Ex-cop freed in Shaquille Grant murder Housewife nabbed with cocaine at Ogle Airport
Good Offices Process should not be abandoned
60 murders recorded in 2015 thus far
Beheading of MFK owner: Police send file to DPP for advice
Banks DIH Group records 10% profit increase in midyear report
President David Granger being briefed on the operations of ExxonMobil's oil rig, the Deepwater Champion
A minibus using the temporary fix at the washed out culvert at Mora, along the Linden-Lethem road
Former President Donald Ramotar, former Government Ministers Irfaan Ali, Clement Rohee and other supporters on the picket line outside GECOM on Thursday
Govt makes temporary fix to washed out Linden-Lethem road
Engineers were on Thursday busy constructing a temporary fix for parts of the Lethem trail that crumbled as a result of the
by regional officials saw a diversion being put in place to allow the flow of small traffic. Large wooden planks bridging the gap and allowing smaller vehi -
plained that the District Development Officer initially set up the planks as a temporary fix, however, after the situation worsened on Tuesday, the
heavy down pours over the past few days in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo).
Sections of the trail were washed away due to the persistent rainfall throughout the week.
cles to cross but the larger vehicles such as trucks and log-trailers were left stranded. Then on Tuesday another culvert, this time in the vicinity of Mora gave away. Even though the gap at this breakage reached
Guyana Times was made to understand that two major culverts along the trail broke, leaving travellers stranded. The first breakage was at the Annai Junction, leaving a gap of about 10 to 15 feet in the middle of the roadway. However, quick action
25 feet, it continues to widen with more rainfall.
Speaking with this newspaper, Regional Executive Officer (REO) Claire Singh noted that the North Rupununi section was mostly affected by the consistent rainfall over the past few days. She ex -
Public Works Ministry (now renamed the Public Infrastructure Ministry) was contacted.
The Lethem to Linden trail falls under the supervision of the Public Infrastructure Ministry. Singh further stated that on Wednesday, the Regional Engineer visited the area and commenced emergency work to construct a temporary fix so that small vehicles could cross.
Guyana Times was told by travellers that the planks that were temporarily installed to allow access is only safe if there is no rainfall. Furthermore, it was reported that the Region’s excava -
tor has been down since Wednesday evening due to mechanical problems with the fan belt. There are other problems with the excavator that were caused by the strong water current in which the machine was operating.
On the other hand, newly appointed Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson told this publication that the team that was deployed from the Ministry to Lethem on Wednesday has already prepared a preliminary report along with recommendations for a temporary fix. He noted that the final report is expected to be delivered today. According to the
Minister, he met with the engineers and expressed his dissatisfaction with the condition of the trail that facilitates frequent and heavy traffic. “I told them (engineers) that this is unacceptable! You cannot have that 16 kilometer stretch facing the same problems every year when it rains consistently,” he pointed out.
Patterson further disclosed that he also requested that the engineers prepare an estimate of the cost for having a permanent fix, that is, an upgrade at the those areas which are vulnerable to heavy rainfall.
briefs staff
ewly sworn-in
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo on Thursday met staffers at the Office of the Prime Minister, outlining his expectations of them and the Government’s vision for the country.
The meeting saw Nagamootoo assuring the staff that there will be no witch-hunt against any staff member irrespective of their political, religious or ethnic persuasion and background. He asked that the staff continue to perform their duties in a profession-
al manner even as he outlined his vision for the functioning of the Office of the Prime Minister, imploring that the Office must be service-oriented to the citizens of Guyana.
“People come here for service, and we must provide service, because we are paid servants to the people. We must not keep people waiting,” Prime Minister Nagamootoo told the staff. Prime Minister Nagamootoo informed staff that the office will take responsibility for the portfolios of Public Information and Constitutional Reform.
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo with the staff at the Office of the Prime Minister
Persons putting a base to hold up the planks that were placed across the breakage for vehicles to cross A minibus using the temporary fix at the washed out culvert at Mora
The culvert at Mora, North Rupununi that was washed out due to the heavy rainfall
The washed out culvert at the Annai junction
friday, may 22, 2015
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic from Friday, May 22 - 05:00h-06:30h and Saturday, May 23 – 08:30h-10:00h
The Berbice River Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, May 22 - 06:35h-08:05h and Saturday, May 23 – 07:10h-08:40h
FERRY SCHEDULE
Ferries will be departing the Parika and Supenaam stellings on:
Friday, May 22 – 06:00h and 17:00h Saturday, May 23 - 06:00h and 17:00h
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers can be expected in the morning, with heavy rain showers dominating throughout the afternoon. Thundery showers with return in the evening over coastal regions and near inland locations. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees and 28 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.36 metres per second.
High Tide: 06:58h and 19:29h reaching maximum heights of 2.56 metres and 2.39 metres respectively.
Low Tide: 00:32h and 13:01h reaching minimum heights of 0.77 metre and 2.68 metres respectively.
President Granger visits Exxon oil rig
... recommits to establishing Sovereign
Wealth Fund
One day after committing to the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) for the accumulation and preservation of wealth acquired from the exploitation of the country’s natural resources, President David Granger on Thursday ventured on his first visit to the oil and gas exploration drill ship of ExxonMobil, the Deepwater Champion
ExxonMobil on Wednesday announced that it had discovered oil, a mere
pany’s presence in the Guyana
“We are one of the Guianas, and it is a rich part of the world, in terms of rainforest, current, minerals, so I am glad that we have opened the door. I am glad that you are a part of opening the door for us,” the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported the President as saying.
He reiterated the commitment he made before taking the reins of Government where he had expressed the need for a
vary from country to country; countries with liquidity concerns limit investments to only very liquid public debt instruments.
Some countries have created SWFs in diversifying their revenue streams. For example, the United Arab Emirates relies on oil exports for its wealth. Therefore, it devotes a portion of its reserves to an SWF that invests in other types of assets that can act as a shield against oil-related risk.
Meanwhile, Harmon
announced on Wednesday that the Liza-1 well has encountered more than 295 feet of high-quality oilbearing sandstone reservoirs. The well, which began its exploratory activity in early March this year, is the first on a 6.6 millionacre Stabroek Block, and was drilled to 17,825 feet by ExxonMobil’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd.
ExxonMobil President Stephen Greenlee said he was encouraged by the results of the first well on
two weeks after it declared that it had found hydrocarbons. The announcement generated optimism among many Guyanese, with former Natural Resources and Environment Minister Robert Persaud foreseeing a boom in the country’s economy.
Accompanied by the newly sworn-in Minister of State within the Ministry of the Presidency Joseph Harmon and Alliance For Change (AFC) Executive Member Raphael Trotman, Granger expressed satisfaction with the work executed so far, and the com-
SWF, so that the disposal of any natural resource will go towards benefiting the people of Guyana.
SWFs are pools of money derived from a country’s reserves, which are set aside for investment purposes that will benefit the country’s economy and citizens. The funding for a SWF comes from Central Bank reserves that accumulate as a result of budget and trade surpluses, and even from revenue generated from the exports of natural resources. The types of acceptable investments included in each SWF
expressed his optimism at the prospects of the company’s presence here. He said he believed that good days were ahead for Guyana.
Harmon noted that the company was very “bullish about what they have found and they believe that the investment that is needed to take it to the next level is almost assured”.
He said that Government is satisfied that ExxonMobil is doing what needs to be done and, whatever happens out there will redound to the benefit of the Guyanese people.
Guyanese people can all be assured that whatever comes out of the sovereign wealth of this nation that they will be part of it that they will benefit.
The oil and gas company
the Stabroek Block. He assured that over the coming months, the company will work to determine the commercial viability of the discovered resource as well as evaluate other resource potential of the block. According to him, the well data will be analysed in the coming months to better determine the full resource potential.
The company began drilling in early March amid contention from Guyana’s South American neighbour Venezuela that the area was in which the US company was drilling was within its territorial boundary. The oil company maintained that it would not be caught in the midst of the spat between the countries.
President David Granger, AFC Executive Member Raphael Trotman and Minister of State within the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon with the crew of the ExxonMobil drill ship
Editor: Nigel Williams
Tel: 225-5128, 231-0397, 226-9921, 226-2102, 223-7230 or 223-7231. Fax: 225-5134
In the apparent euphoria of Guyana’s election results, the country has, for the most part, seen much festivity and much enthusiasm for the future as the new president has promised to be a good president. Most newly elected officials often make such promises.
In 2012, Egypt declared its president after its historic first free and fair elections. It was a time of wild celebrations across Egypt. After decades of military dictatorship, Mohammed Morsi was democratically elected by the Egyptian multitude to rule a divided and heavily militarised nation.
As is customary of newly elected rulers, Morsi’s speech was filled with promises of a better and united country in light of its newfound democracy. Within a year however, the celebrations were over as anti-government protests swept across the country when Morsi declared some decidedly undemocratic restructurings.
The promises turned out to be empty for the majority of Egyptians. To the population, Morsi, it seemed, was preoccupied with political issues rather than solving economic and social ones. Today, according to a British newspaper, the current ruler enjoys popular backing, though not internationally.
Whether warranted or not, Morsi has now become a pariah among the majority of Egyptians after being also charged for ordering the deaths of anti-government protestors, many of those whom no doubt had voted him into power with the hope of a new Egypt and were disillusioned that it hadn’t yet arrived.
For if it’s one thing most elected leaders learn early is that their public always wants immediate results. Reform, better opportunities and all the promises made during the election campaigns must be met, preferably promptly.
With such close numbers and barring electoral rigging, the new Guyanese administration has to be quickly and clearly seen as working for all the people, or the very public that voted them in may speedily dispatch them at the next elections.
In one US, news report, many black Americans say the promises of Democratic President Obama have not been met and many are disappointed that after two terms nothing has changed for them. It may have translated to Republican gains in that country’s senate at the last elections.
The euphoria of America’s first black president and the hope it inspired has been deflated for those who had expected more from him within his presidential term. To quote a labour organizer interviewed for the report, “A lot of people don’t understand how government works. They think the president is a saviour.”
And it is not just in the US; many world leaders have swept to victory riding high on popular appeal, only to create widespread disappointment and resentment at the perceived slow rate of change and progress, and delays in keeping promises made on the campaign trail.
With the new administration just settling in, there is indeed a wave of goodwill, as was expected, as expressions of support continue to pour in locally, from the Caribbean and beyond.
Rightly or wrongly, this is why it is vitally important for the new administration to start walking the walk to illustrate to the public, particularly those unconvinced of their validity, that they are indeed for all Guyanese.
For those who looked beyond race, the new administration must swiftly provide them with concrete evidence of the “change” they campaigned upon that would bring about the united Guyana they made these voters envision.
It is not about settling political scores; it’s about swiftly fulfilling basic promises of employment and good governance to its supporters: the die-hards and those who were convinced of its campaign promises.
The element of time is not favourable to an administration that is elected under its promises of change and reform. People want to see quick change; jobs must be quickly provided not just promised, poverty must be quickly reduced, not simply promised to be reduced.
The Guyanese people are watching and waiting, but they would not wait forever.
Dear Editor,
The 2015 General and Regional Elections, it would appear, are officially over and there is urgent need now to pay attention to commencing a process that would see the end of all forms of ‘Surujballyism’ at all levels of our society, especially at GECOM.
Surujballyism is an attitude of arrogance, haughtiness and a false sense of consciousness that results in individuals or entities showing a lack of regard for the concerns of others about a process or development which could have redounding negative impact on that (complaining) group, the wider body politic or country.
It could also be defined as an abuse of one’s position and power and a refusal to genuinely accept when one has erred in the execution of one’s constitutional remit.
It reaches its worst forms when the one displaying all of its qualities becomes unmoved and disinterested in the realities that exist in the society in which they dwell and the public perceptions about integrity.
The term was arrived at after a series of worry-
ing events which occurred at GECOM and during the tabulation and declaration of the final and official results for the May 11 elections.
If any impartially minded Guyanese wanted to do a careful analysis of the term, they would find that GECOM’s Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally could be seen as chief aspirator and embodiment of its jest.
From the word go, this year, Dr Surujbally has been beating his chest and promising to deliver elections here with near perfect creditability because of the “almost perfect preparations” that were being undertaken by his professional and highly competent staff at the Commission.
Dr Surujbally even took on the then ruling Peoples Progressive Party /Civic on every single one of its complaints and concerns raised either directly or indirectly through the very accommodative mass media, his public relations aide and the opposition commissioners.
His posture suggested that the PPP/C was merely making a big fuss about nothing and was even deliberately seeking to under-
mine the integrity of the Commission.
The GECOM Chairman even took on the former President Bharrat Jagdeo’s contention that there was stuffing of ballot boxes and alarming percentages of voter turnout at certain polling stations during the 2011 elections which pointed to rigging and electoral fraud.
Before you know it, Dr Surujbally meet with all the observer missions and promoted his usual propaganda about the integrity of GECOM’s work, its staff and the ability to deliver credible elections. They bought it and stood by it even after the elections.
Surujballyism was at work and reached remarkable levels when one looks at the Chairman’s interaction with the media, concerned Guyanese voters and the political parties competing to become Guyana’s next Government.
Surujbally headed an entity that called press conferences that were always delayed and wasted the precious time of the entire country and electorate. These press conferences were unhelpful, marred with techni-
cal issues and highly politicized. The results displayed were not readable to the agony of the views hip and had glaring inaccuracies as far as tabulations were concerned.
Surujbally even dodged and ditched several questions posed by the media which had his Chief Elections Officer backed up against the wall. Subtle insults were hurled by the Chairman to the media as he and his staff failed miserably at communicating effectively why the process was taking so long and the difficulties with giving preliminary results.
Fake Statements of Polls were discovered, other electoral discrepancies were found, the PPP/C was being refused a legitimate call for a partial and then recount by GECOM under Surujbally’s watch but everything was fine and dandy.
Surujballyism was at work and the GECOM Chairman appeared to be losing no sleep over the thunderous calls and appeals from the PPP/C for recourse and a final count as rumors of elections fraud and rigging circulated.
continues on page 5
Guyanese will hold APNU+AFC accountable Ending ‘Surujballyism’
Dear Editor, Congratulations to the APNU+AFC in winning the 2015 General and Regional Elections that were riddled with fraud and widespread irregularities.
The coalition, which consists of several smaller political parties and the PNC/ AFC/WPA, combined in an attempt to unseat the PPP/C which undoubtedly remains the strongest political party in Guyana. A task still it could not achieve.
The APNU+AFC coalition had predicted that they would have captured between 58-62 per cent of the votes, managed to secure just over 50 per cent under highly controversial circumstances.
The Kaieteur News, Stabroek News, Prime New, Capitol News and Nightly News all became the Opposition “mouth pieces” with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in its fold.
If the coalition is so convinced that it won the elections, then they should have readily agreed to a recount of the ballots – a process that would have taken just a few days more. GECOM’s anxiety to declare the results before a recount of the ballots placed the coalition’s new Government as an undemocratic administration bound to fail.
Nevertheless, to the supporters of the PPP/C I implore you to remain cool,
calm and collective and give the new Government a chance to govern in the interest of all Guyanese, and in the process cause their own demise.
To the coalition, I will be watching closely for all the promises that were made to the Guyanese people to be fulfilled. Guyanese will hold your administration accountable.
Cheated, not defeated!
J Baptiste
A boy jumps into the Ganges River to cool off himself on a hot summer day in Kolkata, India (Reuters)
The Constitution protects my right as an
Dear Editor, UN Resident Coordinator
Khadija Musa was evasive enough in her response regarding the statements she made to Kaieteur News for me to ask for further clarifications. However, I am going to accept her new statements as being sincere.
The issue of race and identity erupts in the press from time to time. The eruption always surrounds the issue of Indian identity. Africans can be proud Africans, as they should be.
And we all encourage Amerindians to honour and even preserve their customs and traditions. Not so with Indians.
If I say that I am Indian, this statement is seen by a significant number of Guyanese citizens as being assertive and the assertiveness is further perceived as an infringement on every other group’s identity.
I am then abused as a racist and supremacist who is creating divisiveness and disunity.
Dear Editor, Statistics reveal that a six per cent increase in serious crime has been recorded for this year unto May 18, in comparison to the same period in 2014.
The serious crimes include murder, robbery under arms, robbery with violence, robbery with aggravation, larceny from the person, break and enter and larceny, burglary, rape and kidnapping.
Sixty murders have been recorded for this year unto May 18, in comparison to 56 for the similar period last year, an increase of seven per cent.
Unto May 18, robbery under arms overall has decreased by 15 per cent in comparison to the same period in 2014.
The statistics indicate an
Indian in Guyana
This idea has its roots perhaps in colonial times when our European masters tried their best to colonise the Indians into Christianity and into European ways and habits. Indian beliefs, traditions, names and foods, etc all made us pagan in their eyes.
However, Indians refused to become mimic men and women and, even as we have evolved in order to live comfortably in the West, we have maintained enough of our ancestral past to give us a definitive Indian identity. This identity also offends self-hating Indians who are promoted by sections of our society as the politically correct Indian. To be politically correct and acceptable you must deny your Indian identity, a process that results in cultural loss on the part of the Indian.
The UN Declaration on Cultural Diversity, agreed on after 9/11, reaffirms the UN’s initial declaration on human rights and goes further. It begins with the
18 per cent decrease in the number of armed robberies involving the use of firearms and an 11 per cent decrease in armed robbery where instruments other than firearms were used by the perpetrators.
The offence of rape has shown an increase of 70 per cent unto May 18 in comparison to the same period in 2014, while burglary has decreased by 11 per cent.
Investigations are continuing into the murder of Ramesh Puran who was shot and killed during and armed robbery at Belvedere Squatting Area, Berbice, on May 14.
Three men have been arrested and questioned by the Police. Two of them have since been released as the investigations continue.
Investigations are also
statement: “The cultural wealth of the world is its diversity in dialogue.”
All of the 12 articles are beautifully written and I will share just part of the preamble: “The Universal Declaration makes it clear that each individual must acknowledge not only otherness in all its forms but also the plurality of his or her own identity, within societies that are themselves plural.”
The Guyana Constitution also protects my right as an Indian in Guyana. However, I would much prefer to live in a country where I do not have to remind my fellow citizens of my legal rights to my identity from time to time.
I would much prefer to live in a country where it is a matter of course, as for every other group, because we are all intelligent, gracious, and respectful of each other and each other’s otherness.
Ryhaan Shah
continuing into the murder of Sean Anyes of “D” Field, Sophia, who was shot and killed during an armed robbery at his home on May 1.
A man had been arrested and questioned by the Police and later released. The investigations are continuing.
In relation to traffic, unto May 20, there have been 41 road fatalities from 32 accidents compared to 43 road fatalities from 40 accidents during the similar period in 2014.
Congnisant of the prevailing rains, the Guyana Police Force is urging motorists and other road users to exercise greater care and attention as they use the roadways.
Ivelaw Whittaker Police Public Relations and Press Officer
Dear Editor,
One can understand that Mr Basil Williams, an attorney, is appointed Attorney General or that Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, an educator, is appointed as the new minister of education. It should not be a “surprise” that the extremely powerful and newly created Ministry of the Presidency is now responsible for the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, and not Dr
Roopnaraine.
But what is the reason for appointing Mr Carl Greenidge, a former Minister of Finance some 25 years ago, today’s minister of Foreign Affairs? Is not his expertise economics?
And all of Guyana has no one else who is qualified for this post?
One seems to recall that this is the same nepotism that occurred under the previous administration when, for example, it took a for-
mer Minister of Health and appointed him a Minister of Agriculture.
This is not change, but more of the same, as the slang goes. Perhaps this was done to groom the gentleman for a potential role as a future PNC party leader. If this is so, then we have the interest of the people (or government), being used to promote the interest of a party. Quite refreshing.
Rakesh Rampertab
Authoritarianism has begun
Dear Editor,
While they were in opposition, the APNU/AFC everyday spoke publicly about nepotism, cronyism, corruption and the necessity for people’s participation in government.
They sang these mantras to every media house. Just a few days into government and the nation is witnessing nepotism, cronyism, corruption and the failure to consult.
The government itself has assumed office through corrupt practices at GECOM, including, failure to recount votes, which is a legal entitlement of any political party which participated in the elections, refusal to furnish us with the Statements of Poll used by GECOM to tabulate the results of the elections, and admissions from
GECOM that they have in their possession fake Statements of Poll.
In the face of these glaring corrupt and illegal practices, those who claimed they waged a relentless war against corruption and corrupt practices are now deafeningly silent.
The nation has witnessed the renaming of Ministries and the International Convention Centre without any consultation whatsoever with the citizens of this country.
Indeed, the citizens were not even offered the courtesy of an explanation for these changes. Ministers are appointed but their credentials remain a secret to the people whom they are appointed to serve.
The cronyism and nepotism has begun from the very top. David Granger has ap-
pointed his son-in-law as Minister of Investment and Business. The nation has no clue what this portfolio entails. So once again, like Forbes Burnham we witness another President making his sonin-law a Minister.
Noel Holder, an unknown political quantity, but the husband of AFC Founding Member Sheila Holder, now deceased, is slated to be appointed Minister of Agriculture.
We now await the voices of those members of civil society who proclaim themselves the watch dogs of democracy.
We say to them and indeed to the world authoritarianism has begun.
PPP/C Freedom House
Anglican Church ready to work with new Govt
Dear Editor,
On May 11, just under a half million Guyanese exercised their constitutional right during our general elections.
spoken and have indicated whom they have reposed their trust in to manage our national affairs.
velopment in a true spirit of national pride under the supremacy of God must be the national agenda.
What is the reason for appointing Greenidge Minister of Foreign Affairs? Hold
Flag Raising celebrations at National Park
Dear Editor,
The People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has noted with deep concern attempts by the fraudulently-imposed APNU-AFC administration led by David Granger to downgrade the significance of our independence struggle by shifting the Independence Day celebrations from the National Park to the Independence Arc, Brickdam to coincide with the inauguration ceremony of David Granger.
This is not only a retrogressive step but also an affront to all those who struggled for the independence of our country from the yoke of colonial rule.
The PPP/C as the Party that played the lead role in the independence struggle under the then leadership of Dr Cheddi Jagan calls on the Granger-led administration to reconsider that decision and hold the Flag Raising celebrations at the National Park in keeping with time honoured custom and practice as it relates to the celebration.
Independence Day is the single most important day in our national political life and therefore ought to be full prominence and recognition befitting of the occasion. Indeed, it was the PPP/C out of recognition of the significance of the day and
the yeoman struggles of our leaders who valiantly fought for our independence that declared May 26 as a National holiday.
The PPP/C wishes to serve notice to the current administration that it will not sit idly by and allow the true meaning and significance of independence to be reduced to a national circus with lots of meaningless fanfare and extravagance as during the days of the previous PNC regime when independence day was pushed into the background in favour of Republic Day.
PPP/C Freedom House
While there were a few reports of disquietude, the people of this country behaved in an exemplary manner. It was noteworthy to external observers to note this, and equally as important, it was a self-affirmation that the vast majority of Guyanese are honourable, decent and orderly people.
In the aftermath of the election, we salute the outstanding service and efforts of those who have served and will no longer serve in government. The people have
Ending...
If the he had entered the count and the final declaration of results by another day, today the PPP/C would not be mulling the filing of an elections petition and the nation (all Guyanese including the PPP/C’s supporters) would have new respect for GECOM, its staff and their competence to deliver 100 per
The new government is the government of our country. In congratulating, His Excellency, Brigadier David Granger and his colleagues on their victory, we commend them to our prayers and pledge our collective support for the further building and strengthening of Guyana.
This is the time for all Guyanese, and persons who desire what is best for Guyana, to unite.
The campaigning must cease. The election is over. There must be no voices of partisanship. The collaborative work of continued de-
From page 4
cent accurate results but as history had it Surujballyism dictated otherwise.
Now in the face of resignation calls, the GECOM Chairman said he will “when he pleases”.
The status quo cannot continue as Guyanese deserve a Chairman and Commission which will do all that is nec-
Like I stated after the elections of 2011, I reiterate, that the Anglican Church stands ready to work with the government in advancing the cause of Jesus Christ, and in spiritually, morally, socially and materially assisting all and sundry in improving the quality of life for all who call this dear land of Guyana, home.
May God bless you, and may He bless the Corporative Republic of Guyana.
essary to appear more impartial, competence, efficient and concerned about the growing tension in our society.
GECOM needs to be reformed and those participating subtle and open forms of Surujballyism must be weeded out or bow out.
Annalisa Ally
The Right Reverend Cornell Jerome Moss VII Diocesan of Guyana
Stakeholders address coconut industry’s sustainable development
The Ministry of Agriculture, the European Union (EU), the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute and the International Trade Centre, along with local stakeholders, gathered at the Grand Coastal Inn today, to consider the sustainable development of the coconut industry in Guyana and the Caribbean.
The two day forum seeks to reposition the coconut industry in the Caribbean, to make it sustainable and well-developed. The participants examined the range of value added products, whilst the stakeholders considered its implementation.
George Jervis, Permanent Secretary (PS) Ministry of Agriculture, speaking to the gathering, charged them to bring out projects which the scientists never thought about before. He noted that coconut is most familiar to citizens of the Caribbean, and that it ranks with rice and sugar. PS Jervis noted too that dealing with every aspect of the value chain would bring it to the middle of the table.
Observing that whilst there were stories which indicated the diseases that could be contracted from the use of coconut and its by products, the PS noted that these were all a misinformation. He explained that these diseases could not be contracted from vegetable products.
The most important point for the road map he noted would be to certify plant-
ing, which would enable the proper growing of the trees. Jervis also noted the improvement of the management of pests, capacity building for characterising genetic resources, supporting research and development and improving the production efficiency, all targeting coconuts. He also stressed on market intelligence, which he noted was part of the new knowledge which has surfaced. The PS also pointed out that with the local stakeholders moving the industry on the road to success, this has seen the placing of coconut products on local shelves, thus making it foolhardy to import these. He added that market intelligence would be helping in that direction.
In finance and business development, Jervis noted, the industry would be supported by the local banking sector. Supporting capacity building and export opportunity for development funding would also be another issue to be considered the PS observed. With the help of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (ICCA), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), CARDI, and bilateral cooperation between the Government of Guyana and Mexico, this would all be geared towards the value chain.
In 1997, whilst he was training in Malaysia, Jervis remembered that he saw the Malaysian dwarf species of the coconut plant being developed. This, he
noted would help during the time of reaping, preventing the need for ladders or climbers to pick coconuts. He expressed the hope that research would lead the stakeholders in this direction.
The PS observed that the response of the stakeholders should also consider the economy and sharing the landscape which would help in the spread of expenses. This spread could be done with crops being grown and small ruminants being kept whilst the coconut crop is being grown, all on the same land. This, he noted, would lead to an efficient and attractive system which would allow the sharing of the expenses.
Head of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute Dr. Oudho Homenauth noted that whilst the focus was aimed at developing a roadmap, this was towards the market-led development of the coconut and its products sector. He observed that in 2013, a regional report revealed that the international market for coconut and its products had changed. This change included the fact that there is now a high demand for coconut products which include craft and coconut based food enhancers.
Dr Homenauth also pointed out that whilst the study identified areas to be addressed, this has led to the identification of steps to be taken in the region for an open market for coconut and its products.
TNotice
he Guyana Police Force is informing members of the public that the undermentioned roads will be closed to vehicular traffic daily from today, Friday, May 22, 2015, to Tuesday May 26, 2015, between 07:00h and 09:00h in order to facilitate preparations for the Independence Day Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday May 26, 2015. The roads are:
• Brickdam – between Sandyman Place and Vlissengen Road.
• Vlissengen Road – between North Road and Homestretch Avenue.
• Regent Street – between Shivnarine Chanderpaul Drive (formerly New Garden Street) and Vlissengen Road.
• Homestretch Avenue – between Mandela Avenue and Vlissengen Road.
• Hadfield Street – between Chapel Street and Haley Street.
GPHC employees complete training programme on ISO
Twenty employees of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) have successfully completed a two-day training programme on requirements of the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) and its implementation.
The training, which was facilitated by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), was geared towards enhancing employees’ understanding of what is a QMS and how it can be used to improve the effectiveness and the efficiency of the organisation.
The target groups for the training were: senior quality assurance personnel, managers and other staff involved in developing the QMS. The facilitators for the training were GNBS Technical Officer 11 Rodly Semple and GNBS Technical Officer 1 Charissa Wilson.
ISO 9001 QMS provides organisations with a comprehensive process-focused framework upon which it can build business processes that lead to the successful achievement of organisational objectives.
Some of the GPHC employees who attended the training
Matias Urrutigoity of the International Trade Centre, EU Ambassador to Guyana Robert Kopecky, George Jervis, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Francis Asiedu, Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute’s Technical Service Manager and Head of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute Dr Oudho Homenauth
PPP/C ramps up actions for ballots recount
…pickets GECOM offices in GT, other regions
By Devina Samaroo
In a desperate cry to maintain democracy in the country, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Executive Members and devoted supporters turned out in large numbers within the vicinity of the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM) Main Office to demand a recount of the ballots of the General and Regional Elections 2015.
Committed to their cause, these individuals were not deterred by the inclement weather and sturdily marched towards the barricaded area where they waved placards and chanted mantras in demanding a national recount.
After governing the country for 23 consecutive years, the PPP/C maintains that the elections were rigged and that the new A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government is a de facto administration. PPP/C Leader Donald Ramotar, who appeared to be heading the long line of protesters, maintained his position that if GECOM has
nothing to hide and that the results are indeed favourable to the APNU/AFC, then a recount should not be a big deal.
Evidence Ramotar said there is enough evidence that proves the elections were rigged and if GECOM is the least bit interested in legitimacy, then it should agree to a recount. “We think any election in any part of the world where the results were so close and we had all these irregularities involved, a recount would be the right thing to do,” he asserted.
Ramotar said his administration provided adequate evidence to the elections body and expressed his disappointment in the credibility of Chairman Dr Steve Surujbally for allowing the “discreet” process to be infiltrated by those with ulterior motives. Ramotar presented the facts which suggest elections were definitely rigged, starting with the recycling of votes at the polling stations and the many irregularities that were occurring; the facts that many boxes were more than 100 per cent of the people who vot-
ed; and the discovery of false Statements of Poll (SOPs) in GECOM when the tabulation process was ongoing.
PPP/C Executive Member Irfaan Ali added that a large portion of GECOM staff are APNU/AFC supporters. He explained that GECOM refused to share the list of polling day staff for public vetting, which was the initial indication that the integrity of the process was at stake. “We are now seeing on Facebook and on social media that those very polling day staff are supporting the APNU, so those staff were APNU supporters who were apart of the APNU apparatus to rig the elections,” he said.
Surujbally must go PPP/C Africo Selman, who had left the APNU camp for a number of reasons including ill-treatment to women and corruption, said it is in the nature of the People’s National Congress arm of the coalition to get involved in fraudulent activities to get whatever they want. “They would engage in such because the PNC makes up a great portion of the partnership; and
if they are capable of rigging their own internal elections, Aubrey Norton even went public to say that they rig the elections…and if they can pad their own lists, if they can cheat themselves, what about nationally?” she purported.
Selman added that she believes “Surujbally must go” because he failed as a leader and he failed the entire Guyanese populace. When asked why she believes Surujbally would want to rig the elections, Selman stated that “people have their own personal agendas.”
But, Charles Ramson Jr explained that while he personally does not believe the GECOM Chairman
were not the one that they declared, then their information would not be trusted and then the entire nation and the entire world would see that GECOM did not carry a strict, clear and accurate recording of the declaration of the results,” Ramson explained.
Outside of Georgetown
Meanwhile, across in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), Region Three (Essequibo Islands- West Demerara), Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), supporters of the party also joined in protest at their various locations. In Region Two at the Bush Lot Office, PPP/C sup-
cials turned out to demonstrate to the entire nation, and even those in the international communities, that the new Government does not represent the people of Guyana and therefore a recount is needed to prove the true representation.
Far from free and fair
The large numbers of people who turned out to pledge their support is a mere fraction of the thousands of disgruntled Guyanese who believe that the election results were far from free and fair.
The PPP/C said they believe these protest actions, which are being staged all over the country at various GECOM locations, will con-
had a direct role in the rigging of elections, he believes that Surujbally is in a position where he is choosing to have an undemocratic government to cover up the mistakes GECOM made in order to protect the Commission’s credibility. “I believe he is doing what he must do to protect GECOM; to protect the veracity of the results. So, he is the head of an organisation, if a recount was done and it was declared that the results
porters, despite the heavy downpour, armed themselves with umbrella and placards calling for their democracy to be respected and protected. Over in Region Three, the supporters faced the rain and swarmed the vicinity of the GECOM’s office in Vreed-en-Hoop, also demanding a national recount.
Similar activates were organised in Regions Five and Six where hundreds of PPP/C supporters and offi-
tribution to the reconsideration of a recount. The PPP/C is adamant that it will not back down and will fight until GECOM agrees to conduct a national recount. When asked if this position means the party will not work alongside the APNU/ AFC Government to develop the country, PPP/C executives simply explained that the main focus now is ensuring a recount is done.
Former Education Minister Priya Manickchand proudly displays her placard
A section of the protesters
Housewife nabbed with cocaine at Ogle Airport
AGuyanese woman who was about to board a LIAT flight to Barbados was on Thursday arrested at the Ogle International Airport (OIA) attempting to smuggle 1.462 kilograms of cocaine.
According to information received, Zainad Mohammed, 29, of East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was arrested by members of the Police Narcotics Branch about 13:15h after the co-
caine was found strapped to her body.
The woman, based on reports, had already checked in and was about to clear immigration when the ranks of the drug enforcement agency detected that something was amiss. The housewife was pulled from the queue and questioned, during which she started to act in a suspicious manner. She was then patted down by a female rank, and the co-
caine was found tightly strapped to her abdomen. Mohammed is expected to be charged shortly with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.
On Sunday last, a Surinamese national was arrested at the Ogle Airport attempting to smuggle 214 grams of cocaine on her person. Again, the interception was made by members of the Police Narcotics Branch while the woman was at the check-in
counter.
It was reported that based on her suspicious movements, the Police asked to conduct a search of her person. The cocaine was discovered and weighed. At that point, the woman also admitted to swallowing a quantity of cocaine pellets. She was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she subsequently excreted 25 pellets. She remains under guard at the medical facility.
Pannist gets 6 months for breaking car window
A46-year-old pan-
nist from Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara was sentenced on Thursday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for breaking a car window.
The accused, Ovid Chester appeared for the first time in court on Thursday afternoon where he was read the charge which stated that he damaged the back windshield of a car valued $17,400 while on Albert Street, Georgetown. The car is the property of Ramchand Mangru.
Chester pleaded guilty to the offence, stating that
someone was about to hit him with a wood and he ran close to the car for the wood to hit the car instead of him, stating this is what happened when he ducked. However, with the explanation given, a not guilty plea was recorded for on his behalf.
The accused also pleaded guilty when he was read a second charge of simple larceny. The charge detailed that he stole two jerseys and four hats from the Fabric Wall Store which belong to Rashad Baksh on Regent and Light Streets.
Prosecutor Adduni
Inniss told the court that he was caught at the Fabric Wall store by the Manager around 14:25h stealing the hats and jerseys.
The accused gave his details to the court, stating that he lives in 123 South Vryheid’s Lust and plays steel pan for a living.
Magistrate Annette Singh who heard the case, sentenced him to six months imprisonment for the damage to property charge but placed him on $10,000 bail for the charge of simple larceny.
He is expected back in court on June 11.
Cellphone thief goes to jail
Aman was sent to jail on Thursday by Magistrate Alex Moore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after being found guilty of phone theft.
The now convicted felon is Damien James, who first appeared in the court on February 14 to answer to the offence. When the charge that he had stolen a BlackBerry valued $25,000 from Dexter McLean while on Regent Street, Georgetown was read to him, the same day he pleaded not guilty.
However, Police Prosecutor Sergeant Colin Douglas brought forward two witnesses during the two-day trial that started on February 19 to prove beyond a doubt that the accused had committed the
crime. Magistrate Moore believed that this was satisfactorily done, thus he found James guilty of the charge that was laid against him and sentenced him to six months’ imprisonment.
Eyew tness
Servants...
...public or otherwise
With “Independence Day” just around the corner, it’s rather fortuitous that Public Servants are in the news. Before independence, they used to be called “Civil Servants” - not because they were “civil” to folks - as you might’ve supposed.
As a matter of fact, if you’re old enough to’ve interacted with one of those rarified beings, you’d know they were never civil...and certainly no one’s servant!! Most folks would be excused if they swore that exuding hauteur was a qualification for the job.
But interestingly enough, since the word “civil” is derived from the same word as “citizen”, the British were actually suggesting they were supposed to “serve the citizens” of the country.
Same as the “Public Servants” they were rebaptised as right after independence. But ask any Guyanese and you’d be told in no uncertain terms that “hauteur” is still a qualification for the job.
And from what the new President Granger’s saying it doesn’t seem that they have ANY other qualification. In one of his first announcements, he declared he’ll be setting up a “Public Servants Staff College” (PSSC) to teach some of them to “read and write”!!
Now this Eyewitness didn’t think they were soooo bad...even though he had his suspicions.
But your Eyewitness is puzzled. If the new government knew Public Servants needed so much training to do their job....why promise them a “substantial raise” within a hundred days?? They couldn’t have learnt about the lack of numeracy and literacy in the last two days, could they.
Even if they believed Public Servants are underpaid, wouldn’t it be better to tie the pay raise to their performance in the College??
After all it’s not like we have a communist government where the distributive principle is “from each according to his ability; to each according to his needs”. Translated as “do wha yuh wan fuh do!!”
From what the Minister of the Presidency Joseph Harmon said, it sounded like they were talking about a meritocracy. But if that’s their intention they’ve certainly found a funny way to put it into practice.
But there’s another concern already being muttered. In the interest of assisting the new government get settled, your Eyewitness is going let on. Remember how Critchlow Labour College was used to get folks who couldn’t pass their GCE and CXC into UG through the front door? Folks say the new PSSC will be used in the same way to promote the faithful.
Like the man says...there’s a whole lotta ways to kill a cat! And there’s a whole lotta Public Servants cats already marked for the guillotine.
...and servant leaders
During the campaign, there were some sporadic calls for a “servant leadership” style to be adopted by those seeking the reins of government. Not surprisingly the calls got nowhere.
“Not surprisingly” because we’re GUYANESE...and we expect our leaders to be right there behind us with their whips! Hey!! How else can you expect things to get done in Guyana? Can you see a Guyanese Public Servant (GPS) cleaning out his in-tray in a jiffy if his boss tells him softly...”Please do your work, won’t you?”
The GPS would most likely snap, “If you want the goddamm work done, why don’t you do it yourself??” It was clear that these utopians who called for “servant leaders” had never bellied up to the counter at, say, the NIS office on Brickdam. Wouldn’t even look up from painting her toenail!
But then again, your Eyewitness, who’d pleaded for some attention, figured neatly painted toenails might assist in getting all those missing NIS records located.
He was a servant follower.
...of a higher calling
Your Eyewitness is a bit upset with those leaders (servant or otherwise) who’re ignoring the calls for ganja to be legit. As the small party (which unfortunately didn’t win) says, it’s a human rights issue!
Ovid Chester
Ex-cop freed of Shaquille Grant’s murder
ormer Police Officer
FTerrence Wallace was freed on Thursday after he was found not guilty by a 12 member mixed jury panel for the 2012 murder of Agricola teen, Shaquille Grant.
Grant was killed on September 11, 2012, at Caesar Street Agricola, Greater Georgetown, while in the company of some teenagers from the community. At the time Wallace was a Special Constable attached to the Tactical Services Unit (TSU).
He was part of the patrol team that went into the area after receiving reports of a robbery being planned. During a confrontation, Grant was shot in his face while another teenager, Romel Bollers, was injured.
On Thursday’s date after deliberating for some two hours, the jury panel returned with a unanimous verdict, finding Wallace not guilty of the teenager’s mur-
Good
Nder. Before the trial judge, Justice Navindra Singh, released him, the former officer thanked the jury before rushing out the courtroom.
The trial into the teenager’s murder began about three weeks ago during which the prosecution, led by Senior State Counsel Judith Mursalin and Counsel Narissa Leander, called a total of 21 witnesses
to testify, including Bollers.
Following the closure of the State’s case, the accused was called upon to lead his defence and elected to do so by giving a sworn testimony from the witness box. Being led by his attorney, Sonia Parag, Wallace denied killing the teenager.
The accused recalled that he had received a call from his cousin, Travis David who lives in Agricola, informing him that there was a group of young men in his yard. He did not mention anything about a robbery being concocted. In his evidence, David testified that he overheard Grant and his friends – which included Bollers, Troy Greenidge, Jamal Henry and Nicholas Eastman – making plans to commit a robbery, hence he called his cousin.
Wallace said that he and a party of uniformed patrol officers when to the area and confronted the young men. He noted that Bollers
opened fire at the Police, as such he returned a single gunshot but Grant was nowhere in that direction. The accused told the court that two additional shots were fired from the officers behind him but he could not say who opened fire.
Wallace was charged along with Lance Corporal Warren Blue and Special Constable Jamal Lewis, who went into hiding after the incident. However in December last, Blue was shot and killed during a botched robbery at a supermarket in Montrose, East Coast Demerara. Lewis is believed to have fled the country.
According to the former Police Officer, after the two shots were fired he observed that both Grant and Bollers were injured; as such they were rushed to seek medical attention. Wallace recalled that a 38 Smith and Wesson revolver was recovered from Bollers’ possession, a claim which the young man has
Offices Process should not be abandoned
ewly sworn in Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge has registered his view that the Good Offices Process should not be abandoned, but rather can be used with other forms of action to find an amicable solution to the ongoing border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.
This is despite former Minister Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett, diplomat Sir Shridath Ramphal, People’s National Congress’s Shadow Minister Aubrey Norton and British High Commissioner all expressing their views that it was a process which had to be abandoned since it has done nothing to help Guyana. The Good Offices approach was established by the United Nations as a mechanism to assist in resolving Venezuela’s longstanding claim to Essequibo.
Speaking to the Guyana Times immediately after his swearing in ceremony on Wednesday, Greenidge said that he does not feel that it is a process which should altogether be abandoned, while noting that it was his view that the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett, made such a statement out of frustration and not necessarily from a logical point of view.
“I don’t know about abandoning the process altogether, what I would think is that there is a need to pursue a variety of avenues in dealing with Venezuela, and its claims pertaining to Guyana, and we would sharpen all the tools available to us so that it can be done both expeditiously and in an amicable manner. I think Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett’s comment was a reflection of frustration with... the de facto blocking of development in Guyana by
the Venezuelans. The truth is, of course, that sometimes you have to anticipate these things and the types of discussions and agreements that you conclude would avoid some of the pitfalls that they have encountered,” the new Minister shared.
Greenidge noted that while other avenues may have to be pursued, it should not in any way, signal the end of the Good Offices Process. “So I would say that on one hand, yes we need to pursue other avenues and try to accelerate, but don’t give the public the impression or the Venezuelans the impression that you are only going to stick to one avenue even though it turn out or does not yield the fruit you want. The Good Offices procedure is one that allows, to my understanding, for a facilitation where either of the two parties is interested in having an initiative. It doesn’t prevent you from doing other things. So if you want to use modalities of another country or another forum or even a legal mechanism, it doesn’t stop you from doing that…,” said he. Meanwhile, Greenidge said that in his role as Minister of Foreign Affairs, greater attention will be
paid to economic issues and trade.
He note that this ultimate aim was to establish the Ministry’s capacity as the premier Ministry in Guyana and “most importantly the premier Ministry in the region” noting that there “was a time when we were the leading in all of the Caribbean and the Latin America, all efforts will be made to increase that capacity”.
On March 3, the then People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government announced its intention to opt out of Good Offices Process – a mechanism anticipated to assist in resolving the renewed claim that Venezuela had made on a portion of the Essequibo region of Guyana. In explaining the country’s decision and its desire to request a judicial settlement, Foreign Affairs Minister Rodrigues Birkett pointed out that the Good Offices Process has yielded little results over the last past 25 years. She added that Guyana was examining other available options, while suggesting that Venezuela remained comfortable with the current process “because it suits their purpose – no movement”.
These “other options” will eventually have to be decided by the United Nations (UN) Secretary General. According to Article 33 of the UN Charter, they include, in addition to “Good Offices”, the resort to mediation, facilitation, dialogue processes, arbitration and judicial settlement. However, all, except a judicial settlement process, have already been tried.
This most recent development in the territorial controversy arose just after the Venezuelan Foreign Minister, at the beginning of March, objected to the
denied.
exploratory drilling for oil by the American company, in a concession granted by Guyana. Venezuela claimed that the area was located in its “territory” despite the fact that the drilling area was deep within Guyana’s maritime economic zone. In response, Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry stated that it asked the Venezuelan Government to desist from taking any actions that could only result in hindering the development of Guyana and relations between the two countries.
In a rebuttal, Venezuela, in a communiqué in midMarch, labelled as “unjust and false” the claims that it was deliberately obstructing Guyana’s development, and pointed to the instances of collaboration and support between the two states as evidence to the contrary.
The Guyana Government’s decision has received support across the national political spectrum, and further afield from Caricom and Commonwealth Governments. The former Opposition spokesman on international affairs, Aubrey Norton, noted that little progress was recorded in the UN Good Offices Process and proposed that the Government and Opposition set up a joint committee to come up with a way forward. He insisted that territorial issues should transcend partisan political interest.
Meanwhile, the former Foreign Minister Shridath Ramphal, who was the country’s top negotiator of the Protocol of Port of Spain in 1970, said that Venezuela has “abused” the Good Offices process. He explained that all other modes of settlement such as arbitration were already explored and the only available option that remained was a judicial settlement.
During his testimony, Bollers told the court that he had no weapon in his possession on the day of the incident nor did any of his friends. Evidence from Police’s Forensic Analyst, Superintendent of Police Stephen Greaves, revealed that no traces of gunshot residue were found on Grant or his friends. In addition, Bollers claimed that Wallace was the only officer in the yard at time when the shots were fired. He further stated that Wallace made them lay face down on the ground and he tried to take his cell phone out of his pocket when Wallace’s gun butted him in his face before shooting him at the back of his head.
On the other hand the court also heard from
Greenidge, whose testimony was read into evidence by Superintendent of Police Stephen Telford. Telford was the prosecutor during the Preliminary Inquiry at the Magistrate’s Court. Greenidge collaborated Bollers’ story, noting that he heard Grant shouting that he was shot and he begged Wallace not harm him. The young man said he was then made to face a wall and heard gunshots. He recalled turning back and saw Grant with a hole in his forehead. Back in October 2012, when Wallace was arraigned, relatives and friends of Shaquille Grant along with rights activists staged a mass protest outside of the court. This caused the accused, who was remanded, to be held hostage at the court’s holding area before he was finally whisked away several hours later from a hostile crowd. Later that day, residents from Agricola began blocking the public road with debris and started a fire on the road. The “Agricola Unrest” as it was referred to saw a grand standoff between various units of the Guyana Police Force and the residents for several hours. During all this, thousands of persons were stranded at either end of the village for hours waiting uneasily for the event subsided to get home.
“Not exactly homeless” man remanded on burglary charge
Wilfred Tinny told the court that he was not homeless
A43-year-old man, who claims he is not exactly homeless, was refused bail on Thursday when he appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
The defendant, Wilfred Tinny, appeared before the Magistrate on Thursday afternoon accused of breaking into the home of Lloyd Muesa on Monday. The full charge against him detailed that he broke into the Virtual Complainant’s home during the night and removed a bottle of non-alco-
holic wine that cost $16,000 and five louver windows valued at $15,000.
Magistrate Singh said he was not required to plead to the charge as it was indictable.
Police Prosecutor Adduni Inniss asked the court for the matter to be heard in Court 11 of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, a request that was granted. With this, the defendant pleaded that he is not guilty of the offence he is being charged with, and got quite upset when the Prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that he had no fixed place of abode. He told the court that they “can’t label me like this as I don’t smoke drugs”. He explained that he lives with a girl at 209 Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara. However, he resides outside of the house in the yard, under a shed where he has a blanket. Once the Prosecutor brought forward the Police Officer who had checked on the address he had given, Tinny explained that he did not stay inside as it was “filthy”. The Magistrate remanded him until June 4, stating that he can address her for bail once he appears in court again.
Shaquille Grant Freed ex-cop Terrence Wallace
Newly sworn in Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge
Belvedere murder…
Man in custody as probe continues
– 70% of murders in Berbice solved
One man remains in custody as Police in Berbice close in one their investigations into the murder of overseas-based Guyanese Ramesh Puran who was shot and killed one week ago at a Belvedere Squatting Area, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) home.
Puran, 49, of Ozone Park, Queens, New York, was in Guyana for the past two weeks, as he came home to perform a religious function for his father who passed away a year ago. He was shot and killed during a robbery at the Belvedere home he was staying at the time.
Police in a release said
investigations are continuing into the murder and noted that three men have been arrested and questioned. The release said that two of them have since been released as the investigation continues.
Meanwhile, Police in Berbice have been able to solve 70 per cent of the murderers committed in the Ancient County so far for this year. Thus far, there have been 10 murders in Berbice and law enforcement has been able to solve seven of them.
Several persons are before the courts for six of the murders. While Police have not been able to charge anyone for the murder of
Patrick Boodie, 38, of Levi Dam, Mount Sinai, New Amsterdam, law enforcement officers have been able to identify the persons responsible for his murder. According to Officerin-Charge of crime in B Division (Berbice), Senior Superintendant Terrence Paul, the case is being considered as solved since the Police are in receipt of statements which have identified the perpetrators in the murder. He said the three suspects have since fled the district but the Police are not giving up hope of bringing them to justice soon. The Senior Superintendant could not however give any more
details on the matter.
Boodie was shot and killed in Angoy’s Avenue on April 15 after neighbours attacked his brother Jason Nicholas. The 38-year-old went to the scene to investigate and was chopped several times before being shot. Police are now on the hunt for three men.
Unsolved murders
The 10 murders in Berbice as of May 21, compared with 25 in 2014, of which 15 were solved and persons are currently before the court. The other 10, police are still investigating and referred to them as unsolved.
To date for 2015, Senior Superintendant Paul said investigations continue into the death of Ramdai Mohabir, Ramzan Abraham and Ramesh Puran.
Abraham, 49, and of Shieldstown, West Bank Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) was found on the roadway at Shieldstown April 18, with an injury to his forehead. He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he died the following day.
Mohabir was found dead at her Lot 665 Topo, Albion, Corentyne, Berbice home on February 9. The 67-yearold called “Aunty Elsie” was raped, murdered and robbed.
According to Senior Superintendant Paul suspects have been arrested and are on bail. He said that the Police recently received vital information which could lead to the arrest of the perpetrator of Mohabir’s murder.
Visitor arrivals up 7% – GTA Director
The Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Indranauth Haralsingh, said that the organisation’s statistics regarding visitor arrivals in Guyana are accurate, as he sought to clear the air about persons’ perception that the figures are “false and misleading”.
During a press briefing at the GTA’s Sophia Office on Thursday, the Director announced that that visitor arrivals, as of April, went up by seven per cent, with a total of 66, 495 visitors arriving in Guyana, as against 62, 131 arriving during the same period last year. Guyana recorded a 13.9 per cent increase in visitors during the first quarter of 2015, when compared with the same period in 2014; in fact, March 2015 increased by 26.1 per cent over March 2014. During that period, the United States remained the largest source market with tourism market shares of 39.3 per cent, followed by the Caribbean with 24.4 per cent market share. April, however, saw a 6.4 per cent decline in arrivals.
While explaining the process of arriving in relation to these figures, Haralsingh detailed that the data from the Embarkation/ Disembarkation (E/D) cards are provided by the immigration authorities and are placed into an analytical programme called Management Information System for Tourist (MIST); a system designed for data entry and a breakdown by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation for its members.
Some of the data captured from the E/D cards include nationality, coun-
try of birth and residence, length and place of stay, purpose of visit, and gender. Data currently captured from the main ports of entry include from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Ogle International Airport, Moleson Creek and Lethem. However figures prior to 2013 only included the CJIA.
Haralsingh emphasised that this data is sent to the Caribbean Tourism Organisation to ensure accuracy. The Director also sought to define the word ‘Visitor’, noting that Guyanese who have migrated and returned to, or any non-nationals, visit Guyana for one reason or another (business, holiday, wedding or funeral) are visitors. However, a Guyanese resident returning from an overseas visit is not a visitor.
“Our data files are shared with the Caribbean Tourism Organisation so that the organisation can verify the accuracy of the information we sent to them…the Guyana Tourism Authority only publishes visitor arrival figures,” Haralsingh noted. According to the World Tourism Organisation, a visitor is a traveller, taking a trip to a main destination, outside his or her usual environment, for less than a year, for any main purpose there, other than to be employed by a resident entity in the country/place visited. A visitor (domestic inbound or outbound) is classified as a tourist if his/her trip includes an overnight stay, or as same-day visitor or excursionist. Arrivals in Guyana have doubled over the past twelve years, and according to Haralsingh, this is a remarkable achievement.
6000 kilos of marijuana intercepted on way to Guyana
The Dutch Navy seized 6000 kilograms of compressed marijuana on board a fishing vessel en route to Guyana from Jamaica while patrolling the Caribbean Sea a few days ago.
It was intercepted by the Dutch ship Zeeland, stationed to patrol the area which includes parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands — Aruba, Curaçao and Saint Maarten.
As a result of the bust which was described as the biggest thus far, the 12-member crew of the fishing vessel was taken into custody at Ponce in Puerto Rico and subsequently handed over to US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officials.
According to information released by the defence ministry of the Netherlands,
the cannabis was discovered hidden in the hold of the fishing boat during a routine check. From reports gathered, the boat was spotted by a US Coast Guard Plane.
The Dutch stated that drug seizures, usually cocaine, regularly take place in the Caribbean Sea.
Until last week the largest drug haul by the Dutch navy was in 2008, when it snatched 4.2 tonnes of cocaine in the region, media reports stated. In addition, more than 10 tonnes of cocaine were seized in the area in 2013 as a result of international collaboration.
In 2013, the Royal Navy, with support from the United States, intercepted the Jamaica-registered MV Tiffany with 1800 kilograms of marijuana valued at US$14 million. The boat was intercepted on its way
to Guyana from Jamaica and was immediately turned back to the Caribbean island.
The boat captain and crew, including one Guyanese, were charged.
Part of the 15-nation Operation Matillo that aims to stop drugs moving from South America to the Caribbean, the Royal Navy’s RFA Wave Knight had hailed the MV Tiffany On doing so, several bales of marijuana were tossed overboard. While some sank, naval officers recovered 55 of them with a street value of US$10 million.
Anti-drug agents believe there is a thriving marijuana and cocaine trade between Jamaica and Guyana. Several consignments of each drug have been found in ships at Georgetown and Kingston, Jamaica.
Dead: Ramesh Puran Dead: Ramdai Mohabir Dead: Patrick Boodie
60 murders recorded in 2015 thus far
The Guyana Police Force on Thursday disclosed that a total of 60 persons were murdered unto May 18, 2015 compared to 56 over the same period last year, an increase of seven per cent.
In addition, the Police stated that there has been a six per cent increase in serious crimes which include murder, robbery under arms, robbery with violence, robbery with aggravation, larceny from the person, break
and enter and larceny, burglary, rape and kidnapping.
While there has been an overall increase in serious crimes, statistics showed a 15 per cent decrease in robbery under arms overall unto May 18, and a decrease of 11 per cent in burglary. Statistics also indicate an 18 per cent decrease in the number of robberies involving the use of firearms, and an 11 per cent decrease in armed robberies where instruments other than fire-
Jamaica assumes Chair of CDB Board of Governors 2015-2016
Jamaica assumed the chairmanship of the Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB) Board of Governors today as the 45th Annual Meeting of the Bank’s Board ended in Basseterre, St Kitts. The CDB’s 46th Annual Meeting is set for May next year in Jamaica. Representing Jamaica is the Honourable Dr Peter Phillips, Minister of Finance and Planning.
Mexico and the United Kingdom (UK) are Vice Chair, represented respectively on the Board of Governors by Mr Luis Videgaray Caso, Secretary of Finance and Public Credi,t and the retired Honourable Justine Greening, Member of Parliament and Secretary of State for International Development.
Speaking at today’s closing ceremony, Dr Phillips said each Caribbean country was faced with formidable challenges, among them the effects of climate change, high indebtedness, tight fiscal space and low rates of saving. He also said the consequences of the recent Great Recession were still being felt among the small, vulnerable states of the region.
The incoming chairman noted that because
Caribbean countries had been classified as “middle income states”, it was unlikely that they would be considered for significant debt relief by multi-lateral agencies and developed countries, notwithstanding the heavy debt burden they were carrying. Yet without some form of external economic support, he said, small island states would be overwhelmed.
He posited, however, that solutions can and must be found. “The situation calls for more interaction with the international community...and the influence of the CDB should be brought to bear on the discussions…If these concerns are not addressed, urgently, then the social consensus, relative social stability and democratic conditions will be threatened.”
He congratulated CDB on the work it has done in development financing throughout the region and on its commitment to internal governance reform. Jamaica is a founding member of the CDB and share the position of largest regional shareholder with Trinidad and Tobago. The UK and Canada are the largest nonregional shareholders.
arms were used by the perpetrators. However, topping the list is the offence of rape which saw an increase in the number of cases by 70 per cent when compared to the same period last year.
With respect to traffic, there have been 41 road fatalities from 32 accidents when compared to the 43 deaths from 40 accidents in 2014. Most of the accidents were the result of speeding, so cognisant of present weather condition, the Guyana Police Force is urging motorists and other road users to exercise greater care and attention.
Regional Education Officer’s wife will not be charged – Police
Police have confirmed that no charges are likely to be laid against the wife of the Region Five Education Officer for causing death by dangerous driving.
Melissa D’Aguair-Pollard, 38, of Fort Wellington Government Compound and wife of the Regional Education Officer of Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) was driving a 4-Runner motor vehicle bearing registration number PSS 529 on Friday last when another vehicle drove into its path at Number 7 Village, Village, West Coast Berbice, Region Five. In an attempt to avoid colliding with an oncoming car, D’Aguair-Pollard was forced off of her lane. The car however collided with the 4
Runner’s rear right wheel, ripping it out in the process.
The driver of the other vehicle slammed into a utility pole and died.
Abdool Ameer, 22, was pronounced dead at the Georgetown Public Hospital a few hours after the accident. According to Senior Superintend Boodnarine Persaud, the investigating ranks are still to submit a file on the accident. He said form the initial investigation, charges are not likely to be made out against D’AguairPollard.
The woman who was also injured in the accident along with her two-year-old daughter, have been recovering well. Meanwhile following Ameer’s death, his girlfriend, Maureen
Mohamed, attempted to take her own life by ingesting a poisonous substance. She was taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital where she received treatment.
The 24-year-old later took her own discharge from the medical facility. Efforts to get an update on her health condition proved futile.
Meanwhile, five persons have been killed on the roads in Berbice so far for the year. This figure is in comparison with seven deaths on the roads in Berbice for the corresponding period last year. For the year so far, there have been 41 road fatalities from 32 accidents, compared to 43 road fatalities from 40 accidents during the similar period in 2014.
Jamaican Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr Peter Phillips
From training centre to staff college:
Granger promises speedy upgrade
Having had a firsthand look at what is present at the Public Service Training Centre in terms of its dayto-day operations and courses offered, President David Granger said that work will commence soon for the much needed upgrade. The President accompanied by Minister of State Joseph Harmon toured the facility and met with representatives on Thursday.
After wrapping up his tour of the facility, the Head of State said his visit was an important first step towards his administration’s plans for a total reform of the public service. The training centre will soon be upgraded to the Public Service Staff College as part of the A Partnership for National
Unity/Alliance For Change’s (APNU/AFC) plan to build capacity and improve efficiency in the public service.
“Our intention is that every entrant into the public service must be trained at the college, and it is now our task to upgrade the training division into a staff college. We came here to understand the challenges faced by the division so that we can prepare for that upgrade,”
President Granger said. He shared the view that training is vital to improving the quality and performance of the public service.
Speaking to the general aesthetics of the current training facility, the President said significant changes would have to be made in order to fulfil his administration’s vision for an
efficient Public Service. On Wednesday during a meeting with heads of the various state agencies, President Granger signalled his administration’s intention to establish a Public Service Staff College in an effort to reduce the high levels of corruption, and improve the efficiency of the Public Sector in Guyana. President Granger told the gathering that the entire public service was in dire need of reform. He noted that public servants must possess expert knowledge and high standards of service in order to improve the sector’s efficiency and increase the satisfaction of the people of Guyana. Therefore, the establishment of a Public Service Staff College for those individuals desirous of
a career in the public service sector is deemed by the new administration as “a step in the right direction”.
The purpose of this institution would be to properly equip public servants with the relevant knowledge and expertise needed to efficiently serve in their intended position. According to Granger, students of the institute will learn the basics of public administration and understand how to operate in the Public Sector as a public servant to the people of Guyana.
Further, the President noted that the public service should be established firmly on the basis of an effective merit system and not on the basis of political partiality. As such, he anticipates the functioning of the college would assist in ensuring that merit system is reinforced. “We need to establish the criteria so people can’t just call up a political party headquarters to guarantee they will be promoted,” he asserted, noting that the college would ensure individuals are properly trained and qualified before they can be promoted.
Meanwhile, Harmon explained that such a college would be ideal in the fight against the high levels of corruption in the Public Sector of Guyana. He noted that it would help get rid of non-meritorious promotions by reinforcing the policy that individuals can only be promoted or assigned a
GNBS enforces new gold jewellery standard
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) said that the National Gold Standard Specifications for Gold Articles GYS 50: 2010 was recently made mandatory.
As a result, in the latter half of this year, the GNBS will commence the monitoring of gold jewellery manufactured and offered for sale in Guyana, by enforcing the requirements of this National Standard. The Bureau, under its Standards Compliance Programme, will begin to monitor the operations of manufacturers, including goldsmiths, to ensure that gold articles are
labelled in conformity with the requirements set out in the national standard.
According to a release from the body, the standard, which is also a Caricom Standard, highlights a range of requirements which are important for the streamlining and monitoring of the gold sector in Guyana. It highlights the designation of pure gold content in part per 1000 or karat ranging from 9-23 karats, and addresses key manufacturing aspects such as the content of the initial raw material, alloying, soldering, settings and the manufacturing environment. In addition, it
stipulates criteria for sampling, assaying, tolerances and marking of the product. The standard addresses the determination of gold articles using the modified fire assay method of testing and the formula to produce alloyed gold of a specified purity. Guidelines for best practice of melting and casting are also included in the standard.
The monitoring and enforcement of the standard will include the annual registration of manufacturers with the GNBS, routine inspections at sale outlets to ensure conformance to labelling requirements, and
the sampling and testing of gold articles offered for sale to address under-karating. The GNBS will utilise the services of its Gold Testing Laboratory to carry out tests which will ensure that the karat declared on jewellery by manufacturers is accurate. Manufacturers of gold jewellery will be notified of the effective date for the commencement of enforcement activities by the GNBS. Meanwhile, manufacturers can begin to work towards compliance by obtaining copies of the standard to verify requirements for compliance.
certain position based solely upon their qualifications and expertise.
“If you want to be promoted in the Guyana Police Force from a Constable all the way up to Commissioner of Police, you have certain steps you have to take … but to get to the various levels, there is a set of training you have to do…so in the public service this is really what
we are saying…,” he noted. Currently the Public Service Training centre offers courses to persons operating within the sector in the areas of Principles of Supervisory Management, Principles of Professional Secretarial Practice, Government Accounting Procedure, Personnel Practices and Policies among others.
Beheading of MFK owner: Police send file to DPP for advice
Police are now awaiting advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, on whether or not to institute charges against two former senior Police Officers who were implicated in the beheading of MFK Trading boss, Mohamed Feroze Khan.
Guyana Times was told that the file was sent to the DPP on Wednesday and it might take about three days to get a response.
Nevertheless, a senior rank told this publication that while the hard evidence of the crime was not presented during the investigations, there are circumstantial evidence that can be used against the two senior ranks.
The two officers were detained on Friday last, but were subsequently released after denying any involvement in the businessman’s murder. The ranks were first implicated in the murder of the businessman after murder suspect Lennox Wayne released a statement from his prison cell to the media about their involvement in the matter.
In the statement, he related that he was offered $500,000 to get rid of the businessman back in July 2014 by the two ranks who took him to the man’s house on the West Bank of Demerara. After the revelation, the men were arrested after telephone records showed that they were in
contact with the now dead man prior to his disappearance, but they reportedly provided alibis for August 9-the day the former MFK Trading boss disappeared. There was a face to face confrontation between the two men and Wayne, during which he related their alleged crime. Other members of the Police Force were present.
The decomposed, headless corpse was found on September 22, 2014 at Old Road, Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown. The head was reportedly found by workers attached to the Public Works Ministry who were weeding in the area. It was reportedly in a black plastic bag and was being carried by a dog. Upon the discovery, the men went to the area from where the dog came and stumbled upon the body.
The businessman who resided in Venezuela after selling his Hadfield business left that country on August 21, 2014 to visit his Guyanese attorney. He was expected to spend five days in Guyana and return to his three children and wife. After his disappearance, his family members contacted several of his friends, but no one had seen him. After the discovery, relatives of the businessman turned up at the Lyken Funeral Home and positively identified the remains as those of Khan by the underwear and a belt that were found on the corpse. Investigators believe that the man was beheaded before his body was dumped in the area.
On July 9, 2014, the 54-year-old businessman was shot to his abdomen by a gunman at La Grange, West Bank Demerara in a failed execution attempt. It was reported that the attempt was due to a business deal had turned sour. At that time, he claimed that he had sold a property but the buyer wanted to rob him of millions. He thought that the execution attempt might have been orchestrated by the buyer. Khan left the business world about six years ago after he received death threats.
MFK Trading Boss, Mohamed Feroze Khan
President David Granger, Minister of State Joseph Harmon, and Permanent Secretary of the Public Service Ministry Hydar Ally during a meeting at the Public Service Ministry’s Training Division with Soyinka Grogan, Manager of the Scholarship Division
President David Granger and Minister of State Joseph Harmon with several members of the public service who are currently engaged in a training session
Banks DIH Group records 10% profit increase in midyear report
The Banks DIH Group of Companies has released its operating and financial records for the first half of the 2015 financial year as at March 31, revealing a 10.1 per cent increase over the same period in the previous year.
Chairman of the Group, Clifford Reis, in his report disclosed that the unaudited profit before tax for the six months was $2.55 billion compared to the $2.31 billion that was recorded for the corresponding period in 2014. Meanwhile, the Group’s third-party revenue for the six-month period recorded a 7.8 per cent or $1.02 billion increase, with $14.07 billion over the correspond-
duction capabilities, especially in the brewery, soft drinks, water, rum and wine and ice-cream production facilities. These were complemented with the support services upgrade of the power generation, C02 production, steam generation and water supplies systems,” he noted.
The Chairman went on to highlight that during the first half of the financial year, major capital expenditure was directed towards the acquisition and installation of a new Trisco Biscuit Oven and other equipment across the company. Furthermore, he remarked that the new “Creme Select” Ice-cream Outlet on Main Street, Georgetown, was
ing period in 2014.
However, the unaudited profit before taxation for Banks DIH Limited, the company, stood at $1.86 billion, representing an increase of $274.0 million or 17.0 per cent; while the unaudited net profit was $1.15 billion. This is a 9.5 per cent or $100 million increase over the figures recorded for the same period the previous year.
The Chairman outlined that the directors have approved an interim dividend of $0.17 per share unit to all shareholders whose names appear on the register as at May 14, 2015. This will result in a dividend payment of $170.0 million. The shareholders’ Equity was increased to $23,781 Billion which equates to $23.78 per share.
According to Reis, the Company’s performance for the past six months was influenced by the increase in revenues as a result of better physical sales turnover as well as reduction in other operating expenses.
“The Company continues to realise the benefit of better efficiencies resulting from modernising its pro-
completed and opened for business in December 2014.
On the other hand, capital works will continue during the second half of the year with the installation of an on-line blow mould machine for the water production facilities, a new filler for the beer plant, the acquisition of additional trucks and forklifts and further upgrade of Demico House facilities. The company will continue to monitor its production processes to derive internal efficiencies, manage its financial resources and control expenses in order to sustain profitability, the Chairman added.
Reis continued that the company will continue its programme of “refreshing partnerships” by furthering the engagement of all stakeholders including customers, suppliers, employees and shareholders in pursuit of higher stakeholder satisfaction.
Citizens Bank
As it relates to the Citizens Bank Guyana Inc financial figures as at March 31, 2015, the profit after taxation for the six months was recorded as $459.4 mil-
lion. This is a decrease when compared to $500.6 million for the corresponding period last year.
Meanwhile, the interest income for the six-month period was $1.4 billion and interest expense was S286.6 million, resulting in net interest income of $1.2 billion compared to $1.1 million for the corresponding period last year. Other income was $236.6 million, resulting in a surplus before non-interest expenses of $1.4 billion, representing an increase of $72.3 million or five per cent during the same period in 2014.
Additionally, operating expenses were $562 million compared to $508 million for the corresponding period in the previous year. Expenses associated with branch expansion and inflationary increase in goods and services were the major contributors to the 11 per cent increase in our operating expenses.
Earnings per share for the six-month period were $7.72 compared to $8.41 for the same period in 2014. However, by the end of March, the net loans and advances balance was $31.8 billion, compared to $26 billion at March 31, 2014. It was revealed that the provision for loan losses totalled $539.2 million at the end of the six months compared to $335.8 million during the same period last year.
Net investments were $0.9 billion, compared to $7.1 billion at March 31, 2014. Total deposits balance was $34.7 billion, compared to $35.5 billion over the corresponding period last year. Additionally, the Board of Directors has approved an Interim Dividend of $0.70 per share the same as the corresponding period in 2014. According to Reis, the remaining six months of this financial year will continue to present many challenges.
“Citizens Bank Guyana Inc is, however, optimistic that with prudent management, we will record a satisfactory performance that will result in increased shareholders value,” he stated.
In addition, the construction of the New Amsterdam Branch of Citizens Bank was completed and opened for business in November last year. Reis explained that this new branch was opened as part of the Group’s ongoing objective of offering state-of-the-art facilities in pursuit of a higher level of service to customers. He also expressed his gratitude to customers, shareholders and employees for their continued confidence in the Group.
PPP/C slams Govt over shift
...“arbitrary” renaming of ministries, institution Independence celebrations
The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has called on the President David Granger-led Administration to reconsider shifting the Independence Day celebrations from the National Park to the Independence Arch located on Brickdam.
In a release, the Party said this was not only a retrogressive step but also an affront to all those who struggled for the independence of our country from the yoke of colonial rule.
“The PPP as the party that played the lead role in the independence struggle un-
der the then leadership of Dr Cheddi Jagan calls on the Granger-led Administration to reconsider that decision and hold the flag raising celebrations at the National Park in keeping with timehonoured custom and practice as it relates to the celebration.”
The PPP/C said Independence Day is the single most important day in our national political life and, therefore, ought to be given full prominence and recognition befitting of the occasion.
“Indeed, it was the PPP out of recognition of the
in venue
significance of the day and the yeoman struggles of our leaders who valiantly fought for our independence that declared May 26 as a National holiday. The PPP wishes to serve notice to the current Administration that it will not sit idly by and allow the true meaning and significance of independence to be reduced to a national circus with lots of meaningless fanfare and extravagance as during the days of the previous PNC regime when Independence Day was pushed into the background in favour of Republic Day.”
Interim arrangement remains in place for Guyanese students – AG
The interim arrangement which was made by the University of Guyana and the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) last year for the automatic acceptance of 25 Guyanese law students there will remain in place for this year, pending further discussions.
This is according to newly-sworn in Legal Affairs Minister and Attorney General Basil Williams, who spoke to the Guyana Times via phone on Thursday afternoon. Williams said that while he was yet to acquaint himself with the status of that matter, since it has only been one day since he has assumed office, he has spoken with the former Attorney General, who has related that the interim arrangement which was reached last year would remain in place for this year’s students.
In June 2014, then Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall; Head of the Department of Law Programme at the University of Guyana, Sheldon McDonald; and Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, Jacqueline Samuels-Brown via teleconferencing under the guidance of then Chairman of Caricom, Dr Ralph Gonsalves met and came to an agreement that the 25 students would have been accepted the following September. However, at that time, Samuels-Brown had said that the arrangement would have only been for last year.
It would appear that due to subsequent discussions, the arrangement would now be extended for this year until the new Government settles in and a way forward is decided upon. Williams said that the new Government will now have to decide whether it will be more feasible to make a financial
contribution to the school, in an effort to aid its expansion or set up its own law school here. Previously, Guyana did not make financial contributions to the law, since all students paid their own tuition fees.
Impasse
Days after the Council for Legal Education had stated last year that it would not be guaranteeing any of the 25 places usually offered to Guyanese students at the end of the degree programme at the Turkeyen Campus of the University of Guyana, Dr Gonsalves had written to the Council on the impasse .
In his letter, Dr Gonsalves had requested the Council facilitate the students until a review of the system was done and a suitable solution found. However, the Chairman of the Council had at the time explained that the placement issue was not one that was of pure bias but one of space and accommodation for the students who stay on campus.
Samuels-Brown had said that UWI had, in the past, released statements alluding to changes in teaching methodologies, teaching content and the poor conditions of the facilities afford-
ed to students as well as the overcrowded nature of the law school. In light of this, she noted that the school had initiated precautionary safety measures before facilitating students and it was on this ground that the decision was taken to accept the local students only if space was available. SamuelsBrown had noted that the Council was facing a monumental task in finding accommodation and facilities for students, as the law school was built to accommodate some 200 students, but was facilitating approximately 400 students.
Longstanding agreement
As part of a longstanding agreement between the Council and UG, every year, 25 automatic places are reserved for UG students at the Law School. The Council, however, had taken the decision that UG’s 2014 batch would not be guaranteed places.
It was understood by this publication that the original agreement had initially expired in November 2012, but, at the request of the Government of Guyana, it was extended until 2013. Negotiations were scheduled to take place to facilitate the 2014 batch of students. However, this discussion never took place until the matter arose some months ago. Current UG law students remain concerned over the future relationship between UG and the Law School. Nandlall had assured some time ago that a long-term solution would be instituted to prevent future limbo. Meanwhile, Caricom has requested that a review be undertaken on the provision of legal education in the region with regard to the increased need for legal services in the Caribbean. A review of the system was last undertaken more than 40 years ago.
Banks DIH Group of Companies Chairman Clifford Reis
Hugh Wooding Law School
Attorney General Basil Williams
40% of Guyanese youth unemployed – CDB study finds
Anew Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) study has proposed a comprehensive, multi-sectored approach to tackle chronic youth unemployment in regional territories.
The study is entitled “Youth are our Future: The Imperative of Youth Employment for Sustainable Development”.
The study, which was presented at the 45th Annual General Meeting of the CDB’s Board of Governors in St Kitts and Nevis, May 2021, was conducted within a framework that seeks to promote sustainable employment, especially for youth, guided by the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Decent Work Agenda and the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals. Key elements of these global agendas relevant to the Caribbean region are creating jobs, social protection, skills for employment and entrepreneurship, and promotion of active participation in the labour market.
The definition of youth adopted for the study is 1524 years of age, although the impact of unemployment on those up to age 29 is analysed. The study draws on a wide range of research at the regional and international levels, and examined policies implemented in several countries including Germany and Japan for possible adoption or amendment based on Caribbean social and economic realities.
Chief among its findings is that youth unemployment rates in the Caribbean are among the highest in the
world, at nearly 25 per cent for countries with available statistics. The adult rate is about eight per cent. In addition, there are gender differences in youth employment, with female youth unemployment standing at rates over 30 per cent as against 20 per cent for young males.
Data for eight of the Caribbean countries show that only in Trinidad and Tobago did youth unemployment rates fall below the world average, and this was during the period 2006 to 2010. Between 1991 and 2012, all other Caribbean countries had a youth unemployment rate above the world average.
The regional countries with the highest persistent youth unemployment were Guyana and Suriname which, since 2000, have consistently been above 30 per cent; with the rate in Guyana hovering around 40 per cent since that time. The report noted, however, that total unemployment rates in Guyana were also persistently high. Most
countries had a relatively consistent youth unemployment rate over the period, but the Bahamas, Barbados and, to some degree, Belize, demonstrated a spike in youth unemployment since 2007. This was attributed in part to the recent global economic crisis.
Based on a quantitative assessment the cost of excess youth unemployment, which is the difference between the youth and adult unemployment rates, was estimated at almost US$900 million in 2013 for the eight countries for which data were available.
Drawing on relevant literature and in-depth interviews conducted in the region, a number of causes and consequences of youth unemployment were identified including the state of the economy; structure of the labour market, lack of relevant skills, lack of experience; lack of knowledge of vacancies; constrained opportunities due to health status or disability, location; stigma and discrimination
due to age, ethnicity, criminal record, gender, motherhood, poverty, area of residence, disability; a reactive approach to gaining employment due to negative experiences of employment (by self or from others), lack of work ethic, belief that opportunities are limited due to social class or political affiliation.
Among the direct personal consequences of youth unemployment identified were the lack of means to support self; participation in anti-social behaviours; participation in negative behaviours as a consequence of social exclusion, low self-esteem, hopelessness and ambivalence; at the household level the impact included a reduction in disposable income to support unemployed youth and a greater burden on caregivers and other household members.
The consequences at the community and nation level were high youth crime rates; poor health; poverty; community degradation (as shown up in graffiti, vandalism, and unsafe environ-
St Kitts PM calls for more integrated approach to Region’s challenges
Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Caribbean Development Bank, Dr Timothy Harris, Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, has suggested that Caribbean countries should take a fresh look at a more integrated approach to tackling the Region’s development challenges.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 45th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the CDB, he proposed what he called an integrated regional approach to the production and distribution of alternative energy, be it blue or green energy.
“Wouldn’t it be a game changer if the Caribbean assumed leadership in alternative energy export? That would have enormous implication for the cost of doing business and development in the region? A leadership role here will do wonders for our competitiveness. Imagine a new OECS space with St Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, and Grenada, leading in geothermal energy for the sub-region, Puerto Rico, the French overseas territories and southern islands.”
The results he said would be new jobs, new skills, new source of foreign exchange, new dynamics in trade and sustainable development too.
He also identified among the Region’s pressing challenges, the need to continue efforts at restructuring its economies with a view to energise growth in a sustainable way and adjust to the new normal global economic environment.
“Compelling requirement”
The “compelling requirement” to achieve increases in competitiveness and productivity through the building of a strong Private Sector; the need to strengthen fiscal re-
gimes and reduce the public debt burden; tackle unemployment; close the growing social and economic infrastructure gaps and build resilience to climate change and natural disasters, were also listed as concerns to be addressed urgently.
According to Dr Harris, while the Caribbean ranks high on the Human Development Index, relative to other developing and emerging market countries, with average literacy and high life expectancy at birth, poverty rates in the Region were also too high averaging over 40 per cent for CDB Borrowing Member Countries.
ments); lost revenue from employment taxes and lost national output; as well as higher public expenditure to address causes and consequences.
The study finds that despite the existence of several core components for addressing youth unemployment across the region, the overall system is fragment-
ed and disjointed. While there is recognition of the linkages between youth, youth-at-risk issues and unemployment, youth have become the remit of Ministries concerned solely with social issues or those related to sports and culture, and sometimes education.
Progress expected in talks to re-establish USCuba diplomatic relations
The removal of Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism and progress in the provision of banking services for the Cuban diplomatic mission in Washington have created a positive context for the reestablishment of relations and the opening of embassies.
This is according to Foreign Relations Ministry Deputy General Director for the United States, Gustavo Machín, who spoke with the press regarding the upcoming third round of talks between the two countries, scheduled for May 21 in Washington.
This, he said, was coupled with serious income disparity, unacceptable high levels of unemployment and underemployment, and social exclusion of important segments of the population.
Dr Harris said the current state of affairs in the global environment and the regional and national realities were all signalling that the Caribbean was at a critical crossroad.
“We must turn the right corner in many aspects of our development if we are to realise lasting success in achieving sustainable and inclusive job rich growth, bring an end to the scourge of poverty, arrest the growing trends in youth unemployment, and youths at risk.
“We must make the right choices to attain food and energy security, build resilience to externalities and strengthen our regional integration efforts. When this chapter of our history is examined, it must confirm discernible results of our success in the implementation of strategies that address in a meaningful way the urgent needs of our people, particularly those who are currently marginalised and excluded.”
He noted, as well, that developments at the VII Summit of the Americas recently held in Panama, with Cuba’s participation for the first time, likewise contribute to a favourable climate.
During the upcoming talks, Cuba will insist on respect for the principles established in the United Nations Charter and the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic and Consular Relations, Machín said.
He emphasised that although several points regarding this issue have yet to be resolved, these documents clearly define the role of embassy staff. Personnel must abide by the host country’s laws and do nothing to undermine internal order.
Machín noted that “regime change” has been the objective of US policy toward Cuba since the triumph of the Revolution in 1959.
Advancing
With regard to restrictions on travel for diplomatic personnel within the host country, currently in place in both the US and Cuba, Machín insisted that although staff may wish to interact with the population, they must do so respecting
diplomatic norms. A common interpretation of the Vienna Convention is being discussed, he indicated, to ensure “strict adherence”.
He reported that communication has been maintained between the formal rounds of talks, which began after US President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro announced a policy change on December 17, 2014. “We are advancing, but it has been 56 years without diplomatic relations and there are still issues which must be addressed.”
He indicated that both sides are coming to the next round of talks with the objective of agreeing on the “when and how” of re-establishing diplomatic relations and opening embassies.
Asked about a specific timetable, he reiterated that it is important to advance on the basis of sound principles, insisting, “both parties are committed and want to move forward”.
Machín made a point of emphasising the difference between establishing diplomatic relations and normalisation. The first, he explained, can be accomplished with the provision of banking services for the Cuban mission in Washington; the definitive removal of Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism; and agreement on the behaviour of staff in the host country.
Normalisation is a longer, more complicated process, he said, which implies the total elimination of the blockade; the return of the illegally held naval base in Guantánamo; an end to subversive radio and television broadcasts; the cancellation of US plans to promote regime change; and compensation for the damages caused the Cuban people over half a century of aggression.
Foreign Relations Ministry Deputy General Director for the United States, Gustavo Machín
St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Dr Timothy Harris
The regional countries with the highest persistent youth unemployment were Guyana and Suriname
Completion of Rodney CoI in limbo
…President Granger keen on scrapping it
Even after millions of dollars have been pumped into its operations by the former Donald Ramotar Administration, the future of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry is still unclear, as President David Granger said he still has to speak with his colleagues to make a determination.
Granger said given the fact that the investigation has lasted for over a year and has not been able to bring any conclusive evidence, he could not agree that more money should be spent on it. He said while the investigation was something his Government was not prepared to support, he would still have to hold discussions with his colleagues in Cabinet, since in his estimation, it was a waste of financial resources.
The President said what his Government had supported at the outset was a commission that would help them to understand the circumstances under which Dr Rodney had died. He reiterated that the commission had instead become a farce, with the presentation of hearsay evidence by witnesses.
Dr Rodney, an educator, political leader and historian was killed on the evening of June 13, 1980. His party, the Working People’s Alliance and civil society, both locally and internationally, had pointed fingers in the direction of
Dr Walter Rodney
the then People’s National Congress (PNC) Government, led then by the late Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. The party since then has denied it was responsible for the political leader’s death.
While on the Opposition side a few weeks before the elections, Granger, a PNC member himself, had promised that if he should get into Government he would consider scrapping the investigation. He said that it was unlikely that his Administration would support the continuation of the inquiry set up by former President Ramotar, since almost a year into it, “no
one had become the wiser”.
The CoI since its commencement had seen several witnesses taking the stand to give evidence, almost all against the Burnham-led PNC of the 1980s.
Among them were close associates of Dr Rodney, including WPA co-founder Eusi Kwayana; Tacuma Ogunseye; Dr Rodney’s wife, Patricia, and the only known witness at the time of the incident, his younger brother Donald Rodney.
All the witnesses have testified against the regime of the day. The PNC was represented at the inquiry by Attorneyat-Law Basil Williams.
The Commission of Inquiry was established in February last year by President Ramotar, to probe the circumstances surrounding the death of the academic, who died when a bomb planted in a walkie-talkie device exploded as he sat in his brother’s car outside the Camp Street Prison, Georgetown on June 13, 1980. The WPA cofounder had been a thorn in the side of the PNC.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Commission, Hugh Denbow told Guyana Times on Thursday that he has not yet received any word from the new Administration regarding the continuation of the inquiry. In the interim, Denbow said his team was still at work at the Supreme Court Library building.
Budget preparations proceeding apace – Finance Minister
The newly appointed Minister of Finance
Winston Jordan has already begun extensive consultations with high-level ministry staffers with a view to completing and presenting the National 2015 Budget.
The minister, who is a highly qualified financial expert, said that he inherited some of the groundwork which was already laid out by the previous sector minister Dr Ashni Singh. These preparations were made based on the previous government’s priorities, but now the focus will be changed to reflect the agenda of the new A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Administration.
Minister Jordan explained that he has spoken to most of his senior staffers, including those from the Statistics Bureau, the Accountant General’s Department, the Bank of Guyana and several others.
“They have given me an indication of where we are at, and now I am trying to put that in some kind of framework, to get a preliminary assessment of the state of the economy, and how we, ourselves can begin to set our own targets, for this truncated physical year, and at the same time looking ahead to what we will have to do to frame the budget for 2016”.
Asked about Guyana’s eco-
nomic performance for 2015, Minister Jordan replied that during a transition meeting with his predecessor, he was informed that a growth of 3.9 to 4% is expected. This figure was projected, taking into consideration a full financial year, the minister said. “Seeing that we have some numbers now of the performance in the first almost half of the year, we need to make some projections on what is it is going to be for the next half and come up with some new projections and that is what we are doing right now”.
As part of efforts to craft a new structure for the Finance Ministry, Minister Jordan pointed out that a suitably qualified person has been found to head a “Macro Economic Section” that he intended to set up. He said that this was because budgets were being produced without this over-arching framework, within which such major documents should be undertaken. Too often these frameworks have been developed outside of Guyana, he stated, “In other words, experts come in, mostly from the World Bank, IMF and so on. They come in for short periods and I want to really have the in-house capability to develop this and to be discussing it with these teams when they come in for their annual visits”.
It would also be good to have this aforementioned
10th body recovered from collapsed mining pit
The body of the last of 10 men who were killed when a mining pit collapsed at Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) on Sunday was early Thursday morning recovered, authorities have confirmed.
Guyana Times was unable to ascertain the identity of the man. Sunday’s incident claimed 10 lives and injured seven others. The survivors include Sheldon Adams, Andrew Lazarus, Henry Xavier, Regan Greene, Alex Greene, Shawn Xavier, and an unidentified man.
Following the incident, an intense search was conducted, and five bodies were initially retrieved on Monday and flown to Georgetown the following morning. They were taken to the Lyken Funeral Parlour where only three were identified. A fourth body was identified on Wednesday.
Those identified thus far are Bobby Brian Errol Brittlebank of Wisroc Housing Scheme, Linden; 17-year-old Raymond August of Dartmouth, Essequibo; Michael Moore Gardener, 26, of Better Hope, East Coast Demerara; and 21-year-old Orlando
Richmond of Kurukabaru, North Pakaraimas, Region Eight.
Meanwhile, during searches on Tuesday and Wednesday, four more bodies were pulled from the mud – two on each day. According to information received, about 17 men were in the pit working when the walls came crashing down. The area had been experiencing extensive rainfall over the last few days, resulting in the earth becoming moist and loose. A relative of one of the miners who lost his life told Guyana Times that the incident was caused as a result of bad management by the operators since they had adopted “bad practices”. According to the man, who requested anonymity, there was heavy equipment on the edge of the pit while the men were working down below. The weight, he added, compounded by the wet conditions caused the walls of the mining pit to give away and tumbled onto the workers.
The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) had disclosed that the operation at Mowasi Backdam was illegal and the owner, Imran Khan of Grove, East Bank Demerara, had
breached several aspects of the mining rules and regulations. According to the Commission, it was made aware of the illegal operations since August 2013, but Khan had obtained an injunction from the High Court barring the GGMC from taking any action against him and his mining activities.
Meanwhile, the Caribbean Community (Caricom) has extended condolences to the Government and people of Guyana following the mining disaster. Caricom also wished a speedy and full recovery to miners who were injured.
“The Caribbean Community extends heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Guyana and the relatives of those who perished in the mining disaster at Konawaruk on Sunday, 17 May. The thoughts and prayers of the Community are with the bereaved relatives while we wish the injured a speedy and full recovery. In expressing our solidarity with the people of Guyana, the Community is confident that their resilience will ensure they survive this arduous test,” Caricom said in the terse statement.
New Agriculture Minister to tackle climate change head on
Abackground, in which to develop various projects which the new government may wish to undertake. It will also help with the development of the administration’s strategic medium and long-term plan according to its manifesto, he added.
Moving ahead, Minister Jordan is looking forward to full cooperation from the agencies which come under the ambit of the Finance Ministry, and his Cabinet colleagues. He is asking for the general population to have patience.
“I know they are clamouring for us to do a whole range of things. In time I know, most if all will be done. I’m asking that they give us this little time, as we begin to put things in place so that these promises that we made can be realised”.
The outside date for the National Budget’s presentation to the National Assembly is three months after the convening of the 11th Parliament, around the end of August 2015. The Finance Minister is optimistic, however that this process will be completed long before then, given the implications for the following 2016 National Budget.
Minister Jordan originally joined the Finance Ministry in 1985 as Budget Director and after resigning in 1994, was asked to return as a consultant where he worked until 2008. He was appointed to his current post on May 20.
griculture Minister designate Noel Holder has had an innate interest in the industry here and had over the years dedicated his life to the development of agriculture in Guyana and abroad.
The 69-year-old Holder, husband of the late cofounder of the Alliance For Change (AFC) Sheila Holder told Guyana Times that his focus for the agriculture industry was embedded in the reality that the country has been under the threat of climate change. He, along with several other Ministers, will be sworn in by President David Granger today.
A member of the AFC, since its inception, Holder told Guyana Times in a telephone interview on Thursday that he was motivated and was optimistic about the future of agriculture in Guyana. The agricultural consultant obtained his secondary education at Queen’s College, completing his studies in 1964. He then enrolled in the Leeds University England, where he obtained a first degree –a Bachelor of Science (Bsc) in Agriculture in 1968.
That same year Holder returned to Guyana, where he worked at the Agriculture Ministry, during which time he worked towards a Masters degree in the same discipline at the University
of Florida.
In 1975, Holder was transferred to a new company within the Agriculture Ministry, which was about to be created by the World Bank. He was employed there for some 20 years before it was privatised. Even after its privatisation he worked there for several more years before going into private practice.
Agricultural consultant
He became a private agricultural consultant and worked with several agricultural institutions and firms, he said. In 1999, he took a break from the agricultural industry and went into the Information Technology sector. He became the manag-
er of iNet Communications and held that position until it was sold to Global Technology back in 2013. He then returned to his job as a consultant until he was asked by the AFC to serve as its Agriculture Minister as was agreed in the Cummingsburg Accord between the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition. Holder said although he was not as active a member as his late wife, he had been assisting the political party in the agricultural area. He said his support was somewhat more pronounced after her death. He said the recommendation by his colleagues to the post could only suggest that he was the best candidate. He admitted that the work would not be easy, but planned to have a smooth orientation and transition after meeting with officers of the Ministry and heads of the various agencies that fall under the Ministry. He said among his many plans, which have also been a burning desire of his party, will be the pushing of the agricultural frontiers off the coastlands to areas that were more favourable. He again stressed the significance of climate change, and said that his Ministry will be rolling the wheels of change in that regard.
Agriculture Minister designate Noel Holder
First runner-up at the recently held Miss University of Guyana Student Society
Gabriella Chapman was selected by Simpli Royal to represent Guyana at this year’s Miss Jaycee’s International Pageant billed for July 23-27, in Antigua and Barbuda.
This was according to Director of Simpli Royal Pamela Dillon on Thursday. The delegate was commended for her stunning beauty, talent and her intelligence – factors that contributed to her being selected by the pageant agency.
Born on July 25, 1995, the 19-yearold beauty hails from the gateway to the interior Bartica. She is an amiable person who thrives on learning and experiencing
new things. She is also a very determined and vigorous individual, yet pleasantly calm.
She grew up in a small house on a farm in Bartica with her mother, stepfather and two younger brothers. She applauded her parents for the tremendous work they did in ensuring their children grew up with a sound education.
She attended the Three Miles Secondary School where she secured nine subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CXEC) and was awarded the best graduating student in English.
She is currently a full-time student pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture at the University of Guyana
with aspirations of one day becoming an Agricultural Business Manager.
The beauty feels that agriculture plays a vital role in Guyana’s economy since it was once the chief economic activity in Guyana. Chapman is of the opinion that Guyana’s agricultural sector is in need of qualified human resources, adding that she has always respected how the earth yields our essential dietary needs. This, she says, influenced her decision in choosing that career. She is motivated by her love for learning and her strong desire to become an outstanding and successful woman in today’s society.
Despite her career choice, her hobbies include singing, dancing and modelling.
Sonia Noel continues to be
a trail blazer, in her iconic glory, as her significant inroads into trendsetting fashion events keeps the Guyana flag flying high in what some would say is, uncharted and seemingly illusive territory.
“We, Guyanese, must be positioned at the right place at the right time, if we are to move with the fashionable global time
seats the like of Nobel Laureate, Sir Derek Walcott; Dame Pearlette Louisy, Governor General of St Lucia; celebrity Talk Show Host Rick Wayne, and members of the original first family of St Lucia, the Comptons, a famous sibling of whose, Fiona Compton, presented a stunning collection, Paradise Prints.
Indeed, the event housed the creme de la creme of
and so seize the opportunity to influence the international fashion trendsetters”, says Noel who recently participated at the spectacular Hot Couture... fashion for freedom, in St Lucia.
This quintessential showcase is fast becoming the premier event of the Jazz and Arts festival, the largest and most successful Jazz event of the Region.
The year 2015 marked the third installment of this prestigious extravaganza that
the widespread influx of regional and international arts/fashion/ beauty/music enthusiasts. With the accelerating acclaim of this event, the media attendance has been growing from strength to strength.
lace to cater to that after five clients who paint the town at Caribbean festivals.
She remained true to form with her signature lattice but introduced her fantasy lace textile, marrying the lush expressions of texture – to present “Lattice becomes lace”.
St Lucian society, the St Omers, the Destangs, to name a few who were all impeccably dressed. Speaking of which, at least 10 persons in the crowd were outfitted by Sonia Noel, including the lovely and dynamic Dr Desmer Destang and Barbara Jacobs Small, popular media personality.
In fact, the Jazz and Arts event has become a unique selling point for Caribbean creatives, due to
This year, media giant HBO particularly from the French islands was evidenced.
Sonia Noel shone like a diamond, with her exquisite ‘lattice becomes lace’ couture, which was received approvingly by the packed hall with discerning style arbiters and art critiques/zealots. She was in her element showing from carefree resort wear in cottons/ linens to more luxurious island elegance in draped and stretch
And onto the first ever Montreal Caribbean Fashion Week where she presented in absentia, but rubbing shoulders with the eclectic and multi-dimensional Caribbean community with its resplendent fashion design practitioners.
The effect was the same as in St Lucia. This time, she presented a touch of her perennial Mariska brand and a taste of her First Resort line. Right off the runway pieces were sold and orders were placed for some of the more intricate of her bamboo and beads masterpieces.
Montreal Caribbean Fashion Week was held at the Oscar Peterson concert Hall at the Concordia University and attracted a wide crosssection of ethnic influenced fashionista and many members of the performing and visual arts, many of whom could trace their lineage back to the Caribbean. It was an exciting and rewarding evening for the Producer Gemma RaeburnBaynes who celebrated 30 years of her Montreal Ebony Models in the city of Montreal.
Noel Designs will be on show in Barbados at BMEX from May 21-25 with the Guyanese contingent.
Sonia’s bosom buddy, celebrated Caribbean fashion guru, Trinidadian Richard Young was Creative Director for both these events, Hot Couture and Montreal Caribbean Fashion Week. Sonia and Richard look forward earnestly to the big plans of Guyana Fashion Week 2015, set for November 1-8.
Guyanese artiste and Chief Executive Office of Caribbean Fire Fest Production, Mahendra Ramkellawan has released his two newest chutney songs along with the videos and its already creating waves in Guyana and around the Caribbean.
The singer came up with the name “Bunjhal Wine” for one of the hits based on local talks around the country about bunjhal chicken, bunjhal duck, bunjhal shrimp etc.
“So why not try a bunjhal wine”, he intimated. He has performed the song a few times after which he was encouraged to record in Maha Studios, Trinidad and Tobago.
The second tune, “Oh Meh God Rosie” is based on the basic things that happen every day to men around the world – women becoming annoyed for simple things, packing up and leave, only to return the next day, making up again.
Ramkellawan thanked Maha Studios, the Deejays, television hosts and all who have been playing his tunes since they were released three weeks ago.
He advised younger musicians and singers to stay focused, follow your career and to stay away from drugs and alcohol.
Guyana’s representative at the Miss Jaycee International Gabriella Chapman
Dr Desmer Destang wearing Sonia Noel designs at Jazz
Plans are mov ing apace for the hosting of one of the biggest chutney parties in Guyana, and this time it is being taken to the Cinderella County and the Ancient County on July 4 and July 5 re spectively.
Yes, the “Clash of the Titans” is heading to the Anna Regina Community Centre ground on July 4 and on July 5 Berbicians will have the opportunity to party like never before at the Canje Estate ground, Rose Hall.
Patrons from Georgetown, East Bank, East Coast and West Side were left dripping wet after
show was held at the Guyana National Stadium in March, which saw some splendid performances by the artistes who undoubtedly performed to perfection.
Slated to perform are reigning International Chutney Monarch, Ravi B and his entire band featuring Nesha B and others; former International Chutney
led by key pianist, Avinash Roopchand; Steven Ramphall, Mahendra Ramkellwan and others. Emcee for the evening will be no other that Wonder Boy WR Reaz and television personality, Joel Ganshaam.
KI and the JMC 3Veni Band comprising Neval and Nishard M; onetime Trinidad and Tobago Chutney King Raymond Ramnarine; emerging star Avenash Maharaj; young heart throb Veekash Sahadeo; Savita Singh and many others.
The local line-up includes the Shakti String Orchestra
Tickets for the return of Clash of the Titans cost $1500 for general admission and $3000 for VIP. Tickets are available at locations nationwide. The event is sponsored by Top Brandz Distributor, The Garage, Guytrac, Comfort Sleep, Park Vue Hotel, Star Party Rentals and Team MMR among others.
Mister Guyana International 2014 Paul
Charles will have to wait for another three months to compete for the keenly contested Mr Caribbean title since the pageant was official rescheduled from May 30 to August 29.
The reason for the change has not been officially released but based on reports; the convener of the pageant might have experienced financial constraints. The host country for the pageant remains Dominica.
Charles, who is in full pageant mode, says he will continue his normal routine to get his body and mind toned and sharp for the pageant.
For the automobile lovers on the West Coast of Demerara who have held their breath for a riveting car and bike show can finally exhale and relax as Westsiderz Entertainment promises the best expo ever held in that part of the country.
“The Westside Auto Expo and Vehicle Sound Off 4” is set to sizzle on July 4 at the Tuschen Community Centre ground, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).
Over 30 vehicles will be on show, competing for cash and trophies, in several categories including Best Graphic, Best Lights, Best Theme, Best Interior, Best Engine, Hardest and Xtreme Sound (car, bike, suv and bus).
Music will be provided by #TRS and Big Life Sound System. There will also be musical clashes between Star Cars, TRex, Avengers, Red Jet, Dark Siderz, Xclusive Sounds, King Kong and Hulk among others.
Formidable competitors such as The Avengers, Red Jet, Dark Siderz, Wreaker, Star Cars, TRex, Xclusive and Massive are among the show stoppers that have already confirmed their participation.
Admission to the event is $1000 in advance and $1500 at the gate while vehicle passes will also be available for $1000. Those who wish to participate in the competition can pay $3000 as registration fees.
Tickets and entry forms are available at Westsiderz Entertainment Centre; Deals on Electronics, Strathspey; and A&S Lumber Yard, Tuschen, EBE.
In addition, Lindener Colwyn Abrams will be participating in the
also due to represent Guyana in another pageant slated for Jamaica in November.
Meanwhile, the Mr Guyana International 2015 competition is billed for November, with the increased participation of delegates from Berbice, Linden, Bartica and
Mr Wonderful World Contest billed for Panama in October, while Ryan Washington will represent Guyana at the Mr Model International contest in Miami in November.
Alexander Fiedtkou is
Georgetown and its environs.
Young men who are interested in being part of this prestigious event can visit the organisers Facebook page: Mr Guyana International or email them at mrguyanaint@gmail. com for more information and schedule for auditions.
The Mission statement for the Mr Guyana International Pageant is “Empowering men to empower themselves, their communities and fellow men”.
KI
Savita Singh Nesha B
Veekash Sahadeo Nishard M
Alexander Fiedtkou
Paul Charles
Colwyn Abram
Ryan Washington
The National Cultural Centre (NCC) is set to explode from May 29 through June 1 when the eighth edition of the satirical play titled “Nothing to Laugh About” is hosted in grand style.
The presentation is set to entertain fans to the extreme, leaving them wanting more. From feedback received, the show rocked the NCC last year and is expected to do the same this year but this time with a touch of spice.
Through the years, the “Nothing to Laugh About” franchise has never disappointed loyal fans since it is
a well produced and competently performed through a collection of comic sketches, many of which capitalise on topical humour and references with a touch of political humour.
This year will be no different since the show has now become a household name. It has always been immensely popular with sold-out audiences and has taken its place within current trends in contemporary theatre.
There is a large team of scriptwriters, including Lyndon Jones, Maria Benschop, Sonia Yarde, Lisa Singh, Michael Ignatius and
Godette, as well as Mark Kazim, Rochelle Christie, Clinton Duncan and Kwasi Edmondson.
They have produced a mixed collection of funny pieces including the sharp, the good and the indifferent. This show certainly understands what to produce to provide enjoyment to their unending multitudes of fans.
Patrons can come well prepared to be entertained by a top class cast of performers who have been creating quite a stir on the local stage.
The cast includes Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones, Henry Rodney, Michael Ignatius,
Kirwyn Mars, Chris Gopaul, Clemencio Goddette, Leza “Radika” Singh, Mark “Chiney man” Kazim, Leslyn Bobb-Semple, Gerard Gilkes, Simone Persaud, Alana Craigen, Leon Cummings, Johann David, and Brian Goodman. The show’s Stage Manager is the ever efficient Sonia Yarde.
Tickets for the shows cost $1000, $1500 and $2000, and are being sold at Giftland OfficeMax, Nigel’s Supermarket, Payless Variety Store, Elegance Jewellery and Pawnshop, Gizmos and Gadgets, and the National Cultural Centre.
More than a year in the making, Guyana’s Chutney star, Prince JP has collaborated with Ryan Samaroo, called “Lyrical Fyah” in his latest release titled “She don’t give ah dam”. The song was written by both of the artistes and was recorded at the studios of DP Production.
Hits and Jams Entertainment is in the process of finalising its first mega event billed for July 4-6 at its Water Park, Providence, East Bank Demerara titled, “Sun, Water and Sand”.
The event is a three-day extravaganza that will definitely blow your mind. Making the event even better, is that is falls on a holiday weekend, so this will undoubtedly add some excitement to activities planned. On the first day – Saturday July 4 – patrons will experience the first ever ‘food festival’ on a beach setting which will feature chefs and cooks from a variety of countries.
One can enjoy the sumptuous meals being prepared by well qualified chefs that will see you begging for more. This event will be held during the day. Then on Sunday, July 5, the venue will be transformed into a fashion fiesta which will see designers; both locally and regionally, displaying their masterpieces.
It will be a day of fun and frolic which puts you in the right mood for the local leg of the Miss Jamzone International Pageant in the evening. Presently, Hits and Jams Entertainment is recruiting delegates to be part of the event where the winner will be representing Guyana in the International Pageant slated for August. The pageant will commence as the sun sets and will go into the night.
Finally, the three-day event will culminate with a massive ‘Soca’ party. Already, the HJ team is in contact with several top class soca and chutney artistes who will perform at the event. This will be dubbed one of the biggest beach soca parties ever.
All this is happening at Hits and Jams Water Park which is officially set to open immediately after the hosting of Jamzone Summer Break 2015.
The brand new track was released on RGI and Mega Mix Reload about one week ago and has been creating a buzz on the local airwaves. The song, according to the young chutney singer is based on reality. He explained that the song tells a story of a girl who is always at home and hardly goes out but the one chance that she
Fgets, she parties “like she don’t give ah dam”. Samaroo, who is a reggae/dancehall singer feels that there will be more collaborative pieces between the two artistes. Although the song is completely soca, the artiste says he has other tunes under his belt such as “Real Friends” and “Karma”. However, Prince JP who has been representing Guyana internationally was pleased and honoured to be singing alongside the talented Samaroo. The new song was made possible by Deejay Mo out of New York. He too stated that there will be other collaborations.
Prince JP is due to perform in New Jersey on June 6.
our time Road March Queen Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts of Guyana marches on as she releases her latest single entitled “Who I am”.
It is a soulful soca track on which she teams up with label mate Tennicia Defreitas, the artiste behind of “Don’t Want to be born”.
The song speaks about some things that are synonymous with Guyanese and the Guyanese society and our particular reaction to things and situations. “Who I am” is a timely reminder of who we are as Guyanese and comes at a time when the message of unity is so fluid in the air.
The song features rich harmonies and its Afrocentric theme lends to a feeling of nostalgia and motivates that sense of identity.
The song is written, arranged and produced by Burchmore Simon and is the first in a series of songs dedicated to highlighting the fact that we are Guyanese and proud. The song was recorded at Kross Kolors Studios and was recently released on local airwaves.
Clemencio
CSK’s 2nd chance in captain’s hometown
Only once has a side won both the eliminator and the second qualifier games in the IPL. Chennai Super Kings did that in 2012, but went down to Kolkata Knight Riders in the final. Royal Challengers Bangalore will want to become the second side to do so, but find Super Kings in their way.
Royal Challengers put in a complete performance in the eliminator to beat Rajasthan Royals by 71 runs. Led by AB de Villiers and Mandeep Singh, they took 86 off the last six overs. Super Kings will likely not be so accommodating at the death. MS Dhoni’s men have comfortably beaten Royal Challengers in both league games this season, in Bangalore and in Chennai.
In both those games, Super Kings batted first. It will be an interesting decision for Virat Kohli to make if he wins the toss.
Four out of six IPL games in Ranchi have been won by the chasing side, and the victory margin in the fifth was only seven runs. Royal Challengers prefer to chase,
especially in batting-friendly conditions at home, but this is a larger outfield and not as high-scoring a venue as Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Super Kings have played a lot more in Ranchi than Royal Challengers haveseven games against twoand will be more familiar with the conditions. What will have bothered them is how their chase unraveled against Mumbai Indians in the first qualifier. They were 86 for 2 at
the halfway stage when Harbhajan Singh dismissed Suresh Raina and Dhoni off successive deliveries, blows from which Super Kings never recovered. Mumbai Indians were 86 for 0 at the halfway stage, and Kieron Pollard catapulted them to 187 for 6. Super Kings have struck consistently with the new ball this season, something they could not do in the first qualifier, and will want to in the second.
Super Kings lead Royal
Challengers 11-7 in the head-to-head. Raina made 62 off 32 to lead Super Kings to 181 for 8 in Bangalore.
Ashish Nehra’s 4 for 10 kept Royal Challengers to 154 for 8. Raina’s 52 off 46 took Super Kings to 148 for 9 in Chennai. Nehra claimed 3 for 19 as Royal Challengers were dismissed for 124.
In the spotlight
Suresh Raina is having his poorest IPL season, in terms of runs as well as strike-rate. His lowest season run-tally prior to this one was 421 in 2008, and his lowest season strikerate was 135 in 2011. This time he has made 346 runs at 122. However, both his fifties have come against Royal Challengers.
These are the two most productive attacks this season. Super Kings have taken 93 wickets at an economy-rate of 7.56 and a strike-rate of 18.9. Royal Challengers have 86 at 8.38 and 16.6. With so many power-hitters in both lineups, it will come down to which set of bowlers holds up better under pressure.
Passion, confidence ultimate for Windies, says Sir Curtly
West Indies bowling consultant Sir Curtly Ambrose says his major aim with the Caribbean side is to help them return to playing with the passion and self-belief, that characterized winning teams of the past.
The legendary fast bowler, who grabbed 405 wickets in 98 Tests, said the current Windies players possessed the skill set for international cricket but needed to add confidence and consistency to their game, if they were to break out of their losing slump.
“The level of respect the guys have for me it makes my job a little easier but I’ve got to get them to play with some passion and keep believing in themselves because when you’ve been losing for so many years it can be difficult to pick yourself up,” Sir Curtly told TalkSport Radio in a live studio interview here where he was promoting his new autobiography, Time To Talk.
“I intend to bring that passion and self-belief that we can win games and that to me is more important because they have the skills and you have seen that from time to time, but the consistency isn’t there and that’s what I’ve been trying to get them to do.”
West Indies are coming off an impressive showing against England, where they managed a 1-1 draw in the three-Test series earlier this month.
They displayed plenty fight to draw the opening Test in Antigua when they seemed set for defeat and then produced a sterling display in the final Test at Bridgetown, to pull off a shock five-wicket victory inside three days.
In between, they lost the second Test in Grenada by nine wickets.
Sir Curtly said he had been impressing on the team all along, the importance of playing together in order to get positive results.
“I joined the team a year ago and that’s one of the things I have been preaching to the guys. When you look at the lineup we don’t have any real superstars like before so I’ve said to the guys that team unity is going to make us better,” Sir Curtly explained.
“We all have to play together as a team and forget about big name players. I’ve tried to drill into the guys that we are better than we are showing and one of the things I keep saying is that we maybe number eight on the ICC rankings list, England are number three but because a team is ranked higher than you, doesn’t mean they are the better team.
“It means they are more consistent, they win more games and they win more series so hence they go up the ladder. We can compete.”
West Indies are preparing to face Australia in a two-Test series starting next month in the Caribbean. (CMC)
Pakistan set to end 6-year drought
This series will be less about what happens between bat and ball and more about what happens beyond the boundary, or more precisely, what does not happen. Security threats have meant that no Test-playing team has visited Pakistan since the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus and no Test-playing team would have if not for Zimbabwe, although they won’t be playing any Tests.
Against the advice of the international player association, FICA, and their own country’s foreign affairs ministry, Zimbabwe have done much more than hold out an olive branch to Pakistan; they’re planting a forest. Their 10-day, two T20 and three ODI tour could cultivate the comeback of international cricket to a country most teams are too scared to travel to.
Zimbabwean players’ eyes with many of them sharing on social media their excitement to be received so warmly but they will know those eyes do not want to see Pakistan defeated. And those eyes won’t be expecting anything like that. Zimbabwe are historically poor travelers and lost every match on their most recent away trip to Bangladesh. They have not played any cricket since the World Cup but are hopeful of a(nother) new beginning under Dav Whatmore. They have a packed winter schedule and will hope to get off to a good start in Pakistan.
In the spotlight All the joy over cricket coming back to Pakistan the country is not quite the same as the feeling around Pakistan the team. As it gets over ODI retirements
At least, that is what both the Pakistan Cricket Board and Zimbabwe Cricket hope.
In many ways, the PCB and ZC are perfect for each other because each has what the other wants. The PCB wants to host cricket for its team, ZC wants its team to play more cricket, and that is what brought the two together. The actual cricket could be a periphery to those desires but it will be important for both nonetheless.
Pakistan will be before their home fans once again and that alone will be motivation enough to turn things around from their recent tour of Bangladesh, where they were blanked in the limited-overs matches. They will be smarting after that, desperate to show they have not sunk to a new low, and there will be no better place to do that than in front of their own fans.
Passionate supporters have already caught the
of senior players, the side is trying to forge a new identity and needs to find both stability and success to get on its feet. Against the emotive backdrop of the return home, a series against Zimbabwe may be the perfect place for the new-look Pakistan to start to take shape.
Zimbabwe’s returnees make up more than a third of their squad as the selectors have decided to give players who missed out on the World Cup another chance to stake a claim for a long-term spot. Among them are Vusi Sibanda, whose talent as an opening batsman has not yielded the results expected, Graeme Cremer, the legspinner whose wicket-taking ability could make him a key component of the attack and Chris Mpofu, the lanky seamer who will look to lead the pack. All three add experience to Elton Chigumbura’s growing senior core. (Cricinfo)
Chris Gayle will be vital to RCB’s success
Sir Curtly Ambrose
Root, Stokes lead England’s entertaining fightback
After little more than the first hour of the opening day at Lord’s, the new hierarchy of English cricket will have been shuffling a little uncomfortably in their seats. At 30 for 4 a horrendous day for the home side, to follow the acrimony of the last couple of weeks, could have unfolded as New Zealand surged out of the blocks but instead England’s middle order fought back in entertaining style.
The recovery was fashioned by Joe Root, continuing the form that had him named England’s player of the year three days ago and, arguably more significantly, Ben Stokes as the pair added 161 in 32 overs for the fifth wicket. Both fell short of hundreds - for Stokes it would have been his first in England and for Root his
Fit-again
fifth since May last yearbut their efforts were backed up by half-centuries for Jos Buttler and Moeen Ali as they added 103 for the seventh wicket.
The action continued to the last moment, though, with Buttler lbw to the final ball of the day, playing a horrid shot across the line at Trent Boult. Still, Nos 5 to 8 had provided 306 runs to haul their team out of a position that would only have only fuelled recent fires. The flames are still far from dying out, but a temporary barrier has been formed.
Despite the late pick-meup wicket, New Zealand will know the day slipped away from them. They have said a disjointed preparationwith four senior players arriving two days before the Test from the IPL - will not
Blake taking it slow as Rio beckons
Former World 100 metres champion, Yohan Blake, is back to full fitness but says he will not be rushing his comeback to international competition.
Instead, the 25-year-old plans to slowly work his way back into competition shape with the aim of being at his optimum for next year’s Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
“We’re on a different plan. He’s fully healthy and 100 per cent recovered, it’s just getting into competition shape now. We’re just trying to take our time,” the Jamaican’s agent, Cubie Seegobin, told the Gleaner newspaper here.
“He’s working like normal, doing time trials, but we’re just trying to make sure what happened the last two years doesn’t happen and don’t rush anything. So anything short of the Olympics would be great.”
Blake came to fore when he won the 100 metres at the 2011 World Championships in Daegu, becoming the youngest ever World champion in the event at age 21.
He stunned multipletime Olympic champion Usain Bolt at the Jamaica National Championships in 2012 before copping silver in both sprints behind Bolt at the London Olympics a
be used as an excuse (it is the position they have accepted for themselves out of necessity) but Tim Southee, especially, looked a little short of a gallop.
Matt Henry, making his debut in support of the main two, began with two wickets in his first spell and later found Root’s edge on 98 but he also leaked nearly four an over as the game escaped from New Zealand after lunch. Neither did Mark Craig, who does not mind buying his wickets, offer a defensive option - not that defence generally enters Brendon McCullum’s mindalthough much credit in the shift of momentum should go to the way Root and Stokes batted. The reward for a positive mindset.
The day before this Test, Stokes’ father, Gerard, spoke to Fairfax in New Zealand about the dilemma he would face watching his son against the country of his birth. He may have gone through emotional turmoil as the day unfolded with his boy rattling along at close to a run-aball only to fall with a hundred in his grasp. For Stokes jnr, promoted back to No. 6 where he scored his maiden Test century in Perth and 79 in Antigua, just getting off the mark was a notable moment after three previous Test innings in England had been ducks.
Root, in a lively manner that is becoming common place, went to fifty shortly after lunch from 53 balls and
Yohan Blake
few months later.
However, his season the following year was thrown into disarray because of injury and an attempted comeback last July ended in disappointment when he pulled up during the 100 metres at the Glasgow Grand Prix at Hampden Park.
Seegobin said Blake’s training had been going well and the athlete could be making an appearance soon.
“Everything’s going well. He’s training. We hope to do something by the end of the month, but we’re not in any rush for any competition or any specific timetable,” he said.
The IAAF World Championships is set for Beijing from August 22-30. (CMC)
Stokes skipped to his off 55 as he firstly caught up with his partner then accelerated past him as he took 25 off two overs from Henry and Boult. The on side dominated Stokes’ innings and he was especially productive with a powerful whip through midwicket, his timing and placement superb except for a couple of top-edged pulls which landed in space, before an innings of attack ended with him playing no stroke to a Craig delivery that came down the slope, leaving him watching in horror as it clipped the off stump, having struck 15 fours and a pulled six in his 94-ball stay.
It was a day when a rejigged England middle order came together as Buttler, back at No. 7 with Moeen pushed down to No. 8, earned himself a 95-ball fifty - restrained by the standards Buttler is capable off, but highly mature given that there remained work to do when Stokes and Root could not kick on beyond three figures. Moeen began uncertainly, squirting a first-ball yorker off the back of the bat to third man, but grew in confidence as he slog-swept Craig before the second newball. When he had 32 he bunted a firm chance back to Southee who barely had time to react and finished unbeaten on 49 with the tail to come in the morning.
The spectators who filled out Lord’s on a very encouraging first-day crowd for a May Test - testimony to the
draw the visiting team offered - certainly had their monies worth from start to finish. McCullum hinted that he would favour bowling, but it will not have been a straightforward decision with the overhead conditions, which usually play a key role here, suggesting it was a bat-first occasion, while the pitch was said to be quite dry underneath the matting of grass. As the sun did its work during the afternoon, the green hue diminishing, it looked a beauty to bat on.
For seven overs there was steady reconnaissance as Alastair Cook, and his new opening partner, Adam Lyth on debut, played watchfully against the early movement. But in Southee’s fourth over he slid one across the left hander which grazed the outside edge: the batsman wasn’t sure if he had nicked it and, after some deliberation, decided against a review. A change of ends for Boult then provided an immediate reward when Gary Ballance, perhaps caught
deep in his crease as is his preference, edged a drive to third slip.
Henry did not have to wait long for his first Test bowl, brought on in the seventh over, and in his third opened his Test account with a short ball which was heading leg side but caught Cook by surprise for pace as he went for the pull and gloved behind.
Henry’s pace played a part in Ian Bell’s dismissal, too, and it was a delivery that would have removed many a batsman as it held its line off the seam. But with the current mood within the English game, that will not prevent hysteria although it is fact to point out that Bell’s last four innings have been 1, 0, 0 and 1. Somewhere, perhaps on a golf course, England’s position was unlikely to have passed Kevin Pietersen by. But Pietersen, barring a remarkable turn of events, is the past. What followed was the present and future for England. (Cricinfo)
“new coach will run show” – strauss
Andrew Strauss has insisted he will allow England’s new head coach the “space to do his job” despite having already made some major decisions regarding selection and tactics.
Strauss, England’s new director of cricket, confirmed that he had started talking to candidates for the role and suggested he hoped to have someone in place for the start of the Ashes series on July 8.
With Strauss having already confirmed the identity of the Test captain and vice-captain, as well as having decided that there will be no recall for Kevin Pietersen this summer, there have been suggestions that some candidates for the coaching role will fear interference if they take on the job. But Strauss was adamant that, once the appointment is made, he will not be “knocking on the dressing room door”.
“The new coach is going to be given the opportunity and space to do his job as he should be,” Strauss told the BBC. “He is not going to be a whipping boy for me or anyone else.
“He has to run the show as he sees fit and have a good close working relationship with the captain. I have got to help him to do what he needs to do. I am there to help and support
him and look a bit more strategically and long term in our planning. If we have that situation we can co-exist quite happily.
“I am not going to be one of those guys always knocking on the dressing room door telling him he has to do this and that. It has got to be his show to run. I am going to get out of the way, allow him to do his job and
rush into it.”
While acknowledging England’s “difficult” last 18 months - “I don’t think anyone would say that the World Cup had any real positives to take out of it,” he said - Strauss also expressed his belief that the new coach had a wonderful opportunity to build on the improvements made over the last year and that
the captain to do the job.
“There is a strong case for the coach to have a strong say in selection. He is there on the ground, knows conditions and how the players are feeling on the ground and in the dressing room. The coach is a selector at the moment, but I think selection is something we need to look at and not
the job remained “one of the three big jobs in world cricket”.
“We have had a great run,” Strauss said. “The last decade has been phenomenal. Let’s not forget that. There is a lot that is good about England cricket at the moment. But we have to move forward. The game is evolving very
quickly and there is a feeling we are behind the curve on some fronts. We need to make sure we are ahead of the curve.
“This is one of the three big jobs in world cricket. For any coach with ambitions to further themselves, this is an exciting opportunity. There are a lot of people interested in this job, definitely.”
Strauss hopes that, with a coach in place, the side can improve the image of the game in England and play in a manner that makes people proud of the side once more.
“The bigger picture is getting people playing the game of cricket and watching the game of cricket,” he said. “In order to do that we need an England team that people are proud of. This is why the environment and culture is so important. The way we do it and way the guys hold themselves.
“In this job you kind of know you are not going to be popular. There are going to be times when it is not fun and times when people scratch their head and can’t measure your impact. You are in the background and you are reliant on coaches and players doing their stuff.
“I am not doing the job to be popular, but to make a difference.”
(Cricinfo)
Ben Stokes and Joe Root put on 161 for the fifth wicket
Andrew Strauss talks with England’s temporary head coach Paul Farbrace before the start of play at Lord’s
YELLOW PAGES
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Bob Hewitt gets bail over child rape in South Africa
Former tennis star
Bob Hewitt has been granted bail by a South African court, after receiving a six-year prison sentence for raping underage girls.
Victims reacted angrily to the judge’s decision in the Pretoria High Court to extend bail pending an appeal hearing on 19 June.
The former Grand Slam champion will now be placed under house arrest.
Hewitt, 75, was found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting girls he coached in the 1980s and 1990s.
Judge Bert Bam criticised the Australian-born player at his sentencing on Monday for not showing re-
morse during his trial.
He said justice must be seen to be done, even for ageing offenders.
‘Poor health’
One of the victims who gave evidence at the tri-
al said that Hewitt had assaulted her when she was just 12 years old.
The judge said at the time of Hewitt’s conviction that the striking similarities between the three victims’ testimonies showed that his conduct was calculated.
Speaking at the sentencing hearing in Pretoria, Hewitt’s wife Delaille had begged the court to show mercy and not award a custodial sentence.
Hewitt had testified that he suffered from poor health.
The BBC’s Nomsa Maseko, in Johannesburg, says the tennis champion has also been ordered to pay a fine to the South African Department of Justice,
which will help fund its campaigns against sexual abuse.
Hewitt’s lawyers say they will appeal against his conviction and sentence. He was suspended from the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2012 over the allegations of sexual abuse.
Hewitt played initially for Australia, later moving to South Africa and taking citizenship there. He was a member of the South African team which won the Davis Cup by default in 1974.
India, their opponents, refused to travel to South Africa for the final as a protest over the government’s apartheid policies. (BBC Sport)
Coach Simmons opens door for IPL quintet
West Indies coach Phil Simmons has opened the door for Dwayne Bravo, Lendl Simmons, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell and Kieron Pollard to return to the Test team, stating his intention to meet them on their return from the IPL.
Bravo and Lendl Simmons had announced their Test retirements, while Pollard took an “indefinite break” from first-class cricket earlier this year. Russell indicated he was not physically capable of playing the long form and Narine has been sidelined due to questions about his bowling action.
However Phil Simmons, who was appointed coach in March and had a sturdy result in the home series against England, is eager to see if he can encourage a better relationship between the West Indies team and the re-
gion’s IPL participants.
Before his departure for the IPL, Bravo had suggested he would like to return to the Test team.
“Obviously everybody wants to see those guys playing Test cricket for the West
“I’m not aware of Bravo’s statement, but I haven’t spoken to any of them since I became coach. I hope to sit down with them and discuss my, and the selectors, vision for how we want West Indies to play Test cricket going for-
Indies because they are certainly good enough to play that format,” Phil Simmons told Trinidad’s Newsday.
ward and how they possibly fit into that.
“I can’t rule anybody in or out of consideration until I do
so.” It remains to be seen whether these discussions can take place quickly enough to allow any of the quintet to be part of the team to face Australia in two Test matches next month.
Phil Simmons felt that the WICB should look to the likes of New Zealand for an example of forming a better relationship between IPL-contracted players and the West Indies team. New Zealand have accepted that the financial rewards on offer to IPL players, relative to their international income, requires a degree of flexibility to allow them to take part in both.
Phil Simmons said he had also discussed the future with Shivnarine Chanderpaul ahead of the Australia series, though he did not divulge their plans. (Cricinfo)
Players retiring to play T20s – Sir Garfield Sobers
Eight years since the Indian Premier League caught the fancy of cricket’s global audience, administrators the world over have wrestled with several issues that its success has brought along.
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The fact that newer leagues have mushroomed in every country has queered the pitch further. To complicate things even more, while T20 continues to flourish, Test cricket seems to be languishing, leading to aficionados fearing for the health of the purest form of the game.
West Indies great Sir Garfield Sobers is among those, who does not mince words about where Test cricket is headed unless a balance between formats is brought about quickly. “I definitely believe that Test cricket will suffer. Players are retiring from Tests to play T20 and you can’t blame them from a certain point of view. Things have changed. If there was no
T20, a lot of players would have continued playing Test cricket,” Sobers said during a teleconference on Monday. There is probably none who could match the prowess of Sobers, both with the bat and ball, but the 78-year-old from Barbados is not sure where he would have fitted in the current scheme of things. “I can’t tell you that. One-day cricket... I didn’t play a lot of it. I played in England but it’s
difficult for me to say whether I might have been good or bad at T20. Who knows?
It’s a different type of cricket,” said Sobers, who is the ambassador of the Limacol Caribbean Premier League that will be played between June 20 and July 26.
While it’s a fact that the longer formats have taken a beating owing to T20’s success, purists have been accused of being overly critical of this format. Sobers reckons: “Whether players want to play Tests or T20, it’s up to them. I believe Test cricket is very important. If I had to play between the two, I would probably choose Test cricket because I think the finance in both areas is quite good.
“You have T20 and one player can go to all parts of the world - Australia, South Africa, India and come to the West Indies because they are all different times of the year. He can travel all over the world and can
benefit financially - probably more than he can do in Test cricket.” So what steps can be taken to maintain the primacy of Test cricket? “It’s not an easy one to answer. A lot of people are involved in the game and a lot of people have their own mindsets. I can’t really answer this,” Sobers stressed. While the IPL has seen the emergence of players who are game to test the limits of aggression, Sobers reckons it’s too early to analyse the impact that the CPL has on West Indies’ cricket.
“I don’t think it has made a big impact as yet. It has only just started. But, I think it has helped to excite more people. A lot of people who didn’t go to the cricket are going to watch T20. They may go to Test cricket too and that will help improve the revenue for West Indies cricket.” (The
Sir Garfield Sobers
Bob Hewitt
Dwayne Bravo has quit Tests. Kieron Pollard has taken an indefinite break from first-class cricket
Josiah-Tanner, Forde dominate 2nd leg
of Telesur 10k
Ilsida Toemere was third.
“It was an okay race; it was hot, windy and we had some rain … There was a few dogs on the route that charge us, but it ended well for us and me,” JosiahTanner noted.
Meanwhile, Guyana’s best distance athlete, Cleveland Forde got a measure of revenge on Jamaica’s Rupert Green by winning the second leg of the event.
Green won the first leg of the event to top Forde, but was unable to outwork the man known as the “Little Kenyan” this time around.
Fiyah Friday T20 in Berbice… Permaul, Bishoo, Chattergoon and Motie to play school cricket today
US-based Guyanese distance athlete
Euleen JosiahTanner is having a good season thus far, winning the second leg of the Telesur 10k Road Race in Suriname on Saturday.
Josiah-Tanner, who won the first leg of the event on May 1, finished ahead of fellow Guyanese Andrea Foster, who also finished in exactly the same position in the first leg of the event.
Distance star Alika Morgan, who was third in the first leg of the event, slipped to fourth this time around, while Surinamese
Guyana’s Cleveland Thomas and Trinidadbased Guyanese Kelvin Johnson finished third and fourth respectively, the very same positions they finished in on the first leg of the event. (Treiston Joseph)
Sepp Blatter’s rivals pulls out of Fifa election
Luis Figo has joined Michael van Praag in withdrawing from the Fifa presidential election on 29 May.
Ex-Portugal midfielder Figo, 42, pulled out on the same day as Van Pragg, 67, to leave Prince Ali Bin Al-Hussein of Jordan as Blatter’s only rival.
Blatter is favourite to win a fifth term as president and Figo said: “This process is anything but an election.
“This process is a plebiscite for the delivery of absolute power to one man - something I refuse to go along with.”
Each of Fifa’s 209 member associations have a vote in the election and Van Praag, who is president of the Dutch football federation, says he will now support Prince Ali.
The English Football Association also intend to support Prince Ali, while the Scottish FA had previously said they would back Van Praag.
The Dutchman held a joint news conference with Prince Ali in Amsterdam on Thursday, urging his supporters to get behind the Jordanian to unseat Blatter.
“Prince Ali Bin AlHussein convincingly demonstrated that at this mo-
comparing Fifa leaders to the devil, then go on stage and compare those same people with Jesus Christ. Nobody told me about this. I saw it with my own eyes.”
He also questioned an election process in which a main candidate - Blatterhad not produced a manifesto “so that federation presidents know what they’re voting for”.
Figo added: “There has not been a single public debate about each candidate’s proposals.”
The Port Mourant Secondary School under its Head Teacher, Mark Lyte, will be hosting its first annual Fiyah Friday T20 for former students of Lower Corentyne Secondary School, JC Chandisingh Secondary School, Corentyne Comprehensive High School and its alumni.
The competition will be played today at the Albion Sports Complex with the final billed to be played under lights.
KP Jagdeo and Sons Construction will be sponsoring the Andre-Percival led Corentyne Comprehensive High School; D Arjune and Sons Poultry Depot will outfit John Percival Jr and his JC Chandisingh Unit; Canjebased construction company Kascon Construction
will take care of the Lower Corentyne Secondary School, who will have national middle-order batsman Rajiv Ivan in charge; while A Ramcharitar Constructions will be branding the hosts Port Mourant Secondary, who will have Joshua Ramsammy in charge.
School cricket over the last two decades was keenly contested among these teams as they later produced cricketers for Berbice, Guyana and West Indies.
Also expected to return to their old school are Berbice, Guyana and West Indies spin twins Veerasammy Permaul and Devindra Bishoo, former West Indies Opener Sewnarine Chattergoon, National Coach Esuan Crandon, Royston Crandon, Balchand Baldeo,
Gudakesh Motie Kanhai, Jonathan Foo, Shawn Pereira, Eon Gibson and other former and current players.
Meanwhile Fiyah Friday would like to express its gratitude to the sponsors who have contributed to this event: Albion Estate, the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Six, Banks DIH, KP Jagdeo and Sons Construction, D. Arjune and Sons Poultry Depot, A Ramcharitar Construction, Guyana Cricket Board, Berbice Cricket Board, Archway Snackette, Sunshine Supermarket, NTN TV Berbice, Shabba Car and Bus Rental, and Bob Supermarket. (Andrew Carmichael)
ment in time he is the candidate who has the biggest chance to challenge Sepp Blatter,” Van Praag said.
The latest withdrawal comes after another presidential candi-
“It is impossible that Fifa moves on with its current presidency,” he added.
Figo also highlighted the need for change in his withdrawal statement.
“I travelled and met extraordinary people who, though they recognized the value of much that had been done, also concurred with the need for change, one that cleans up Fifa’s reputation as an obscure organization that is so often viewed as a place of corruption,” he said.
“I have seen with my own eyes federation presidents who, after one day
date, Frenchman Jerome Champagne, a former Fifa deputy general secretary, pulled out in February.
Former Tottenham and Newcastle midfielder David Ginola, backed by a betting company, originally announced his intention to stand against Blatter in January, but withdrew two weeks later.
The vote will be held in Zurich at Fifa’s annual congress and requires the winning candidate to secure a two-thirds majority in the first round of voting.
If subsequent rounds are required then a simple majority is all that is required for victory. (BBC Sport)
NBA Playoff roundup… Cavs open Eastern Conference Finals with win
JR Smith
JR Smith knocked down a tough 3-pointer, then another. Turning toward the fans, their heckling transformed to groans, he blew off his right index finger and motioned toward his side, like he was holstering his pistol.
Yep, Smith was that hot.
While LeBron James led Cleveland with 31 points, it was Smith who ignited the Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. He made eight 3-pointers and scored 28 points in a 97-89 victory over the topseeded Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night.
“When he gets hot,” Cleveland coach David Blatt
marveled, “he gets smoking hot.”
Intent on bringing Cleveland its first NBA title, James sealed the victory with a soaring dunk in the final minute.
For the Hawks, it was the second straight series in which they’ve lost the opening game at home. Cleveland will look to take command of the series in Game 2 Friday night.
Making matters worse for Atlanta, DeMarre Carroll went down with a knee injury driving to the basket with 4:59 remaining. He was helped to the locker room, not putting any weight on his left leg, and will undergo
an MRI on Thursday to determine the seriousness. Besides being the main defender on James, Carroll had been the Hawks’ leading scorer in the playoffs. He was averaging more than 17 points coming into Atlanta’s first conference final.
“DeMarre is a complete player,” Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer said. “He has a big impact at both ends of the court.”
Jeff Teague led Atlanta with 27 points. But Atlanta didn’t produce its usual balanced scoring, as two starters — Kyle Korver and Carroll — failed to reach double figures.
With Smith doing most of the damage, Cleveland outscored the Hawks 22-4 over the final 5 minutes of the third quarter and the first 2 minutes of the fourth. During that span, he made five 3-pointers and another jumper from just inside the arc, as well as throwing up a lob that Tristan Thompson dunked.
“Once I start shooting,” Smith said, “everybody keeps telling me to keep shooting.” (WCF Courier.com)
Euleen Josiah-Tanner
Cleveland Forde
Surujnarine Kandasammy, Delbert Hicks, Imran Khan, Orvin Mangru,
Devendra Bishoo and Veerasammy Permaul
Sepp Blatter
Luis Figo
GHRA, Trophy Stall congratulate new Govt
Notes of congratulations continue to pour in for the new Government, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Coalition, and newly-elected President, David Arthur Granger.
The Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA) and the Trophy Stall of Bourda Market and the City Mall have become the latest organisations to join in wishing the new Administration and the Head of State success during their term in office.
The GHRA message reads: “The Guyana Horse Racing Authority takes this opportunity to extend heart-
felt congratulations and best wishes to the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)/ Alliance For Change (AFC) Coalition party on its recent win at the polls at Guyana’s General and Regional Elections.
Special congratulations to His Excellency, the Right Honourable David Arthur Granger on his accession to the office of President, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and the rest of the Cabinet.
The GHRA hopes the national unity and diversity representative of the coalition Government find its way into addressing sports in Guyana. The GHRA stands ready to work with the coalition Government and its Sport Ministry in seeing to have the already submitted draft proposal for legislation, enacted during this Parliament.”
Meanwhile, Proprietor of the Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich, said that on behalf of all those who support his business, he would like to extend best wishes to the new Government.
“May all Guyana win under your leadership,” a brief statement from the entity read.
The APNU/AFC Coalition unseated the PPP/C at the May 11 General and Regional Elections to take over the reins of Government.
Berbice Inter-Primary School Wind Ball tournament… Sports must come 2nd to school work – Monroe
Sports have a vital role to play in the development of youths but cannot replace the importance of academic education.
This is according to former Sports Officer of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Alistair Monroe who addressed over 400 students as well as parents at the commencement of the Canje zone of the National Inter-Primary School Windball Cricket Tournament on Tuesday.
Monroe revealed that the event was one of the biggest programmes he has organised which schools look forward to during the final
term of the academic year.
“And despite all the hurdles before me over the years we still don’t let that deprive you, the students of Guyana, from loosening up your bones from pulling those suitcases and them heavy haversack on your back.”
“Shake out yourself, make friends, play hard as you prepare to continue your education heading to secondary schools. I want to be the first to congratulate you all in your hard work during your years in primary for those who wrote the common entrance exam, and I know your hard work will
pay out in your results.”
Monroe added that they should enjoy every moment of the tournament. “Win or lose, you are all winners. We must work together and most importantly, we must live in love and unity.”
Special mention was made of AL Sport & Tour Promotions which is also working along with the authorities to ensure the tournament’s success.
Meanwhile, the tournament organiser noted that prizes for the 2014 programme will be presented along with the 2015 prizes.
In Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne),
the tournament is being played in six zones: Canje, New Amsterdam, Lower Corentyne, Central Corentyne, Upper Corentyne and Black Bush Polder.
On Tuesday, Bohemia Primary won both the boys and girls titles for the Canje zone.
In the final of the girls’ competition and in a repeat of last year’s final, Bohemia girls beat Rose Hall Estate by 13 runs.
In the boys’ final, Bohemia boys defeated St Patrick Primary by eight wickets with two balls to spare. (Andrew Carmichael)
inet communications football final postponed again
Continuous rainfall in Georgetown over the past week has once again forced organisers of the inaugural iNet Communications Under-13 football competition to postpone the final of the tournament, which was rescheduled to this weekend.
The championship game was originally fixed for last Saturday at the Tucville Ground, but was postponed on account of the heavy rainfall in the capital city.
“Due to the inclement weather, we have been forced to post-
Excitement building for El Dorado golf tournament
Despite inclement weather over the past two weeks, enthusiasm is high among golfers ahead of the annual El Dorado-sponsored tournament this weekend.
El Dorado Brand Manager Larry Wills, in a brief handing over ceremony of the sponsorship cheque and trophies for Saturday’s tournament, expressed his organisation’s delight to sponsor for the fourth successive year the golf tournament at Lusignan.
El Dorado Rum is a rum
brand produced by Demerara Distillers Limited, which had been sponsoring golf tournaments at Lusignan for several years.
Wills is highly appreciative of the great support that golfers have given to the El Dorado-sponsored tournament and looks forward to there being keenly competitive play this weekend. Lusignan Golf Club President David Mohamad expects the course to be in excellent condition as the groundstaff is working diligently.
Undoubtedly, the winners of the last three years will be seeking to regain top positions when the action tees off at noon.
Those winners were Carlos Adams (gross 66), Kishan Bacchus (68), Brian Hackett (68), and S Deosarran (78) in 2012; Troy Cadogan (66/27), Christine Sukhram (70/10), Brian Hackett (71/23), Gavin Todd (71/17) and Mohanlall Dinanauth (77) in 2013; and Mohanlall Dinanauth (69/4) and Dr Philbert London (69/28) in 2014.
pone the final of the iNet Communications football once again. We shall convey to you and with adequate notice when we shall have this final. We thought that it would not be in the best interest of all to have this final played under soggy conditions,” a release from the organising club, Fruta Conquerors, stated on Thursday.
The host club and Santos have booked their places in the final following comfortable wins at the
semi-finals.
Fruta Conquerors needed just a solitary goal to get past their ‘A’ team and book a place in the championship game, with a Jermaine Garrett goal accounting for Fruta Conquerors’ success.
In comparison, Santos did a demolition job against Western Tigers, blasting in three unanswered goals to remain in the hunt for the top prize. Rondell Jordan, Jermaine Padmore and Darren Niles were the goalscorers for Santos.
All players on the champion team will be given scholarships by the sponsor. The third-place game between Fruta Conquerors A and Western Tigers will commence at 15:00h, while the final between Fruta Conquerors and Santos will start an hour later. Representatives of iNet Communications will be on hand to witness the games and assist in the presentation of prizes at the conclusion.
President David Granger
El Dorado Brand Manager Larry Wills (left) presents the sponsorship cheque to Lusignan Golf Club’s Public Relations Officer Guy Griffith. In the foreground are trophies to be presented to tournament’s top performers
Chanderpaul deserves special send-off, says Cameron
West Indies Cricket Board president, Dave Cameron, says he wants to ensure veteran lefthander Shiv Chanderpaul gets a fitting send-off when his career finally ends.
The 40-year-old Chanderpaul is nearing the end of an illustrious career that has seen him garner 11 867 runs from 164 Tests, to be second on the alltime West Indies list behind the superb Brian Lara.
Cameron, who in March gained reelection for a second term, said he had not been pleased with how former players had been treated at the end of their careers.
“I have never really liked how we have ushered out our players, so as president I am always trying to figure out how to honour them,” he told the Jamaica Gleaner.
“We’re doing it now on a continuous basis, year by year, for their performances, but at the end of a long and illustrious career like Shivnarine Chanderpaul’s we want to ensure that
whatever we do, it is well respected and that he knows and the region knows how much we value his services to West Indies cricket.”
Much speculation has surrounded Chanderpaul’s recent form. He managed a mere 91 runs against South Africa in three Tests earlier this year and also struggled against England in the recent three Test series with just 92 runs.
He requires a further 86 runs to surpass Lara’s record of 11 953 and maybe eyeing the two-Test Australia series beginning next month, as the opportunity to do so.
However, Cameron said Chanderpaul recently met with the West Indies hierarchy to discuss his future and more would be revealed in coming days.
“Unfortunately, I am not privy to the discussions, but obviously it is where he is at and what are the next steps,” Cameron said.
“In another couple of days it will be made a lot clearer as to the end result of those discussions or how we go forward.” (CMC)
Dr Roopnaraine sheds light on way forward for sport
By TReisTon Joseph
While many persons have been speculating on the ducking of the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry by the new Government and the placement of the sport sector under the Education Ministry, Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine shed some light on the issue.
“There is no more Ministry of Sport, there is Department of Sport and it will be run by people who are actively engaged in sport,” Dr Roopnaraine noted.
In addition, Dr Roopnaraine revealed that the task of running sports will be left solely with the department with minimal intervention on his part.
“It will not be a case of the Minister handing down instructions, but persons
Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine
who are actively engaged in sport crafting an agenda and formalising plans to take sports forward … So, we are looking to revitalise sports,” the newly-sworn-in Minister noted.
3-stage cycling confirmed for month-end
Organisers of the annual Independence Three-Stage cycling meet have finalised the dates for this year’s event, which will now be held in the final weekend of May.
National cycling coach Hassan Mohamed, who has been the chief coordinator of the event over the years, will continue in that role this year, with the blessings of the new Government. The two-day
race is usually held in observance of Independence Day, which is celebrated on May 26.
Mohamed, speaking to this publication on Thursday, said the two-day
as per instructions given by the new Administration. It will form part of activities to celebrate the country’s 49th Independence anniversary.
The only difference in
cials will depart for Berbice from the National Sports Commission’s office on Homestretch Avenue, instead of the Sport Ministry on Main Street.
The contingent will head
registration is May 27. The event is open to both local and foreign riders, and according to Mohamed, the desire is to surpass the 83 entries that were received last year.
event, now in its 33rd year, will be held on May 30-31,
the arrangement this year is that the cyclists and offi -
off to Berbice on May 29 at noon, while the deadline for
The Independence Three-Stage is usually a
two-day activity with the first stage from Corriverton to New Amsterdam and stage two from Rosignol to Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown, on the opening day.
The third stage from Linden to Georgetown is held on the final day, followed by a grand presentation ceremony.
Team Coco’s Darren Matthews is the defending champion of the race, which is considered the second largest in terms of participation behind the “Ride for Life” Five-Stage.
Matthews clocked six hours, 53 minutes, 18 seconds to beat overseas-based Guyanese Geron Williams, (06h: 54m: 24s) and Marlon Williams (06h: 54m: 30s).
Akeem Arthur (06h: 56m: 28s) won the Junior category ahead of Michael Anthony and Stephano Husbands in that order, while Robin Persaud (06h: 56m: 20s) took the Veterans’ division, with Junior Niles and Stephen Fernandes settling for second and third respectively.
Dave Cameron
Hassan Mohamed
Flashback! Team Coco’s Darren Matthews, who won the opening stage from Corriverton to New Amsterdam, was eventually crowned overall champion last year (Avenash Ramzan file photo)
