You might be surprised by how a simple act of looking will affect your mood and your patterns of thought. (psy-

chologytoday.com)

– whether or not you come out on top, constant comparing can bring you down

support them in both good times and bad.

Upward comComparisons based on parison can also intelligence and ability be a double-edged sword. On the one are particularly toxic for hand, it can prochildren vide inspiration and hope, motivate us to improve our own situation, and provide uset’s normal to wonder how ful information about how we measure up in rela- to overcome an obstacle. It tion to others. According can also provide a self-esto social comparison theo- teem boost, such as when we ry, this drive is part of our bask in the reflected glory of basic desire to understand a successful close other or

By Juliana Breines, PhD

I

ourselves and our place in the social world. But dwelling too much on these judgments can come at a cost.

Psychologists divide social comparisons into two main categories: downward and upward. Downward comparison involves comparing yourself to someone you perceive as worse off than yourself, and upward to someone you perceive as better off. Comparisons may be based on intelligence, ability, appearance, health, social status, wealth, or any other attribute.

Comparisons based on intelligence and ability are particularly toxic for children Research suggests that we’re more likely to make downward comparisons when our self-esteem is threatened – for example, if we’ve just received negative feedback – since these comparisons give us a boost, enhancing our own perceived standing and reassuring us that things could be worse.

On the surface, downward comparisons may seem harmless, even healthy, but they have several drawbacks. First, to the extent that these comparisons are a basis for self-esteem, they are a fragile one, as they depend on the continued misfortune of others. Downward comparison can also put a strain on our relationships: When we focus too narrowly on others’ negative attributes, we may miss the full picture of their strengths and successes, limiting our ability to empathise and

group member.

On the other hand, upward comparison can fuel envy, low self-esteem, and schadenfreude. Like downward comparison, it can lead us to overlook the complexity of others’ lives, such as the potential suffering beneath the surface of idealised images on social media. And it can generate unrealistic standards of beauty or success that are unlikely to be sustainable or healthy sources of motivation (eg, “thinspiration”).

Is there a way to compare ourselves to others without falling into these traps? Research suggests that the answer is yes: It’s just a matter of perspective.

Social comparison typically involves contrast and differentiation, but when we consider our common humanity, it can yield very different results, promoting connection and understanding rather than distance and othering.

In one analysis, researchers proposed that when we identify with those who are less fortunate and recognise our own vulnerability, downward comparison can increase feelings of compassion and concern for others.

Upward comparison, for its part, may be less likely to elicit destructive emotions when we remember that even the most successful people struggle in some ways and are just as human and fallible as us –and that we, for all our foibles and shortcomings, are just as capable of greatness. (psychologytoday.

com)

NEWS

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MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

Domestic violence “highly acceptable” in Guyana – Amnesty International

A

ccording to the Amnesty International 2015/2016 report there is a high level of acceptance of domestic violence in Guyana.

Amnesty International also noted discrimination and violence against the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgender (LGBT) community remains a serious concern.

The report stated that the incidence rates of sexual and physical violence against women and children continue at an alarming rate. It noted that a Latin American Public Opinion Project survey published in 2014, had indicated that acceptance of domestic violence was soaring in the country.

Although the Guyana Police Force had registered 300 reports of rape for 2015

as of November, compared with 238 for the same period the previous year, the report found it alarming that the convictions rates were low. It stated that Guyana’s Women’s Rights groups have disclosed that the Police continually fail to take domestic violence reports seriously.

On the other hand, child rights are being infringed with corporal punishment in schools still being implemented. The report indicated that this is in breach of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child, and despite consultations being held with the Government and civil society, the law remains unchanged.

Violence towards LGBT people

The report further said that there continues to be no legal protection against dis-

crimination, based on real or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity and expression. Also noting that same-sex sexual conduct between men remained criminalised.

In July 2015, days after civil society groups held a candlelight vigil to mark the one-year death anniversary of two transgender sex workers, a transgender sex worker known as “Nephi”, was killed in Georgetown.

The report added that the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), a local NGO, continued to receive reports of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace.

It stated that, according to SASOD, transgender youths continue to be made homeless due to discrimina-

16-year-old confesses to La Grange murder

A

16-year-old allegedly confessed on Sunday to the murder of James Stuart, whose body was discovered along the road near his Lot 101 Unity Street, La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD) home.

A reliable source told Guyana Times on Sunday that the teenager, who also resided in the community, confessed to crime.

This publication was unable to ascertain the motive behind the killing.

The teenager will be appearing at the Vreed-enHoop Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

Stuart, also known as

James Stuart

“Goobie”, was reportedly drinking at “Ann Jones’ shop” on Saturday night and vanished just after midnight.

Brother of the deceased, Lloyd Richards, related that he was surprised by his friends, when on his way to the market, he was asked if he had seen Stuart.

The man’s body was later found after sunrise.

Reports indicated that robbery might have been the motive behind the murder.

Relatives had also observed that Stuart was beaten severely, which was confirmed by an autopsy.

The autopsy revealed that the man died from haemorrhaging and injuries to the head. Reports also indicated that his eye was reportedly protruding from his head.

tion from within their home environment, while children’s homes lacked the capacity to respond to their needs.

It said that while Guyana had agreed “to strengthen the protection of LGBT individuals and to continue its effort in eliminating discrimination against LGBT people, starting with the review of its related legislation,” the reform of the Criminal Law Offences Act, was rejected.

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MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016 | GUYANA-TIMES.COM

Belle West mechanic murder

Suspect still on the run Eyew tness – weeks after fleeing Police custody

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wenty-year-old murder accused Anthony Jhagroo, who fled from Police custody during a power outage in Regions Three and Four on July 13, is yet to be recaptured.

On Sunday, Guyana Times was told that the young man, whose last known address was listed as 35 Goed Intent, West Bank Demerara (WBD), is still at large.

Jhagroo was held in connection with the murder of 31-year-old mechanic Yogeshwar Shivcharran, who was beaten at his Belle West, WBD home last month.

Shivcharran had succumbed to his injuries six days after the alleged beating occurred.

On Tuesday last, the Guyana Police Force issued a wanted bulletin for the murder suspect, who es-

Murder suspect Anthony Jhagroo

caped from ranks at the La Grange Police Station. Reports had indicated that Jhagroo made his way

through a gap in the wall of the holding area of the Police Station, despite reports that two Police ranks had been on duty at the time.

Guyana Times was told that the deceased mechanic suffered regular seizures and mental illness and in one of his mental episodes, he had removed his clothing and approached his next-door neighbours, who were consuming alcohol at their home.

These neighbours reportedly pelted him with beer bottles before allegedly beating him in the head and body.

Before Jhagroo had made his escape, it was expected that he would have been charged with the mechanic’s murder.

The search for Jhagroo and investigations continue.

Patentia Mandir showdown

Charges against defendants dropped

F

ollowing an altercation between members of two families at a Mandir in Patentia, West Bank Demerara, several persons faced the courts, but on Friday last, the charges against Danmattie Sooknauth, 58, and her husband Roopnand Sooknauth, 60, were dismissed.

Mrs Sooknauth was accused of verbally abusing Vindawattie Sookram while her husband,

Roopnand faced the charge of assault and bodily harm.

Appearing at the Wales Magistrate Court, the couple’s lawyer told presiding Magistrate Clive Nurse that the two accused wished not to offer evidence against the other defendants and preferred that the matter ended.

The charges against Sugnauth Sookram, a taxi driver and his mother, Vindawattie were also dismissed. They were not

present in court on Friday.

The dispute which escalated among the families on April 14 at the Patentia Mandir, exploded after a young man attached to the Sooknauths reportedly confiscated a quantity of Parsad [an Indian sweetmeat] during a Navratri observance.

A row between the two families ensued where abusive language was hurled and some individuals were assaulted.

Sugnauth Sookram, 31, had plead not guilty to assaulting Roopnand Sooknauth at the Mandir and had been placed on $10,000 bail.

His mother, Vidawattie Sookram was previously accused of physically assaulting Danmattie Sooknauth, while Roopchand Sugnauth, husband of Vindawattie had been charged on April 25 for assault and bodily harm.

Changing morés...

P

...about democratic governance

rezzie, a retired Brigadier, once again brushed off criticisms of his seemingly reflexive plucking of retired GDF officers to staff the government and bureaucratic ranks. He says these folks are “also Guyanese” who deserve consideration for these or any other positions. Now no one would doubt that our army officer corps are highly trained.

After all, they haven’t even had a skirmish since that New River incident with the Surinamese back in 1969.

So we’re talking about a whole lotta courses - in-house, at UG and at Foreign military institutions - that our men and women have been taking at our expense. But the question, dear reader, is what kind of training have they been imbibing, since we know each institution has its own set of skill sets, SOPs and world view.

Military personnel are trained to fight wars - including those that may emanate from the civilian population and dubbed “rebellions”. Military personnel are not trained to see many shades of grey in the world. There’s the enemy and there’s “us” - and if you’re not “us”, you’re the enemy. And military personnel are certainly not taught to be democratic in their decision-making. Much less to be “liberal democrats” who place individual rights at the top of their agenda.

Now don’t get your Eyewitness wrong. Military personnel are certainly taught ABOUT democracy.

They’re most likely taught about the legitimacy of civilian oversight and such like. But when it comes to PRACTICING democracy in their daily routine, democracy’s a foreign, if not alien, concept. With military personnel it’s “Yes sir!”, “No sir!” and “Very well, sir!”

So what happens when you place these well trained military personnel - who’ve been doing it their way for at least two decades each - to supervise civvies? They do what they know best, that’s what. And what military personnel know best is “command and control”. This forms the basis of their SOPs. Then there’s the world view. We see a troubling drift in the world today towards “illiberalism” - from Turkey to the US of Trump. Leaders not trustingly the voice of the people and willing to do what they think is “good for them”. Witness Erdogan and his purges and appointment of “trusted”’colleagues.

In Guyana, we’ve already seen a troubling drift towards this very mindset in the very appointment on so many military personnel.

It has always been conceded that democracy can be slow and ponderous with its insistence on voting and trying to find consensus. But as Winston Churchill reminded us, it’s the worst form of governance - excepting for all the others.

Prezzie should reverse the militarisation of government.

It’s not good for our democratic morés.

...on valuing life

The brutal gunning down of three farmers in Black Bush Polder - including a teenager - by three others from the area - including another teenager, who happened to be the trigger man - has shocked the senses and sensibilities of all concerned Guyanese. Is this depraved condition what the country as a whole is descending into or is it just another symptom of Black Bush’s dysfunctional state that’s it earned the sobriquet “suicide capital of Guyana and the world”?

While there needs to be some investigation by that band of “professional” social workers, deemed to be “replete with a vast quantity of talent and expertise” - and now possessed with “standards” to discern that possible connection - even a cursory examination of our recent headlines would convince us this moral callusing - if not debasement - is an all-Guyana phenomenon.

So what’s going on? Part of the problem is the inexorable atomisation of our communities where it’s every kid for himself and the devil takes the hindmost.

And from the evidence, the devil’s been quite busy.

...and the precariat

Part of our problem is increasing “precarity”.

What’s that? It’s the precarious existence of living a life without predictability or security, leaving material and psychological welfare under the Sword of Damocles Think of those folks at Wales.

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

news

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monday, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Keeping death penalty signals State has “no value for life” – Dr Hinds

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lthough Guyana has a decade old moratorium on the death penalty, Political activist and Associate Professor of the University of Guyana (UG) Dr David Hinds believes that the fact that the State is considering to keep it sends a message to the people that it has no value for their lives and is waiting to execute them if they slip up.

He stated that this form of justice is no justice at all since it only nurtures a society where a life has lost its worth. Hinds said the notion that the implementation of the punishment would discourage crime is absurd, since there is no relationship between the penalty and the deterrence of crime.

In fact it only serves to increase it: “The State says if you kill somebody then we are going to kill you.

Then they will say you killed somebody then we are going to kill somebody and a

Dr David Hinds

cycle starts.”

Spokesperson for Government Raphael Trotman had indicated that Government is not in a rush to abolish the death penalty. President David Granger had stated that they were open to a referendum, and that the people should speak if they are for or against it.

Guyana’s anti-terrorism legislation provides for the

death penalty in keeping with requirements by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and to ensure that the country is not blacklisted. And in the wake of constant terrorist attacks in a number of countries, several European countries have raised their voices for the reinstitution of the penalty.

However, Hinds stated that the judicial system should not be selective in how they dispense punishment. Referring that while there have been several inhumane murders in Guyana, some of which involved children, he believes that even the worst criminal’s life is valuable.

All the same, if the penalty is removed it will be “hard to swallow” when cruel murders occur, he said. Thus, he stated that the government should get to the root of the issue. Most of the crimes in Guyana arise out of poor, depressed communities, where the people have little to no education.

“I have a lot of sympathy for poor communities.

I understand what poverty is and therefore I’m arguing that if we spend as much energy as we spend on the death penalty in those communities, we would see a change,” he said.

He stated that it also has a lot to do with the way wealth is distributed in the country: “I think we have moved in a direction where the gap between the rich and the poor has become wider…”

This, he said, when concentrated in a small place, becomes a breeding ground for all sorts of criminal behaviour. Therefore, as a matter of urgency, he advised that the State should pour resources into these communities.

Hinds stated that some of the crimes coming out of these communities are so heinous that, “I am beginning to question whether we have lost our value for life and so for me that is what

is frightening.” The government, he said, should not compound this situation by taking these persons’ lives too.

“You see they have already lost this value for life and what the death penalty says is a ‘tit for tat’ is okay.

It sends a signal from the State to those who have already taken lives and those who don’t have value for life that they too do not value life…it is like you expect them to be criminals and you are waiting there to execute them,” the UG Associate Professor noted.

Former Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran had stated that “justice must make sense”.

He insisted that the punishment of the perpetrator is of limited duration when the State enacts execution.

“The only satisfaction for the relatives of the victim is that the perpetrator no longer has a life to enjoy,” he said, and added that deprivation of freedom for extend-

ed periods is the ultimate punishment.

He also argued that Guyana did not decide to suspend its death penalty, instead it “stumbled” upon it since whenever procedures for execution were set in motion, the prisoner would institute a court case to quash the order.

Commissioner with the International Commission against the Death Penalty, Justice Navi Pillay had stated that a law should not be implemented “emotionally” and while the moratorium on the death penalty is adequate and it was high time for it to be quashed.

In June, a High Court Judge had sentenced a man to death after he was found guilty of killing two brothers several years ago.

A few years ago, the death penalty was amended for persons convicted of killing magistrates and judges and members of the joint forces in the lines of their duty.

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monday, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

“SARA is a political unit masquerading as a law enforcement agency”– Nandlall

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he State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA) is a ministry entity that has been given enormous amounts of power and control that should have otherwise been in the hands of institutions that are without political influ-

ence.

This is the contention of the former Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall.

Draft legislation has been completed for Government’s SARA, previously called the State Asset

Recovery Unit (SARU), which provides measures for its officers to be given the powers of sworn members of the Guyana Police Force, including Immigration Officers.

The proposed legislation envisages along with a

name change for the controversial body, ascribing its members with powers normally reserved for Revenue and Customs Officers, in addition to those for ranks of the Guyana Police Force.

SARU’s Head, Professor Clive Thomas recently told media operatives he was optimistic that the draft legislation would be tabled in the National Assembly in September when the House returned from its annual recess.

Stating that the Agency comprises political figures, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Member of Parliament (MP), Anil Nandlall lashed out against the bestowing of SARA officers with such powers.

“This is a political unit being conferred with law enforcement powers with no legal or constitutional checks and balances to guard against abuse and misuse of those powers,” he contended, stating that the Agency, which was birthed out of the Ministry of the Presidency and financed by its budget, is headed by a

PPP/C MP Anil Nandlall

leader of one of the political parties comprising the governing coalition.

“Its other officers, Desmond Trotman, Tacuma Ogunsye and Eric Philips are well-known political actors,” he noted, adding that what is “frightening is that this Bill confers Ministers of the Government with the power to confer persons with Police powers, Immigration Officer powers and Custom Officer powers”.

He stated that this meant that the “Executive” is now granting legislative power outside Parliament.

“This is constitutional heresy. Utter madness,” Nandlall remarked.

The draft State Asset Recovery Bill was completed with the assistance of International consultant Brian Horne and is expected to undergo supplementary consultations in the next few weeks.

The draft stipulates that the Minister of Finance may, in writing, “designate the (SARA) Director and other named officers of SARA as persons having the powers of a Revenue and Customs Officer.”

It stated that the Minister of Public Security may, in writing, “designate the Director and other named officers of SARA as persons having the following powers – (a) the powers of a Police Officer; and (b) the powers of an Immigration Officer”.

The powers attributed to the lowest rank of the Guyana Police Force include effecting an arrest, search and seizure of a person or property without a warrant, including aircraft, seafaring vessels and vehicles. The Customs Act, under which SARA agents will obtain the powers of a Customs and Revenue Officer, provides for such ranks to be bestowed with the powers of a Police rank.

According to the draft, the Asset Recovery Agency will be tasked with initiating investigations into whether property or interests in property constitutes State Property obtained by or derived from – directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, with or in connection with – unlawful conduct involving a public official or any other person, or whether benefit has been derived from – directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, with or in connection with –a public official’s or any other person’s unlawful conduct in

respect of State property.

In essence, it will also be tasked with the detection of property located in or out of Guyana suspected to be State property obtained illegally. Further, the draft stated that the agents in the execution of their functions will also be lawfully authorised to team up with any Government body.

According to the proposed legislation, the SARA Director may be able to enter into agreements with any Government Ministry or department, public authority or statutory body in Guyana, “for the collection, use or disclosure of information, for the purpose of exchanging or sharing information within Guyana…”.

Nandlall asserted, “It is clear to any rational mind that this unit will be used as a weapon to witch-hunt the Opposition and any person who is opposed to the Government. What else can be its purpose? After all, the Police Force has these very powers. Why else create a new agency? The answer is simple.”

He pointed out that the Force was not staffed with politicians and enjoyed independence from political influence.

“This organisation does not. It is a political unit masquerading as a law enforcement agency. It is authoritarianism and constitutional tyranny. The first victims will be the PPP leadership and parliamentary Opposition. Its next victims after that will be the ordinary citizens,” Nandlall remarked.

He explained that all the powers that the Bill confers were already powers enjoyed by the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Revenue Authority and Customs.

Both the Constitution and the Police Act confer a regime of independence and functional autonomy upon the Police Force in the discharge of its functions. “The promotion, discipline and dismissal of Police Officers are functions which the Constitution reside in independent service commissions created by the Constitution and which the Constitution insulates from executive influence,” the former Attorney General stated.

According to Nandlall, “The Police Act vests overall as well as day-to-day management of the Police Force and the responsibility of operational matters exclusively in the Commissioner of Police. It’s specifically limits the role of the Minister who holds responsibility for the Police Force, to give policy directions only,” he added, explaining that these mechanisms restrict the Force from political influence “and direction in recognition of the dangers to which the citizens will be exposed if its Police Force is contaminated by politicians and susceptible to political directions”.

He avowed that when this sort of insulation was removed, no one was safe.

EMANCIPATION messages

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monday, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

The struggles and efforts Foundations of modern society of our African ancestors and economy were firmly laid redound to the benefit by our African ancestors – PPP of all Guyanese – Govt

O

n August 1, 1838, following two hundred years of abhorrent enslavement, the freedom of Africans restored.

Captured, was brought to the Caribbean and the Americas and forced to work on European owned plantations, the restoration of their freedom represents the original independence in our nation’s history.

The emancipation of African slaves predates the abolition of indentureship, the struggle for universal adult suffrage and labour rights, independence from colonial rule and the attainment of republican status.

On this occasion, 178 years later, we reflect on the struggles of the indomitable, original freedom fighters – Cuffy, Quamina and Damon - and their comrades with whom they organised and mobilised to effect redress to the darkest of horrors of Caribbean history.

On August 1st each year, we celebrate freedom, liberation and emancipation from an inhumane and repugnant system of human enslavement even as we reflect on the pre1838 conditions and tribulations of the foreparents of so many of our countrymen and women. While physical en-

slavement is a distant memory, as a nation, we must resolve to continue to emancipate ourselves from whatever vestiges of psychological bondage that may persist.

Boldly, is it declared in the preamble to our constitution that “[w]e, the Guyanese people, proud heirs of the indomitable will of our forebears, in a spirit of reconciliation and cooperation, proclaim this Constitution in order to: safeguard and build on the rich heritage, won through tireless struggle, bequeathed us by our forebears; affirm our sovereignty, our independence and our indissolubility.”

We must continue to organise, mobilise and collectively lift our nation to higher heights socially, economically and culturally. We must elevate our mindset, eschew mediocrity and believe in a culture of excellence. This year, 2016, the year of our Golden Jubilee is an ideal opportunity for us to renew our commitment to these noble ideals.

There are, as well, powerful lessons following the abolition of slavery from which we must draw equal inspiration.

The movement by the freed slaves to purchase land and establish independent coast-

al villages against challenging odds, remain one of the potent lessons of social upliftment in our history. These villages endure to this day and were the precursors to the modern layout of our coastal plain where the vast majority of our population resides.

This initiative and the struggles and efforts of our African ancestors redound to the benefit of all Guyanese. As a diverse nation of six peoples we must collectively build on these triumphs, persevere and resolutely aspire to greater heights and a deepening of the spirit of social cohesion.

His Excellency, President Brig David Granger, First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger, Prime Minister and First Vice President The Honourable Moses Nagamootoo, Mrs Sita Nagamootoo and the Coalition Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana wish a happy, peaceful and safe celebration of this most significant occasion in our nation’s history and implore all Guyanese to inculcate in their own lives the lessons of perseverance, intolerance for unacceptable conditions and the struggle for a good life for all.

T

he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) salutes our Afro-Guyanese brothers and sisters on the occasion of Emancipation Day. This is indeed a fitting moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our African ancestors who were brought to the shores of Guyana in chains in order to provide free labour to the sugar planters.

To say that our African ancestors suffered at the hands of the sugar planters would be an understatement. Indeed, they were stripped of their humanity and dignity and made to toil long hours to keep the wheels of the sugar mills turning and in the process churning out profits for the expatriate sugar barons. Many were tortured and brutally killed for standing up for their rights but the spirit of resistance finally won the day and freedom was eventually won in August 1838. Several epic battles and rebellions took place during the long march to freedom, the most notable of which was the Berbice Slave Rebellion led by Cuffy.

Despite the hardships and cruelty of plantation life, the freed slaves were successful in forging a society after emancipation and by dint of hard

work and thrift purchased a number of villages where they eked out an independent existence despite attempts by the sugar planters to sabotage their newly won independence.

There can be no doubt that the foundations of a modern society and economy were firmly laid by our African ancestors who peacefully co-existed with the indentured labourers after slavery was abolished and in several instances lent mutual support to each other when their interests and livelihood came under threat by the planter class.

The strong bonds of solidarity between Africans and indentured labourers, the vast majority of whom came from India is testimony to the fact that race was never a barrier when it comes to the defence and protection of fundamental human rights including the right to work and to live in an environment of peace, prosperity and respect.

The PPP from its very inception as a political party has consistently embraced the principle of racial equality and a governance mechanism where each and every Guyanese regardless of race,

colour or creed be given an equal opportunity to contribute to the good of society. The PPP wishes to reiterate this commitment to a free, democratic and cohesive society, one in which there is no privileged race but where all races work and live in unison to build a strong and prosperous Guyana.

The PPP is proud of the fact that it remains the largest multi-ethnic political party and will continue to welcome all Guyanese into its ranks from all races and ethnicities who, like our foreparents share the vision of a society where the good life is enjoyed not by a privileged few but by the society as a whole.

The PPP is aware of attempts by the current Granger administration to sow the seeds of discord among the Guyanese people by re-invoking the bogey of race but like all previous attempts, it will fail to sully the image of the PPP as the only genuine and true multiracial party in Guyana.

Once again, happy Emancipation Day greetings to all Guyanese, in particular our Afro-Guyanese brothers and sisters.

GAWU recognises contributions of Afro-Guyanese in society

T

he Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) yet again joins in the national celebration marking the 178th anniversary of the Emancipation of the forefathers of our AfroGuyanese citizenry.

This has become a joyful tradition and one which holds great significance for us. Freedom from physical bondage which brought on unspeakable brutality and exploitation spawned by colonialism/capitalism was undoubtedly a step along the way to our independence, the breaking of the colonial relationships and the forging of a

Guyanese Nation.

It must be noted that Freedom in 1838 was won and attained through the heroic and self-sacrificing struggles of the slaves. Today, we must not only give recognition to those struggles but they should strengthen us as a people to zealously guard our Independence and our general sovereignty in times when we are learning that renewed efforts are being made to reestablish colonial relations in the context of today’s conditions.

GAWU recognises the major contribution of the descendants of those freed

African slaves in the continuous development of Guyana and in all areas of our country’s life – sport, culture, politics, security, Foreign Service. We are encouraged that so many have received deserving acclaim regionally and internationally, too.

Not only our AfroGuyanese citizens but, indeed our country, has come a far way in these past 178 years.

We overcame many hurdles, much of which has been rooted in the intrigues of the colonialists and their local collaborators.

In our celebration, therefore, we should take pride in

the progress made against all odds and let our achievements motivate us all to reach yet greater heights and record other sparkling achievements for our individual lives,

our family and our society as a whole. Though our times are serious and challenging, we can draw strength and heed the lessons from our forefathers. Our hopes for a better

life, society and world are realisable in our unity and principled struggles.

Happy Emancipation Day! Let us all celebrate this freedom!

12 EMANCIPATION messages Emancipation Day a celebration for all – GTUC T monDay, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

he Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) joins with all Guyana in celebrating freedom from the world’s most inhumane system and treatment of man towards man.

As Guyanese mark emancipation of Africans from chattel slavery, in a world where injustice to one poses a threat to justice for all, this day is not only a victory and progressive step in relations between the once enslaved and enslaver, but for all.

Freedom from bondage came with it some measures of expected uncertainties, such as what would life be post-slavery and relationship between groups, where there existed a history of domination and subjugation, built on unscientific notion of superiority and inferiority.

In that Africans, having given of their labour for centuries, under brutal conditions that deprived

them of fundamental rights and decency, were able to move off the plantations and set up progressive life independent of same, is no small feat.

Pooling the pennies acquired during the four year of amelioration (1834-1838) and being able from the get-go to use their meagre earnings to buy up plantations, converting them to villages, and establishing an indigenous system of government and economy are remarkable.

These achievements speak of a people possessing of intellect, though ignored as a justification to enslave them, and the spirit of camaraderie and determination to establish a life and succeed independent of a system that would have told them they are incapable of.

Outside of laying the topography of coastland Guyana with their lives, blood, sweat and tears, Africans have laid

the foundation of the indigenous system of government, which came to be known as Local Government, that laid the foundation for National and Regional governments, and a village economy built on the cooperative principles, which is a part of the nation’s trisector economy.

Africans have contributed to every facet of this nation’s growth and development, giving of the labour and talent in the various sectors, processes and areas of endeavour. These achievements and contributions must not only be recounted but must see redoubling of efforts to preserve and motivations to grow from strength to strength.

For emancipation will mean nothing if Africans, who fought for and achieved this landmark moment in the world’s calendar, were to accept or participate in any action that would threaten

or repeat the domination, marginalisation and op-

pression their forebears rightfully fought against.

Onward, upward, we must every go!

More space needed for African Guyanese empowerment – WPA

T

he Working People’s Alliance (WPA) hails the African Guyanese community as it observes another emancipation anniversary.

African Guyanese, despite various challenges, have continued to inspire our country through their creativity and labour. In that regard they have kept alive the emancipation spirit of independence and nationhood.

The WPA wishes to remind African Guyanese and the wider Guyanese society that although 178 years have passed since August 1, 1838, there is still work to be done to make the promise of emancipation a reality. This year’s emancipation an-

niversary comes as we observe and celebrate 50 years of freedom from colonial rule. Because the WPA views our independence as an extension of emancipation, it strongly feels that confronting the institutional challenges arising out of slavery and colonialism should be very high on our national agenda.

There is no doubt that as we celebrate emancipation that the African Guyanese community is grappling with a new wave of alienation brought on by rising socio-economic depression.

Structural adjustment and its attendant marketisation along with the politics of domination have taken a toll on the self-confidence of African Guyanese, particularly the poor. WPA feels that this situation cannot be left to fester; it has to be confronted head on.

In this regard we feel

that the government in collaboration with the African Guyanese elites and the wider community should look towards widening the space for African Guyanese empowerment. This should be done within the context of closing the gap between the rich and powerful and the poor and powerless.

WPA, therefore, urges the African Guyanese community to lift their voices in their own advocacy and for their own empowerment. Self-Emancipation comes primarily from selfactivity.

We also call on the African Guyanese leaderships to be more pro-active in mobilising the community from the bottom and the neglected corners. The aim of emancipation must be social equality and security for all Guyanese, regardless of ethnicity and social class.

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14 NEWS

monday, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Online petition created to “Save Wales Sugar Estate”

A

Preserving African culture

Buxton group holds libation ceremony

The online petition created to “Save Wales Sugar Estate”

n online petition has been created to save the Wales Sugar Estate, an indication that persons are refusing to back down without a fight.

Despite numerous calls from stakeholders to reverse its decision to close the Estate, Government adamantly maintained that it would move ahead as planned.

After being promised an economic plan for the future of the Estate and its workers, post the historic shutdown, it seemed that stakeholders came to terms with reality.

However, the petition has been gaining ground,

with close to 20 signatories already.

According to the online document, sugar formed the backbone of the Guyanese economy in previous times when the industry was hugely profitable and even today when the sugar industry faces financial hurdles, it has always been the sugar workers, in the fields and in the factories, who made the wheels of industry turn.

The petition acknowledged that the sugar industry was in crisis; however, it argued that the autonomous decision taken to close the Wales Sugar Estate would result in more chaos.

“The proposed clo-

sure of the Wales Sugar Estate is especially troubling, since the report of the Commission of Inquiry on the sugar industry did not recommend the closure of any of the existing sugar estates.”

It is unclear as to which organisation created the petition, but it has been gaining prominence and it is expected to be submitted to President David Granger and Agriculture Minister Noel Holder once it gains enough signatures.

Persons can sign the petition at www.change.org/p/ president-david-grangerguyana-save-wales-sugarestate.

1838 Libation Monument in Buxton: Brother Simon honours his ancestors on the eve of Emancipation

I

n an effort to honour and maintain their deep cultural heritage, a group of men and women in the village of Buxton, East Coast Demerara marked the annual libation observance.

This was said to be in keeping with reverence to the ancestors who first came to the community. Dutch bottles, coconuts with incense, calabash and beverages were placed as candles were lit. Meanwhile, folks songs were sung to the beats of African drumming and shack-shacks. The ceremony was held at a monument at Company Road on the eve of Emancipation Day, July 31.

Brother Simon in reflecting on the historical significance of the event observed that the monument was dated “1838” by then Overseer of the village, Oscar Mc Garrell.

“The monument was originally at the boundary of the village at Pond dam;

there’s another monument towards Old Road, and between the two monuments is one mile- that’s constitutes the living area of the residents…the ancestors did their thing for the village but we are all ancestors [who have] come back to do unfinished work,” he noted.

Brother Simon also sought to clear up some of the misconceptions have about libation.

“People need to understand that we are the soul and the spirit, we came on this earth with a package [in which] there are lessons to be learnt. These lessons are not ordained or given by mankind; we set our own lessons and exams before we come down; if we do not learn the lessons now, we got to come back again to do those exams all over again,” he further observed.

The libation ceremony was followed by a cultural presentation which includ-

ed drumming, singing, folklore, dance, poetry, a performance by the Buxton Steel Orchestra and a feature address. The headline act was the iconic veteran band, Dave Martins and the Tradewinds.

Sister Yvette Herod explained that sometime today (Monday), there will be feeding of elders at the market in the area. She explained that the elders who are unable to come to the market will have the meals delivered to them by young people in the community as a mark of respect.

She also noted that these activities form part of the traditions that the elders have passed down throughout the generations.

“You give back to them because they are the ones in the community who have been carrying on the traditions for years,” Herod pointed out.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016

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Clinton accuses Trump of scapegoating Muslim soldier's parents

D

emocratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton accused Donald Trump on Sunday of scapegoating the parents of a Muslim soldier killed in Iraq, after the Republican nominee took issue with remarks the soldier's father made at the Democratic National Convention.

Trump, in an ABC interview that aired on Sunday, questioned why Ghazala Khan, mother of US Army Captain Humayun Khan, stood quietly by her husband, Khizr Khan, as he took the stage at last week's Democratic convention in Philadelphia.

Trump suggested the mother might not have been "allowed" to speak.

Speaking at a church service, Clinton said Trump had been insulting to a family who had sacrificed so much. She also used the episode to contrast her own religious faith with that of Trump, who has spoken of religion on the campaign trail infrequently.

"I don't begrudge anyone of any other faith or of no faith at all, but I do tremble before those who would scapegoat other Americans, who would insult people because of their religion, their ethnicity, their disability,"

15

The Khans at the Democratic National Convention

Clinton said in remarks at the Imani Temple Ministries, an African-American church in Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

"It's just not how I was raised, that's not how I was taught in my church," said Clinton, who grew up as a Methodist. "Tim Kaine and I are people of faith," she said, referring to her vice presidential running mate, who is a Catholic.

Top Republican lawmakers Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell also condemned Trump's remarks in separate statements, although they did not mention their presidential candidate by name. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazilians protest in Rio as city prepares for Olympics

P

rotesters turned out Sunday for lightly attended demonstrations in Rio against embattled President Dilma Rousseff five days before the start of the 2016 Olympic Games.

About 4000 protesters gathered on the beach at Copacabana in a festive atmosphere with sound trucks blasting out a mix of samba and the national anthem.

Marchers carried an enormous banner that read "Dilma out and prison for Lula," a reference to former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who was charged Friday with obstruction of justice in an ongoing corruption probe.

"We want our country back and for these people to go," said Vilma Moniz Portella, a lawyer carrying a small inflatable doll of the judge leading the probe into

Supporters of Brazilian suspended President Dilma Rousseff hold a protest against interim President Michel Temer, in Sao Paulo, Brazil on July 31, 2016

bribes and kickbacks at State oil giant Petrobras.

The scandal has shaken Brazil's political and business establishment, casting a shadow over the August 5-21 Olympic Games, the first-ever held in a South American country.

Marchers said the turnout was smaller in Rio than at past protests calling for Rousseff's impeachment

that have attracted hundreds of thousands of people. Thousands more demonstrated for Rousseff across the country.

Rousseff's impeachment trial for alleged violations of budgeting rules is set to begin August 29. A two-thirds vote by the Senate would remove her from office.

Suspended from office May 12, she was replaced

on an interim basis by Vice President Michel Temer. If Rousseff is ousted, he would finish out her mandate, which runs until the end of 2018.

Rousseff's supporters, meanwhile, were expecting thousands of protesters to turn out for demonstrations against Temer in several cities. (Excerpt from AFP)

India: Dalits protest over Gujarat attacks A bout 25,000 members of India's low-caste Dalit community have rallied in the western state of Gujarat in protest at attacks on their members.

Anger among Dalits has been mounting since four young men were stripped and beaten in public as they took a dead cow for skinning earlier this month. Protesters pledged to boycott some of their traditional tasks, including the disposal of dead animals and

manual cleaning of sewers.

Cows are considered sacred by Hindus. Killing them is banned in Gujarat, although villagers said the animal that sparked the attack on the youths had died of natural causes.

The organiser of Sunday's protest, Jignesh Mevani, told the crowd that Dalits needed firearms to protect themselves.

"Neither the BJP nor Congress will come to our help," Mevani said. "Only our

united strength will help us fight the age-old oppression."

Dalit leaders also told the rally that a 24-year-old man who had taken poison to protest against the attack on the youths had died of his injuries in hospital on Sunday. (Times of India)

16 news

monDAY, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

VOX POPULI

What the people say

I SAY...

What are your thoughts on the dress codes for public offices?

Dwayne McKinnon – Georgetown

“The dress code should be removed since we are located in the tropical zone which makes it uncomfortable for us to be fully clothed, especially when the place is scorching hot. I believe the restriction of our attire should be removed from public places. I believe people should still be cognisant of decency when they are entering these public offices.”

Chris Comacho – Georgetown

“I believe the dress code should be removed from all offices, but the employees of these places should maintain their formal dress code to upkeep their work standards. With the removal of the dress code, persons should not abuse the privilege and walk into these offices with skimpy clothing that would be distasteful to the sight of others.”

Lilawatee Arjune – Georgetown

“I think the dress code is absolutely ridiculous. What does one’s clothing have to do with an establishment tasked to provide service to the public? I mean if someone’s attire is distracting to the staff of that establishment, then they probably should not be working there.

Dress code is uncalled for in this tropical zone.”

Colwyn Abrams – Linden

Michael James – Linden

Leandre Richards – Linden

“Yes, I do think that public dress codes should be relaxed.

I think it’s a hindrance to progress. This is a hot country.

Why must a woman wear sleeved clothing to do public business? I think it’s very out of time.”

“I think that certain places should relax their dress codes, but in that way you need to have a conscience as a person visiting these places. Some places definitely need to relax their dress codes a bit, but not too much. The short pants should not be part for males, but for females covered tops only allowed, no armless.”

Videsh Sooknarine – Essequibo Coast

Makram Lall – Essequibo Coast

“I personally feel that the rules for the dress code should be relaxed, especially at Government offices. It’s very rude to send home someone.

I am sure persons are mature enough to know what is decent and what is not, but sometimes you are just busy and then you remember a specific thing you have to do without realising you have on armless, I think security guards should be lenient.”

“I think security guards should be lenient; the rules should be relaxed at most Government offices, not everyone can dress professional or afford such, not everyone can afford boots on their feet, slippers are also a footwear and people wear what they can afford, once it’s decent the rules should be relaxed; people can dress decent while wearing armless, it’s just a matter of consideration.”

“The public dress code is fine as it is. If you leave these little children to dress anyhow, it’s going to cause trouble. I believe if you’re doing business, at least dress like you are. I don’t take people seriously if they are dressed like they are going to a hooker bar, so leave the code as is. Guyana needs to stop following the US with some of their crap like [no] dress codes.

We have bigger fish to fry, like human rights.”

Quincy Mathias – Region Five

“I don’t like wearing long pants. It is stupid, you have to dress in long pants to go and pay them their money. Imagine GPL and GRA, they don’t even have proper accommodation, but since you reach the gate and if you aren’t dressed how they want you to dress, the guards tell you that you can’t come in. I think it needs to change. These are Government offices and we vote for a change and a good life, not to be harassed.

When you go to the Region office at Fort Wellington is the same thing.”

FEATURE

17

monDay, august 1, 2016 | guyana-times.com

Village Feature

Buxton, a village rich in history F

ormerly Plantation Orange Nassau, Buxton is one of the most established African communities on the East Coast Demerara, located approximately nine miles from the capital city, Georgetown.

The community got its name from Sir Thomas Buxton, who fought for the abolition of slavery.

Buxton was bought for $50,000 by ex-slaves in 1840.

Its sister village, Friendship, formerly Plantation Friendship, was purchased in 1841 for $80,000 and together these two villages were amalgamated, forming Buxton-Friendship, whose inhabitants refer to it as just Buxton.

This move represented victory for Buxton’s postemancipation. During that time, one of the first things the slaves did was to make lands available for the construction of schools and churches, for housing and farming, drainage and other infrastructure, Community leader Fitzroy Young told the Government Information Agency (GINA).

Young explained that the purchasers sought to provide the necessary infrastructure to ensure that the people educated themselves, and they built a church in order to thank God for their freedom. The ex-slaves also pro-

“They created an economy because once they distributed the house lots at the front of the Village, they distributed plots of land at the back of the Village, which they called the Backdam, and those plots became productive plots where they would plant cash crop and sell on the open market. They also got into cane farming, where they planted canes and sold to the estate,” Dr Hinds explained.

Village leaders Fitzroy Young, Linden France, Yvette Herod, Ronald Willabus, Neptune and Morris Wilson

Even after the Village gained its freedom, the struggle continued since the slaves who worked on the plantation removed themselves from that system and the colonial masters then had to pay for labourers.

In 1856, the British

The Buxton Health Centre

vided large expanses of land for farming cash crops.

Dr David Hinds, an Associate Professor, a Buxtonian and village leader, noted that after a period of struggle the villagers managed to create their own government by establishing a village council to manage the community’s affairs.

carrying the Governor, and forced him to listen to their grievances. With his train surrounded by angry villagers, the Governor promised that Buxtonians would be exempted from those taxes.

Hinds noted that even against all those odds, the villagers still managed to build an economy, in fact small businesses became part of the character of the Village, several cakeshops, grocery stores, even bakeries, coconut factories and a mattress factory were established.

Community leader Linden France explained that the Africans, especially those in Buxton, have contributed significantly to business development in Guyana, which includes going into the gold fields to find jobs. “Why hasn’t there been a transition of those businesses?…

We had all these baker shops, some say we had eleven, but I can recall seven, but we had

Guiana Legislature gave the government the right to enact improvement taxes on the properties of the villagers; this led to a standoff between the government and the purchasers of Buxton.

Further, in another effort to settle this dispute, some villagers, led by the women, decided to block the train

all these baker shops but we don’t own a major bakery selling bread throughout the country and exporting other things we produce, and that’s a question we need to answer as we ponder the future of Buxton-Friendship,” France explained.

He noted that the famous folk song ‘Itaname’ originated from Buxton when seven brothers drowned while paddling in a boat passing the Mora Falls trying to get into the gold fields.

In 1938, a monument was erected on the 100th anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery, to separate the farmlands from the housing areas. During that same period the railway embankment was established to facilitate the selling of goods and produce.

Community leader Yvette Herod explained that Victoria, also located on the East Coast Demerara, was the first to be bought by slaves, however Buxton got its transport first leading some to query whether Buxton was the first to be bought.

Buxton today

Today, this community is known as one of the most traditional African settlements on East Cost Demerara, with a population of 8000. On any given afternoon the community is mostly quiet. Men and women on bicycles or on foot are returning home from work and guiding their livestock from the open pastures on which they spent the day grazing.

This community sits on very fertile land which is surrounded by an irrigation system, including the well-known Company Canal.

Local farmers produce a variety of vegetables and fruits, including the locally famous ‘Buxton Spice’ mango. This mango is unique to Buxton, being fleshy and sweet like others, but having a unique spicy taste.

Buxton is characterised by its churches, two primary and nursery schools, a health centre, secondary school, a Practical Instruction Centre, and water distribution system, among other amenities.

This community also has an established bakery and a service station, which is being transformed into a minimall.

There is also the famous Tipperary Hall, which is used for community activities.

But while these infrastructures are in place, the education system within the community has deteriorated over the last two decades, Community leader and educator Deon Abrams said.

Buxtonian drums

Neptune

on

the

At one time, the community was considered to be highly affected by external criminal influences, which caused activities to cease by 16:00h under state-imposed curfew.

The community also moved from two high schools to zero, from four primary schools to two. All of these negatively impacted the collapse in the education system.

The Village leaders believe that the establishment of a Village policy and literacy programme by the Government can improve the many challenges faced by the community today.

Contribution to preserving African culture

The Buxton community has significantly contributed to the preservation of the African culture in Guyana.

Each year, the community organises a week of activities to celebrate Emancipation Day on August 1.

On the eve of the emancipation anniversary, there is a cultural presentation in the community, where the residents participate in drumming and singing of folk songs.

On August 1, there is the feeding programme for the elderly where young people will take a variety of traditional foods, including conkee, cook-up, metemgee and the drink, mauby, to their homes. The Buxton First of August Movement has been playing a major role in these activities, Community leader Herod noted.

As part of their cultural practices the community continues to have their quehqueh on the eve of weddings, and to teach the young people folk songs. Buxton also has a very vibrant steel-band group known as the Buxton Pride Steel Orchestra. This group has won several national steel-band competitions and usually participates in national events.

While some of the African culture is being lost, the Buxton-Friendship community continues to maintain their tradition and also teach the youths about the rich African cultural tapestry. (GINA)

18

guyana-times.com

monday, august 1, 2016

ARCHIE

Get involved in activities or events that will allow you (March 21- to show off what you have to April 19) offer. A personal change will give you greater stability and tame any insecurity you harbour.

ARIES

Spend time with the peoTAURUS ple who make a difference in (April 20- your life. Take care of health May 20) issues. Consider an alternative approach as well as a traditional method of treatment.

dilbert

Don't share personal seGEMINI crets or beliefs. Someone will (May 21take advantage of you if you June 20) are too forthcoming. A personal change will help build confidence. Romance is highlighted.

Refuse to let moodiness CANCER take over. You will get more (June 21- sympathy and workable soJuly 22) lutions if you share your concerns without showing anger or criticism. Work with, not against, the majority.

Peanuts

A personal gain will come LEO from an unexpected source.

(July 23You'll meet someone interestAug. 22) ing while travelling or reunite with people from your past.

Take your time responding to an offer.

Socialise with colleagues VIRGO and you will find out infor(Aug. 23mation that will help you get Sept. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

ahead. An unusual opportunity will be made available. Don't let anyone limit your chance to try something different.

Consider where the inforLIBRA mation you are receiving is (Sept. 23coming from before you let Oct. 23) your emotions take over. You are better off critiquing yourself, not others, if you want to avoid discord.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

Travel outside your usuSCORPIO al realm.

Getting a broader (Oct. 24spectrum will stir your imagNov. 22) ination and help you create a personal environment that suits your nature. Let your emotions be your guide.

Put your time and effort SAGITTARIUS into personal improvement.

(Nov. 23- The less you do with people ofDec. 21) fering indulgent temptations, the easier it will be to take care of business and build a stable future

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Use your emotions to your CAPRICORN benefit.

You can manipulate (Dec. 22Jan. 19) a situation if you are tactful and persuasive. A deal will have strings attached. Check the fine print.

Look at change as a new AQUARIUS beginning filled with opportu(Jan. 20nity and something that will Feb. 19) motivate you to learn and expand your interests. Turn a negative into a positive.

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” is not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed. To contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe, write to Word Game, Kathleen Saxe, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

PISCES Protect against being judged (Feb. 20- by someone from a different March 20) background by offering an am-

icable solution to any disagreement that arises. Being able to find the good in whatever you encounter will pay off.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016

19

West Indies vs India, 2nd Test, Kingston

Rahul's career-best 158 arms India with strong lead F

lawless innings are fairly rare in Test cricket. After all, the bowler gets to dictate some of the terms too. KL Rahul listened to them patiently, respected them when they made good points but did not cede his upper hand. His career-best 158 thrust India into the lead.

At the other end was Cheteshwar Pujara, who spent a full hour running away from making runs. He was 18 off 57 overnight and stayed on 18 until he faced his 92nd ball of the match.

Much was made of his runout after lunch. Facing 159 balls and being dismissed in that fashion evokes critique but there were mitigating circumstances.

Runs and records awaited anyone willing to show a little application on this Sabina Park pitch. But like a grandparent doting on their favourite grandkid in the middle of a party, it did embarrass them on the odd occasion. Like when Pujara nudged a short delivery from Jason Holder into the leg side. He meant for it to go a lot finer, but the ball had come onto the bat slower than expected and went off it in the same way, allowing Roston Chase who was in front of square, to cut across and throw the stumps down.

The third umpire was called on, but Pujara, who was face-down on the ground at the non-strikers' end, knew all his hard work had come undone by one dreadful mistake. He was four short of fifty.

Meanwhile, Rahul kept cruising. He had driven extremely well and by now wasn't afraid to extend the arms and hit over the top. A good IPL - whether it makes one ready for international cricket - certainly does wonders to his confidence. Rahul had outshone Chris Gayle in the last season and his attacking game was on point in Kingston.

West Indies, it seemed, were a mirror image. There was no ambition. They did not take the new ball when it was available and instead fed a new batsman with spin.

Considering that new batsman was Virat Kohli, who is susceptible to the seamers outside the off stump, it was quite baffling. With very little resistance, a ninth - out of 12 - Indian partnership crossed fifty in this series.

Things changed after tea.

KL Rahul punches the air in delight

West Indies took the new ball and put it in Shannon Gabriel's hands. With him coming back from an ankle injury, it seemed like his team was perennially juggling chances of victory with those of him going out of commission again. Hamstring trouble for Miguel Cummins complicated matters further; the debutant was the only one to consistently aim at the stumps. Ask Pujara, who was beaten on the inside edge, outside edge and rapped on his top hand.

Gabriel had had nine overs' downtime when the new ball had become available, but the additional respite seemed to have helped since he took out Rahul and troubled Kohli too. The India captain had been perturbed by outswingers - 8 off 33 at one point - and while

SCOREBOARD West Indies 1st Innings 196 India 1st innings KL Rahul c †Dowrich b Gabriel 158 S Dhawan c Bravo b Chase 27 CA Pujara run out (Chase) 46 V Kohli*c Chandrika b Chase 44 AM Rahane not out 42 R Ashwin lbw b Bishoo 3 WP Saha†not out 17 Extras (b 8, lb 1, w 5, nb 7) 21 Total (5 wickets; 125 overs) 358 To bat A Mishra, Mohammed Shami, I Sharma, UT Yadav Fall of wickets 1-87 (Dhawan, 19.3 ov), 2-208 (Pujara, 72.2 ov), 3-277 (Rahul, 95.4 ov), 4-310 (Kohli, 103.3 ov), 5-327 (Ashwin, 112.1 ov) Bowling: ST Gabriel 23-8-50-1, ML Cummins 15.4-3-54-0, JO Holder 23.2 -9-49-0,RL Chase 29-3-91-2,D Bishoo 25-3-791, KC Brathwaite 9-0-26-0

his guard was up for that, he couldn't prevent an inswinger thudding into the pads.

Height saved him in umpire Aleem Dar's judgment.

West Indies got Kohli and R Ashwin in the final hour of play but Ajinkya Rahane took the lead past 150.

Things were better in the morning. There weren't many runs scored - 59 in 26 overs; there weren't many fans around - sad for a Sunday; there were no wickets but there was a contest.

With clear skies welcoming the players on the second day, the likelihood of the ball seaming about had reduced. It was time to go back to camping just outside off stump for as long as it took to spot the rare, flirty Indian outside edge. Gabriel found one in his second over, but it didn't carry to second slip. Darren Bravo, at first, stomped his foot. Pujara simply resumed batting.

Rahul's scariest moment came when the length was much shorter, a 144 kph delivery that seamed in at his ribs. Rahul assumed the line was a lot wider and had committed into a cut shot and only barely avoided being caught behind. Gabriel was the aggrieved bowler, and fit the profile too, with a look that loosely translated to "where are my *$&#^ wickets?" His first spell was five overs - the longest he has bowled on the trot in this series - and gave away only three runs.

The last time India played in Jamaica a Rahul scored a century. So it was again when this Rahul came down the track and smacked the offspin of Chase into the stands at long-on. It was a shot definitive of the knock,

showing how the batsman had read the threat of the ball early and how firm he was with his footwork. The only thing it didn't make clear was how effective he had been in keeping the good ones out. A delighted fist-pump, an authoritative raise of his bat and a hug from M Vijay, who came out with drinks, were part of the celebrations.

Rahul's top five scores in descending order read: 110, 108, 107*, 16, 7. Symptoms of a good player, but a nervous starter. So even with the 75 runs he had overnight, there were questions that needed answering. West Indies had a set plan at the start - the extra pace of Gabriel allied to Holder's wide-outside-off lines to restrict run flow and create pressure. An anxious batsman could have been led into a mistake, but Rahul was careful. And decisive too - when he went back, he went right back. When he went forward, he was more or less meeting the ball on the half-volley. Not since

Miguel Cummins hurt his hamstring during the second of the Tests

Mohammad Azharuddin in 1984-85 had an India batsman converted his first three fifties into hundreds.

Rahul is working towards making himself undroppable. Vijay, currently injured, Kohli and Rahane are India's best Test batsmen. Shikhar Dhawan has

shown an improved judgement outside his off stump, an area he had previously struggled with. Pujara hits big hundreds, his inability to do so on Sunday hurt him. Will it hurt his career too? One of them can't make an Indian XI with five bowlers. (Cricinfo)

20

GUYANA-TIMES.COM

MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016

GCC Softball 10/10 tournament

Speedboat crowned champions, Hussain scores 223*

Shamzim Hussain scored 223*, the higest score in a 10/10 tournament in Guyana

By Romario Samaroo

S

peedboat team emerged victorious in the Georgetown Cricket Club softball 10/10 tournament walking away with $90,000 cash prize, hosted on Sunday at the GCC ground, Bourda.

The tournament originally slated for the weekend, but due to the inclement weather was only allowed to play on Sunday saw an action packed day inclusive of five high profile games with Speedboat team emerging the overall champions.

The surprise event of the day say two female teams going head to head for bragging rights in a five a side contest. Dyna’s Warriors managed 30 in their five overs with Raquel Parris

ease racing to 90 for the loss of seven.

Noble house then contested against the mighty Dyna’s Scorpions to see who would play Speedboat XI in the finals. Noble House posted an entertaining 142 from their 10 overs with Amir Khan making a promising 93. Dyna’s Scorpions then crumbled again for 70 making it two defeats in just as many games.

The final was set with Speedboat taking on Noble House. Speedboat won the toss and elected to bat posting a commanding 152 in their 10 overs lead by Anand Bharrat’s top score of 41.

The challenge put forward

by Noble House looked like a close contest with Amir Khan once again contributing with a solid 45, but all

Raquel Parris receiving her best player award in the women's contest

scoring a match winning 17 over the Dyna’s Scorpions (Females) who only managed 20.

In the first match of the day, Speedboat destroyed Dyna’s Scorpions posting a massive 254 lead by a strong 223* from Shamzim Hussain. Hussain smashed 31 maximums in his innings making him the first player to score a double hundred in a ten over tournament at Bourda. In reply, Scorpions managed a meager 18 all out.

In the second contest, Noble House went up against the Speedboat team posting 89 runs from their 10 overs and the Speedboat team chased it down with

hope seemed to be lost as the overs quickly ran out, leaving Noble House stranded on 90/5.

Graham Alli, club captain of the GCC was in high praises of the efforts made by the teams as well as Paul’s Imports and Distributors noting that this event was particularly important as it was looking to raise funds to restore the historic GCC. Alli added that based on the success of this tournament, the management of the GCC are already looking forward to planning a next tournament slated for November and is looking to introduce more females into the competition as well as start a female GCC softball team.

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Chase are Champions!

— Caesar’s special seals title bid

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Digicel's Schools Football Championship...

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Dethroned: The former champions Christianburg/Wismar Secondary School and Director of Sport Christopher Jones

By Akeem Greene

A

stupendous free-kick by the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) Jobe Caesar sealed the 1-0 victory for Chase Academic Foundation in the final of the Digicel’s Schools Football Championships against defending four-time champions Christianburg/

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far less attractive than that of the first stanza with Chase playing somewhat of a "holding ball" which nullified the attacking atmosphere of the match.

It was until the 75th that Chase's Ryan Hackett brought the crowd to life with powerful strike from

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Jobe Caesar collects his MVP award from the tournament’s Co-ordinator Lavern Fraser

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becoming wary of the fact that time was running out to retain their title, as they got a corner that which they strangely floated into the hands of the keeper without any pressure being applied.

84 minutes on the clock, Stephon Reynolds looked to seal the win, taking a shot that crashed into the side netting.

Third place finishers Sir Leon’s Lesson collect their trophy from Digicel’s Head of Customer Care Sherwin Osboure

Wismar Secondary on Sunday at the National Stadium, Providence.

Watched by a small but boisterous crowd, Caesar produced a stunner of a goal, taking a free kick with his right foot from the edge of the 18-yard box that

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double the scores with an excellent header that went over inches over the cross bar.

Chase continued to be the dominant team, creating far more opportunities that went wanting but they still managed to finish the first half ahead of the defending champions.

The second half began

sailed into the top left corner of the net in the 24th minute.

Moments later Nicolas McArthur had a chance to

inside the box that required a leaping save by the custodian to keep the score line from changing.

The Linden unit were

The fight for an equaliser continued for the Linden unit but it was to no avail as the city team smartly defended to cop their first title after after finishing as runners-up last year.

The Chase team walked with $1, 00,000 which will go towards funding a school project and the corresponding trophy while Christiansburg received $700,000 and their trophy.

Earlier in the day Sir Leon's Lesson defeated fourtime Region five champions Bush Lot Secondary 4-2, to win the third place play-off.

A double by Adrian Aaron in the 30th in the 45+1 and supporting goals

by Omari James (55th) and Keifer Brandt (69th) sealed allowed their team to collect the $400,000 prize for their third placed finish.

For the Berbice unit, Tyrone Miller (7th) and Shaquille DeHarte (71st) scored in a losing cause which meant their team finished in fourth, walking away with $350,000 and the corresponding trophy; a $100,000 prize was awarded to each zone winner.

22

GUYANA-TIMES.COM

MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2016…

Bravo leads Knight Riders to morale-boosting victory

BY JOHN RAMSINGH AT CENTRAL BROWARD REGIONAL PARK, LAUDERHILL

D

efending champions Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) end the group stage of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) with a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over the bottom of the table St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots in match 29 at the Central Broward Regional Park, Lauderhill.

Faf du Plessis called cor-

rectly at the toss and decided to bat but wickets began to tumble from the fourth over and in the end the Patriots made an inadequate 137/6 from their allotment of 20 overs mainly due to the bowling feats of Dwayne Bravo and Sunil Narine.

Kiran Powell got the innings going with some lusty blows but it was the hero of the previous encounter between the two teams, Evin Lewis who was first to go.

Lewis was easily taken at

SCOREBOARD St Kitts and Nevis Patriots innings (20 overs maximum) KOA Powell c & b Devcich 23 E Lewis c Perkins b Bravo 1 F du Plessis* b Bravo 0 LMP Simmons not out 60 JL Carter st †Ramdin b Narine 23 SSJ Brooks b Bravo 17 DC Thomas† c & b Bravo 8 Extras (lb-1, w-4) 5 Total (6 wickets; 20 overs) 137 Did not bat; NLTC Perera, K Santokie, S Badree, JS Louis Fall of wickets 1-21 (Lewis, 3.2 ov), 2-21 (du Plessis, 3.6 ov), 3-25 (Powell, 4.2 ov), 4-69 (Carter, 11.4 ov), 5-123 (Brooks, 17.4 ov), 6-137 (Thomas, 19.6 ov) Bowling: AP Devcich 4-0-27-1, RR Beaton 4-0-35-0 (w-1), SP Narine 4-1-9-1 (w-1), DJ Bravo

4-0-13-4 (w-1), NO Miller 2-022-0, KK Cooper 2-0-30-0 (w-1) Trinbago Knight Riders innings (target: 138 runs from 20 overs) HM Amla c Santokie b Louis 6 WKD Perkins c du Plessis b Carter 29 D Ramdin† not out 52 BB McCullum not out 43 Extras (lb-5, w-3) 8 Total (2 wickets; 17 overs) 138 Did not bat; Umar Akmal, DJ Bravo*, AP Devcich, SP Narine, KK Cooper, RR Beaton, NO Miller Fall of wickets 1-6 (Amla, 0.4 ov), 2-64 (Perkins, 7.6 ov) Bowling: JS Louis 3-0-25-1, S Badree 4-0-32-0 (w-1), NLTC Perera 3-0-19-0, K Santokie 3-0-18-0, LMP Simmons 1-09-0, JL Carter 3-0-30-1

gully by William Perkins to be the first of four victims from Bravo. Powell, who was playing his first match after a collision with JJ Smuts on July 13 at the Kensington Oval against the Tridents was going great guns but was at the non-strikers end when Captain du Plessis was out done by Bravo. Powell followed in the next over for 23 (17 balls; 3x4; 1x6) at 25/3 when Anton Devcich took a stunner off of his own bowling.

Lendl Simmons who came in at number four got the recovery going with Jonathan Carter when they put on 44 for the fourth wicket before Carter was stumped off of the economical Sunil Narine. Simmons then added 54 with Shamarh Brooks before the innings ended when Devon

Teams

Thomas was taken by Bravo off his own bowling off the final delivery of the innings.

Simmons was unbeaten on 60 (40 balls; 3x4; 4x6) but the total was never going to give the defending champs any trouble. Bravo who took the Man of the Match prize with outstanding figures of 4-0-13-4 while Narine was very difficult to negotiate with 4-1-9-1. Devcich took the other wicket.

Hashim Amla and William Perkins set out to give the TKR a perfect start for a morale boosting victory heading into the playoffs but debutant Jeremiah Louis struck in his first over.

Amla took a boundary and a double before he spooned one to Krishmar Santokie at mid-on. Fifty eight runs later Perkins went but the writing was on the wall and the Patriots were not going

Fans of Trinbago Knight Riders (photo by Randy Brooks/Sportsfile)

to beat the defending champions for the second consecutive time in the United States of America. Perkins went for 29 with four fours and a six from 24 balls but Denesh Ramdin who bat-

Mat Won Lost N/R

Pts Net RR

Guyana Amazon Warriors

10

7

3

0

14

+0.120

Jamaica Tallawahs

10

6

3

1

13

+0.704

St Lucia Zouks

10

6

4

0

12

+0.336

Trinbago Knight Riders

10

5

5

0

10

-0.065

Barbados Tridents

10

3

6

1

7

-0.267

St Kitts and Nevis Patriots

10

2

8

0

4

-0.772

ted at number four kept going and with Brendon Mc Cullum ensured the Knight Riders win their fifth match with 18 balls remaining.

Ramdin was 52 not out from 46 balls with six fours while the Kiwi Mc Cullum who was short of runs ended on 43 from 28 balls after hitting two fours and three sixes.

Jonathan Carter was the other wicket taker for the Patriots who end the tournament firmly at the bottom of the points table with four points from two victories while the Knight Riders will move on to the next stage of the tournament where they will next play the St. Lucia Zouks on Thursday August 4 in the eliminator.

GUYANA-TIMES.COM

MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016

23

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2016…

Zouks crush Tallawahs ahead of play-offs — Amazon Warriors finish in first position

BY JOHN RAMSINGH AT CENTRAL BROWARD REGIONAL PARK, LAUDERHILL

I

t was dead rubber but nothing was dead in terms of excitement as the red hot St. Lucia Zouks made it two in a row on over the Jamaica Tallawahs on Sunday at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill Florida with a 17-run victory for the second day in a row. The game ended the Florida leg of CPL and also the preliminary round of matches as the top four teams head to Basseterre for championship honours.

Both the Zouks and Tallawahs were guaranteed places in the next phase of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) before the final preliminary match of the tournament and the final match in Florida but that did not mean much as both teams were seek-

Hero Caribbean Premier League Play-Offs Fixtures Wed Aug 3 19:00h Playoff 1 - Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Jamaica Tallawahs (1st v 2nd)

Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts Thu Aug 4 19:00h Playoff 2 - St Lucia Zouks vs Trinbago Knight Riders (3rd v 4th)

Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts Fri Aug 5 20:00h Playoff 3 - TBC vs TBC (Playoff 2 Winner vs Playoff 1 Loser)

Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts Sun Aug 7 19:00h Final - TBC vs TBC (Playoff 1 Winner vs Playoff 3 Winner)

Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts

When Charles was caught

by Chadwick Walton on the midwicket fence off Garey Mathurin the score was already 104 in the 12th over and a huge total was on the cards. Charles over took Chris Lynn of the Amazon Warriors as the leading rin scorer and is the first batsman to past the 400-run barrier, he now has 410 runs.

Mike Hussey came and went quickly for eight but Fletcher was growing in confidence at the other end and began to cut loose. He was eventually taken by Walton, his third catch of

SCOREBOARD St Lucia Zouks innings (20 overs maximum) ADS Fletcher† c Walton b Powell 70 J Charles c Walton b Mathur in 64 MEK Hussey c Walton b Powell 8 SR Watson not out 42 DJG Sammy* not out 6 Extras (lb-1, w-2, nb-1) 4 Total (3 wickets; 20 overs) 194 Did not bat; GD Elliott, GD Pope, DA Miller, DE Johnson, S Shillingford, JE Taylor Fall of wickets 1-104 (Charles, 11.2 ov), 2-133 (Hussey, 15.1 ov), 3-152 (Fletcher, 17.2 ov) Bowling: Imad Wasim 4-030-0, Shakib Al Hasan 3-021-0, KOK Williams 4-0-380 (nb-1, w-1), GE Mathurin 4-0-40-1, R Powell 4-0-452 (w-1), TP Allen 1-0-19-0 Jamaica Tallawahs innings (target: 195 runs from 20 overs)

ing momentum ahead of the business end of the championship.

The St. Lucia Zouks were invited to bat first by Chris Gayle the Tallawahs Captain and they obliged by posting 194/3 from their 20 overs after posting 206/3 against the same opponents just one day before. In the match on Saturday the Zouks posted the highest score of this year’s CPL and it got them over the rope by 63 runs when the Tallawahs were limited to 143/8. In the final preliminary match the Tallawahs were restricted to 177/6 falling short by 17 runs.

In match 30, the result was the same with Johnson Charles and Andre Fletcher laying the foundation for the mammoth total for the Zouks. Charles powered his way to his fourth half century this season with 64 from 35 balls (9x4; 2x6) and totally dominated the opening stand with Fletcher.

CAK Walton c Miller b Shillingford 15 CH Gayle* c Sammy b Watson 30 KC Sangakkara† c Miller b Pop e 24 R Powell b Shillingford 28 AD Russell c Elliott b Johnson 21 TP Allen c Watson b Taylor 19 AI Ross not out 23 Shakib Al Hasan not out 9 Extras (b-5, lb-1, w-2) 8 Total (6 wickets; 20 overs) 177 Did not bat; GE Mathurin, KOK Williams, Imad Wasim Fall of wickets 1-43 (Gayle, 4.2 ov), 2-51 (Walton, 5.5 ov), 3-75 (Sangakkara, 9.1 ov), 4-110 (Russell, 12.4 ov), 5-142 (Powell, 15.3 ov), 6-146 (Allen, 16.3 ov) Bowling: DE Johnson 4-0-421 (w-1), JE Taylor 4-0-38-1, SR Watson 4-0-26-1 (w-1), S Shillingford 4-0-30-2, GD Elliott 2-0-27-0, GD Pope 2-0-8-1

the innings at 152/3 in the 18th over. Fletcher made 70 from 54 balls with five fours and five maximums. The last 10 overs went for 98 runs mainly due to Fletcher and Shane Watson who was not out on 42 with five maximums from 17 balls while Darren Sammy hit a four from the four deliveries he faced to finish on six not out then it was over to the bowlers who ensured that the Zouks finished on 12 points after their sixth victory.

They will play the Trinbago Knight Riders on Thursday August 4 in St. Kitts in the eliminator at 19:00h while the Tallawahs who have lost both of their fixtures in Florida to the Zouks will take on table toppers the Guyana Amazon Warriors on Wednesday August 3 also at Warner Park in St. Kitts in the qualifier for the final.

The target was always going to be uphill for the Tallawahs and they needed a splendid knock from their talisman batsman Gayle

or another one of their outstanding batsmen but it was not to be as the Zouks bowlers and fielders were not going to let the first innings work go to waste. Gayle and Walton were ot of the blocks in a hurry but at 43 in the fifth over Gayle was taken brilliantly by his opposite number at long off.

The bowler to inflict the breakthrough was Watson while Gayle hit three fours and two sixes from the 15 deliveries he faced in making 30. No other Jamaica Tallawahs batsman copped with the pressure of scoring

at about 10 runs per over and they were eventually 17 runs short.

Off spinner Shane Shillingford claimed two wickets to be the pick of the bowlers with four other bowlers sharing four wickets. The ground fielding was impressive and David Miller took two splendid catches to ensure that the Zouks go on to the next stage with momentum while the Tallawahs will have to bounce back if they will remain in contention for their second CPL title.

Rovman Powell, Kumar Sangakkara, Alex Ross and Andre Russell got starts but failed to kick on with the Tallawahs finishing on 13 points to be second in the points standings with six victories and three defeats.

The move of taking CPL to Florida, USA was successful with the six matches in four days producing results while the spectators

Zouks batsman Andre Fletcher (left) hits a six over midwicket as Kumar Sangakkara (right) looks on(Photo Ashley Allen/Sportsfile)

came out in their numbers to enjoy excellent cricket in true Caribbean style. The prospects are bright for CPL in the USA it appears as if the CPL-USA partnership will grow from strength to

strength.

The top four teams head to St. Kitts and Nevis for finals weekend at Warner Park for four more matches with the final set for Sunday August 7.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016

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

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2016…

Pg 23

Zouks crush Tallawahs ahead of play-offs Digicel's Schools Football Championship...

Pg 21

The new champions Chase Academic Foundation celebrate their win in the presence of Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde (left) and Director of Sport Christopher Jones (Paul Vanvield photo)

Chase are Champions!

— Caesar’s special seals title bid

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